SUMMARY: North Carolina has seen a slight improvement in math performance since the COVID-19 pandemic, but reading scores remain below pre-pandemic levels. Nationally, fourth-grade math scores improved while eighth-grade scores stagnated. The achievement gap between high- and low-performing students has widened, reflecting similar trends seen in NAEP data. Despite these challenges, North Carolina’s math performance exceeds the national average, though reading lags. State officials note ongoing efforts, such as implementing a new literacy program and training for teachers, which aim to enhance early literacy skills. Optimism remains for future assessments to reflect these foundational improvements.

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SUMMARY: President Trump recently made several significant moves, including offering federal employees the option to resign by February 6, with full pay and benefits through September 2025, excluding certain positions like military personnel and immigration officers. The offer comes with the expectation that remaining workers return to in-person offices five days a week. Additionally, Trump issued an order limiting medical options for transgender children and adults under 19, including banning federal funding for gender transition treatments. The American Federation of Government Employees criticized the actions, warning of their potential negative impact on the functioning of the federal government.

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SUMMARY: The Trump administration rescinded a spending freeze memo just 48 hours after its release, causing confusion among organizations reliant on federal funding, like Meals on Wheels. This move was welcomed by Senate Appropriations Committee members who noted the memo’s overreach and its adverse impact on programs. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt suggested the rescindment aimed to clear up confusion stemming from a judge’s ruling. Despite this, ongoing lawsuits challenging the original memo remain unresolved, with judges scheduled to consider further actions. The administration plans additional measures to address federal spending issues moving forward.

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