Latest news with #OEA
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
How Dept. of Education abolition could affect Ohio
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The United States Supreme Court ruled Monday that the Trump administration can continue its process of dismantling the U.S. Department of Education by laying off more than 1,000 workers. Some may now be wondering how these cuts could impact central Ohio, with both sides of the debate having different answers. Westerville's Antonio's Pizzeria to close after 'irreconcilable differences' with landlord Republican strategist Bob Clegg has been following the president's decisions on the federal education department. He said getting rid of the department would give local school districts more power over their curriculum and funding. 'We have so much bureaucracy that nothing gets done because you have to jump through so many hoops,' Clegg said. 'Taking the federal government out of our education system just means we have less hoops to have to jump through.' Ohio Education Association (OEA) Vice President Jeff Wensing said the education department administers federal grant programs that provide funding for career tech programs, after-school care, and help students with disabilities or from low-income families. Wensing said these cuts also come at a time when Ohio's budget is allocating a decades-low percentage to public education funding. How a typo could mean Ohio's state tree isn't the buckeye 'From our point of view, we are underfunded by the state. This potentially will cut our federal funding as well,' Wensing said. 'Cutting back educational opportunities and resources for our students, that's just not a good thing.' Clegg said getting rid of the Department of Education (DOE) would not abolish federal funding; instead, the money would go to the states or to another government agency. In the 50 years since the department was established, Clegg said the impact on local school districts has been minimal. He said schools should not be afraid of the dismantling of the department. 'If you do away with something that's not been all that effective, it's not going to really impact you in a negative way,' Clegg said. 'The local impact here in Ohio and locally will be that we'll have just less government regulation, less government rules that have to be implemented, which costs money.' Wensing and the OEA said there is not much trust between public educators and the state of Ohio, so potentially putting these federal dollars at risk is scary. Man arrested in weekend death of woman in northwest Columbus 'I think that a lot of things are up in the air, but what I do know — with less money from the state, less money from the federal government, it is not good for the students of Ohio,' Wensing said. 'It's not good for the communities of Ohio.' Right now, both Clegg and Wensing said there is still a lot of uncertainty as to what the immediate impacts will be in Ohio and across the country. Approximately 10% of public school funding comes from the DOE. The department has not been abolished at this point and this case is still working its way through the federal court system. With the Supreme Court's decision, nearly 1,400 employees who had already been on paid leave for months will now be fully laid off. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Solve the daily Crossword
Associated Press
17-06-2025
- Politics
- Associated Press
Zarai Maza Emerges as a Hemispheric Leader in Human Rights and Social Strategy.
Zarai Maza Emerges as a Hemispheric Leader in Human Rights and Social Strategy at the OEA — The Organization of American States, based in Washington, D.C., unites 35 countries to promote democracy and human rights across the Americas. With a presence across three continents, over 400 scholarships awarded, and a growing diplomatic agenda, Maza is redefining the role of civil society in the defense of fundamental rights. Miami, FL - June 17, 2025 - In a global context marked by democratic fragility, forced displacement, and the erosion of fundamental freedoms, Zarai Maza has emerged as one of the most influential voices in the Western Hemisphere. Her work blends grassroots action, institutional development, and strategic presence in multilateral spaces, positioning her as a leader capable of connecting civil society with centers of political decision-making. In March of this year, she was invited to speak at the Hall of the Americas at the Organization of American States (OAS), where she shared the panel with Secretary General Dr. Luis Almagro and other prominent guests during the Hispanic Voices for Human Rights Summit, organized by AMAVEX in collaboration with the OAS. Her speech, titled 'Migrating as a Professional: The Emotional Challenge of Starting Over', served as a powerful call to recognize the contribution of displaced professionals to the development of host countries. Former OAS Secretary General Dr. Luis Almagro Honored at the Hispanic Voices for Human Rights Summit — AMAVEX Presents Award for His Legacy in Defending Human Rights, with Zarai Maza Among Distinguished Participants. In July 2024, she was a panelist and co-sponsor of the Human Rights Summit at the United Nations Headquarters, invited by United for Human Rights. During the Human Rights in Action panel, she discussed the challenges of turning human rights into tangible realities