Author: Lester Holt

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has confirmed that the Chicago Connected Internet Program will continue for the 2025–2026 school year. The initiative provides free high-speed internet to thousands of students, ensuring equitable access to digital learning resources and helping bridge the city’s digital divide. Since its launch, the program has played a pivotal role in supporting students’ education. By offering reliable connectivity at home, it allows learners to complete assignments, participate in online classes, and access educational tools without interruption. For many families, Chicago Connected represents a lifeline to essential digital resources that might otherwise be inaccessible. Expanding Digital Access More…

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is facing a notable enrollment decline, with preliminary figures showing a drop of roughly 12,000 students. This brings the district’s total student population to around 313,000, according to early reports. The official count will be released on September 15, but the preliminary numbers already signal challenges for the city’s education system. The decline is most pronounced among English language learners and Black students, highlighting ongoing disparities in access and retention. Education experts warn that this trend could impact resource allocation, classroom sizes, and funding levels, as public school budgets often depend on enrollment numbers. CPS serves…

A federal judge in Massachusetts has restored more than $2.2 billion in research funding to Harvard University, overturning an effort by the Trump administration to cancel the grants. The ruling, issued by Judge Allison Burroughs on September 3, orders that the funds be reinstated and prevents officials from halting them again. The grants, frozen since spring, are critical to Harvard’s work in health, technology, and scientific research. The case centers on whether federal research programs can be influenced by political disputes. Burroughs’ 84-page decision concluded that the administration’s action was unconstitutional and violated federal law. The judge found that the…

Mexican Independence Day celebrations in Chicago are being overshadowed by fear of federal immigration enforcement. The holiday, which began over the weekend, comes as the Trump administration has sent National Guard troops and federal immigration agents to the city. Advocates say members of Chicago’s large Mexican American community are anxious. Many worry they could be targeted or profiled during the Sept. 16 festivities. Supporters of immigrant rights, faith leaders, and local politicians have spoken out in recent weeks to show solidarity. They aim to ease fears as federal authorities step up immigration enforcement. Erendira Rendon, chief program officer at The…