(Madison Roberts) - A Convenient New Approach to Metabolic Health

Eden is providing access to a new way for individuals to explore GLP-1 therapy: a compounded semaglutide gummy, available through independent licensed providers and compounding pharmacies. Compounded semaglutide is available in different forms, including injections and gummies. Some patients may prefer alternative formats, but efficacy and safety data are limited. While compounded semaglutide is commonly prescribed in injectable form, this tropical-flavored gummy offers an alternative format that some patients may prefer, which independent licensed providers can discuss as a potential option.

Meeting Patients Where They Are Many Americans face challenges related to metabolic health, including obesity and its associated conditions. Barriers such as needle anxiety or complex treatment regimens often prevent individuals from seeking care. Eden aims to make it easier for patients to connect with independent licensed doctors who can evaluate their health needs and discuss potential treatment options. 

"Adherence improves when treatment integrates easily into patients’ lives," explains Adam McBride, Eden’s CEO. Eden’s digital platform streamlines access to independent healthcare professionals who can assess patients and determine eligibility for treatments like GLP-1 receptor agonists, including compounded semaglutide. 

Understanding GLP-1 Therapy GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, are FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes and  weight management when combined with diet and exercise. Some studies suggest these medications may influence appetite and blood sugar levels. 

Affordable and Accessible Care Eden connects patients with independent licensed healthcare providers for digital consultations, personalized care plans, and resources such as on-demand workout videos—all for $246 per month. This model aims to eliminate barriers to care by meeting patients’ needs through a convenient, fully digital platform.

Reframing the Conversation Around Metabolic Health Eden’s goal is to support individuals on their journey toward sustainable health improvements by connecting them with personalized care options. Rather than focusing on quick fixes, Eden emphasizes long-term, personalized care that empowers patients to feel their best.

"We’re shifting the conversation to focus on sustainable and manageable health goals," says Eden President Josh Khan. "By making care more accessible, we hope to break down barriers and make a real impact on patients’ lives."

The Future of GLP-1 Treatments Emerging research suggests that GLP-1 therapies may play a role in broader aspects of metabolic health. While studies explore potential applications in areas such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and inflammatory conditions. Patients are encouraged to consult with an Eden network provider to discuss potential benefits and determine what therapies are appropriate for their individual needs.

A Healthier Future, One Step at a Time Eden’s mission is simple: to make access to care seamless and empowering. Through their digital platform, Eden connects patients with licensed medical professionals who provide guidance informed by the latest scientific evidence. 

Important Note: Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved for safety or efficacy. All treatment plans and prescriptions are determined solely by the independent licensed healthcare providers patients consult through the Eden platform. While Eden does not manufacture or compound medications, it serves as a trusted resource connecting patients with qualified providers to explore treatment options. By simplifying access to care, Eden helps patients connect with providers as they take the first step toward addressing their metabolic health needs. 

(NewsUSA) - The Forgotten Man: A Journey Through the Ashes by Stanley S. Seidner

A powerful epic that chronicles the adventurous life of David Wdowinski, a tragic and brilliant psychiatrist, Holocaust survivor, and Revisionist leader during the epoch of the Warsaw Ghetto Rebellion. The author uses 50 years of painstaking research to weave a gripping tale from unpublished documents — including family letters, diaries, and previously unknown evidence — creating a spellbinding narrative that takes readers from the times of murderous pogroms and nationalist anti-Semitism through the Holocaust.

Vividly evoking Wdowinski and his turbulent times, this is a riveting historical psychological portrait of a man many considered to be a paragon of strength and virtue. Arguably the controversial apotheosis of heroic leadership in the Warsaw Ghetto, Wdowinski gave critical testimony at the Eichmann trial and helped to establish a Jewish State. Devastating and unflinching, the book masterly reveals a story of devastating loss and its consequences upon personal identity. Purchase at https://amzn.to/40K97te.

Progress Not Perfection by Alison Ashby

In the manner of Mary Karr’s Lit, this is a raw and mesmerizing addiction memoir from a new and upcoming author which explores her unique story of alcohol addiction and the drastic impact it had on her life and career.

Alison Ashby was not always an alcoholic. An ambitious, strait-laced child and academic young adult, Ashby became a dedicated teacher and social worker. A talented writer and insightful cultural observer, Ashby describes how she hid a terrible and destructive secret from her family, husband, and co-workers.