and presented measurable results from her international campaigns. She also proposed a strategic collaboration model between governments and civil society for the coming decade. Video: Video Link: As the founder and executive director of the Guardians of Human Rights Foundation, Maza has built an active network across more than 15 countries in the Americas, Asia, and Europe, leading programs focused on human rights education, youth leadership, women's empowerment, and the prevention of violence and drug abuse. Under her leadership, the foundation has awarded more than 400 institutional scholarships in partnership with U.S. universities, helping migrants and refugees access master's and bachelor's degree programs. Through its programs and campaigns, the foundation has reached more than 4.4 million people globally, mobilized over 5,620 human rights advocates, and maintains an active presence on three continents. Maza's journey has taken her from forums in India and Japan to multilateral platforms, local governments, and universities throughout the Americas and Europe. Her work has been recognized by the White House, the United States Congress, and multiple municipalities that have issued official proclamations in support of her awareness and education campaigns. Maza leads not only through action, but also through vision. Her 2025–2030 agenda includes the launch of an International Youth Leadership Network, the establishment of Regional Human Rights Centers in Latin America and Asia, and the formal recognition of her foundation as a consultative actor before multilateral bodies. Born in Venezuela and forced into exile in 2017, she has transformed her personal story into a platform for global action. She no longer speaks solely as a witness to exile, but as a builder of solutions to the greatest human rights challenges of our time. About Zarai Maza: Zarai Maza is an international speaker, university professor, strategist, and the founder and executive director of the Guardians of Human Rights Foundation. She is widely recognized as one of the most prominent voices in the hemisphere on human rights. Maza has represented civil society in high-level forums such as the United Nations and the Organization of American States, and her work has been honored by the White House, the U.S. Congress, and local governments across the Americas and Europe. Her leadership has driven impactful programs in community empowerment, human rights education, youth leadership, violence prevention, and access to higher education for migrants and refugees. She is currently advancing a global agenda focused on empowering youth, fostering international cooperation, and defending fundamental rights in an increasingly complex world.(Press Release by Reinaldo Vandres - PR Director) Media Contact Company Name: Guardians of Human Rights Foundation Contact Person: Reinaldo Vandres - PR Director Email: Send Email Phone: +1 (727)-367-6895 City: Miami State: Florida Country: United States Website: Source: Aknanda Productions PR & Branding Content Services
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Teacher incentives, math education bills become law in Oklahoma
Skelly Elementary teacher Charity Hargrave leads a reading exercise with a small group of fifth graders in Tulsa on April 9, 2024. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY — Longtime Oklahoma teachers will continue earning annual salary increases for an extra 10 years, and their children will qualify for a major state-funded scholarship under new laws the governor signed this week. Gov. Kevin Stitt approved House Bill 1087 on Tuesday to extend the teacher salary schedule, which grants annual incremental pay raises, up to 35 years. The bill also adds one day to the minimum length of an Oklahoma school year, stretching it to 181 instructional days in public schools. HB 1727, which Stitt also signed Tuesday, opens the Oklahoma's Promise college scholarship to the children of classroom teachers with at least 10 years of experience. Oklahoma's Promise pays an amount equal to full resident tuition at a public college or university. The state's largest teacher union, the Oklahoma Education Association, celebrated both bills as ways to retain veteran educators. Offering scholarship funds to educators' children is a 'powerful step for Oklahoma valuing its teachers and their households,' OEA President Cari Elledge said. 'By granting Oklahoma's Promise Scholarship to children of certified educators with at least a decade of service, this bill eases the college burden on our families while incentivizing long-term commitment to our schools,' Elledge, a former Norman teacher, said. 'OEA championed this from committee rooms to the governor's desk because addressing the educator shortage requires meaningful investment.' The governor also signed a bill offering grants to school districts that are trying to boost the pipeline of new teachers. Senate Bill 235 offers matching funds to districts that have established Grow Your Own Educator programs, which give undergraduate college tuition assistance or loan repayment to aspiring teachers. The bill's author, Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, said lawmakers set aside $5 million for these grants. Pugh, who leads the Senate Education Committee, said the slate of school-focused bills the Legislature passed this year are 'building a stronger foundation for Oklahoma's future.' 