
Cory Turner
NPR education correspondent. He reports on education policy and its impact on students and schools.
Top 10 podcasts with Cory Turner
Ranked by the Snipd community

37 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 25min
Trump Administration Interpretation Of Civil Rights Act Reshapes Public Schools
Cory Turner, NPR's education correspondent, dives into the Trump administration's controversial approach to civil rights in education. He explores how federal policies have pressured local schools to conform to specific political ideologies, impacting diversity initiatives. The conversation touches on ongoing legal battles affecting transgender students, highlighting the clash between state and federal directives. Turner also reflects on how these strategies signal a broader culture war, reshaping public schooling and challenging past bipartisan efforts in education reform.

33 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 15min
Do private school voucher programs work?
Cory Turner, an NPR education correspondent known for his insightful analysis on educational policies, explores the contentious topic of private school voucher programs. He highlights a mother's uplifting experience with such a program in Florida, while unpacking the complexities and effectiveness of vouchers nationwide. The discussion reveals that these programs often serve students already in private schools and raises concerns over quality control and funding issues in public education. Arizona's voucher program faces scrutiny, particularly regarding transitions for students and families.

16 snips
Jul 3, 2023 • 14min
How to prepare for the return of student loan payments
Join NPR's education correspondent, Cory Turner, as he tackles the significant Supreme Court ruling that has dashed hopes for federal student loan forgiveness. He offers valuable insights on how borrowers can prepare for the resumption of payments and the shifting strategies the government may adopt for relief. The conversation covers practical steps for managing loans, including updating personal information and choosing the right repayment plans. Turner's expertise sheds light on navigating this new landscape and addressing the rising concerns over student debt.

8 snips
Oct 3, 2022 • 14min
Biden Reverses On Debt Cancellation For Hundreds of Thousands
Cory Turner, NPR's education correspondent, joins the conversation to unpack the U.S. Department of Education's recent decision altering eligibility for student debt relief. He reveals that around 4 million borrowers could be left in the lurch, no longer qualifying for forgiveness. The discussion navigates the political fallout and strategic hurdles the Biden administration faces amidst ongoing legal pressures. Turner highlights the discontent among borrowers while dissecting the broader implications for upcoming elections.

Mar 22, 2023 • 11min
Can't Find a Teacher? Grow Your Own
Cory Turner, an NPR education reporter, delves into the innovative Mississippi Teacher Residency program, which is helping to alleviate teacher shortages in Jackson. He highlights the dynamic efforts by local districts to recruit and transform paraprofessionals into certified teachers. The conversation emphasizes community commitment and engagement in developing a diverse teaching workforce. Featuring stories of real educators like Kimberly Pate and Jennifer Carter, the podcast showcases how these initiatives are positively impacting both teachers and students.

Oct 5, 2022 • 26min
Student loan forgiveMESS
Cory Turner, an NPR correspondent covering student loan forgiveness plans, delves into President Biden's ambitious $10,000 student loan relief initiative. He discusses the controversial legal challenges from several states aimed at blocking the plan. The conversation covers the mixed public reactions, the systemic issues within the student lending system, and the emotional toll on borrowers amidst the ongoing legal battles. Turner sheds light on the constitutionality of the plan and the implications for taxpayers, painting a vivid picture of a transformative yet tumultuous time in education finance.

Nov 16, 2023 • 9min
Fresh Start for Student Loan Borrowers in Default
In this discussion, Cory Turner, an NPR reporter focused on education and student loans, reveals the Fresh Start program aimed at aiding nearly 7 million borrowers in default. He dives into the personal struggles of borrowers facing the harsh consequences of default, including financial and emotional turmoil. The initiative simplifies the path to recovery and offers benefits like improved credit reporting. Turner also addresses ongoing challenges, such as long wait times and confusion over repayment plans, highlighting the urgency for grassroots outreach.

Feb 9, 2022 • 14min
Biden Promised To Cancel $10,000 In Student Debt For All Borrowers. He Hasn't.
Cory Turner, NPR's education correspondent, dives into the complexities surrounding President Biden's promise to cancel $10,000 in student debt. He discusses the conflicting opinions within the Democratic Party and the legal challenges that could allow for unilateral action on debt relief. Turner also highlights the political risks as midterm elections loom, emphasizing how public sentiment and rising inflation are affecting student loan policies. The conversation unveils the pressing anxieties of millions awaiting clarity on their financial futures.

Feb 18, 2021 • 15min
Biden Wants To Re-Open Schools, But How Much Can He Really Do About It?
Cory Turner, NPR's education correspondent, dives into the complexities of reopening schools in the pandemic era. He discusses the challenges faced by President Biden, emphasizing the local control over reopening decisions. The tensions between vaccination priorities for teachers and the demands of unions are explored. Turner also highlights the political stakes involved, particularly how school reopenings impact public opinion and the push from Republicans for quicker action. Overall, it's a riveting discussion on the intersection of education and politics.

Aug 17, 2020 • 14min
The Science Is Simple, So Why Is Opening Schools So Complicated?
Cory Turner, NPR's education correspondent, digs into the complexities of school reopenings during the pandemic. He discusses what science reveals about COVID-19's effects on children and the varied approaches districts are taking. Turner emphasizes the importance of considering community health and local infection rates in decision-making. The conversation also touches on rapid testing's role in safety and the often politicized nature of public health discussions. Parenting challenges add a lighter touch to the serious matter of getting students back in classrooms.