With gripping passages, Ashby’s story is a cautionary tale filled with unforgettable description of severe Alcohol Use Disorder and subsequent brushes with disaster. But the center of the book is her journey from an alcoholic teetering on the edge of mortality to proud woman in recovery.

With breathtaking honesty and injections of humor, Ashby delivers a riveting message of hope, courage, and resilience. Purchase at https://amzn.to/40yhMyK.

The Art of Bending Time: A Forbidden Return by Quinn Jamison

Lavinia is lost without the world she left behind. The only way forward is to find herself again. Almost nothing seems to help until she meets a friend at a library she often visits for solace. Except there seems to be something strange about the place; Lavinia is hearing whispers from the other side again, and not only the voice she wishes to hear.

The more she discovers, the stranger the secrets that unfold. Her newfound hope spurs on a dangerous and forbidden endeavor. With support along the way, Lavinia strives to never give up on the man she refuses to call a ghost. In the face of many obstacles, time itself is most troubling. She fights to keep him, but will she actually succeed? Despite the formidable ramifications of time, Lavinia's true destiny awaits her. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3VonLEC.

The Three O’Clock Calls by Tom Smith

Bright, persistent ringing ripped Tom from sleep. He rolled over, fumbled for the reading light beside his bed, and reached for his phone. As he answered the call, he saw the time: 3:00 a.m. Nothing good comes from a three o’clock call.

“This book is a beacon of hope for anyone navigating grief or hardship,” writes one Amazon reviewer. “The author’s story of enduring unimaginable tragedy yet finding strength through faith is both inspiring and deeply moving. His openness and resilience remind us that no matter how dark life may seem, hope is always within reach. This heartfelt journey reassures readers that they are never alone in their struggles.”

Says another reviewer, “The author wrote about tragic events that were heartbreaking but then told a beautiful story about his faith and the strength of his family. During the most heartbreaking moments, he found peace and comfort.” Purchase at https://bit.ly/4gmz1J4.

(NewsUSA) - Today, millions of Americans live with undetected hypertension, unaware that it can impact even the healthiest of individuals — a lesson that Naomi Saucer^* would come to learn firsthand. ^1-2

In college, Naomi began experiencing migraines, and despite being busy as a full-time student and athlete, she made time to see her doctor. Like many healthy 20-somethings, she didn’t think her headaches were connected to something more serious, and with the help of her doctor, she started taking migraine medications, thinking it would help manage her pain.

But after enduring years of intense discomfort from these terrible headaches, she finally got to the root cause. At age 28, Naomi was diagnosed with high blood pressure. Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure occurs when the force of the blood pushing against the artery wall is too high. Left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health complications like heart disease and stroke.^3-4

The news was shocking, as Naomi thought high blood pressure was only something that impacted older adults with an unhealthy lifestyle. Naomi was young and healthy. She was raised as a vegetarian and was active her whole life— having high blood pressure wasn’t even on her radar of possibilities. What many people don’t know is that high blood pressure can be hereditary and sometimes completely out of their control. Naomi’s grandmother had high blood pressure at an early age, so it was entirely possible that she was going down the same path.

After her diagnosis, Naomi and her doctors tried different medications to lower her blood pressure. While the migraines subsided, she suffered from various side effects from these medications, including nausea and ringing in her ears – and still couldn’t get her blood pressure under control.

“At one point, my pharmacist said my blood pressure medication regimen was something a 60-year-old would take— I’m in my 40’s, so I was nowhere near that age,” said Naomi. “I had an advanced state of hypertension, with some scary moments when I was truly in a hypertension crisis.”

Despite this, the value of perseverance was instilled in her as an athlete. She knew that to maintain her health and ultimate happiness, she needed to find a way to get her blood pressure down. Through her professional experience with medical devices, she proactively researched different treatment options and decided to find and connect with a local physician who performed high blood pressure procedures, also known as renal denervation (RDN). After meeting with her doctor and making sure she was eligible, Naomi was excited for the next step.

The Symplicity blood pressure procedure, which uses the Symplicity Spyral^(TM) RDN system, is a minimally invasive way that can help reduce patients’ blood pressure numbers when other options – like lifestyle changes and medications - haven’t worked.⁵ It utilizes radiofrequency energy to target and calm nerves near the kidneys that can become overactive and cause high blood pressure.⁶ The Symplicity procedure leaves an 'always on' effect and there is no permanent device left behind.⁵

“The Symplicity procedure was one of the best things I could have done for myself,” said Naomi. “The recovery wasn’t bad— honestly, the hardest part was having to take it easy for eight hours afterward, since I’m always on the go!”

