Insights & Takeaways is Sutherland Institute’s official blog that informs the public and policymakers alike. The blog addresses important issues through the two distinct yet complementary lenses of the seasoned policy professional and the engaged citizen.
Insights: analysis, research, and informed commentary from Sutherland experts. For elected officials and public policy professionals.
Takeaways: the most important things voters need to know. For civically engaged citizens.
InsightsThe Mahmoud case and ongoing education policy debates
Better parent access to curriculum information is the solution to concerns about the feasibility of parent opt-outs in the Mahmoud v. Taylor case.
InsightsUtah Fits All legal fight demonstrates why we need judicial reform
The Utah Legislature has recently explored changes to the judicial system but the discussion over those changes has not focused on relevant concerns.
InsightsTrump’s Executive Orders: bold action, or unconstitutional overreach?
Executive orders that carry out existing law or direct the work of executive branch agencies are appropriate uses of presidential power. Those that coopt the power of the other branches are not.
CommentaryIn fight between Maryland school district and parental rights, U.S. Supreme Court should protect religious freedom
The court should now clarify that depriving parents of a widely recognized right is the type of burden the Constitution is intended to prevent.
InsightsHere’s how different states are approaching AI in education
About half of the states have released or endorsed guidance on AI in education; most were released in 2024.
InsightsNew research shows why religiously motivated colleges and universities offer far-reaching benefits
Religious schools created much of the infrastructure for education historically and continue to educate many students.
CommentaryUtah should prepare for changes to the U.S. Department of Education. Here’s how
States may have a unique opportunity to evaluate what state and local control really means without the same pressure from D.C. that has existed in the past.
InsightsWhy parent-friendly school district websites deserve more recognition
To further advance parent access to curriculum, Sutherland Institute is launching the Partners in Learning Certificate project.
CommentaryRepublicans should address welfare’s work disincentives in budget reconciliation
Unlocking upward mobility for millions of struggling people who feel trapped on government assistance also requires reevaluating the government-constructed barriers that can disincentivize people from working or pursuing professional advancement.
The Mahmoud case and ongoing education policy debates
Better parent access to curriculum information is the solution to concerns about the feasibility of parent opt-outs in the Mahmoud v. Taylor case.
Utah Fits All legal fight demonstrates why we need judicial reform
The Utah Legislature has recently explored changes to the judicial system but the discussion over those changes has not focused on relevant concerns.
Trump’s Executive Orders: bold action, or unconstitutional overreach?
Executive orders that carry out existing law or direct the work of executive branch agencies are appropriate uses of presidential power. Those that coopt the power of the other branches are not.
In fight between Maryland school district and parental rights, U.S. Supreme Court should protect religious freedom
The court should now clarify that depriving parents of a widely recognized right is the type of burden the Constitution is intended to prevent.
Here’s how different states are approaching AI in education
About half of the states have released or endorsed guidance on AI in education; most were released in 2024.
New research shows why religiously motivated colleges and universities offer far-reaching benefits
Religious schools created much of the infrastructure for education historically and continue to educate many students.
Utah should prepare for changes to the U.S. Department of Education. Here’s how
States may have a unique opportunity to evaluate what state and local control really means without the same pressure from D.C. that has existed in the past.
Why parent-friendly school district websites deserve more recognition
To further advance parent access to curriculum, Sutherland Institute is launching the Partners in Learning Certificate project.
How the Constitution can repair today’s social discourse
As we clamor for unity and civil discourse, it’s important to remember how we treat those with whom we disagree and look to the Constitution as a unifying bond.
