Podcasts about education ed

This week on "Off the Cuff," Jill, Sarah, and Maria discuss questions regarding 2026-27 reprocessed ISIRs, and best practices for institutions to prevent student aid fraud. Jill starts by noting that reprocessed ISIRs recently started arriving in financial aid offices with comment code 352 and a corresponding C-Flag and explains what that means. Jill goes on to detail what NASFAA knows so far about this issue, including which ISIRs are affected. From there, Sarah goes through best practices shared by the Department of Education (ED) on how institutions can help prevent student aid fraud. 

This week on "Off the Cuff," Hugh is joined by Jill and Sarah to provide some updates on where things stand with final rules from the negotiated rulemaking committees focusing on implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), and some updates to the NSLDS post-screening process. Jill kicks things off with a recap of the final rules – issued May 1 – from the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee concerning loan limits, repayment plans, and loan programs. Jill goes on to explain what outstanding questions still remain and outlines when we can expect additional guidance from the Department of Education (ED). Sarah then walks listeners through some updates to the NSLDS post-screening process, which also relate to OBBBA implementation.

This week on "Off the Cuff," Jill, Sarah, and Maria discuss the breaking news this week that, in a reversal of guidance, the Department of Education (ED) is now including Graduate PLUS loans in the new $257,500 lifetime borrowing limit established through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Jill explains what this means for students and walks listeners through different student scenarios. From there, Sarah debriefs listeners on the latest Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) from ED regarding the new Student Tuition and Transparency System and Earnings Accountability (STATS) framework. Sarah provides some background on what is included in the NPRM, and notes that NASFAA will be submitting its own comments on the proposed regulations. 

The landscape for federal TRIO programs has shifted dramatically since we talked about it in January. The Department of Education (ED) has issued new grant proposals that would cut the number of programs by more than half and fundamentally redirect TRIO away from its mission of college access.  We welcomed back Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education, to walk us through what's at stake for these programs and the students they serve. The hosts also give the latest updates on ED's negotiated rulemaking. Links:  U.S. Department of Education Issues Proposed Rule to Hold Colleges and Universities Accountable for Low Earning Outcomes  https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-issues-proposed-rule-hold-colleges-and-universities-accountable-low-earning-outcomes ED Pushes Ahead on Accreditation Overhaul Despite Negotiator Pushback  https://www.acenet.edu/News-Room/Pages/ED-Pushes-Ahead-on-Accreditation-Overhaul.aspx Accreditation discussion draft https://www.ed.gov/media/document/2026-negotiated-rulemaking-aim-aim-draft-regulations-version-11-updated-04172026-113722.pdf Agency Information Collection Activities; Comment Request; Foreign Gifts and Contracts Disclosures  Federal Register | April 15, 2026 https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/04/15/2026-07304/agency-information-collection-activities-comment-request-foreign-gifts-and-contracts-disclosures What drove Hampshire College to shutter, despite raising $55 million  The Christian Science Monitor | April 18, 2026 https://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Education/2026/0418/hampshire-college-closure-endowment Council for Opportunity in Education and TRIO Programs https://coenet.org/coe-and-trio-programs/ COE Trio Advocacy https://coenet.org/take-action-now/ The Council for Opportunity in Education Condemns Latest TRIO Grant Proposal, Calls It "Direct Assault on College Access" https://coenet.org/news-impact/press-release/the-council-for-opportunity-in-education-condemns-latest-trio-grant-proposal-calls-it-direct-assault-on-college-access/ COE Blasts Latest Federal Proposal for TRIO, Calls for Immediate Rescission https://coenet.org/news-impact/press-release/coe-blasts-latest-federal-proposal-for-trio-calls-for-immediate-rescission/ COE Rejects Proposal to Eliminate Federal TRIO Programs in FY 2027 Budget  Council for Opportunity in Education | https://coenet.org/news-impact/press-release/coe-rejects-proposal-to-eliminate-federal-trio-programs-in-fy-2027-budget/

Gene Kerns, Vice President and Chief Academic Officer at Renaissance Learning, joins the show to discuss instructional coherence—a trending concept in education that asks whether all the programs, assessments, and interventions schools purchase actually work together as a system.Notes:- Instructional Coherence.- Connecting in appropriate ways.- How do you know if there is instructional coherence?- Each part we add has the potential to become a silo.- Incoherence vs. coherence.- Our students who are struggling the most have to carry the most cognitive load.- 1 vendor vs. multi-vendor situations. - Article pairing of assessment and instruction.- Power of aligning to textbooks/curriculum- Just because we are giving kids more time doesn't mean they are getting the learning they need.- Emphasis on grade level content.- Review only what is absolutely necessary and immediately relevant to what you're doing right now.- Lesson Creator with AI for the teachable moment.- Check out Renaissance Learning Webinars- Renaissance IntelligenceAbout Dr. Gene KernsGene Kerns is a third-generation educator with teaching experience from elementary through the university level and K-12 administrative experience. He currently serves as Vice President and Chief Academic Officer of Renaissance Learning.   With nearly 20 years of experience of leading staff development and speaking at national and international conferences, his former clients include administrators' associations across the country and the Ministry of Education of Singapore. Gene received his Bachelor's degree and Master's degree from Longwood College in Virginia, and also holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from the University of Delaware with an emphasis in Education Leadership.   He is the author of 3 books on educational topics. Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL:We're proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play.If you're a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time. These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation. We're also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

This week on "Off the Cuff," Hugh, Jill, and Sarah share some takeaways from last week's Federal Student Aid (FSA) training conference, where officials from the Department of Education (ED) provided policy updates geared towards financial aid professionals. Jill provides updates on FAFSA, Pell Grant and Workforce Pell developments, the common manual for the Federal Direct Loan Program, and more. Sarah then catches listeners up on more updates regarding implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), and explains a recent electronic announcement detailing upcoming changes to several FSA systems to support the expansion of Pell Grant eligibility for eligible workforce programs and revised limits on federal student loans.

This week on "Off The Cuff," Melanie is joined by Karen and Nalia to discuss the latest news in the appropriations process. The team first discusses what attendees can expect at NASFAA's 2026 Leadership & Legislative Conference & Expo next week. From there, Nalia walks listeners through the last few weeks in Washington, D.C., where the Department of Education (ED) faced a lapse in appropriations for a few days. However, Congress ultimately passed legislation funding ED and other agencies through the end of the fiscal year, September 30. Melanie also gives an update regarding the FSA in-person conference in March. Lastly, Karen debriefs listeners on NASFAA's latest resources for members regarding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). 

