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Republicans weigh using the power of Congress to rein in Trump on tariffs; Stocks tumble again after China fires back in trade war; Mississippi urged to invest in jobs, not jails, to cut prison costs; Studies highlight gut health benefits of plant-forward diets in MI.

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The administration stands behind its tariffs, despite declines in markets. Advocates nationwide push back against federal rollbacks affecting military families, and the environment and big budget plans advance in Congress.

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The proposed dismantling of the Depart. of Education has rural schools scared, postal carriers say USPS changes will hurt rural communities most, fiber networks to improve internet may be supplanted by Musk's satellites, and it's time to PLAY BALL!

During American Education Week, public asked to reset K-12 views

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Tuesday, November 19, 2024   

American Education Week is underway, and Nebraskans are asked to find trust again in public school systems, including rural areas.

There have been some improvements but national polling shows a majority of Americans are still dissatisfied with K-12 education. A Gallup survey last year showed a peak level of 63%. It is down to 55 percent this year, but advocates said it is clear they need more public support.

Jack Moles, executive director of the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association, feels teachers remain dedicated even though the classroom environment is different from when he was teaching.

"It was a tough job then, it's much tougher today," Moles observed. "People are still going into it."

Moles emphasized dedication is apparent as students increasingly demonstrate social and emotional needs following the pandemic. He acknowledged teacher staffing shortages are still an issue but noted communities are getting creative with solutions centering around housing and other recruitment tools. Moles encouraged more of these efforts as a way to show support.

Moles stressed it is not just about higher salaries and other amenities. He thinks the "politicization of education" has fueled negative feelings about teachers and he called on elected leaders at the state and federal levels to help change the narrative.

"We see more and more things where educators are demonized," Moles observed. "I hate seeing that. We didn't use to have that. "

As for community members showing appreciation, Moles added a powerful approach is a parent sharing success stories about their child with a former teacher. He suggested it can be a very effective way of illustrating how impactful an educator was in connecting with a student.


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In addition to gut health benefits, many researchers say reducing meat consumption and increasing plant-based foods can help lower greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water and reduce the environmental footprint of food production. (NDABCREATIVITY/Adobe Stock)

Health and Wellness

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By Dawn Attride for Sentient.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabora…


Social Issues

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As Mississippi grapples with one of the nation's highest incarceration rates, a new national campaign highlights the economic and social toll of …

Social Issues

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Pro-worker and pro-democracy organizers and activists in Nevada are coming together to oppose some of the policies of President Donald Trump…


Organizations such as Minnesota's Urban Bird Collective are trying to foster a more welcoming bird-watching community, which includes encouraging more women to become birders. (Adobe Stock)

Environment

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Minnesota bird enthusiasts should keep their binoculars handy. April is a good month to spot various species migrating back to the region. Experts …

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As President Donald Trump dismantles the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, advocates of the agency warn that veterans and military service …

The FBI says fraud and scam losses nationwide reported by those age 60 and older topped $3.4 billion in 2023, including $128 million in Arizona. (Adobe Stock)

Social Issues

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Arizona lawmakers are considering a bill to prevent cryptocurrency scams and regulate what are known as "crypto kiosks." Brendon Blake, AARP …

Social Issues

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UPDATE: A statement about the arrest from the University of Cincinnati has been added. (8:10 a.m. MDT, Apr. 3, 2025) A recent arrest on the …

Environment

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A huge offshore wind project is forging ahead off Humboldt Bay in Northern California - and Saturday, elected officials will tour the deepwater port …

 

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