Now, Naomi is back to doing the things she loves without fearing how it will affect her blood pressure - it’s now more under control. She also feels more freedom and less worry about always having to take her blood pressure medications. She takes regular five-mile walks or hikes, tends to her garden, and has continued her beekeeping passion. Post-procedure, her life is more vibrant in so many ways.

Naomi’s story not only brings attention to alternative treatment options for hypertension— it also raises awareness about the condition among Black women, like Naomi. High blood pressure is a critical issue for Black women. In fact, it’s estimated that 58% of Black women in the United States have high blood pressure. More alarmingly, Black Americans experience five times the mortality from hypertension related disease compared with White Americans.⁷

No matter how young and healthy you appear to be, if something feels wrong, don’t brush it off. Always see your doctor if you have any health concerns, learn about your family’s health history, and investigate all available treatment options for your diagnosis. Everyone deserves a life that isn’t controlled by their health conditions.

To learn more about clinical trial sites performing renal denervation, visit https://www.hbpstudy.com/

View benefits and risks of the Symplicity™ procedure here. 

Not every person will experience the same results. The Symplicity™ blood pressure procedure does have known risks. These risks should be considered in relation to the potential benefits of the procedure. Adverse events include, but are not limited to, bruising and pain. Results may vary. 

UC202505661 EN ©2025 Medtronic. Medtronic, Medtronic logo, and Engineering the extraordinary are trademarks of Medtronic. All other brands are trademarks of a Medtronic company. For distribution in the USA only. 

* Naomi has received compensation in the past from Medtronic for sharing her experience with the Symplicity blood pressure procedure.

¹ U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Control Hypertension. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Surgeon General; 2020.

² High Blood Pressure Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/high-blood-pressure/data-research/facts-stats/index.html. Accessed Oct 16, 2024.

³ Whelton P, et al. J AM Coll Cardiol. May 15, 2018;71(19):2199-2269.

⁴ High blood pressure dangers. Mayoclinic.org. Oct 16, 2024.

⁵ Böhm M, Kario K, Kandzari DE, et al. Efficacy of catheter-based renal denervation in the absence of antihypertensive medications (SPYRAL HTN-OFF MED  Pivotal): a multicentre, randomised, sham controlled trial. Lancet. May 2, 2020;395(10234):1444-1451.

⁶ Coates P, Tunev S, Trudel J, Hettrick DA. Time, Temperature, Power, and Impedance Considerations for Radiofrequency Catheter Renal Denervation. Cardiovasc Revasc Med. September 2022;42:171–177.

⁷ Aggarwal R, Chiu N, Wadhera RK, et al. Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Hypertension Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control in the United States, 2013 to 2018. Hypertension. December 2021;78(6):1719-1726.

(NewsUSA) - Despite the Americans with Disabilities Act being the law of the land for nearly 35 years, a startling new survey from Paralyzed Veterans of America shows accessibility remains an unfilled promise for millions of Americans.

According to the survey, over 80% of people using a mobility device faced an accessibility barrier in the past 6 months. PVA members (Veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases, like MS and ALS) cite sidewalks, restaurants, and retailers as common places with restricted access for wheelchair users and others with mobility devices.

Meanwhile, one third of respondents missed appointments and important events because of barriers, and one quarter leave and never return to inaccessible establishments. 

These barriers take a devastating emotional toll on disabled Veterans and people with mobility disabilities. When asked how barriers made them feel, respondents reported feeling subhuman and demeaned, and some reported lowered self-esteem.

PVA’s survey, conducted in April 2024, asked 1,644 individuals, including PVA members, adults with mobility disabilities, mothers with children aged 5 years and younger, and individuals age 65 and older, about their accessibility experiences.

In response to the survey, PVA is launching a new campaign, “Barriers Still Exist,” to draw attention to the accessibility challenges faced by Veterans and others with disabilities. It includes a PVA petition calling for improved ADA compliance across the country. 

The campaign also features a series of public service announcements highlighting the everyday obstacles of inaccessibility. In the newest PSA, Barriers Still Exist – RJ’s Everyday Fight, we follow U.S. Army Veteran and PVA member RJ Anderson, as he encounters endless accessibility barriers on his way to a job interview.

