Insights
Insights: analysis, research, and informed commentary from Sutherland experts. For elected officials and public policy professionals.
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Parents cut out of their children’s decisions will get a chance to make their case to the Supreme Court
Governments should not interfere with parents’ relationships with their children unless the parents are unfit. The Washington policy being challenged in this case turns that principle upside down. It assumes that certain parents are unfit without requiring any evidence that…
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U.S. Supreme Court will hear case on home worship
These types of cases arise when government officials do not understand, or perhaps ignore, constitutional provisions protecting the free exercise of religion.
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What have we learned about education policy in 250 years?
Parents generally know best what their child needs to succeed academically, and policymakers at the state and local levels are more likely to create policy that reflects that.
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When city rules chill home worship, courts should step in
The specific legal question is whether he can bring his case now based on the threat or whether he will need to wait until the city makes a final determination against him.
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Virtual learning: From online schools to AI tools
As Utah policymakers navigate education technology, they should be guided by a simple principle: technology should expand educational opportunity for families while being evaluated honestly for its results on student learning.
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How Utah is bringing hidden federal guidance into the open
Support for these laws has been entirely bipartisan. Ensuring the people of the state and their representatives are aware of direction from federal agencies, and can challenge it where necessary, is not a party issue.
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One standard should guide the Utah Senate on Supreme Court nominees: fidelity to the Utah Constitution
Senators should be clear that only nominees who understand and are committed to constitutional supremacy and the constitutional role of judges will be confirmed.
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What does the future hold for public schools?
To remain competitive, public schools should clearly communicate their unique value so parents can decide whether they are the best fit for their children.
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Federalism isn’t about states’ rights. It’s about responsibilities.
Federalism is implicated in a wide range of current controversies, like the conduct of elections, business regulation, even immigration. Sometimes, though, the way we talk about it obscures its nature and purpose.
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Why microschools matter
Their existence is evidence of a changing culture and policy framework. Understanding what they are in the education choice landscape is important for both parents and policymakers.