Rod Paige, architect of No Child Left Behind policy, dies at 92
Under Rod Paige's leadership, the Department of Education implemented the No Child Left Behind policy that in 2002 became former President George W. Bush's signature education law.
Education
MacKenzie Scott announces she donated $7.1 billion to nonprofits in 2025
The author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott revealed $7.1 billion in donations to nonprofits in 2025 Tuesday, marking a significant increase in her annual giving from recent years.
Charter school company run by GOP rising star left parents scrambling
School choice advocate Erika Donalds called the publicly funded schools a "national model" and defended millions paid to vendors she was tied to.
New book on secret languages around us
From casinos to taxi cabs, nearly every place of work has its own hidden jargon and lingo. Author Ben Schott joins "The Takeout" to discuss his new book that delves into these secret languages, "Schott's Significa."
50 of 303 abducted Nigerian students escape captivity; others still missing
Fifty of the 303 schoolchildren abducted from a Catholic school in Nigeria's Niger state have escaped and are now with their families.
How Merriam-Webster expands its dictionaries
For the first time in more than two decades, there's a new hard-copy update to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. It adds more than 5,000 new words and phrases. Peter Sokolowski, editor-at-large at Merriam-Webster, joins "The Takeout" to unpack the changes.
Enrollment of immigrant students shrinking at schools nationwide
From Miami to San Diego, schools around the U.S. are seeing big drops in enrollment of students from immigrant families as President Trump's immigration crackdown makes itself felt in numerous ways.
Family of expelled student plans lawsuit
A Louisiana family plans to file a federal lawsuit against their school district in a case involving a deepfake pornographic image. CBS News national reporter Kati Weis has the details.
2025 National Civics Bee champion on victory
Middle schoolers from across the U.S. gathered in Washington, D.C., this week for a multi-day competition showcasing their knowledge of civics. Aarit Koul, the 14-year-old winner of the 2025 National Civics Bee, joins "The Takeout" to reflect on his victory.
The Uplift: Save the Swamp
The story of one man's mission to save a beloved Georgia swamp. A 17-year-old makes history by accomplishing a daring feat with the support of her dad. Plus, more heartwarming news.
Last escaped monkey captured in Mississippi after being spotted by resident
Last week, a truck carrying 21 monkeys overturned on a Mississippi roadway.
Teacher challenges students to write without AI
At a high school in Queens, New York, one teacher challenges his students to write essays without help from artificial intelligence -- then brought it back as a learning tool instead of a crutch. Meg Oliver reports.
Head Start program funding to lapse on Nov. 1
Funding for the Head Start program is set to expire on Saturday due to the ongoing government shutdown. It provides nearly 65,000 children in 41 states with education, care and nutrition. CBS News correspondent Nicole Valdes reports.
Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein on new docuseries
A 12-hour documentary series centered on the United States' war for independence is premiering on PBS in November. Co-directors Ken Burns and Sarah Botstein join "The Takeout" to discuss what went into making "The American Revolution" and what they discovered in the process.
Students, staff put on surprise wedding for principal at New York school
Brianna Lanoye, the principal of the Buffalo Academy of Science, kept telling people she wanted to invite the whole school to her wedding. So, her school did the next best thing.
How kindness is filling the gaps as U.S. school lunch debt soars
Student lunch debt has soared to nearly $200 million nationwide. Good Samaritans are stepping up to help.
Good Samaritans step up as school lunch debt soars
Nationwide student lunch debt has soared to nearly $200 million per year, according to a report released in August by the Education Data Initiative. In Utah, it's almost $4 million. As the bills mount, everyday Utahns are stepping up to make sure no child goes hungry. Janet Shamlian reports.
University of Virginia reaches deal to halt DOJ civil rights investigations
The Justice Department announced it's reached an agreement with the University of Virginia to pause civil rights investigations.
Oklahoma schools superintendent rescinds mandate for Bible instruction
Oklahoma's new public schools superintendent said his office plans to rescind a mandate that forced schools to incorporate the Bible into lesson plans for students.
The state of young men in America
Overall, college enrollment has seen a steady decline over the last decade, but it's even more pronounced among America's young men. Richard Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men, says it's just one of the ways America's young men are not being just left behind, but feeling left out. Reeves joins to discuss.
How one principal used debate to turn a failing middle school around
Facing enrollment decline, a Brooklyn middle school transforms after a former high school debate coach took the lead.
How debate turned a failing middle school around
Facing enrollment decline, a Brooklyn middle school transforms after a former high school debate coach takes the lead. Meg Oliver has the story for "Eye on America."
American Federation of Teachers head on union criticism
Days after stepping down as Oklahoma's superintendent of public instruction, Ryan Walters posted a call on social media "to destroy the teachers' unions once and for all." Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, joins "The Takeout" with her reaction.
White House asks universities to sign pledge
The White House is asking nine U.S. universities to sign a pledge to uphold the administration's educational values. Access to federal funding could be put at risk if they don't sign on, according to a new government memo. Leila Hudson, faculty chair and professor of global studies at the University of Arizona, joins "The Takeout" with her reaction.
Inside the $40,000 a year school where AI shapes every lesson
At Alpha Schools, students spend two hours in the morning on academics, working at their own speed using AI-driven software.
Everything we know about Minnesota's massive fraud schemes
A viral social media video has put Minnesota's long-running fraud scandal at the center of the national conversation. Here's what to know.
New Year's celebrations welcome 2026 around the world. See the photos.
New Zealand and Australia were among the first to welcome 2026, but in Sydney and some other cities, the festivities are tinged by grief.