“As a paralyzed veteran, I know firsthand how drastically inaccessibility can alter the course of any given day,” said Anderson. “Anything from a crack in a sidewalk to a revolving door cannot only derail my plans but also be extremely dangerous for people with mobility disabilities, like me. When public paths and buildings are inaccessible, it communicates a lot – it says my plans don’t matter, my needs don’t matter, and I don’t matter. No one deserves that.”

PVA is leading the fight to build a world where accessibility for all is the norm, not the exception. Everyone can become part of the solution.  

Visit PVA.org/BarriersStillExist to watch the “Barriers Still Exist” PSAs, share them on social media, and sign the Accessibility for All petition.

When our communities are accessible, everyone wins.

(NewsUSA) - As parents, we all want to ensure that our toddlers are getting the nutrients they need to grow strong and stay healthy, especially during cold and flu season. While the importance of a robust immune system is well understood, getting little ones to actually eat immune-boosting foods can sometimes feel like a battle. The good news? There are plenty of delicious and toddler-friendly options that support a healthy immune system without the tantrums at mealtime!

While some of these foods are naturally appealing to toddlers, others may require a little creativity. Nutrition experts from KinderCare have provided some tips to make sure your little one is getting their immune-boosting nutrients:

1. Blend into Smoothies: Smoothies are a fantastic way to pack in immune-boosting ingredients. You can blend a variety of fruits and vegetables, like spinach, kale, avocado, Greek yogurt (probiotics), chia seeds, berries (rich in vitamin C), orange or lemon juice (vitamin C), and a handful of oats or almond butter for extra nutrients without them even noticing. Pro Tip: Start with milder-tasting fruits (like bananas or mangoes) and add spinach or kale in small amounts
2. Make it Fun: Use cookie cutters to shape sweet potatoes, avocados, or eggs into fun shapes. The visual appeal can make mealtime more exciting. You can use muffin tins or ice cube trays to help with different shapes and textures, allowing for hand-held and bite-sized snacks.
3. Get Them Involved: Toddlers love to feel like they’re helping in the kitchen. They can help wash the fruits and veggies, stir in ingredients like honey or tear and break tortillas or pita bread for chips. Let them "decorate" their yogurt with fruit or assemble their own veggie wraps.
4. Sneak Veggies in Sauces and Dips: Puree spinach, carrots, or zucchini into pasta sauces, soups, or smoothies to sneak in extra vitamins. Kids love dipping! Create a veggie dip they can enjoy with crackers or sliced veggies. Pro Tip: You can even sneak in a bit of turmeric (anti-inflammatory) or garlic (immune boosting).

By introducing these nutrient-packed foods early and making them fun and flavorful, parents can set their toddlers on a path to a healthier immune system and stronger overall health.

Whether it's a tasty smoothie or a comforting bowl of chicken soup, there's no need to compromise on flavor when it comes to boosting immunity. For more nutrition information or recipes, visit KinderCare.com.

(NewsUSA) - The United States was once the global leader in science and technology, but now other countries, notably China, are catching up, in part by leveraging data through artificial intelligence, according to experts at the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative with a goal of making recommendations to strengthen America's long-term competitiveness in AI.

In a recent podcast, SCSP experts outlined how the U.S. must use data to our scientific advantage to maintain global leadership.

“Today's greatest scientific challenges – discovering life-saving therapeutics, achieving energy independence, creating new materials, and ensuring agricultural resilience – are tremendously complex, encompassing billions of variables, intricate system interactions, and patterns that emerge only across massive and diverse datasets,” said SCSP analyst Ananmay Agarwal in the podcast.

The SCSP experts offered suggestions for the new administration to strengthen the U.S. position with regard to scientific data:

Strengthen U.S. Data Sovereignty. Develop a "Made in America" Data Standards Framework prioritizing national security, innovation, and individual rights, and mandate federal agencies to use secure and transparent data practices aligned with national security priorities.

Streamline Data Sharing. While Prioritizing National Security. Create a "Secure Data Exchange Framework" to promote data sharing, but with stringent controls to protect sensitive information and prioritize national security.

Empower Rural Communities with Data Hubs. Create regional data hubs in rural and economically disadvantaged areas to harness the power of data for local development. Provide incentives for tech companies to operate in rural communities and implement data training programs tailored to local industries.

Establish Secure Research Enclaves with Allies. Create secure environments for collaborative research between the United States and our core allies, in part by developing facilities for joint research under strict access controls. Integrate allied personnel into U.S. laboratories and implement reciprocal arrangements with partners abroad.

