GIA Education Report: PSLF Changes, ACLU and NEA Sue Over DEI Directive, and STEM Innovation in Schools

Welcome to the GIA Education Report. With the latest in Southern California education news, I’m Alyssa Silva. 

President Trump has signed an executive action altering eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, excluding borrowers employed by organizations engaged in activities deemed to have a “substantial illegal purpose”. The directive tasks the U.S. Education Department with redefining public service eligibility, which could impact nonprofit workers. Critics argue the move limits free speech and public service access, while legal experts suggest challenges may arise, as PSLF eligibility is established by law. The change follows prior expansions under the Biden administration, which increased loan forgiveness approvals. 

In other news, the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Education Association have filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education over its directive to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programming in federally funded schools. The lawsuit, filed in New Hampshire federal court, argues the department lacks the authority to regulate curriculum and claims the directive violates First Amendment rights. Meanwhile, the department’s Office for Civil Rights clarified that not all DEI initiatives are unlawful and that cultural observances, such as Black History Month, remain permissible. 

Casa Blanca Elementary School in Riverside will open in August with a STEM-focused curriculum and a partnership with Collins Aerospace, a space engineering company. Collins employees will mentor students through hands-on STEM projects, connecting lessons to real-world applications. The new school, serving a predominantly Latino neighborhood, will provide education from preschool through sixth grade and aims to inspire future scientists and engineers. Collins Aerospace has also donated $25,000 for lab equipment, including 3D printers and robotics kits, supporting the school’s emphasis on problem-solving and innovation.  

California Indian Nations College (CINC) is on track to becoming a fully accredited tribal college, marking a significant step for Native American students in higher education. The college recently received preliminary accreditation approval, allowing it to independently offer courses and distribute financial aid. CINC is requesting $60 million in state funding to build a campus and cover operational costs. If fully accredited, the college will be chartered by the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians, providing culturally relevant education to Native students in the Coachella Valley and beyond. 

To close this report, we highlight the 2025 Riverside County Science and Engineering Fair, where 64 students earned gold medals, including three sweepstakes winners. Nearly 500 students from 28 schools presented research across 22 categories, with top performers advancing to state and international competitions. Three senior division students will represent Riverside County at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in May. The event showcased innovation and critical thinking, reinforcing the county’s commitment to STEM education and student achievement. 

And that’s this week’s GIA Education Report, I’m Alyssa Silva.