The Whitsdom Press

Category: Education

  • Job Corps Paused by Department of Labor

    Imagine this: You finally have a safe place to live. You are training for your dream job or a job better than fast-food. Then, out of nowhere, someone tells you: “Pack up. You have to leave. Now.”

    That’s the real nightmare for 25,000 students right now. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has paused almost all Job Corps centers across the country. The reason? Major budget cuts.

    What is Job Corps?

    Job Corps is a FREE government program for teens and young adults (16-24) who are struggling. It helps people who didn’t finish high school due to personal circumstances. These individuals faced challenges during that time. Some have nowhere safe to live. Others can’t find a good job.

    The program offers free housing amenities (living in campus dorms) and free meals. It provides assistance towards earning a GED. There is hands-on job training for the workforce. Support from academic and mental health counselors is also available.

    For many students, Job Corps was their only lifeline to a better future.

    What Happened?

    Recently, all centers must close and send their students back to their homes on record by June 30, 2025. Only 24 centers ran by the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) will stay open. Students got almost no warning – some had just hours to pack. Many couldn’t grab their stuff: meds, IDs, clothes, or school certificates got locked inside.

    Why Did This Happen?

    According to the Department of Labor’s press release (dated 5/29):

    The Job Corps program has faced significant financial challenges under its current operating structure. In PY 2024, the program operated at a $140 million deficit, requiring the Biden administration to implement a pause in center operations to complete the program year.

    Next Steps

    The 5/29 press release included FAQs about Job Corps’ recent pause; covering topics such as transportation, transfer credits, and other next steps:

    These young people were working hard for a better future. Without the stress of bills or housing, they could focus on developing their workforce skills. However, budget cuts are pushing them back into the jungles they were trying to escape.

  • Student Loan Collections Are Back: What Borrowers Should Do Now

    After a three-year pause, the U.S. Department of Education is restarting harsh measures to collect defaulted federal student loans. Actions like seizing tax refunds, garnishing wages, and withholding Social Security benefits will resume, ending a temporary halt put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s what borrowers need to know—and how to protect themselves.

    Why Are Collections Restarting Now?

    During the pandemic, the government paused most aggressive collection tactics to ease financial strain on borrowers. But as federal relief programs wind down, the Education Department is shifting back to pre-pandemic rules. Officials argue this move is part of a “return to normal,” but critics warn it could push already struggling borrowers deeper into hardship.

    “Beginning May 5, the department will begin involuntary collection through the Treasury Department’s offset program, which withholds payments from the government — including tax refunds, federal salaries and other benefits — from people with past-due debts to the government,” the department said in a statement. Wages will be garnished following a 30-day warning, it added. — NBC News

    How Does This Affect You?

    If your federal student loans are in default (meaning you’ve missed payments for at least 270 days), you could face:

    • Tax Refund Offsets: The government may take your federal tax refund to repay your debt.
    • Wage Garnishment: Up to 15% of your paycheck could be withheld.
    • Social Security Garnishment: Monthly benefits may be reduced (applies to older borrowers).

    What Can You Do to Avoid Collections?

    Don’t panic—there are ways to get out of default and stop these penalties:

    1. Loan Rehabilitation: Agree to make nine affordable monthly payments (as low as $5) over ten months. Successfully completing this removes the default from your credit report.
    2. Consolidation: Combine your loans into a new Direct Consolidation Loan. You’ll need to either make three on-time payments or enroll in an income-driven repayment plan.
    3. Contact Your Servicer: Reach out to discuss options like payment pauses, reduced payments, or alternative plans.

    Critics Raise Concerns

    Advocates for borrowers argue that restarting these tactics ignores the ongoing struggles many face. “Taking money from Social Security or wages could devastate families still recovering from the pandemic,” said one nonprofit representative. They’re urging the government to expand relief programs instead.

    Stay Proactive

    If you’re at risk of default—or already there—act now:

    • Visit StudentAid.gov to explore repayment plans.
    • Call your loan servicer to discuss solutions.
    • Consider free help from a nonprofit credit counselor.