'Each of these measures reflects our commitment to supporting students, empowering teachers and ensuring every child in our state has access to a high-quality education,' Pugh said in a statement. Multiple bills emphasizing math also passed. Stitt approved HB 1287, giving $3 million to the University of Oklahoma for a math tutoring program assisting the lowest-performing ninth graders. Qualifying students must attend a school district with enrollment of at least 30,000 or a public charter school. The governor also signed on Tuesday the Oklahoma Math Achievement and Proficiency Act, also known as SB 140. It's expected to cost $1 million, according to a fiscal impact estimate from legislative staff. The new law requires public schools to screen students' math proficiency three times a year in grades 2-5. Schools must create a math intervention plan for children who score below their grade level and could receive extra funds dedicated for these students. Struggling students also must be screened for dyscalculia, a learning disability affecting comprehension of arithmetic. Those who screen above their grade level in math must be offered advanced learning opportunities. 'Senate Bill 140 is a critical step forward in improving math outcomes across our state,' the bill's author, Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, said. 'By identifying students who need additional help or more advanced instruction, they will now have personalized support to ensure every child can succeed.' SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Observer
20-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
FTA offers Omani exports competitive advantage
MUSCAT, MAY 20 The Omani Economic Association (OEA) convened a session of its Economic Council under the theme 'International Customs Policies and Their Impact on the Omani Economy,' focusing on the implications of global tariffs and the benefits of the US-Oman Free Trade Agreement. The session, held at Omantel's headquarters, featured His Highness Sayyid Dr Adham bin Turki Al Said, Chairman of the Economic Committee at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Khalid bin Said al Shuaibi, Head of the National Programme for Investment and Export Development (Nazdaher); and was moderated by Dr Khalid bin Said al Amri, Chairman of the OEA Board. Speaking first at the session, HH Sayyid Dr Adham said, 'Today's global developments are not spontaneous; they are the result of accumulated trends, accelerated post-COVID-19. The response came as a reaction to globalization, industrial nations began subsidising their exports. The US perceived Chinese export-driven production as a threat, prompting Trump to introduce a wave of tariffs, which ultimately hurt American consumers and companies. Still, there were positive outcomes, such as new free trade agreements with the US, understandings with the UK, and the reshaping of NAFTA, from which the US now benefits, despite spending more than it produces. These tariffs have attracted some industries back to the US.' He described Trump's approach as a "shock policy", stressing that the American market remains attractive. 'The US and China are clearly diverging. Despite the friction, the US remains reliant on Chinese investments. Tariffs are likely to remain, with Trump's main goal being economic recovery and job creation in the US,' he added. Speaking to the Observer, Khalid bin Said al Shuaibi, Head of the National Programme for Investment and Export Development (Nazdaher), affirmed that the FTA between Oman and the United States remains in effect, ensuring that Omani products are exempt from standard customs duties. However, he clarified that the additional 10 per cent customs duty currently applied across all imports does affect Omani exports. 'The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) remains valid. Omani products exported to the US are not subject to standard customs duties, except for the additional 10 per cent applied across all imports. Negotiations are ongoing to address and potentially ease these charges,' he stated. Al Shuaibi emphasised that, despite this added tariff, the FTA continues to offer Omani exporters a competitive advantage in the US market, and discussions are underway to mitigate the impact of these new duties. Dr Khalid bin Said al Amri, Chairman of the Board of Directors of OEA, remarked, 'Ongoing economic disputes between the US and China continue to cast a shadow over the global economy. Former President Trump's decision to impose tariffs on over 60 countries, though delayed briefly, still impacts the global economy. With economic uncertainty prevailing, many countries are using tariffs as economic tools, a form of tax on imports.' He argued that such economic challenges can be viewed as opportunities rather than obstacles. 'They offer a chance to support national industries and encourage innovation, building a more resilient domestic economy capable of withstanding global fluctuations,' he said. He acknowledged the recent decline in oil prices and the drop in the Muscat Stock Exchange Index, but said, 'That doesn't mean we should stand idle. These global shifts must be used to facilitate trade in target markets, create new supply chains, expand and diversify markets, and develop new products. From such challenges, opportunities are born.'