On Dec. 16th U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) held a spotlight forum titled, “Dismantling Education: What the Trump Administration's Illegal Attacks on Federal Programs Mean for Students, Families, and Educators,” highlighting the dangerous consequences of the Trump Administration's efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education (ED) for our nation's students, families, educators, and schools—among others. All4Ed CEO, Dr. Amy Loyd testified along with a panel of other K-12 experts. All4Ed Website: https://all4ed.org Twitter: @All4Ed Instagram: @All4Ed Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/all4ed

This week on "Off the Cuff," Tim is joined by David Tolman, David Futrell, and Norma Robinson to discuss some frequent and common questions that come up at the tail end of the year and the transition from the fall to the spring term. The team specifically works through student withdrawal scenarios, mid-term processing, and highlights guidance the Department of Education (ED) has most recently provided.

Lindsey Burke returns to Freedom to Learn to discuss the Trump administration's plans to “return education to the states.” Lindsey, who serves as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Programs at the U.S. Department of Education (ED), discusses the Department's origin story, what it does and does not do, and the pernicious impact of […]

This week on "Off The Cuff," Melanie and Karen give a preview of what's to come for the  Accountability in Higher Education and Access through Demand-driven Workforce Pell (AHEAD) Committee, which is set to meet for its first negotiated rulemaking session next week. Melanie begins the conversation by acknowledging that the FSA Training Conference would normally be held this week and addresses member concerns. From there, Karen gives an update on verification guidance from the Department of Education (ED). The team ends the conversation by debriefing listeners on what the AHEAD Committee's agenda, which includes a new Workforce Pell Program and other initiatives enacted under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. 

This week on "Off The Cuff," Tim is joined by Jill and Sarah to recap some of the latest negotiated rulemaking (neg reg) developments and NASFAA public comments. Jill kicks things off with details from how the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee worked to define a "professional student" and explained how the Department of Education (ED) approached defining the term, outlined in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Sarah then highlights some of NASFAA's recent comments on ED's proposed revisions to the FSA Feedback System, and their changes to the Application for Approval to Participate in the Federal Student Financial Aid Programs (E-App). 

The One Big Beautiful Bill may have made headlines but now comes the hard part: writing the rules. In this episode of dotEDU, we unpack the Education Department's massive regulatory to-do list, from loan caps and professional degree definitions to new Pell and accountability rules. But first: the government shutdown has ended. What's next?  Here are some of the links and references from this week's show:  Register now for ACEx, Feb. 25-28, 2026, in Washington, DC  Reopening the Federal Government  With Government Reopened, Will Education Department Staff Return? Inside Higher Ed | Nov. 12, 2025  FIPSE Notice  Federal Register Announcement Nov. 12, 2025  Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) Home Page Department of Education  ED's 'Special Projects' Grants Spark Concern Over Congressional Intent Inside Higher Ed | Nov. 12, 2025  Negotiated Rulemaking  Summary: One Big Beautiful Bill Act ACE  Negotiated Rulemaking for Higher Education 2025 Department of Education  Comments on the Education Department's Proposal to Implement the One Big Beautiful Bill ACE | Aug. 29, 2025  How the Loan Cap Committee Reached Consensus Inside Higher Ed | Nov. 10, 2025  ED Panel to Weigh Sorting of Grad and Professional Programs Inside Higher Ed | Sept. 26, 2025 

This week on "Off The Cuff," Melanie and Karen explain how the end of the government shutdown will impact the Department of Education (ED) and outline what comes next in the federal spending process. The team then highlights the Higher Education Act's (HEA) recent 60th anniversary and discusses how Congress can work to reauthorize the law. Hugh joins in to provide a brief update on a recent Senate hearing that sought to address affordability concerns and provide clarity on college pricing. The team is then joined by Ben Montecillo, MPA, FAAC®, executive director of scholarships & financial aid at the University of Houston, to discuss some key takeaways from the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) committee negotiated rulemaking session, where ED was able to reach consensus on provisions enacted under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

This week on "Off The Cuff," Melanie and Nalia provide an update on where things stand with funding for federal student aid programs due to the ongoing government shutdown. Nalia begins by debriefing listeners on what has happened with the government shutdown so far, which began on October 1. Melanie then discusses how the shutdown – now entering its third week – is impacting federal student aid, including concerns NASFAA has heard from members, and shares several resources to answer member questions. The team also highlights how the White House's most recent reduction in force (RIF) at the Department of Education (ED), where roughly 20% of staff were laid off, could impact higher education. Nalia also provides an overview of the current appropriations process, where Congress must work together to fund the government for fiscal year (FY) 2026. 

This week on “Off The Cuff,” Hugh is joined by David to discuss how the lapse in appropriations for fiscal year (FY) 2026 is impacting Department of Education (ED) services and programs. David shares some guidance from the department, which outlined how over 80% of ED and Federal Student Aid (FSA) staff are being furloughed during the shutdown. Hugh provides some insight into how ED's negotiated rulemaking session has managed to continue meeting in-person this week and discusses how long it could take for the government to reopen. David then reminds listeners of some summer guidance regarding the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program and activities it cannot support.

This week on "Off The Cuff," Hugh provides a brief catch-up of some summer headlines from Congress and the Department of Education (ED). First, Hugh highlights the latest developments in the annual appropriations process with the Senate releasing its spending plan for ED for fiscal year 2026, which mostly flat-funds programs for the upcoming year, and explains what work lies ahead when Congress returns in September. Then, Hugh discusses ED's negotiated rulemaking hearing, which focused on implementing several provisions of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” and highlights remarks made by NASFAA's president and CEO, Melanie Storey.