    The Bottom Line

    While the return of collections is stressful, borrowers have tools to fight back. Addressing the issue early can help you avoid penalties and regain control of your finances. Stay informed, explore your options, and don’t wait—the sooner you act, the more you can protect yourself.

    Have questions or tips to share? Drop them in the comments below!

    Note: This article is for informational purposes only. For personalized advice, consult a financial professional.

  • HISD cuts Wraparound Services for new integrated support model

    The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is making big changes to how it supports students’ needs outside the classroom. The district recently announced it will close its Wraparound Services department, which has helped students and families with challenges like mental health, housing, and food since 2020. Instead, HISD plans to focus on expanding “Sunrise Centers” and a new “integrated support model.” Let’s break down what this means for families and why the shift is happening.

    What Was the Wraparound Services Department?
    Created in 2020, the Wraparound Services team aimed to address barriers affecting students’ success, like unstable housing, hunger, or lack of counseling. The department worked with community groups to connect families to resources, ensuring kids could focus on learning. For example, they helped students access free meals, mental health care, or even temporary housing. The goal was to support the “whole child,” not just their academic needs.

    Wraparound Services at Westbury High School in Houston ISD

    Why the Change?
    HISD says the shift is about streamlining help and reaching more families. By closing the department, the district plans to save money and avoid “overlapping” services. Instead, resources will go toward expanding Sunrise Centers. These centers are hubs located at certain schools offering healthcare, counseling, and other supports. The district plans to place support teams directly in schools. This will be done through its new “integrated model.” In this model, staff like counselors and social workers will work together to address student needs.

    What’s Next: Sunrise Centers and Integrated Support
    Sunrise Centers aren’t new—they already exist in some HISD schools. Under the new plan, these centers will grow to offer more services, including medical care, tutoring, and job training for parents. Meanwhile, the integrated support model means each school will have a team dedicated to connecting students with help, whether it’s a counselor for mental health or a social worker for housing assistance. HISD believes this approach will make support faster and easier to access.

    Mixed Reactions from the Community
    Not everyone is convinced the changes will work. Critics worry closing Wraparound Services could leave gaps, especially for vulnerable families who relied on the department’s specialized help. Community groups fear staff layoffs (some jobs will be cut, while others move to new roles) might disrupt trust built with families. On the other hand, supporters argue the new model could help more students by embedding support directly into schools. HISD leaders say no services will be lost—just delivered differently.

    Looking Ahead
    HISD’s changes reflect a bigger debate in education: how best to support kids facing tough challenges outside school. While the district promises better efficiency and wider reach, the true test will be whether families feel the new system meets their needs. For now, the focus is on transitioning smoothly—and ensuring no student falls through the cracks.

  • High School Senior Secures $1M in Scholarships

    Ouachita Parish High senior Makenzie Williams was accepted into more than 75 colleges. She was awarded over $1 million in scholarships, showcasing her incredible academic prowess and dedication to her studies. Makenzie’s mom, Keyonya, proudly states that she is also “ranked #1 in her class out of 274 students.” This is a testament to her hard work. It also shows her perseverance throughout her high school journey. In addition to her impressive academic achievements, she earned a commendable score of 27 on the ACT. This score highlights her capability and readiness for the challenges of higher education.

    Recently, Makenzie was recognized as one of the top 20 scholars invited to the prestigious Ouachita 2025 Scholars Banquet. She was celebrated alongside her peers for their outstanding accomplishments. Her achievements reflect her personal commitment to excellence. They also inspire other students in her community to reach for their dreams.

    Source: Keyonya Williams
    Ouachita Parish High School in Monroe, LA

    Makenzie plans to attend Dillard University in New Orleans in the fall. A huge congratulations to this amazing young lady!

  • Who Controls Schools? States vs. Washington in 2025

    Let’s talk about something big happening in education right now: Who gets to make the rules for schools? Is it your state government (like your governor or local lawmakers) or the federal government (like the President or Congress)? In 2025, this debate is heating up, and it’s changing how kids learn across the U.S. Let’s break it down!

    States Are Taking Charge

    States are passing lots of new laws to shape schools their way. For example, many states want kids to focus better in class, so they’re banning cellphones during school hours. Arkansas passed a law called the “Bell to Bell, No Cell Act.” This means no phones are allowed from the start to the end of the school day. Alaska is also pushing schools to create rules that keep phones out of classrooms.