Strengthen Screening for International Research Collaborations. Establish clearer guidelines for evaluating foreign partnerships in sensitive research fields, and require security reviews for universities and labs involved in research with foreign entities.

Establish an Allied Open Science Framework. Promote the co-development of open science standards among trusted allies to facilitate secure data and knowledge sharing. Create multilateral agreements to share non-sensitive data and host a summit to coordinate these efforts.

Expand U.S. Leadership in International Standards-Setting Bodies. Deploy senior diplomats and technical experts to international standards-setting organizations. Strengthen coalitions and host standards-setting activities in the U.S. with allied and partner nations.

“By embracing these recommendations, the United States can harness the power of data for scientific advancement, maintain its global leadership, and ensure a future where technological innovation benefits all Americans and its allies,” Agarwal emphasized.

Visit scsp.ai to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Fifteen years ago, I made a life-changing decision: leaving my home country of El Salvador for America. Like so many immigrants, my goal was to provide more opportunities for my family. That journey, while challenging, shaped my path as an advocate for education and a voice for Latino families.

Today, I work to ensure that families, particularly those in underserved communities, have access to the tools and information they need to navigate their children’s academic options. For many Latino parents, finding the right school for their children is more than a choice; it’s a lifeline to hope, opportunity, and a better future.

Imagine arriving in a new country: you're navigating a school system that is totally unfamiliar, in a foreign language, uncertain about the rules and processes, but determined to secure the best education for your child. This isn’t hypothetical for many Latino families; it’s their everyday reality.

One story that stays with me is about a Spanish-speaking mom in New Jersey. Her son, who is nonverbal and has a disability, struggled to get the support he needed at his local school. Unsure of her rights or where to turn, she reached out to our team for guidance. With the help of Spanish-language resources, a state advocate, and personalized support, she was able to advocate for her son effectively. Today, he is thriving in a school where he now receives the services he needs to succeed.

Her story is not unique. The organization I work with recently surveyed parents and found that 62% of Hispanic parents considered new school options for their children in the last 12 months. This shows the determination of many Latino families to ensure their children have access to the opportunities they deserve.

When talking to families like mine, there are four major barriers to educational success: language gaps, unfamiliarity with the K-12 system, economic struggles, and cultural differences.

Language is one of the biggest challenges. Limited English proficiency often prevents families from accessing resources or advocating effectively for their children. English language learners (ELLs) are frequently underrepresented or misidentified in special education programs, leaving their needs unmet.

Unfamiliarity with the U.S. education system creates additional hurdles. Many immigrant parents are navigating a system completely different from what they experienced in their home countries. This lack of knowledge can make enrollment, special education processes, or even understanding their rights overwhelming.

Economic struggles present yet another challenge. Many Latino families face financial instability, juggle multiple jobs, or lack reliable transportation, all of which limit their ability to access private tutoring, therapies, or other resources.

Cultural differences can further complicate matters. Stigmas around disabilities, for example, may discourage some families from seeking support, leaving children without vital services. This is where school choice becomes transformative. Families should have the ability to choose an educational environment that fits their children’s unique needs. Whether it’s a public school, charter school, private school, online program, or homeschooling, school choice empowers parents to make decisions that benefit their children the most.

This week is National School Choice Week (Jan. 26–Feb. 1) - an opportunity to highlight the impact of education options. It celebrates how families can take control of their children’s education and find schools that meet their aspirations, values, and priorities.

But progress doesn’t happen automatically. Schools need to hire bilingual staff, offer culturally responsive programs, and provide parents with clear, easy-to-understand information about their options. Resources like opcionesescolares.com, and the bilingual events during National School Choice Week are valuable in helping families navigate these choices.

Education has the power to change lives, not just for children, but for entire families and communities. By giving parents the ability to choose the best educational path for their children, we’re opening doors to opportunity, hope, and a brighter future.

Krissia Campos Spivey is the senior director of Conoce tus Opciones Escolares, a National School Choice Awareness Foundation project that helps U.S. families who speak Spanish explore their K-12 education options and choose a great school for their children. Krissia is Salvadoran-American and lives in Wake Forest, North Carolina.

(NewsUSA) - A Mysterious Night at the Library by Kim Chesney

A delightful tale about the magic of books, the fun of learning, and the joy of new friendships.

