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.
CommentaryIgnoring the text of the Constitution is a mistake
A written Constitution is entirely superfluous if the document is simply meant to give the people what they want.
InsightsHow transparent are school districts about curriculum?
Utah districts don’t need to wait for legislation to be transparent – many have sought to be transparent on their own. District leaders interested in this reform can do several things right away.
TakeawaysWhat you need to know about the upcoming state party conventions
The two major political parties are about to hold their state conventions. Here’s what you need to know.
InsightsHere’s why the First Amendment’s religion clauses are not in conflict
Some suggest there is a tension between protection for the free exercise of religion and the prohibition on the establishment of religion. But a better take is to see the two clauses as congruent.
InsightsWhy is Utah at odds with Justice Department over treatment of gender-dysphoric prisoner?
Lawsuit illustrates a little-known practice of federal agencies – giving various forms of “guidance” which are not supposed to be legally binding. The practice raises serious legal and constitutional questions.
InsightsWhat would a parent-teacher ‘handshake’ look like in Utah?
This partnership does not allow either party to pass blame entirely to the other. There is no scapegoat, only opportunities for either party or both to work on the factors within their scope.
TakeawaysHow Utah is supporting teachers
As Utah policymakers adapt to the needs of students, their policies have been proactive toward teachers’ needs as well.
TakeawaysCivics Refresher: What is federalism?
Utah was recently ranked No. 1 in the country for federalism. What is the history of federalism and what does it mean?
InsightsCurriculum transparency: a burden or benefit for teachers?
Increasing access to curriculum might make students and parents better partners with teachers and may preempt conflict with parents about sensitive topics in class.
Q&A: Microschool public partnerships
Former Idaho state Sen. Steven Thayn believes in education choice policies that also alleviate concerns about public school funding. He thinks there is a future for microschool partnerships with public school districts.
Why might religious universities be safe haven from antisemitism?
As antisemitic incidents increase on secular university campuses, religious universities can offer a place of reprieve for Jewish students.
Are religious universities safer for Jewish students than secular schools?
A religious identity may be an important resource for fostering tolerance and a sense of belonging on college campuses.
How Utah is ahead of the curve in education
The COVID pandemic has led to a resurgence in parent-driven education. As the Utah legislative session begins, accessibility and choice remain front and center.
The state of private and microschool enrollment
With new public funds, demand for new education options will likely keep rising, and the supply of private options will probably flourish, too.
Looking ahead: The state of district and charter school enrollment
This year’s enrollment data should prompt discussion about a long-term plan for education.
2024 education policy preview: 4 ways to boost parent-driven education this year
Parent-driven education is becoming more available and possible than ever.
2024 in the courts: What’s on the docket for religious freedom
The Supreme Court has not yet accepted religious freedom cases for its current term, but important cases are pending in other courts. Sutherland has filed amicus briefs in three of these cases.
What Democrats and Republicans have in common on education curriculum beliefs
We can increase curriculum transparency in our state without overburdening educators.