Videos released in Epstein files raise fresh questions about jail footage
A recently released cache of security videos is raising new questions about the prison cameras at the facility where Jeffrey Epstein died in his cell in 2019.
Zohran Mamdani sworn in to become New York City's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Transcript, video of Jack Smith's testimony on Trump cases released
Former special counsel Jack Smith testified for more than eight hours about the investigations and prosecutions of President Trump.
Body found in Texas identified as missing teen Camila Mendoza Olmos
The Bexar County medical examiner's office determined Camila Mendoza Olmos died by suicide.
Can you guess 6-7 words on the 50th annual "Banished Words List"?
Respondents to a Michigan college's survey of overused and misused words and phrases say "6-7" is "cooked" and should come to a massive full-stop.
U.S.
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Can you guess 6-7 words on the 50th annual "Banished Words List"?
Respondents to a Michigan college's survey of overused and misused words and phrases say "6-7" is "cooked" and should come to a massive full-stop.
Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
MoneyWatch
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Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
Mortgage rates fall to their lowest level in 2025
The average cost of a conventional 30-year U.S. mortgage continues to edge down, while rates on other home loans fell to less than 5.5%.
These national and regional retailers went out of business in 2025
More than 8,000 stores closed across the U.S. this year, according to retail industry data, including these well-known brands.
Trump Mobile pushes back release of gold-colored phone
The Trump Organization announced the $499 phone and wireless plan this summer, promising to deliver "all-American service."
Politics
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Zohran Mamdani sworn in at abandoned NYC subway station, becoming city's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Chief Justice Roberts says Constitution remains "firm and unshaken"
Chief Justice John Roberts says the Constitution remains a sturdy pillar for the country, a message that comes after a tumultuous year in the nation's judicial system.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Flu cases spiking this holiday season, CDC data shows
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 32 jurisdictions are showing "high" or "very high" levels of flu.
New California tortilla law aims to decrease birth defects in Latino babies
Mom-and-pop shops will be exempt from this change, but big manufacturers in California will need to start adding folic acid to tortillas beginning January 1.
Advances in treatment for Alzheimer's disease
The number of Americans with Alzheimer's disease is expected to double from 7 million in 2020 to 14 million by 2060, according to the CDC. However, advances in treatment options are giving more people hope in slowing the decline. Dr. Jon LaPook breaks it down.
Flu cases skyrocket across the U.S
Nearly five million flu cases have been reported nationwide, the CDC estimates, and at least 1,900 people have died from the virus. "CBS Saturday Morning" has more on why this year's strain is breaking records.
World
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France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
British boxer Anthony Joshua released from hospital after crash in Nigeria
The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a fatal road crash near Lagos on Monday.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
U.S. sanctions 4 firms, oil tankers with ties to Venezuela
The latest wave of sanctions targets oil traders and vessels that are helping prop up President Nicolás Maduro's regime, the Treasury Department said.
New Year's celebrations welcome 2026 around the world. See the photos.
New Zealand and Australia were among the first to welcome 2026, but in Sydney and some other cities, the festivities are tinged by grief.
Entertainment
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France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Noah Wyle on authenticity of "The Pitt"
The hit series "The Pitt" has earned praise for its realistic look at the pressures facing health care workers. Chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook spoke to the star of the show, Noah Wyle, for "CBS Sunday Morning." Wyle talked about how the cast prepared for their roles beyond learning their lines before shooting the series even began.
Here's who's performing on New Year's Eve to ring in 2026
Here's what to know about the lineup of performances scheduled for New Year's Eve, as crowds gather in Times Square to ring in 2026.
Isiah Whitlock Jr., actor known for his roles in "The Wire" and "Veep," dies at 71
Isiah Whitlock Jr. is perhaps best known for his role as state Sen. R. Clayton "Clay" Davis on HBO's "The Wire."
Technology
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Technology
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
OpenAI hiring for head safety executive to mitigate AI risks
The company's investment in safety prevention comes amid growing concerns over the potential harm of artificial intelligence.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Instacart ending AI price tests for retailers
Instacart says its ending its controversial system of using AI price tests for retailers. Earlier this month, an investigation by Consumer Reports and progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative found that Instacart's algorithmic pricing charged various prices for the same item from the same store. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Tech companies push for data centers
Massive tech companies wanting to build more data centers in the U.S. are lobbying for support among Americans, according to a recent report by POLITICO. Gabby Miller joins CBS News with more on her reporting.
Science
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2025 was so hot it pushed Earth past critical climate change mark
2025 was the third hottest year on record and pushed Earth past a critical climate change mark, scientists say.
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Crime
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Crime
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Day care in Minneapolis vandalized after viral video purporting fraud
A Minneapolis day care says that vandals damaged the facility early this week, after a YouTube video purporting to expose fraud among day cares in the Twin Cities metro area went viral.
New details on charges against Stefon Diggs
Patriots star Stefon Diggs is facing charges of strangulation, assault and battery following an incident in Massachusetts earlier this month. Diggs' attorney, David Meier, said in a statement that the wide receiver "categorically denies" the allegations and "looks forward to establishing the truth" in court. CBS News Boston's Aaron Parseghian has more.
New Orleans marks 1 year since terror attack
New Orleans is marking one year since 14 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a terror attack on the city's iconic Bourbon Street. Kati Weis spoke to the family of one of the victims about how they're remembering their loved one.
Space
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Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Parts of U.S. ushering in new year under snow
As thousands in the U.S. gear up to celebrate the new year, snow and rain are coming down harder in parts of the country. Meteorologist Rob Marciano has the latest forecast.