Obama has focused heavily on STEM education, even taking time to participate in the Hour of Code during Computer Science Education Week.
He also signed the STEM Education Act of 2015, which includes computer science education under existing federal grants and programs that relate to STEM education, and supports grants for informal STEM education occurring outside the classroom in places such as museums.
Ensuring equity of access to digital resources has been top on the administration’s list. The focus has shifted to include not only high-speed internet access inside the classroom, but outside, as well. The Digital Learning Equity Act of 2015 calls for a national study on the “homework gap” and would identify and support pilot programs that expand digital learning opportunities for students when they are not inside the classroom.
What’s up next for education? That remains to be seen, as the topic has been a focus of both parties’ presidential candidates.
Hillary Clinton has proposed doubling investments in Early Head Start and Early Head Start-Child Care programs, along with expanding preschool access.
Bernie Sanders has called for expanding the availability of high-quality and accessible early childhood education programs.
Donald Trump at one point said he would cut funding to the Department of Education.
Trump also voiced his dislike for the Common Core State Standards and said he believes in state and local control for education.
Marc Rubio also voiced opposition to the Common Core and is in favor of local control. He has said he would promote increased school choice measures if elected president.
- Children learn best on paper: We need better technology, not less of it - July 13, 2026
- In districts, reaching readiness, retention, and success - March 5, 2026
- AI use is on the rise, but is guidance keeping pace? - January 2, 2026