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 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.
InsightsLooking ahead: The state of district and charter school enrollment
This year’s enrollment data should prompt discussion about a long-term plan for education.
InsightsThe legal arguments for and against striking Trump from the ballot
The Supreme Court has agreed to weigh in, with oral arguments scheduled next month. Here is an explanation of both the history and the legal issues behind Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.
Insights2024 education policy preview: 4 ways to boost parent-driven education this year
Parent-driven education is becoming more available and possible than ever.
Insights2024 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.
CommentaryWhat Democrats and Republicans have in common on education curriculum beliefs
We can increase curriculum transparency in our state without overburdening educators.
InsightsAmbiguous rulings about holiday displays leave local governments on uncertain ground
Supreme Court decisions on this question focus extensively on decoration specifics and are difficult to understand and apply.
CommentaryIn Washington, religious groups fight for their conscience
In recent years, the Supreme Court has repeatedly and clearly ruled that the law must accommodate religious beliefs and expression. Still, some states continue trying to ignore or subvert the clear constitutional protections for religious freedom.
InsightsMore good news from the courts on religious freedom
In instances of legislative action that runs in opposition of religious beliefs, the courts provide an important and necessary backstop.
Pregnant Workers Fairness Act: What expectant mothers need to know
The new act increases accommodations for pregnant women in the workplace.
How the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act could help this Utah nurse
Shalayna’s story as a working nurse sheds light on a common problem for Utah’s pregnant and postpartum healthcare workers.
History of parent-driven education: Part 5 – Charter schools and pre-pandemic public-school choice
Education choice is now available to more parents of all backgrounds, which reflects public school choice’s early bipartisan beginnings.
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act helps support families
We take a deeper look into how the bill came to be, its benefits and possible unintended consequences, and its implications for employers.
Home schooling is a growing option for families of many backgrounds
As parents seek the option that suits their children and family the best, the home-schooling movement is becoming less ideological.
History of parent-driven education: Part 4 – The rise of the modern home-schooling movement
The advent of modern home school – a radical reform for the time in which it began – grew from roots in both the political left and conservative Christian movements during the 1960s and ’70s.
How a ruling on Amish water disposal signifies protection for all of us
The strength of our commitment to constitutional values is shown by our willingness to extend their protections to unfamiliar and controversial practices.
The ‘Utah family miracle’ and why it matters
Utah’s economic success cannot be separated from the strength and stability of its families.
Can faith save the planet?
Faith and religious organizations make an important contribution to protect our environment.
