Spending on youth sports now averages $3,000 annually, with many families hoping for college scholarships or pro careers despite long odds. Rising costs have led to financial strain and lifestyle sacrifices, fueling calls for a shift back to affordable, local recreational sports.

U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) introduced a bill Tuesday to bar college athletes from being classified as employees. The move comes amid ongoing debates in Congress over athlete compensation and employment rights.

Current and former staffers, financial aid officers and previous education secretaries are doubtful the office that helps students pay for college won't be disrupted by mass layoffs and resignations.

'Instead of allowing free-range debate," lawyers for Speech First told the Supreme Court, "many colleges are more interested in protecting students from ideas that make them uncomfortable.'

A U.S. District Judge granted a temporary restraining order against the government until March 10, ruling that "unauthorized disclosure of the plaintiffs' sensitive personal information to DOGE affiliates is irreparable harm that money damages cannot rectify."

The Education Department is threatening to withhold federal funds from schools that don't comply with new guidance, prompting administrators to reflect on their values and comfort levels with risk.

The agency said it would not allow any members of the Department of Government Efficiency to see or use information from federal student aid databases until next Monday.

The AFGE, a union which represents federal officials, estimated that at least 55 Department of Education staffers received leave notices, but the group expects that number to climb.