Artificial intelligence is quickly transforming the educational landscape.  AI offers immersive learning experiences, opportunities for enhanced engagement, and increased accessibility for students in the classroom.  Listen as Dr. Ann Lê discusses how AI is changing education and how school systems can learn to embrace this technology.   This podcast is made possible by generous funding from the Sheppard Spouses' Club. To learn more, visit https://sheppardspousesclub.org/.   Audio mixing by Concentus Media, Inc., Temple, Texas.   Show Notes: Resources:   AI Tools:   Khanmigo https://www.khanmigo.ai/   Magic School https://www.magicschool.ai/   Eduaide https://www.eduaide.ai/   Gradescope https://www.gradescope.com/   Curipod https://curipod.com/   Speechify https://speechify.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooh4FHBTOh4GidnMpckbi5XKM8sfkHS4qwRUI_cZoU4_mEPx11X   Bio: Dr. Ann H. Lê is a visionary Special Education Consultant and advocate with over two decades of service and leadership in education. Through her consulting practice, Lê Consulting, she partners with families, educators, and institutions to improve outcomes for students with disabilities by offering expert guidance in areas such as behavior intervention, inclusive practices, and compliance.   Her career spans a wide range of roles, including special education teacher, educational diagnostician, ARD facilitator, behavior specialist, and Assistant Director of Special Education, each grounded in a deep commitment to equity, access, and student-centered practices.    Dr. Lê holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership and a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education from Sam Houston State University, as well as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Neuroscience, Pre-Law, and Pre-Medicine from Baylor University. In addition to her academic credentials, Dr. Lê is a certified Principal as Instructional Leader and Educational Diagnostician, and holds multiple Texas educator certifications, including in English as a Second Language (ESL), General Education, and Special Education.   A published author and sought-after speaker, Dr. Lê has presented on topics ranging from restorative practices and mental health to school discipline and leadership. She serves on several doctoral dissertation committees and advisory boards, including those at Sam Houston State University and Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges education, public policy, and health, making her a trusted voice across sectors.   In recognition of her impact, Dr. Lê was named the 2023 Distinguished Educator of the Year by Sam Houston State University, where she also served as the honored commencement speaker. While she currently serves as Manager of the Highly Mobile and At-Risk Student Programs Unit at the Texas Education Agency—overseeing initiatives such as the Military-Connected Students Program and Purple Star Campus Designation—her insights on this podcast reflect her personal and professional experiences as an educator.   Disclaimer: All views and opinions expressed during this session are solely those of Dr. Ann H. Lê and do not represent the stance of the Texas Education Agency.

In Episode 224, Dr. Chris Fuzie joins Darrin for a fascinating conversation on behavior-based leadership and the concept of “liminal space”—the space where individuals lead and follow simultaneously. Drawing from his 28 years in law enforcement and extensive leadership consulting experience, Chris breaks down how leadership is not a position but a behavior, and how great leaders also embrace the role of the follower. This episode explores what gets in the way of effective leadership, why behavior matters more than titles, and how reshaping the leadership-followership dynamic is the next evolution in the field.Guest Bio: Dr. Chris Fuzie is the owner of CMF Leadership Consulting and currently serves as the Business/HR Manager for a District Attorney's office in California. A Leaderologist II and President of the National Leaderology Association, Chris holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), M.A., and B.A. in Organizational Leadership, with graduate certificates in Human Resources and Criminal Justice Education.Since 2010, he has developed and delivered leadership training for public, private, profit, and non-profit organizations. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and a former national instructor for the International Association of Chiefs of Police and California P.O.S.T. Courses. Chris is the author of Because Why... Understanding Behavior in Exigencies, S.C.O.R.E. Performance Counseling: Save the Relationship, Change the Behavior, and his latest book, Liminal Space: Reshaping Leadership and Followership.Chris is honorably retired from the Modesto Police Department after 28 years of service, having led teams including the Homicide Team, Hostage Negotiations Team, Street-Level Drug Team, School Police Officer Team, and the Traffic Motor Unit.Dr. Fuzie on Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-chris-fuzie-ed-d-m-a-ol-vl2-37587934/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090255232861https://www.facebook.com/chris.fuzie/https://x.com/CMFLeadershipWEBSITE:https://www.cmfleadership.com/https://www.scoreperformancecounseling.com/

This week on "Off The Cuff," Melanie is joined by Megan, Sarah, and Nalia to discuss the latest updates around the reconciliation process after the Senate HELP Committee released its own portion of the bill this week that could make significant changes to higher education policy. Nalia begins by explaining how the reconciliation process works and what's ahead for Congress. Megan and Sarah then debrief on what changes the Senate seeks to make to the House's bill, which was initially released in April. From there, Sarah walks listeners through the latest verification guidance from the Department of Education (ED), including the questions NASFAA has over the guidance. Lastly, Melanie explains why NASFAA signed onto an amicus brief in support of Harvard University. 

This week on "Off the Cuff," Melanie is joined by Rachel, Hugh, Sarah, and Nalia to dive into how the congressional budgeting process could impact student financial aid. To kick things off, Melanie and Hugh discuss the latest developments in the reconciliation process, where a House committee recently advanced portions of the package that would make some drastic changes to programs housed within the Department of Education (ED). Sarah then provides members with a recap of three deep dive explainers that the policy has been working on to fully analyze the proposal. Rachel and Nalia then walk through more of the dynamics of the reconciliation process and outline how NASFAA members can make their voices heard by contacting their members of Congress. Nalia then catches listeners up on the president's “skinny” budget request, and the team wraps things up with some additional news out of ED concerning staffing hours and the start of a new Negotiated Rulemaking (NegReg) session.

This week on "Off The Cuff," Maria is joined by Jill, Megan, and Nalia to discuss several issues impacting the world of higher education. First, Megan debriefs listeners on this week's news that the Department of Education (ED) will resume the collections process for defaulted federal student loans. Then, Jill discusses the upcoming negotiated rulemaking (NegReg) public hearing on Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and other topics. Megan also provides a brief update on two lawsuits against ED, including one on the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan, and another from the American Federation of Teachers. From there, Megan highlights two new NASFAA FAQs for members to help navigate the resulting questions and concerns from President Donald Trump's executive order to dissolve ED. Lastly, Nalia runs through the budget appropriations process and what members can expect to see in the next few weeks. 

