Ten Education Stories We'll Be Reading in 2020
As we bid adieu to 2019 and look forward to another year of tranquil good cheer, it's time for my annual prognostications. Now, while some of you have uncharitably observed that I've an uneven record on this count, I shall soldier on, undaunted by the naysaying. Thus, without further ado, here's my best guess at 10 big education stories we'll be reading in the year ahead:
- As his impeachment trial looms, President Donald Trump's legal team tries a new tactic. In a surprising bid to solidify his position for the Senate trial, Trump's defense team explains that he can't have violated the responsibilities of the office . . . because he never learned what they are. One adviser tells The Washington Post, "I don't think the president ever heard the phrase 'enumerated powers' until the impeachment hearings began." As the White House release puts it, "The president cannot reasonably be expected to comply with niceties of constitutional doctrine that he was never taught." For his part, the president tweets, "DEEP-STATE teachers hid the truth from me in their sh#%hole schools!!!" He adds, "I have the best people. The best! Unlike my LOSER teachers, THEY finally told me about the Constitution and 'emuneraty powers.' Starting now, I will be the most enumerated president ever!!!"
- Struggling to regain her footing in a tough primary season, Sen. Elizabeth Warren announces that she's upsizing her higher education plan. In a carefully choreographed event at a Massachusetts community college, the candidate with a "plan for everything" unveils her new and improved higher ed plan. "My first plan just wasn't quite free enough," Warren says. "Now, free college will really mean free." Federal funding would cover tuition, fees, books, room and board, Wi-Fi access, travel, professional wardrobe, dorm fridges, boutique coffee drinks, yoga, Spotify Premium, fabric softener, and concert tickets. In a new campaign ad, Warren caresses a ridiculously soft-looking towel and says, "My plan? It's not just free college. It's free fabric softener, too!! How soft, you ask?" She winks, "Soft enough to absorb even a billionaire's dewy, delicious tears." The spot is a huge hit, winning the coveted ad of the year award from the influential Socialist Marketing Alliance of America.
- Shortly after his Senate acquittal, Trump embarks on a "You're Fired Tour," visiting schools across America to fire teachers (whom he continues to blame for his travails). CONTINUE READING: Ten Education Stories We'll Be Reading in 2020 - Rick Hess Straight Up - Education Week