1. D.E.I. APPEAL

The U.S. Education Department is investigating over 50 universities for possible racial discrimination as part of President Trump’s efforts to end diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The government argues that DEI policies unfairly exclude white and Asian American students, while universities say these programs help create more opportunities for underrepresented students. The investigations mainly focus on universities partnering with the PhD Project, which helps students from minority backgrounds earn business degrees. Some schools are also being investigated for race-based scholarships or programs. This effort follows a Supreme Court decision that banned race as a factor in college admissions, and now the Education Department is applying that rule to other aspects of education. Some universities and teachers’ unions are challenging these policies in court, arguing that they restrict free speech and harm diversity efforts. Have a class discussion on the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in education. Start by researching how these programs are designed to support different student groups. Then, divide into small groups where each group takes a different perspective—one representing the government’s concerns, another representing universities that support DEI programs, and another representing students who may be impacted. After discussing within your groups, come together as a class to share key points and explore possible compromises that balance fairness, opportunity, and inclusion in education.

2. COLLEGIATE CONTROVERSY

Helyeh Doutaghi, a scholar at Yale Law School, was placed on administrative leave and barred from campus after an A.I.-powered news site, Jewish Onliner, accused her of ties to a sanctioned pro-Palestinian group called Samidoun. The U.S. government has previously labeled Samidoun a “sham charity” that funds terrorism. Doutaghi denies being a member of the group, stating that she is simply a supporter of Palestinian rights. Her suspension has sparked controversy, with some arguing that Yale is silencing scholars amid increasing political pressure from the Trump administration. The situation highlights growing tensions on college campuses, as universities like Yale face threats of losing federal funding over allegations of antisemitism. Critics also question the reliability of A.I.-powered news sources, which use artificial intelligence for research and reporting. Meanwhile, Doutaghi’s lawyer is working to restore her reputation, arguing that the decision was made without due process. Imagine you are a student journalist writing an opinion piece about the impact of A.I. in journalism and its potential risks. In a short editorial (one to two paragraphs), discuss whether A.I. should be trusted as a news source and what steps should be taken to prevent false accusations from damaging people’s lives. Consider how universities should handle cases like Doutaghi’s—should institutions take immediate action based on media reports, or should they investigate further before making decisions? Use examples from the article to support your argument, and think critically about the balance between security, academic freedom, and the role of technology in shaping public opinion.

3. GENDER GAP

A new survey by the Pew Research Center found that most teenagers believe boys and girls are equal in school, and some even think girls have more advantages. While boys used to dominate classrooms in the past, today girls often get better grades, take on more leadership roles, and are more likely to go to college. Boys, on the other hand, struggle more with behavior issues and feel less encouraged academically. Researchers aren’t sure why boys have fallen behind, but some believe it has to do with how they are raised, school expectations, and the fact that most teachers are women. Meanwhile, girls face their own pressures, such as anxiety, depression, and societal expectations to look good. Adults are starting to notice these challenges, with many saying boys need more support in school. Despite these differences, both boys and girls share similar goals for the future, like having a job they enjoy and strong friendships. Think about what makes a school fair and supportive for all students. Imagine you are a school leader trying to ensure that both boys and girls feel encouraged in academics, leadership, and emotional well-being. Write a short proposal (5–7 sentences) describing one change you would make in your school to help all students succeed. It could be a new rule, a special program, or a change in how teachers interact with students. Explain why you think this change would help and how it would make a difference in students’ lives.

4. PRIVACY VS. SECURITY

Many schools in the U.S. use AI-powered programs to monitor students’ online activity on school computers. These programs, like Gaggle, scan students’ searches, emails, and messages for warning signs of danger, such as suicide, bullying, threats, or abuse. If the system finds something concerning, it alerts teachers or counselors, who may step in to help the student. Some say this keeps students safe by stopping violence and helping kids in crisis. For example, some students have received support from counselors after their messages were flagged. However, this technology also raises big privacy concerns. At one school, over 3,500 private student documents were accidentally shared with reporters, showing how easily student information can be exposed. Another problem is that these programs can out LGBTQ+ students or flag things that aren’t real threats, like a student’s creative writing or a personal diary entry. Some students say they feel uncomfortable knowing their school is always watching what they do online. While schools believe the system helps prevent tragedies, others argue that students need privacy and a safe space to express themselves. In small groups, discuss this topic. Consider how this technology can help students or harm students, whether students should be warned about being monitored, and if there a better way to help students without watching everything they do online. After your discussion, write a short speech or opinion letter stating your opinion on whether schools should use AI surveillance. Be sure to explain why you think it is a good or bad idea, using examples from the article.

5. VETERANS’ FIGHT FOR ALLIES

Thousands of Afghan interpreters and allies who worked with the U.S. military are at risk of being stranded due to a new travel ban proposed by President Trump. The nonprofit organization No One Left Behind, led by military veterans, is working to raise money for flights and assistance before the ban takes effect. Many Afghans who helped the U.S. have already been waiting in Pakistan, Albania, and Qatar for months, fearing Taliban retaliation if they are not allowed to relocate to the United States. In his first term, Trump banned immigration from several majority-Muslim countries, and Afghanistan is expected to be added to the list this time. Some Republican lawmakers have opposed this decision, warning that these Afghan allies are not illegal migrants but individuals who risked their lives for the U.S. mission. No One Left Behind has successfully raised millions of dollars to fly eligible Afghans to safety, but challenges remain. Funding for refugee programs has been cut, leaving nonprofits to help new arrivals find jobs and housing. Despite these obstacles, Afghan refugees like Aman Jafari, a former Navy SEAL interpreter, are relieved to finally reach America, determined to build a new future for their families. Imagine you are an Afghan interpreter or ally who worked alongside American troops and now fears being stranded due to the new travel ban. Write a short letter (one to two paragraphs) to a U.S. government official explaining why Afghan allies should be allowed to enter the United States. In your letter, describe the risks you face, how you helped the U.S. military, and why honoring the promise of relocation is important. Think about persuading the official by appealing to fairness, loyalty, and the values of the United States.