As I delve into the intricacies of Project 2025, it becomes clear that this initiative is not just another policy blueprint, but a comprehensive and ambitious plan to reshape the very fabric of the U.S. federal government. Conceived by a coalition of conservative scholars, policy experts, and former Trump administration officials, Project 2025 aims to consolidate executive power and implement a slew of radical reforms that could have far-reaching implications for American governance.At its core, Project 2025 is driven by four key pillars designed to create an effective conservative administration. This involves a significant overhaul of the federal civil service system, where merit-based hiring would be replaced by appointments based on loyalty to the administration. This shift is particularly evident in the proposed takeover of key government agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Commerce (DOC), and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)[5].Imagine a scenario where the DOJ, an institution meant to uphold the law impartially, is transformed into a partisan tool. This is exactly what Project 2025 envisions, with the DOJ being tasked to prosecute "anti-white racism" instead of protecting against discrimination across all groups. This proposal is not just a policy change; it represents a fundamental shift in how justice is perceived and administered in the United States.The project also targets other federal agencies for dismantling or significant restructuring. For instance, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Education (ED) are slated for abolition, reflecting a broader disdain for the current bureaucratic structure. The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a cornerstone of medical research, would see its independence curtailed, with specific proposals to defund stem cell research. These changes are not merely administrative; they signify a profound reorientation of national priorities[5].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its economic agenda. The plan advocates for reducing environmental regulations to favor fossil fuels, a move that would likely exacerbate climate change and undermine decades of environmental protection efforts. Additionally, it proposes a flat income tax for individuals and significant tax cuts for corporations, which critics argue would widen the income gap and burden lower-income Americans. Medicare and Medicaid, critical safety nets for millions, would face cuts, further straining the healthcare system[5].The social and cultural implications of Project 2025 are equally profound. The initiative seeks to criminalize pornography and remove legal protections against anti-LGBT discrimination, rolling back hard-won rights for marginalized communities. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs would be ended, reflecting a broader rejection of progressive social policies. The plan even goes so far as to propose laws supported by the Christian right, including the criminalization of sending and receiving abortion and birth control medications, and eliminating coverage of emergency contraception[5].Immigration policy is another area where Project 2025's vision is starkly different from current practices. The plan recommends the arrest, detention, and mass deportation of illegal immigrants, and even suggests deploying the U.S. Armed Forces for domestic law enforcement. This approach not only raises serious constitutional concerns but also underscores a harsh and punitive stance on immigration[5].The architects of Project 2025 are not mere theorists; many have direct ties to Donald Trump's administration and campaign. Several key contributors worked in Trump's first administration or his 2024 election campaign, and the project's goals align closely with Trump's *Agenda 47* program. Despite Trump's later attempts to distance himself from the plan, his second administration has already begun implementing many of its proposals. Just four days into his second term, nearly two-thirds of Trump's executive actions mirrored or partially mirrored Project 2025's recommendations[5].As I reflect on the scope and ambition of Project 2025, it becomes clear that this is not just a policy initiative but a vision for a fundamentally different America. The project's proponents see it as a necessary corrective to what they perceive as a bloated, inefficient, and overly liberal federal government. However, critics warn that these changes could have devastating consequences for workers, the environment, and marginalized communities.Looking ahead, the implementation of Project 2025 will likely be marked by intense political battles and legal challenges. As the country navigates these changes, it will be crucial to monitor how these policies affect real people and communities. The next few years will be a critical period, as the full impact of Project 2025 becomes clearer and the nation grapples with the implications of such profound governance reforms.In the end, Project 2025 is a testament to the enduring power of ideological vision in shaping public policy. Whether one views it as a necessary revolution or a dangerous overreach, it is undeniable that this initiative has the potential to reshape the very foundations of American governance. As we move forward, it is essential to engage in a nuanced and informed discussion about the future we want to build and the values we wish to uphold.

As I delve into the intricacies of Project 2025, it becomes clear that this initiative is not just another policy blueprint, but a comprehensive and ambitious plan to reshape the very fabric of the U.S. federal government. Conceived by over 400 scholars and policy experts from the conservative movement, Project 2025 is a manifesto that outlines a radical transformation of American governance, aligning closely with the ideological leanings of former President Donald Trump.At its core, Project 2025 aims to consolidate executive power and impose a partisan control over key government agencies. This is evident in the proposal to replace merit-based federal civil service workers with individuals loyal to the administration. Agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Commerce (DOC), and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are targeted for this overhaul, suggesting a profound shift in how these institutions operate and the priorities they will serve[5].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its vision for the dismantling or abolition of certain federal agencies. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Education (ED) are among those slated for significant changes or outright elimination. This move is part of a broader strategy to streamline government, but critics argue it could lead to a loss of critical services and oversight. For instance, dismantling DHS could compromise national security and disaster response efforts, while abolishing the Department of Education could undermine federal support for public schools and higher education[5].The project also delves deeply into economic and environmental policies. It advocates for reducing environmental regulations to favor fossil fuels, a move that could have far-reaching consequences for climate change and public health. Additionally, it proposes reducing taxes on corporations and implementing a flat income tax on individuals, which could exacerbate income inequality. The plan further suggests cutting Medicare and Medicaid, critical healthcare programs for millions of Americans, and reversing many of the policies implemented by President Joe Biden[5].Healthcare is another area where Project 2025's proposals are particularly contentious. The plan recommends making the National Institutes of Health (NIH) less independent and defunding its stem cell research. This could stifle medical innovation and hinder the development of new treatments for various diseases. Moreover, the project proposes enacting laws that criminalize the sending and receiving of abortion and birth control medications, and eliminating coverage of emergency contraception, reflecting a strong alignment with the Christian right's agenda[5].Social and civil rights are also under scrutiny in Project 2025. The initiative suggests removing legal protections against anti-LGBT discrimination and ending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Instead, it proposes that the DOJ should focus on prosecuting anti-white racism, a move that many see as a misguided and divisive approach to addressing racial issues. Furthermore, the project calls for criminalizing pornography, a policy that raises significant questions about free speech and personal freedoms[5].Immigration policy is another critical area where Project 2025's proposals are stark. The plan recommends the arrest, detention, and mass deportation of illegal immigrants, and even suggests deploying the U.S. Armed Forces for domestic law enforcement. This approach is not only controversial but also raises serious concerns about human rights and the rule of law[5].Despite the ambitious and often controversial nature of these proposals, Project 2025 has already begun to influence policy in significant ways. Following Trump's 2024 election victory, several architects and supporters of the project were nominated to positions in his second administration. An analysis by *Time* found that nearly two-thirds of Trump's executive actions in the early days of his second term "mirror or partially mirror" proposals from Project 2025[5].As I reflect on the scope and ambition of Project 2025, it is clear that this initiative represents a seismic shift in American governance. The project's writers and contributors, many of whom worked in Trump's first administration or his 2024 election campaign, have crafted a blueprint that is both detailed and far-reaching. While the stated goals of Project 2025 are to streamline government and align it with conservative values, expert analyses suggest that the potential impacts could be far more complex and multifaceted.Looking ahead, the implementation of Project 2025's proposals will likely be a contentious and ongoing process. As the administration continues to roll out these policies, it will be crucial to monitor their effects on various sectors of American society. The upcoming milestones will include legislative battles, judicial challenges, and public reactions that will shape the ultimate impact of this initiative.In the end, Project 2025 is not just a policy document; it is a vision for a fundamentally different America. Whether this vision aligns with the values and aspirations of the American people remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the journey ahead will be marked by significant change and profound debate.