It's the night before Halloween, and twins Kat and Ollie are in for a big surprise at the library. Under a full moon and shooting stars, they discover a little bear who's fallen out of his book after being tucked away for over 100 years! There's just one problem—he doesn't remember how to read!

What's a bear to do? Luckily, Kat and Ollie know just the thing. They whisk him away to their farmhouse, where they teach him the ABCs, show him the wonders of reading, and form a lasting bond of friendship along the way.

The author channels her childhood love of reading and adventure into stories for all ages. This debut book is sure to bring a smile to readers from every generation.  Purchase at https://bit.ly/4hxBIZB.

The 9th Colony: Hornet’s Nest by Colin Curtis

A gripping and thought-provoking science fiction novel that challenges the very foundations of what readers believe about the world. Through a captivating narrative, the author takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with mystery, intrigue and a profound exploration of human existence.

The story revolves around Simon Chambers, a seemingly ordinary 28-year-old decorator. However, on one fateful day, his life takes an extraordinary turn when he witnesses a mysterious craft circling above him. He is kidnapped by an alien race and transported to another galaxy. But he escapes – and forms a resistance group, working to uncover the truth of human origins.

It's a series of events that catapult Simon into a world of discovery and danger, shattering the illusions that have clouded Earth’s population for almost two centuries.

Now available in audiobook format, as well as hardcover, paperback and ebook. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4eHb7qQ.

My Journey with Angels by Leslie Przymusinski

In this heart-wrenching tale,  a young Jamaican girl faces a darkness that no child should ever endure. Left in the hands of abusive family members, three-year-old Leslie must adapt to her new environment. This is a true story of survival, resilience, and hope. From the shadows of abuse and despair, Leslie's tale unfolds with raw honesty, revealing the depths of her pain and the strength to escape it.

As Leslie navigates her abusive childhood, she encounters moments of kindness; angels that light her path. These angels offer her solace and strength. Later in her journey, she meets a new teen mother who needs desperate help. Suddenly, there is a story within a story, as she pays her blessings forward. Leslie’s journey is not only a testament to her courage and faith but also a tribute to the power of compassion and the human spirit's unyielding will to survive. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3OLrqZn.

Third Collection of Short Stories by Stanislas M. Yassukovich

Stanislas Yassukovich returns with another riveting collection of short stories, a worthy successor to his acclaimed Short Stories and A Cape Town Decameron. Each tale, woven from his vast experiences, spans an array of subjects, characters, and locales. Drawing inspiration from his illustrious career as an international investment banker, Yassukovich gives readers a privileged peek into the intersections of finance, adventure, and the human spirit. Every story offers a unique flavor, capturing varied moods and moments. Collectively, they paint a vivid tableau of a world both bygone and current, all anchored by enduring values. His insights, observations and keen writing style provide the roadmap for a journey through a life richly lived and brilliantly recounted. Purchase at https://bit.ly/47yUXMK.

(NewsUSA) - What would you do if you felt your child´s school wasn't helping them reach their full potential? For a growing number of parents, the answer is to look for alternatives. According to a recent survey, six out of ten parents considered switching their child’s school during the last year, reflecting the shifting expectations families have for education today.

As families move to new areas, their priorities for education often change. Smaller counties with fewer than 30,000 people have gained population, while more families are leaving the nation’s largest urban counties, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. These shifts are reshaping communities, and how parents think about their children’s education.

Public school enrollment has declined by 2.5% since 2019, with the largest decreases occurring in pre-K through 8th grade, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. These declines coincide with a rise in interest in other educational options, including public charter, magnet, private, online learning, homeschooling and microschooling. Parents are taking an active role in finding environments that meet their children’s unique needs, whether that means staying in the public school system or looking beyond it.

This decline is also tied to larger demographic trends. Birth rates in the United States have been falling for over a decade, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting a 2% drop in births from 2022 to 2023. Lower birth rates mean fewer children entering school each year. Combined with population shifts, these trends are reshaping how and where families access education.

Younger parents, Black and Hispanic families, and military households are among those most likely to explore alternatives. For many, it’s not about dissatisfaction, it’s about seeking the best possible fit for their children’s needs, interests, and learning styles.

Traditional public schools serve millions of families, but declining enrollment reflects the growing need for more adaptable education options. Hawaii, for example, has seen a 6.5% drop in enrollment since 2019, while North Dakota has experienced a 2.5% increase. At the same time, charter school enrollment nationwide grew by more than 80,000 students last year, and homeschooling remains one of the fastest-growing education models. These trends reflect families’ increasing awareness of the variety of options available to them.