    Next, states like Arizona and Florida are expanding “school choice.” Parents can use taxpayer money to send their kids to charter schools, which are public schools with special programs. They can also choose private schools or even pay for homeschooling supplies. Tennessee just approved a program that gives families $7,000 per student to spend on education costs. This could cover tutoring, online classes, or textbooks.

    Finally, some states are fighting over what schools can teach. Texas introduced a bill called SB 37, which stops colleges from teaching that racism is built into U.S. laws or that one race is “better” than another. Critics worry this could erase lessons about slavery or the civil rights movement. Florida has a similar law called the “Stop WOKE Act,” which limits how teachers talk about race and history.

    Why are states doing this? They feel they know what’s best for their communities. For example, Arizona is studying why teachers quit their jobs. They want to fix shortages. Georgia is spending money on reading programs for their young kids.

    The Federal Government Pushes Back

    Meanwhile, the federal government is making its own moves. One big change is cutting funding for DEI programs. DEI stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion—programs that help schools support students of different races, genders, and backgrounds. The U.S. Department of Education (well the Trump administration) calls these programs “divisive,” so they’re shutting some down (per the Mandate for Leadership aka Project 2025.) This affects teacher training and resources for minority students.

    The federal government is also enforcing new rules for transgender athletes. They say transgender girls are students born male who identify as female. These students can’t play on girls’ sports teams. They argue it’s unfair to athletes who were born female. States like Massachusetts and California disagree and are fighting these rules in court.

    Some lawmakers in Washington even want to get rid of the U.S. Department of Education entirely. A bill by Senator Mike Rounds would cancel programs that help homeless students, foster kids, and schools in low-income areas. Supporters say the federal government is too involved in local schools, but critics worry vulnerable students will lose support.

    Why is this happening? Supporters of these federal changes say schools should focus on basics like math and reading instead of “political” topics. They argue states should have more freedom to decide what’s taught.

    Clash of the Titans

    This isn’t just political arguing—it affects real families. For parents, more school choice means more options, but some worry it takes money away from public schools. Teachers in states like Florida might get a raise to $65,000 a year. However, federal cuts could mean fewer resources for classroom supplies or training. Students might benefit from phone bans. These bans can help them focus. However, losing DEI programs could make some feel left out. Others might feel misunderstood.

    Why Should You Care?

    1. Your Tax Dollars: These fights decide where your money goes—to public schools, private school vouchers, or federal programs.
    2. What Kids Learn: Will history classes teach about systemic racism? Can transgender athletes play sports? States and Washington disagree, and the answers will shape your child’s education.
    3. Local vs. National Values: Should Texas decide what’s taught in Texas schools, or should Washington set one rule for everyone?

    The Bottom Line

    It’s like a tug-of-war: states want freedom to make their own rules, while Washington wants consistency across the country. In 2025, this battle is changing everything from classroom policies to college sports. Whether you’re a parent, student, or taxpayer, these changes will affect you—so stay informed.

  • Florida’s Proposed Education Cuts: What HB 5101 Means for Students

    Florida lawmakers are considering a plan to slash funding for advanced high school programs like AP (Advanced Placement), IB (International Baccalaureate), dual enrollment, and career/technical courses by up to 50%. These programs help students earn college credits while still in high school, saving them time and money. If this cut happens, it could hurt thousands of students—especially those from low-income families who rely on these programs to get ahead. Currently, Florida schools receive extra money called “funding weights” for providing challenging academic programs. HB 5101 would eliminate or reduce many of these financial incentives.

    House Bill 5101 (HB 5101), which recently passed a House committee vote, would cut financial incentives for schools offering college-level and career-focused programs. These cuts could have serious consequences for students across the state, particularly those from low-income families and rural areas. Below is the bill analysis from the Florida House of Representatives. You can also find the document here.

    Why Does This Matter?

