For
Grades 9-12
, week of
Oct. 06, 2025
1. TRUMP PLANS TO CUT REFUGEE LIMIT TO RECORD LOW
The Trump administration has announced plans to dramatically reduce the number of refugees allowed into the United States, lowering the cap to just 7,500 people—down from 125,000 under the Biden administration. According to documents and officials familiar with the decision, many of the limited refugee slots will be reserved for white South Africans known as Afrikaners, who the administration claims are facing “unjust discrimination.” Critics argue this is a major shift away from the traditional goals of the U.S. refugee program, which is meant to help people fleeing war, violence, or persecution around the world. Refugees from places like Sudan, Congo, and Iran who have already been waiting for years are now being turned away or stuck in limbo, while South African families have been fast-tracked for resettlement. Democrats in Congress say the administration is violating the law by not consulting with them about the refugee cap, and immigration advocates worry that this change damages the U.S.’s reputation as a safe haven for the vulnerable. The administration defends its decision by saying it is putting American interests first, but many believe it’s a deeply political move that unfairly favors certain groups over others. Research the history and purpose of the U.S. refugee resettlement program. Then, create a two-column chart comparing how the program worked under past presidential administrations (such as Obama and Biden) versus how it is being handled under the current Trump administration. In your chart, include the yearly refugee caps, which groups were prioritized, and how decisions were made about who could enter the country. After completing the chart, write a short paragraph explaining what changes you found most surprising and why.2. U.S. GOVERNMENT SUED OVER VISA FEE
A coalition of unions, schools, religious groups, and businesses is suing the Trump administration over a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visas. These visas allow skilled foreign workers—like teachers, nurses, and engineers—to work in the United States. The lawsuit argues that President Trump does not have the legal authority to create such a fee without Congress and that the administration failed to follow proper rules when making the change. Many groups worry the fee will cause serious harm by making it too expensive to hire needed professionals, especially in hospitals and schools facing staffing shortages. Supporters of the fee say it will help protect American jobs, but opponents argue it will worsen conditions in health care, education, and other industries that rely on international talent. Research what the H-1B visa program is and how it works. Then, create an infographic or short slideshow that explains the purpose of the program, who uses it, and how the new $100,000 fee might affect different groups (like hospitals, schools, or small businesses). Be sure to include facts from the article and at least one visual element (chart, map, or photo) to make your presentation clear and engaging.
3. WHAT IS THE HATCH ACT, ANYWAY?
During the current government shutdown, some Department of Education employees were surprised to find that their out-of-office email responses had been changed without their knowledge. These automatic replies blamed “Democrat Senators” for the shutdown. Normally, federal workers are expected to stay neutral and follow laws like the Hatch Act, which prevents them from participating in political activity while working. The inserted partisan language raised legal and ethical concerns, especially since workers on furlough aren’t allowed to log in and change their replies. Some other government websites and social media accounts have also blamed Democrats, echoing the Trump administration’s stance. Critics argue that it’s wrong for the government to force political messages on its employees or the public. Learn about the Hatch Act and why it exists. Then, write a short opinion paragraph answering this question: Should government employees be allowed to express political opinions while representing their agencies? Why or why not? Use facts from the article and your own reasoning to support your opinion.
4. TENSIONS FOLLOW BAD BUNNY ANNOUNCEMENT
Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be “all over” the 2026 Super Bowl, raising concerns ahead of Bad Bunny’s highly anticipated halftime performance. Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican artist who has spoken out against ICE and U.S. immigration policies, recently stated he chose not to perform in the continental U.S. during his latest tour because of fears that his Latino fans could become targets of ICE raids. Right-wing commentators have criticized his selection for the Super Bowl, pointing to his Spanish-language music and past political comments. Noem and others have framed the halftime show as politically charged, while Bad Bunny used his recent “Saturday Night Live” appearance to respond with humor and pride, emphasizing that the performance represents a milestone for Latino communities. As debates about immigration and cultural representation continue, the event has become more than just entertainment—it’s now part of a larger national conversation. Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance has sparked debate about immigration enforcement, cultural identity, and political expression. In a short essay, explain how music and major events like the Super Bowl can be used to make a political or cultural statement. Do you think performers have a responsibility to represent their communities or speak out on issues? Why or why not? Use examples from the article and your own experience to support your answer.
5. HOLLYWOOD ARTISTS REVIVE FREE SPEECH GROUP
Jane Fonda and over 800 artists, including Spike Lee, Billie Eilish, and Pedro Pascal, have revived the Committee for the First Amendment — a group originally created in 1947 to defend free speech during the McCarthy era. Back then, actors like Henry Fonda (Jane’s father), Judy Garland, and Humphrey Bogart opposed government investigations that targeted entertainment industry professionals accused of Communist ties. The new version of the group warns that similar government repression has returned today, claiming that the federal government is again trying to silence critics in media, academia, and the arts. Fonda emphasized that this isn’t just about one person or event, but a larger movement to protect creative freedom. While the group’s statement didn’t name President Trump directly, the White House still responded by attacking Fonda and defending Trump’s record on free speech. The revived group also shared recordings from the original 1947 protests to remind people of Hollywood’s history of standing up for civil liberties. Research the McCarthy era and the Hollywood blacklist. Then, compare it to what the new Committee for the First Amendment says is happening today. In a paragraph, answer this question: Do you think artists have a responsibility to speak out about political issues? Why or why not? Use facts from the article and your own opinion to support your answer.