On Monday, the Trump administration announced that it will freeze $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts to Harvard University after the school refused to comply with a list of requirements it said were unlawful. In a joint letter dated April 11, the General Services Administration, Department of Education (ED) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) demanded that Harvard adopt its suggested reforms in order to maintain its funding. Among the required changes, the administration ordered Harvard to discontinue DEI programs, regulate specific academic departments, screen international students, and submit to government audits. Harvard rejected the government's terms, calling its demands an invasion of “university freedoms.” Hours later, the Trump administration announced its decision to freeze Harvard's federal funding.Ad-free podcasts are here!Many listeners have been asking for an ad-free version of this podcast that they could subscribe to — and we finally launched it. You can go to ReadTangle.com to sign up!You can read today's podcast⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠, our “Under the Radar” story ⁠here and today's “Have a nice day” story ⁠here⁠.Take the survey: What do you think of Harvard's decision? Let us know!You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was written by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Jon Lall. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75.Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Hunter Casperson, Kendall White, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of dotEDU Live, Jon, Sarah, and Mushtaq unpack the sweeping policy shifts affecting higher education, including the executive order to dismantle the Department of Education (ED). They also discuss the legal and financial implications for institutions, potential changes to federal student aid, immigration policies impacting international students, and key congressional budget updates.   Send suggestions, links, and questions to @ACEducation on X or Bluesky or email podcast@acenet.edu. Here are some of the links and references from this week's episode:  Improving Education Outcomes by Empowering Parents, States, and Communities   The White House | March 20, 2025 (Executive Order) ACE President Ted Mitchell: Trump's Order to Dismantle ED is “Political Theater”   ACE | March 21, 2025 Federal Student Loan Site Down Wednesday, a Day After Layoffs Gutted Education Department   The Associated Press | March 13, 2025 Public Health Agencies See Mass Layoffs   Inside Higher Ed | April 2, 2025 Trump Administration Will Review Billions in Funding for Harvard   The New York Times (sub. req.) | March 31, 2025 ACE, Higher Ed Association Urge Changes to Foreign Gift Reporting Bill Passed by House   ACE | March 31, 2025 What We Know About the Detentions of Student Protesters   The New York Times (sub. req.) | March 27, 2025

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about behavior-based leadership. Do you feel clear about what your boss or company expects of you? Much of our self-doubt comes from worrying about whether we're doing it right. And the absence of clear leadership and guidance simply perpetuates that anxiety. My guest this week is Dr. Chris Fuzie, a former police officer who started college at the age of 40 studying organizational leadership and now has a Doctor of Education (Ed. D). Chris now owns his own leadership consulting business where he leverages a lot of his experience as a law enforcement officer. Here we talk about the importance of clearly defining the roles of both leader and follower through behaviors that reduce ambiguity and build trust.About My GuestDr. Chris Fuzie is the owner of CMF Leadership Consulting and is currently the Business/HR Manager for a District Attorney's office in California. Chris is a Leaderologist II and Vice President of the National Leaderology Association (NLA) who holds a Doctor of Education (Ed. D), M.A. and B.A. in Organizational Leadership, and has graduate certificates in Human Resources and Criminal Justice Education. Chris is a developer, trainer, consultant for leadership of public, private, profit, and non-profit organizations since 2010. Chris is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and a former National Instructor for the International Association of Chiefs of Police and California P.O.S.T. Courses. Chris is the author of "Because Why... Understanding Behavior in Exigencies." and of "S.C.O.R.E. Performance Counseling: Save the Relationship, Change the Behavior," and his latest book, “Liminal Space: Reshaping Leadership and Followership.” Chris is honorably retired from the Modesto Police Department after 28 years of public service leading such teams as the Homicide Team, the Hostage Negotiations Team, the Street-Level Drug Team and the School Police Officer Team.~Connect with Chris:Websites:https://www.cmfleadership.com/ https://www.scoreperformancecounseling.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-chris-fuzie-ed-d-m-a-ol-vl2-37587934/ X: https://x.com/CMFLeadership~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/challengeLearn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroupJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

There's more turmoil surrounding the Department of Education (ED), with recent government layoffs and speculation about the ED's future making headlines. We're here to analyze what's real, what's political theater, and how these changes could impact student loan borrowers in the coming months. We also discuss the potential fallout from IRS and USAID layoffs, the legal and budget reconciliation updates that could shape repayment options, and student loan services that might be at risk. Plus, we'll share some personal reflections on staying sane in all this chaos. Key moments: (00:46) ED shutdown rumors may have been a strategic leak to test public reaction (03:36) PSLF and loan support teams have been gutted, making it harder to get help (07:22) Travis became a meme after a late-night Instagram Live on the ED stop-work order (13:02) Courts, Congress, and the executive branch are creating student loan policy chaos (20:20) Why we're more careful about sharing loopholes — and where to find exclusive insights   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

This week on "Off The Cuff," Beth and Karen are joined by Megan and Jill to discuss multiple updates from the Department of Education (ED). Karen kicks off the episode by debriefing listeners on ED's Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) that directed institutions to cease using race preferences as a factor in admissions, financial aid, hiring, training, and other institutional programming, or be at risk of losing federal funding. Megan then discusses the latest updates with income-driven repayment (IDR) plans, including ED taking down the online application for the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) program and other income-based plans. From there, Jill unpacks the availability of batch correction functionality for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 FAFSA, and what financial aid professionals can expect. Lastly, the team discusses Linda McMahon's pending confirmation as ED secretary, and the pending executive order from President Donald Trump that could seek to dismantle ED. 

Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil is an experienced educational leader with a demonstrated history of working in the education management industry. She is skilled in Youth-centered programming, college and career planning, developing strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations, and leadership coaching. Monique is a strong administrative professional with a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) focused in Organizational Leadership, Management and Policy from Seton Hall University.

This week on "Off The Cuff," Beth and Karen are joined by Jeremy Singer, the president of  College Board, who earlier this year was hired by the Department of Education (ED) to serve as FAFSA executive advisor for the launch of the 2025-26 FAFSA. During the episode, Jeremy reflects on his tenure at ED, which ended earlier this month, and answers questions from Beth and Karen on the rollout of the 2025-26 form, including beta testing of the new FAFSA. The team also discusses communication from the department to stakeholders on the launch of the 2025-26 FAFSA, and how ED rebuilds trust with the financial aid community. The episode ends with the team looking forward to the 2026-27 FAFSA.

This week on "Off The Cuff," Beth, Jill, Rachel, and Nalia discuss FAFSA updates and how the 2024 election may shape financial aid policy for the next administration. Jill kicks things off by debriefing listeners on several fixes the Department of Education (ED) has made to issues in the 2024-25 and 2025-26 FAFSA cycles. Then, Nalia and Rachel lead a discussion on what a Harris or Trump presidency could mean for financial aid policy. The team also briefly discusses how NASFAA develops its advocacy positions as a nonpartisan organization and how NASFAA advocates on the Hill. The team ends the episode discussing what we're keeping an eye out for in the upcoming 119th Congress. 

This week on "Off the Cuff," David and Hugh discuss multiple updates with the 2024-25 FAFSA, starting off with the latest processing timelines for the 2024-25 paper FAFSA. David then debriefs listeners on how to handle conflicting information related to Institutional Student Information Records (ISIRs). The team also talks about resources from the Department of Education (ED) listing known issues with the 2024-25 FAFSA. David ends the episode by reminding listeners that the new deadline for gainful employment and financial value transparency reporting is January 15, 2025.

This week on "Off the Cuff," Sarah and Hugh discuss 2024-25 changes in documentation requirements related to Jay Treaty students and dig into the background of this guidance within the FSA Handbook. From there, Sarah debriefs listeners on several resources both NASFAA and the Department of Education (ED) have for institutions that were impacted by recent natural disasters. Sarah then explains some timely electronic announcements and Dear Colleague Letters that can help students and schools affected by these recent disasters.  

What if the key to revolutionizing education lies in interdisciplinary learning and real-world problem-solving? In this episode, host Natalie Born is joined by Ed Fidoe, the founder and CEO of the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), an innovative institution tackling global issues like inequality, sustainability, ethics, and AI through an interdisciplinary curriculum. Ed shares his journey from co-founding a K-12 school focused on project-based learning to creating LIS, the first UK institution in decades with degree-awarding powers from inception. Together, they explore the changing landscape of education, the role of AI in academia, and the importance of developing communication skills. The conversation touches on Ed's belief in solving real-world problems through education and the impact of interdisciplinary expertise on modern challenges. [00:01 - 05:14] From TV Shows to Education: Ed's Journey Belief in possibilities began with acting Launched School 21 to focus on project-based learning Emphasized oracy to improve speaking skills [05:15 - 10:00] Project-Based Learning & Oracy Project-based learning can be powerful when done well Speaking skills are critical but often neglected Over 1,000 UK schools now focus on oracy [10:01 - 16:34] AI in Education at LIS Students must use and explain AI tools like ChatGPT AI improves student creativity and critical thinking Higher expectations for academic work with AI [16:35 - 22:44] Tackling Real-World Problems LIS organizes learning around real-world issues Students work with companies to solve global problems Prepares students for messy, real-life challenges [22:45 - 27:22] The Role of Interactional Expertise Interactional expertise bridges knowledge gaps Middle leaders benefit from understanding multiple fields Developing this expertise is essential for complex problem-solving Quotes:  “If we're preparing students for the world of work, we must have them using the AI tools of the day. Otherwise, we're setting them up to fail.” - Ed Fidoe "You need to show what you value if you want people to actually kind of work on it and commit time to it." - Ed Fidoe Connect with Ed: Website: https://www.lis.ac.uk/team/ed-fidoe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fidoe?originalSubdomain=uk LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes. Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/natalie-born/support

Have you ever wondered how effective leaders seamlessly transition between leading and following? In this episode of The Quiet And Strong Podcast, host David Hall sits down with leadership consultant and author Dr. Chris Fuzie to explore the intriguing concept of "liminal leadership." Listeners will uncover the secrets behind navigating the spaces between leadership and followership, and learn about the importance of behavior-focused leadership over positional power. Chris shares eye-opening insights into the evolution of leadership and followership behaviors, touching on attributes like emotional intelligence, accountability, and commitment.Tune in to hear Chris Fuzie's real-life experiences and groundbreaking theories that challenge traditional views of leadership. If you aspire to be a great leader or understand the dynamics of followership better, this episode is a must-listen.Embrace these insights on your journey to stronger, more effective leadership—and be strong.Episode Link: QuietandStrong.com/189- - -Dr. Chris Fuzie is the owner of CMF Leadership Consulting and is currently the Business/HR Manager for a District Attorney's office in California. Chris is a Leaderologist II and Vice President of the National Leaderology Association who holds a Doctor of Education (Ed. D) and has graduate certificates in Human Resources and Criminal Justice Education. Chris is a developer, trainer, consultant for leadership of public, private, profit, and non-profit organizations since 2010. Chris is the author of "Because Why... Understanding Behavior in Exigencies." and of "S.C.O.R.E. Performance Counseling: Save the Relationship, Change the Behavior," and his latest book, “Liminal Space: Reshaping Leadership and Followership.” Chris is honorably retired from the Modesto Police Department after 28 years of public service leading a variety teams.Connect with Chris:Websites: CMFLeadership.com | ScorePerformanceCounseling.comSocials: LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter- - -Contact the Host of the Quiet and Strong Podcast:David Hall Author, Speaker, Educator, Podcaster quietandstrong.comGobio.link/quietandstrongdavid [at] quietandstrong.com Take the FREE Personality Assessment: Typefinder Personality Assessment Follow David on your favorite social platform: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Youtube Get David's book:Minding Your Time: Time Management, Productivity, and Success, Especially for Introverts You may also like:Quiet & Strong Merchandise

This week on a special edition of “Off the Cuff,” Allie, Beth, and Karen, are joined by 2024-25 NASFAA National Chair Kristi Jovell of Middlebury College and National Chair-Elect Heidi Carl of Purdue University to break down the latest development from the Department of Education (ED) concerning batch corrections and the 2024-25 FAFSA. The team dives into the implications for schools and students, how ED could provide relief to financial aid professionals, and continuing advocacy efforts around gainful employment and financial value transparency reporting requirements.

