Trump Announces New Guidance on Prayer in Public Schools and Donates Family Bible to Museum

CBS News is a major American broadcast news division headquartered in New York City and part of CBS Corporation, renowned as one of the "big three" U.S. networks alongside ABC News and NBC News[1][5]. It provides multi-platform news coverage across television (CBS Television Network), radio (CBS Radio News), digital streaming (CBS News Streaming Network), websites (CBSNews.com), and mobile devices, delivering original reporting, interviews, investigations, analysis, and breaking news 24/7[5][6]. Founded in 1927 initially as a radio network by Arthur Judson and later purchased in 1929 by William S. Paley, CBS transformed under Paley's leadership into a dominant media force by attracting large audiences and advertisers[2][3]. It pioneered network radio news broadcasts beginning in 1929, with a notable early commitment to interrupt programming for breaking news, exemplified by live coverage of the 1932 Lindbergh kidnapping[1]. Edward R. Murrow, hired in 1935, established CBS's legendary reputation in wartime journalism, sending correspondents across Europe during World War II[1]. CBS transitioned into television early, launching experimental broadcasts in 1931 and airing the first color broadcast in America in 1940[3]. It became a dominant television network from the mid-1950s to the mid-1970s, expanding its news programming with flagship shows like *60 MINUTES* (top-rated for 49 years), *CBS Evening News*, *Face the Nation* (the longest-running Sunday public affairs program), and *CBS News Sunday Morning*, all critically acclaimed and award-winning programs[5][6][9]. Today, CBS News excels in both traditional and digital journalism, operating 28 owned TV stations in 17 major U.S. markets and streaming globally in over 90 countries[6]. Its digital streaming platforms amassed over 1.24 billion streams in 2023, underscoring its leadership i

The U.S. Department of Education (ED), established in 1979, is a federal agency responsible for shaping education policy, administering federal aid, and promoting student achievement and equal access to education across the nation[1][9]. Its mission centers on preparing students for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal opportunities for all learners[1]. The Department manages a broad portfolio, including elementary and secondary education programs serving over 55 million students in approximately 134,000 public and private schools, as well as grant, loan, and work-study assistance for around 10 million undergraduates[1]. Created to strengthen federal commitment to equal educational opportunity, the Department supplements state and local efforts, encourages public involvement, supports federally funded research, and works to improve efficiency and accountability in education programs[1]. It functions as the primary conduit for federal funding to public K-12 schools and higher education institutions, distributing billions annually—over $60 billion in regular federal school funding plus additional pandemic-related funds[3][4]. Despite its pivotal role, the Department has faced ongoing political controversy, particularly from conservative circles advocating for its reduction or elimination, arguing that education governance should be localized[3]. In 2025, an executive order directed steps toward potentially closing the Department, although full abolition requires Congressional approval and remains uncertain[2][4]. This political uncertainty has led to staff reductions and canceled contracts, raising concerns among educators and professional organizations about impacts on student services and special education funding[2][3]. In parallel, state governments and education leaders focus on evolving education policy themes such as K-12 funding, workforce development, teacher workforce challenges, academic achievement, and mental health support, highlighting the dynamic interplay between federal and state roles in education[5]. Technologically and administratively, the Department continues to manage vast data and funding systems, aiming to modernize education delivery and accountability while navigating political pressures and shifting federal priorities[6][8]. Its notable impact lies in coordinating large-scale federa

Museum of the Bible is a prominent nonprofit, educational institution dedicated to inviting people worldwide to engage with the Bible’s transformative power through immersive exhibits, cutting-edge technology, and scholarly research[1][5]. Located in Washington, D.C., three blocks from the U.S. Capitol, the museum’s 430,000-square-foot facility opened in November 2017 and has welcomed over 2 million visitors, quickly earning recognition as one of the top new attractions in the United States[2][4]. The museum’s mission is to make the Bible accessible and relevant to all ages and backgrounds, emphasizing its historical, literary, and cultural impact[1][6]. ## History and Founding The museum’s origins trace back to 2009, when Steve Green—president of Hobby Lobby—began acquiring biblical manuscripts and artifacts, aiming to establish a museum to house and showcase these items[3]. Incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2010, the organization purchased the Washington Design Center in 2012 and invested more than $500 million in constructing the current facility, which boasts eight floors, a rooftop garden, and a large-scale LED ceiling display[3][4]. The Green family’s significant financial backing and artifact acquisitions have been central to the museum’s development and international profile[3]. ## Core Activities and Key Achievements Museum of the Bible operates on “Four Pillars”: Education, Research, Traveling Exhibits, and the Washington, D.C. museum itself[1][5]. Its education initiatives include K–12 and high school curricula, virtual tours of Israel, and a global speaker series[1][5]. The Research pillar supports academic projects and fosters collaboration among scholars worldwide, while Traveling Exhibits leverage one of the largest private collections of biblical artifacts for domestic and international display[5]. The museum’s permanent exhibits—focusing on the history, stories, and impact of the Bible—