Online Citizen
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Online Citizen
Singapore blocks Jom articles on Meta over election ad rules, citing unauthorised paid promotion
SINGAPORE: On 30 April 2025, the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) confirmed that three articles published by the Singapore-based digital magazine Jom were blocked for local users on Facebook and Instagram. The action, carried out by Meta, followed a directive issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) on 23 April. It came amid concerns that the articles constituted unauthorised third-party paid Online Election Advertising (OEA) during the general election period. Jom, which describes itself as an independent magazine covering culture, politics, and society in Singapore, had promoted these articles through paid advertisements on Meta's platforms. According to MDDI, the three articles in question were titled: These pieces, which either praised or criticised political figures and policies, were deemed to meet the legal definition of OEA under the Parliamentary Elections Act (PEA). The PEA defines OEA as any online material that could reasonably be regarded as intended to promote or prejudice the electoral success or standing of a political party or candidate, regardless of other intended purposes. Singapore law permits only political parties, candidates, election agents, and authorised third parties to publish paid OEA. Such activities must also be declared to the returning officer. MDDI stressed that these rules are in place to ensure accountability and prevent circumvention of election expense limits. Unpaid OEA remains legal outside the campaign cooling-off period, which runs from midnight on 2 May until polling closes on 3 May. In response to media queries, MDDI reiterated that unpaid OEA on Jom's website remains accessible. The ministry noted that other online commentators had complied with these rules. Jom contests classification of journalism as political advertising Jom expressed strong disagreement with the government's classification. In statements issued on its social media platforms, the publication said it had only sought to promote journalism to new readers through standard digital marketing practices. Jom called the order 'shocking' and argued that its content was not designed to influence voter behaviour, but to inform and analyse, as journalistic work typically does. 'Our work was never 'intended' to promote or prejudice anybody, but simply to analyse and report,' Jom said. The magazine specifically cited the housing article, noting that it was first published 18 months ago. It contended that describing public policies from multiple perspectives should not be viewed as electioneering. Jom reported that, after consulting legal counsel, it contacted IMDA via the designated email for election-related issues, requesting clarification within 48 hours due to the urgency of the situation. The agency responded on 29 April, stating that Jom had contravened section 61K(1) of the PEA. Jom said it was not provided with further substantive clarification. Additionally, the outlet revealed that a fourth article, Inequality and your vote, had also been restricted from promotion on Meta, though this was not mentioned in the government's initial announcement. Concerns over press freedom, competition, and public discourse Jom raised concerns about what it views as broader implications for press freedom, democratic engagement, and competition in Singapore's media landscape. 'This order undermines our integrity as journalists,' the publication stated, arguing that it was being unfairly penalised while state-affiliated platforms and influencers operated without similar constraints. It also noted that the ruling hinders the viability of small media firms trying to build readership through legitimate digital channels. 'Our ability to grow our readership and business through social media is vital,' Jom said. 'Far from nurturing media entrepreneurs, IMDA cripples us.' Meta defines boosted posts as advertisements and requires them to follow applicable advertising laws. According to the platform, even if a post is originally published as standard content, paying to increase its reach classifies it as an ad. This distinction played a key role in the enforcement of Singapore's election laws in this case. Jom acknowledged that the order only barred the promotion of its articles on Meta, and that the content remains freely accessible on its own website. Jom questioned whether the decision was a bureaucratic misstep or a politically motivated move aimed at silencing independent commentary during the election season. 'Are [readers] only supposed to hear mainstream media and PAP-influencer views?' Jom asked. Despite the controversy, Jom stated its commitment to continue reporting on Singapore's general election and other pressing national issues. 'We will not succumb,' the statement read. 'We will continue to do our honest work.'