This week on "Off the Cuff," Karen, Jill, and Hugh discuss the latest news surrounding Gainful Employment (GE) and Financial Value Transparency (FVT) regulations, as well as NASFAA's advocacy campaign to request that Congress take action to require the Department of Education (ED) to delay upcoming institutional reporting requirements. The team then debriefs the Supreme Court's decision to overturn the "Chevron deference" and how it could impact higher education policy. From there, Karen and Jill update listeners on the latest news with the FAFSA – including when batch corrections will be available and new guidance from ED. The team also discusses new legislation in Congress – the FAFSA Deadline Act – and updates with the appropriations process.

Sue Bethanis hosts Charlotte Evans, Principal Solutions Consultant at Coursera. Charlotte advises North American companies on their upskilling and reskilling learning solutions. She worked in Asia for five years in student services, where she also pursued a fellowship through the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) Learners' Voice program. Charlotte graduated from Harvard Graduate School of Education (Ed.M.) in 2019 and has continued her passion for international education access through her work at Coursera.Sue and Charlotte discuss the dual role of Gen AI in the world of Learning and Development and: The key elements of a skills-based learning and career development strategy How AI and automation help identify skills gaps and save time Actionable low-tech tools you can start using to foster real connections in your organization

This week on a special episode of "Off The Cuff," Justin, Karen, and Allie are joined by former OTC podcast hosts, Stephen Payne, executive director of external relations at Muhlenberg College, and Megan Coval, interim president of Butler County Community College. Karen kicks off the episode by debriefing listeners on several NASFAA letters. The first letter was sent to the Department of Education (ED) on the 2025-26 FAFSA cycle, and a second letter was  sent to Congressional leaders requesting their assistance in securing a delay until July 2025 of the GE/FVT institutional reporting requirements (5:27-14:02). After the policy team update, the whole group reminisces on the early days of the podcast and share special memories as Justin departs from his role next week. 

We all -- students and teachers alike -- long to belong. Douglas Beam from Global Online Academy joined us to share his insights on the importance of working to build a sense of belonging for students in our schools. He also discussed his doctoral work on gender and sexual minorities in international schools. Douglas has been a teacher and leader in schools in Europe, Asia, and North America and currently works at GOA as the Associate Director of Member School Engagement. He has taught or coordinated programs in elementary, middle, and high school and at the graduate level. As a school leader, he has had several roles, including head of the department, grade level coordinator, IB Middle Years Programme coordinator, and GOA site director. His leadership has focused on collaborative program building, curriculum development, school policy, and pastoral care. Douglas is passionate about making schools where all students feel a sense of belonging. He earned a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) from the University of New England, where his dissertation focused on a sense of belonging in international schools for gender and sexual minority students. Douglas lives in Ohio with his husband and their twin boys.Our Guiding Question was, “What does it mean to experience a sense of belonging in an international school environment, and how can we, as teachers, best support our students in developing theirs?” Here are some of the topics covered: A definition of belongingFactors that nurture belongingWays students in elementary, middle, and high school would describe their sense of belonging.How an identity as an international student differs from an identity as a student in a person's home country.The positive and negative “forces” affecting international students as they develop their identities. School leaders and teachers can implement programs and strategies to improve the environments inside as well as outside the classroom to support student well-being in terms of feeling supported and connected to others. And we heard a few highlights from Douglas' dissertation on gender and sexual minorities in our schools. The show was recorded on February 16, 2024. Douglas' Contact Information: LinkedIn Douglas BeamCategories: School Life | TransitionsResources Mentioned in the Episode:Douglas' Doctoral Thesis on Belonging in International Schools The Global Online Academy (GOA) Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

This week on "Off The Cuff," Justin is joined by Jill and Rachel to discuss this week's announcement from the Department of Education (ED) of a temporary FAFSA filing fix for applicants and contributors without a Social Security number. From there, Rachel debriefs listeners on Education Secretary Miguel Cardona's testimony at a Senate appropriation subcommittee hearing this week. The group also discusses last week's announcement that FSA Chief Operating Officer Richard Cordray is stepping down from his position this summer.   

In Part 2 of this Pulse Check series on leadership, emerging leaders can learn about creating culture and setting vision at our institutions as Dr. Gann shares practical experiences from his own background, discusses strategies for setting culture and talks about how interconnected systems impact our work. Whether you're a new leader or a seasoned pro, this episode will help you in your work to set culture, build trust, and define the strategic vision of your institution. Guest Name: Dr. Matthew GannGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewgann/Guest Bio: Dr. Matthew Gann is an accomplished leader in education and organizational intelligence, currently serving as the Associate Vice Chancellor for Marketing, Digital Strategy, and Public Relations at the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR). With a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) from Trevecca Nazarene University, his expertise is in enhancing educational outcomes and community engagement through strategic leadership and digital innovation.Prior to his current role, Dr. Gann advanced through several key positions within TBR, including Assistant Vice Chancellor and Chief Marketing Officer, where he directed significant improvements in digital communication and marketing strategies. His earlier tenure as Director of Web Services and Digital Strategy established foundational policies and practices that continue to benefit the institution.Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Gann has been a prominent figure in community engagement, serving as President of the Tennessee College Public Relations Association, where he led initiatives to strengthen educational communications across the state. His career also includes impactful roles in the private sector, where he spearheaded marketing and web development initiatives, demonstrating a consistent ability to blend technical skills with strategic oversight. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Connect with Us at the Engage Summit:Exciting news — Mallory will be at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, on June 25 and 26, and we'd love to meet you there! Sessions will focus on cutting-edge AI applications that are reshaping student outreach, enhancing staff productivity, and offering deep insights into ROI. Use the discount code Enrollify50 at checkout, and you can register for just $200! Learn more and register at engage.element451.com — we can't wait to see you there!

