Illinois has again demonstrated its academic strength, with two of its premier universities named among the best in the United States for 2026. The latest national ranking evaluated hundreds of colleges and universities across the country, measuring their performance on multiple dimensions of quality and student success. Northwestern University and the University of Chicago both earned places in the top 30, highlighting Illinois as one of the most academically accomplished states in the nation.

New research from Harvard economists is reshaping the long-held belief that a college degree guarantees long-term financial success. Once viewed as a secure investment in the future, many traditional majors are now delivering diminishing returns, as automation and evolving job markets rapidly redefine the worth of academic credentials. According to Harvard labor economist David J. Deming and researcher Kadeem Noray, the value of applied degrees such as business, computer science, an

The State Fair of Texas has introduced a new change this year by allowing free student ticket vouchers to be used on weekends, giving families more flexibility to attend together. For the first time, students in Pre-K through 8th grade who receive complimentary tickets will be able to visit the fair on any day, including weekends. This adjustment is designed to make the event more accessible and family-friendly, especially for parents who found it difficult to attend on weekdays. In p

The University of Oxford has once again secured the top position in The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, marking its tenth consecutive year as the world’s leading academic institution. Released today, the rankings reaffirm Oxford’s strength in research innovation, teaching quality, and global reputation. The 2026 edition also reflects changing dynamics in higher education worldwide, showing shifts in the United States and Asia and modest but steady pro

Mohan Babu University (MBU) in Tirupati is under scrutiny after the Andhra Pradesh Higher Education Commission uncovered a significant fee scandal, where the university collected ₹26.17 crore in excess fees from students. The Commission has recommended withdrawing the university's recognition due to violations in fee structures and irregularities in the collection process. The university has been directed to refun

President Donald Trump has directed the deployment of 400 members of the Texas National Guard to Illinois, Oregon, and other states, according to an announcement from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker on Sunday night. The decision has drawn strong criticism from Pritzker and other state officials, who accuse the administration of overstepping its authority and disregarding state sovereignty. The governor revealed that the federal government did not coordinate with Illinois before the decision w

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that his administration had reached a settlement with Harvard University under which the institution would pay $500 million to resolve a dispute that has lasted for months. Speaking at the White House, Trump told reporters that the agreement was nearly finalized, adding that Education Secretary Linda McMahon was handling the last details. According to him, the settlement includes Harvard agreeing to operate new trade schools that would train stud

Ohio lawmakers are discussing a resolution that would encourage students across the state to read the Declaration of Independence in their classrooms as the country prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the historic document in 2026. The measure, introduced as House Concurrent Resolution 22, is sponsored by Representatives Bill Roemer and Jack Daniels. It received its first hearing before the House Education Committee and has been described as a way to prom

Ranked among the world’s top public institutions, the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia has gained recognition for shaping students into leaders who can thrive in rapidly evolving global markets. With students from across the world joining its programs, Indian students in particular are increasingly enrolling with a clear aim: to sharpen their leadership and entrepreneurial skills while learning how to apply technical expertise in international business contexts.

A state commission in New Jersey has recommended a significant change in how schools manage technology use during the academic day. The Commission on the Effects of Social Media Usage on Adolescents has suggested that school districts across the state should adopt bell-to-bell cellphone bans, preventing students from using phones from the beginning of the school day until the final bell. The recommendation comes after growing concerns about the impact of smartphones and social media on the me

A new Eco Challenge contest is calling on middle school teachers to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders by showcasing innovative student projects. The initiative, designed to highlight sustainability and green practices, gives classrooms the chance to demonstrate how they are taking meaningful steps toward building a healthier planet. By empowering students to think creatively and critically about environmental issues, the program aims to connect education with action and provid

Communities in Schools of the Dallas region, which currently serves 10 school districts across North Texas, is preparing to launch an initiative unlike anything most families, students, and educators have seen before. Known for its strong mission that focuses on four essential pillars—academics, behavior, attendance, and basic needs—the organization continues to expand its programs to address the growing concerns around student wellbeing. In partnership with local school districts

SGS Devotional Music Course – Offered by Yoga Sangeeta, USA Embark on a soulful musical journey with the SGS Devotional Music Course, starting October 1st. This unique program is designed for all levels — from beginners to advanced learners — and is guided by an expert panel of music teachers.

The Houston Independent School District (HISD) has updated its employee leave and hiring policies under the direction of the state-appointed Board of Managers, drawing attention from teachers and staff across the district. The changes address family medical leave, bereavement policies, and background check procedures while reflecting stricter measures around teacher absences. HISD employees who lose a child, grandpar

The Andhra Education Society School in Mumbai, a prestigious Telugu institution with 77 years of legacy, hosted Shri Nandamuri Balakrishna Garu at its Wadala campus. The school, known for blending academic excellence with traditional values, curren

The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District is inviting residents to join its free Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training Academy this September. The 27-hour multi-day program is designed to teach practical skills that can save lives during disasters. Participants will learn fire safety, medical triage, light search and rescue, disaster preparedness, and team organization techniques that can be applied in real emergencies.

India’s literacy rate has reached a new milestone, rising from 74% in 2011 to 80.9% in 2023–24, according to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The announcement was made on the occasion of International Literacy Day 2025, where he emphasized that literacy must not be viewed merely as the ability to read and write but as a foundation for empowerment, dignity, and self-reliance for every citizen.

Gen Alpha, the generation born from 2010 onward, is growing up in a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is part of everyday life. From voice assistants like Alexa to personalized learning apps, AI is shaping how this generation learns, plays, and interacts. Unlike previous generations who had to adapt to new technology, Gen Alpha is being raised alongside it, making their relationship with AI unique. Growing Up With AI from Day One For Gen Alpha kid

Dallas is combining the celebration of International Literacy Day with the excitement of international soccer to inspire children across North Texas. The Dallas Sports Commission has partnered with the Mexican National Soccer Team to launch the Copa Kin: Read to Win Challenge, an initiative designed to promote reading among elementary school students while connecting it to one of the region’s most popular sporting events. The program officially began on September 8, aligning w

Book lovers, bargain hunters, and community supporters can look forward to the return of the Fall Book and Media Sale at the Pleasanton Library from September 11–14. Hosted by the Friends of the Pleasanton Library, the event is held twice a year to raise funds for library programs, technology, and special needs. The sale has become a popular tradition in Pleasanton, typically raising close to $15,000 per event.