This January, National School Choice Week (Jan. 26 to Feb. 1) will provide families with an opportunity to explore these options. With over 27,000 events planned nationwide, parents can learn about public, charter, private, online, and homeschooling models to determine what works best for their children.

As interest, and enrollment, in different types of schools continues to change, states are responding by creating policies that empower parents to make choices between many different school types. That means more solutions, and more hope, for families who want to help their child succeed.

Shelby Doyle is the vice president of public awareness at the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that hosts National School Choice Week each January and maintains the nation’s largest online portfolio of English- and Spanish-language school navigation resources. She lives in Nashville, TN with her family.

(NewsUSA) - 1. Immerse Yourself in the Extraordinary Culture of Sedona

Sedona's breathtaking red rock formations are matched only by its vibrant cultural experiences. The city is a haven for creativity, featuring world-class galleries, an incredible food scene, and exciting events. Don't miss Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art, one of the largest galleries in the Southwest, where you can admire stunning sculptures, glass art, and paintings.

Stroll along the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, a charming enclave modeled after a traditional Mexican village. Here, you'll find boutique galleries, artisan shops, and opportunities to meet the artists themselves.

Don't miss one-of-a-kind stores like The Artists Kitchen, offering unique culinary-inspired art and goods, or explore other distinctive boutiques in the area such as Good JuJu, known for its eclectic and inspiring finds.

Sedona is also home to many annual festivals like Sedona International Film Festival and Sedona Winefest.  For a guide to everything happening during your visit be sure to visit the Northern Arizona Event Calendar. For food lovers, Sedona boasts an impressive culinary scene, with standout restaurants, great coffee shops, and dining with incredible views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sedona's natural beauty provides endless opportunities for both physical and spiritual exploration. Embark on the iconic Cathedral Rock Trail, a moderately challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning views of Sedona's red rock landscape. Visit a vortex, a world-class spa, or many other wellness opportunities like Horse, Heart, & Connection.  Whether you're looking for culture, cuisine, or outdoor adventure, Sedona has something for everyone.

2. Sip and Savor in Cottonwood's Wine Country

Just a short drive from Sedona, Cottonwood is a rising star in Arizona's burgeoning wine industry. Nestled in the Verde Valley, this quaint town offers a delightful mix of rustic charm and sophisticated tasting experiences. Visit Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria, where you can sample exquisite wines made from locally grown grapes. Pair your wine with house-made pasta or other farm-to-table delights for a truly memorable experience.

For a more in-depth look at the winemaking process, head to one of the nearby vineyards for a tour. Many wineries in the area practice sustainable farming, adding an eco-friendly touch to your visit. Cottonwood's wine country is perfect for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

3. Stargazing in Flagstaff: Embrace Astrotourism

Flagstaff, designated as the world's first International Dark Sky City, is a haven for stargazers. The city's commitment to preserving dark skies has made astrotourism a leading travel trend. Join guided night sky tours or visit the Lowell Observatory to marvel at the celestial wonders above. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious traveler, the starry skies of Flagstaff are truly magical.

4. Step Back in Time in Jerome: History and Charm

Perched on Cleopatra Hill, the historic town of Jerome offers a fascinating glimpse into Northern Arizona's mining past. Once known as the "Wickedest Town in the West," Jerome is now a vibrant arts community with a rich history.

Begin your visit with lunch at The Asylum Restaurant, located in the historic Jerome Grand Hotel. Enjoy stunning views of the Verde Valley while dining in this beautifully restored former hospital. Then, head to the Jerome State Historic Park or explore the Copper Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of artifacts that highlight the region's mining legacy and artistic craftsmanship.

Jerome's eclectic mix of historic sites, unique shops, and cool bars make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

5. Travel Responsibly

As you explore Northern Arizona, it's essential to travel responsibly to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Here are some tips:

• Respect Nature: Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace.
• Support Local: Choose locally owned businesses, artisans, and restaurants to contribute to the community.
• Be Culturally Sensitive: When visiting Native American sites, adhere to guidelines and respect the traditions of local tribes.

Northern Arizona's blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historic charm ensures a travel experience that is both diverse and enriching. Whether you're exploring Sedona's art scene, sipping wines in Cottonwood, or marveling at the stars in Flagstaff, this region promises memories that will last a lifetime.  Everything you could possibly need to begin your journey; you will find on sedonamonthly.com