Big news this week from the Department of Education: the final rule for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program was announced on October 30, following months of negotiation and public debate. This overhaul aims to make loan forgiveness more accessible for public servants—from teachers and nurses to first responders—by clarifying eligibility and streamlining the forgiveness process, a move the department calls “a major step forward in supporting Americans devoted to public service,” according to Secretary McMahon.

Alongside this, the federal government is still in the shadow of a shutdown, with Congress stonewalled on reopening crucial agency functions. Despite the turbulence, the Department pressed ahead with its Reimagining and Improving Student Education committee—often called the RISE committee—which met again this week to iron out student loan provisions mandated by the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act. These changes affect millions of borrowers, with an enhanced decision tool using artificial intelligence now piloted to help educators personalize learning more effectively.

Indiana made headlines by submitting a bold waiver request for the Every Student Succeeds Act, proposing a block grant solution that gives districts and the state broader, flexible use of funds while reducing bureaucracy. Indiana’s education department touted the move as “advancing student outcomes through innovation and flexibility.” The federal department is reviewing the request within a 120-day window, marking this as a potential model for other states.

There’s also significant shakeup in special education. The Trump administration is evaluating transferring administration of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and related programs to another federal agency—most likely Health and Human Services—with promises of “no interruption or impact on students with disabilities.” This follows previous moves that shifted responsibility for career and technical education, signaling extensive cross-department restructuring.

The Higher Education Compact, proposed by the White House to nine leading universities, continues to stir reaction. As reported by the Wall Street Journal, six top schools have rejected the initiative, citing concerns over federal overreach in exchange for funds. Debate is fierce, and a second round of discussions just took place at the White House with both original and newly invited institutions.

Senator Bill Cassidy introduced new legislation designed to safeguard student data privacy amid rising use of AI in schools. The bill prohibits the use of student photos for facial recognition without parental consent and calls for evidence-based resources to train teachers on AI’s safe use. Cassidy stated, “it gives families more options… and allows students to enrich their current education,” asserting the bill will “complement existing state-level programs” without harming public schools.

What does this all mean for listeners? American citizens could see quicker relief for student loans and potentially more individualized educational support. Businesses and ed-tech organizations should brace for stricter data privacy requirements and opportunities in AI-driven tools. State and local governments may find new flexibility—and uncertainty—around federal grant streams. Internationally, changes to loan policies and university funding may influence global competitiveness and collaboration, although primary impacts remain domestic.

So what’s next? The Department plans to respond to Indiana’s ESSA waiver early next year and is inviting public comment on waiver proposals and AI privacy bills. If you’re a teacher, parent, or student, keep an eye out for guidance on these regulatory actions and consider submitting feedback—your input could shape upcoming policies.

For more details or to find ways to get involved, check the Department’s newsroom or reach out to your local school board. Some legislative proposals are open for public comment right now, and as Congress debates further changes, community voices matter more than ever.

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