Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1505501
The Latest on Student Loan Repayment To help mitigate the financial stress felt by borrowers when federal student loan payments resume in October, the federal government launched the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) program on July 31. Applications for the income- driven repayment (IDR) plan — which the Biden Administra- tion calls "the most affordable repayment plan in history " — are now open. SAVE was finalized shortly after the Supreme Court struck down President Biden's student debt forgiveness initiative in June. It replaces the Revised Pay as You Earn (REPAYE) plan (those already enrolled will be automatically switched to SAVE) and is expected to help borrowers by decreasing monthly payments, limiting interest accrual and reducing the amount borrowers would pay back over their lifetime. IDR plans are designed to lower monthly loan payments based on income and family size. In addition to SAVE, three other IDR plans are currently offered: Pay as You Earn (PAYE) Income-Based Repayment (IBR) and Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR). Find out which plan may best suit your needs. Both new and returning applicants can apply or manage a plan on the Federal Student Aid website (studentaid.gov/idr/). Mathematics Framework Gets an Update CTA supports the K–12 Mathematics Framework adopted in July by the State Board of Education, which incorporates new concepts to teach the California Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. This includes integrating rather than isolating standards by organizing lessons around "big ideas"; sparking student curiosity through inquiry and open tasks; adding relevancy and authenticity to lessons; and integrating data use into math instruction. The framework provides guidance around a range of instructional options, including personalized learning, differentiated instruction, and acceleration to meet the needs of high- achieving learners, as well as those in need of greater assistance. In a statement, CTA President David Goldberg said that while "impressed with the tone that was set prioritizing social justice and equity and access for all students, including pathways for acceleration," CTA urged integrating the framework with teacher preparation. "We are concerned with the lack of deep and engaging professional development opportunities to help deepen the knowledge of our teachers in teaching math equity. … We hope to partner with the California Department of Education and key math partners." Plans for the rollout of the framework are forthcoming. NEA Foundation Grants — Apply by Sept. 15! The NEA Foundation offers grants to support educators in their work with students and their own professional development this year. Envision Equity Grants, Student Success Grants and Learning & Leadership Grants range between $1,500 and $5,000, and fund activities for 12 months from the date of the award. Find details at neafoundation.org. Application dead- line is Sept. 15, 2023. 11 A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 3