    1. College Credit at Risk – Programs like AP and dual enrollment let high schoolers take college-level classes. students would have fewer opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school, potentially adding thousands of dollars to their future college costs. Second, career training programs that prepare students for good-paying jobs right after graduation might disappear from some schools. Cutting funding could mean fewer courses, fewer teachers, and fewer students getting a head start on college.
    2. Low-Income Students Hurt the Most – Wealthier families might pay for college prep on their own, but many students depend on these free or low-cost programs. Without them, some may struggle to afford or even qualify for college.
    3. Career/Technical Programs on the Chopping Block – Not every student goes to a four-year college. Career-focused courses (like nursing, IT, or auto tech) help students get skilled jobs right after high school. Cutting funds could limit their opportunities.

    These changes would likely widen existing educational inequalities. Wealthier districts and families might find ways to maintain these programs, but schools in poor and rural areas could lose them completely. This creates an unfair situation where a student’s access to advanced opportunities depends on their zip code or family income.

    School Districts Push Back

    Education leaders across Florida are expressing serious concerns about HB 5101. Large urban districts like Miami-Dade and Broward worry they’ll have to eliminate advanced courses that serve thousands of students. Small rural districts fear they may lose these programs entirely due to lack of funding.

    Many educators emphasize that these programs are crucial for college preparation and workforce development. Career/technical programs in particular help address Florida’s skilled labor shortages by training the next generation of nurses, technicians, and tradespeople.

    Will Other Southern States Follow?

    Florida often sets trends in education policy, especially in conservative-led states. If these cuts happen, states like Texas, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi might consider similar moves to reduce education spending. Some lawmakers argue these programs are too expensive, but students and parents say they’re worth the investment.

    What’s Next?

    As the bill moves through the legislative process, its ultimate impact remains uncertain. If passed, the changes would take effect July 1, 2025 for the 2025-26 school year. Other states, particularly in the South, may watch Florida’s decision closely as they consider their own education budgets.

    The debate highlights an important question: Should Florida invest more in advanced educational opportunities, or are these programs an unnecessary expense? The answer could shape the future of thousands of students across the state.

    Education should open doors, not close them. If these programs shrink, many students—especially those who need them most—could lose their chance at a brighter future.

    What do you think? Should states cut funding for advanced high school courses, or is this a mistake? Let us know in the comments!

  • Celebrate Autism Awareness Month: Learn, Support, and Empower

    April is Autism Awareness Month—a time to celebrate autistic individuals, promote understanding, and uplift the community. Autism (or Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It’s called a “spectrum” because experiences vary widely—some need significant support, while others live independently. According to the CDC, about 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism today. While autism is lifelong, early support can help kids thrive!

    As a proud mother of a child with Autism, I deem it as a blessing and a challenge. It may seem like a learning disability. However, my child just learns differently. She requires a lot more love and patience. I started her in various (and expensive) therapies. These included Speech, Occupational, and Physical therapies. As a result, she’s now a growing elementary student with a love for reading, science, and music. I can wholeheartedly appreciate every therapist, specialist, and teacher my child has had thus far. And like every other kid under the age of 10, she has the “zoomies” (running real fast everywhere!) The journey may seem hard, but there’s a reason why you’re their parent. Wear that title proudly and prepare your child for the ever-changing world.

    Source: verywellmind.com

    What Are Signs of Autism?

    Signs often appear by age 2–3, but some are noticeable earlier. Common signs include:

    • Delayed speech or limited eye contact.
    • Repetitive behaviors (lining up toys, hand-flapping).
    • Difficulty with social interactions (not responding to their name, preferring to play alone).
    • Sensory sensitivities (overwhelmed by loud noises, textures, or bright lights).
    • Strong focus on specific interests (e.g., trains, numbers, animals).

    Every child is unique, so not all signs apply to everyone.

    When & How Should Parents Seek Evaluation?

    If you notice delays or differences in your child’s development:

    1. Talk to your pediatrician—they can screen for autism during checkups.
    2. Ask for a referral to a specialist like a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or neurologist.
    3. Early Intervention programs (for kids under 3) or school evaluations (ages 3+) provide free assessments and support.

    Early evaluation is key! Don’t wait—getting help early can improve learning and communication skills.