This week on "Off The Cuff," Justin, Karen, and Tim discuss this week's news that the Department of Education (ED) identified three issues concerning tax data reported on FAFSA applicant records. The team dives into the details of those identified issues, and what the department is doing next — including the latest update to reprocess all affected records. Tim also provides context on how financial aid professionals are currently feeling amid these challenges. 

This week on “Off the Cuff,” Allie, Karen, and Rachel discuss the latest adjustments to the rollout of the 2024-25 FAFSA, including a miscalculation in the SAI formula. The team covers a number of other possible FAFSA issues and outlines what updates they would like to see from the Department of Education (ED) as the rollout begins to ramp up. Rachel then provides an update on the federal budget cycle, where Congress recently completed its work for the fiscal year 2024, and now turns to the president's budget request containing newly proposed funding levels for ED for fiscal year 2025.

This week on “Off the Cuff” Justin, Karen, Allie, and Tim are back with the latest news on the 2024-25 FAFSA with recent updates from the Department of Education (ED) about the delivery of Institutional Student Information Records (ISIRs). The team dives into recent electronic announcements detailing updates, fixes, and troubleshooting issues impacting users without Social Security numbers, rejected ISIRs, and ongoing issues with EDconnect software. The discussion then turns to recent national reporting that provides more context into the ongoing struggles of the 2024-25 FAFSA launch.

This week on "Off The Cuff," Allie and Karen are joined by Jon Fansmith, the American Council on Education's senior vice president of government relations and national engagement, to discuss an update to the Student Aid Index (SAI) formula from the Department of Education (ED), which allows the Student's Contribution from Income (SCI) to have a negative calculated value with no floor. However, the team also discusses how a continuing resolution (CR) passed by the House would rescind that update. The team also walks through the latest updates around the Bipartisan Workforce Pell Act and the release of 100 system-generated test Institutional Student Information Records (ISIRs).

This week on a special episode of "Off The Cuff," Justin and Karen are joined by Bill DeBaun, the National College Attainment Network's senior director of data and strategic initiatives, to discuss the 2024-25 FAFSA rollout. Bill debriefs listeners on trends found in NCAN's FAFSA Tracker, which tracks completion rates for the 2024-25 FAFSA cycle. Justin and Karen also discuss other news from the week, including the additional release of eight test Institutional Student Information Record (ISIRs) and new guidance from the Department of Education (ED) on how to submit the 2024-25 FAFSA if a contributor doesn't have a Social Security number. The team also talks through this week's announcement that ED began the 60-day comment period for Gainful Employment and Financial Value Transparency reporting requirements.

In this episode of the Aspire to Lead podcast, join host Joshua Stamper as he sits down with special guest Dr. Jerod Phillips to explore "Strategies to Build an Effective Leadership Team." Dr. Phillips shares invaluable insights on various aspects of leadership, including building winning teams, fostering personal growth, combating complacency, and the importance of engagement with state affiliations in school leadership organizations. Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable strategies and inspiring ideas for school leaders at all levels.  In this Episode, we also discuss: Exploring ways to prevent stagnation in school leadership. The importance of continuous learning and development for leaders. And his wonderful podcast, “The Squad Builder” About Dr. Jerod Phillips Dr. Jerod Phillips Sr. is the Principal of David E. Robinson Elementary School (DRE) in Magnolia, DE. He arrived at DRE in February 2023 with a zeal to engage the school community with the vision of being great for kids in all aspects of the school. Prior to arriving at DRE, Dr. Phillips was a Principal and Assistant Principal at the elementary level in Middletown, DE. He has 9 years of school leadership experience. He is passionate about developing positive public relations between the district, school, students, parents and the overall community. As a result of Dr. Phillips' journey from teacher to Principal while being connected, he believes that being a connected educator can help take one's career to unprecedented heights. Dr. Phillips was the Delaware National Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year for 2021. Dr. Phillips has had one publication in NAESP's Principal Magazine: "Being a Bias-Conscious Leader." Principal, May/June 2022: Rewriting the Role, Volume 101, Issue 5, in addition to being a contributor to several monthly sections of the APs Rising section of the same publication. Dr. Phillips is a podcaster in the education sector, starting with three co-hosts of the podcast, Speaking Educationally in January 2020. Since then, he has recently launched his solo podcast, The Squad Builder Podcast. The podcast focuses on shaking things up in education in the realm of building and maintaining highly effective and successful teams in our schools. He has a B.S. in Finance and Banking from Delaware State University, a M.S. in Educational Leadership from Purdue University, and his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership and Management at Capella University. Dr. Phillips is a proud husband and father of 3 (2 daughters and 1 son). He has teamed up with his wife and kids within the past several years to explore the world of entrepreneurship together, and he is very active in his local church. Follow Dr. Jerod Phillips Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/japhillips0722  Instagram: drjaphillips0722 Facebook: Jerod Phillips Linkedin: Dr. Jerod Phillips Sr. – Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag...

In the wake of the Biden administration's decision to lift the freeze on student loan payments this fall, close to 40% of borrowers overlooked their initial repayment, reveals a report by Politico. A close look at the figures from October 2019 shows that 26% of those due to make a payment fell short of doing so by the middle of November the same year. A more recent snapshot taken in October 2023 reveals that out of the 22 million who were expected to make payments that month, nearly 8.8 million failed to settle their dues by mid-November. Undersecretary of Education, James Kvaal, acknowledges these difficulties in a blog post published on a recent Friday. He expresses understanding for those who may feel muddled or daunted by their options and affirmed the Department's commitment to assisting loan recipients. He writes, 'Despite the fact that a majority of borrowers have made their first payment, a significant number haven't been able to yet. Some of them are simply bewildered by the process and need further clarity on their options. It's crucial for them to know that our paramount focus is to provide support as they venture back into the repayment process.' The Department of Education (ED) has implemented measures aiming at easing this transition. Last June, it announced that should borrowers neglect to pay, they would be neither reported to any credit agencies nor considered as defaulting before September 30, 2024. This leniency policy was brought to light in a blog post shared by the ED.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.