    Ways to Celebrate Autism Awareness Month

    1. Neurodiversity Pride Day (April 16):
      Celebrate differences! Share stories, art, or achievements of autistic people. Use #NeurodiversityPride to spread joy.
    2. Autism Acceptance Day (April 2):
      Move beyond awareness to acceptance. Follow autistic advocates on social media. Read books by autistic authors. You can also donate to groups like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN).
    3. Sensory Sensitivity Awareness Week:
      Host a “quiet hour” at work or school with dimmed lights and reduced noise. Learn how sensory-friendly spaces help autistic people feel safe. Donate sensory toys to schools with special education programs or ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) Therapy schools.

    The Puzzle Piece & Autism Speaks: A Gentle Note

    The puzzle piece symbol is widely recognized. However, many in the community now prefer the rainbow infinity loop (for neurodiversity). They also prefer a gold infinity symbol (for autism acceptance). Autism Speaks has raised awareness. However, some autistic adults encourage supporting organizations. These organizations include Autism in Black. They also include those led by autistic people, like the Autism Women & Nonbinary Network. Always listen to autistic voices when choosing how to help!

    To Parents: You’re Doing Great!

    Parenting an autistic child can feel overwhelming, but your love and effort matter. Celebrate progress, lean on support groups, and remember: there’s no “right” way to do this. Trust your instincts, and don’t forget to care for yourself too!

    Oh and Black mothers of children with Autism…please join the Black Autism Moms group on Facebook. Great support there, I promise!

    Track Wins & Find Joy: The “Ausome Parent Journal”

    Looking for a way to document milestones, challenges, and everyday victories? The Ausome Parent Journal is designed for you! Use it to reflect and celebrate your child’s unique strengths.

    Keep Learning Beyond April

    Autism Awareness Month is a starting point—keep listening, adapting, and advocating year-round. Whether you’re autistic, a parent, teacher, or friend, your kindness builds a more inclusive world.

    Together, let’s create a future where everyone belongs. ️

  • Historic Victory for TSU Debate Team at IFA 2025

    The Texas Southern University (TSU) debate team has made history. They won the 2025 International Forensic Association (IFA) Championship in Seoul, South Korea. TSU competed against 26 other top teams from around the world. They claimed the championship title and brought home several individual awards. This achievement marks a huge milestone for the program.

    A Legacy of Excellence
    Texas Southern University was founded in 1927. It is a historically Black university (HBCU) in Houston, Texas. The university is known for its commitment to empowering students through education and advocacy. TSU has long been a hub for trailblazers, including civil rights leaders, politicians, and educators. This win adds to the university’s proud history of breaking barriers and excelling on global stages.

    The IFA Championship is held annually. It brings together elite debate teams to showcase their skills in research. They also demonstrate their abilities in public speaking and critical thinking. This year’s event included teams from prestigious universities. Some of these universities are Harvard University, Stanford University, and Oxford University. Others include the University of Tokyo, Seoul National University, and the University of Cape Town. The competition was fierce, but TSU’s hard work and teamwork helped them rise to the top.

    A Journey of Dedication
    The team spent months preparing, studying global issues, and practicing speeches. Their victory is especially meaningful. TSU’s debate program has grown rapidly in recent years. It has become a force in national competitions. This IFA win is their first international championship.

    Congratulations to the TSU debate team for making their university—and the entire country—proud! 🎉🏆

    The 2025 IFA Championship not only highlights TSU’s success but also sets the bar higher for future teams. As they return to Houston, the TSU debate team is looking ahead to defending their title. They also want to inspire the next generation of students to aim high.

  • Empower Your Business: Free Women’s Entrepreneurship Program

    A few years ago, I worked for a local nonprofit. I advised high school students to pursue amazing things to prepare for college. I also helped them pursue a career or trade. While I enjoyed the work, I wanted more for myself. With my skills in program management and development, I thought about starting my own business. However, I needed more foundational knowledge for the entrepreneurial journey. A colleague recommended I register for the Bank of America Institute for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Cornell.

    My experience was overall amazing. I virtually met and learned with a cohort of women from all walks of life. My favorite class in the program was the Product Development and Digital Marketing course. I enjoyed the topics on branding. I learned ways to use my strengths as a woman for my business’ marketing. The registration process was easy. The online modules were full of information with videos. There were also discussion boards. They allowed us to discuss what was learned. We also explored how to apply the modular information to our real-world businesses. This program will require some time management between work, life, and family. That is, if family applies to you. However, the program is easy to work through.

    This program is offered online and for free through Cornell University, one of the top Ivy League colleges in America. The registration and enrollment process is very easy. The eligibility requirements are also straightforward, such as no high school/GED or college experience. This program targets women starting, running, or expanding a business. There’s no restriction on years of operation, but 0-5 years is best for this program. Overall, this twelve-week program offers six modular courses and is self-paced.

    Register for one of their upcoming online informative registration webinars. The first information session is tomorrow, March 11th.

    When you complete the program, you’ll gain access to a network of female entrepreneurs. You will also receive a monthly emailed business grant list. Additionally, you’ll receive a nice certificate of completion via email.

    Ladies, challenge and invest in yourselves this Spring Break!

  • A Warning to Parents: How Changes in DEI and Laws Could Impact Your Special Needs Child’s Education

    If you have a child with special needs in school, you need to know about changes happening that could affect their rights and education. This article explains how DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) efforts, along with key laws like IDEA, protect your child—and why recent legal battles might put those protections at risk.

    What is DEI, and Why Does It Matter for Special Education?

    DEI stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In schools, DEI means making sure every student—no matter their background, race, or disability—has a fair chance to learn and succeed. For special education, DEI helps schools:

    • Create classrooms where kids with disabilities are included, not separated.
    • Train teachers to understand different learning needs.
    • Provide tools (like speech therapy or quiet spaces) so all students can thrive.

    DEI isn’t just a buzzword. It’s about fairness. Without it, kids with disabilities might be left behind.

    IDEA: Your Child’s Right to an Education

    IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) is a federal law that guarantees kids with disabilities the right to a free education tailored to their needs. Under IDEA:

    • Your child gets an IEP (Individualized Education Program)—a plan listing the support they’ll receive (like extra tutoring or classroom aids).
    • Schools must teach your child in the “least restrictive environment,” meaning they learn alongside peers without disabilities as much as possible.
    • You have a say in your child’s education. Schools must include parents in IEP meetings.

    IDEA is a lifeline for families. But it works best when schools also prioritize DEI, ensuring teachers and staff respect and include students with disabilities.

    Section 504: Protection Against Discrimination

    Another critical law is Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. It stops schools that get federal funding from discriminating against students with disabilities. Section 504 requires schools to give accommodations, like:

    • Wheelchair ramps.
    • Extra time on tests.
    • Special technology for hearing or vision needs.

    Without Section 504, schools could ignore these basic needs, leaving kids with disabilities without the tools to succeed.

    Texas and 17 States Are Challenging Section 504—Here’s Why Parents Should Worry

    Recently, Texas joined 16 other states in a lawsuit asking courts to declare Section 504 unconstitutional. Their argument isn’t clear, but if they win, it could:

    • Remove legal requirements for schools to provide accommodations.
    • Let schools deny services to kids with disabilities.
    • Make it harder for parents to fight for their child’s rights.

    This lawsuit is a direct threat. Without Section 504, schools might not have to follow through on IEPs or even basic fairness. Kids could lose access to everything from speech therapy to wheelchair access.

    What Can Parents Do?

    1. Know Your Rights: Learn about IDEA and Section 504. Ask the school for your child’s IEP in writing.
    2. Speak Up: Attend school meetings. If the school denies services, remind them these are legal requirements.
    3. Stay Informed: Follow news about the lawsuit. If Section 504 is weakened, advocate for state laws to replace it.
    4. Build Support: Join parent groups or disability organizations. There’s power in numbers.

    Final Thoughts

    DEI and laws like IDEA and Section 504 exist to protect vulnerable students. But these protections are under attack. Parents must act now to guard their child’s future. Stay involved, ask questions, and demand that schools do right by all kids—including yours.

    Your child deserves a fair shot. Don’t let anyone take that away.

    Note: This article is for general information. For legal advice, contact a disability rights attorney or advocate.