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Teachers unions were once a dominant force in American politics and education policy. While still major players, they are rapidly losing strength and having a harder time finding reliable allies.

As the school year gets underway, a lot of students are getting their hands on a host of new technology in their classrooms. But some schools are struggling to access basic supplies, let alone the latest and greatest devices. Host Michel Martin looks at technology in the classroom with Charles Best, founder of DonorsChoose.org.

It looks like Virginians will be choosing between polarizing figures for governor this year: right-wing state Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, and former Democratic National Committee Chairman Terry McAuliffe. Polls show voters don't much like one, and don't really know the other.

It's been a great year for high-profile comics creators, producing landmark works destined for many "Best Comics of 2012" lists. But what about the lesser-known artists and their work? Glen Weldon points to outstanding works that haven't gotten the attention they deserve.

It was a busy year for federal authorities pursuing insider trading cases, such as the one against hedge fund manager Raj Rajaratnam. Investigators say that success comes largely from their decision to attack insider trading the way they take down the Mafia and drug cartels — with wiretaps, informants and cooperators.

Is he a "wimp" who blinked during fiscal cliff wrangling, failing to pursue a grand bargain and weakening his future hand? Or a pragmatist who negotiated a "big win" in securing congressional approval for the first tax increase on the wealthy in more than two decades?

Sandra Fluke found herself in the center of a media storm earlier this year. She became a political target after she testified in favor of President Obama's policy to require most employers' insurance plans to cover contraception. Fluke spoke at this week's Democratic convention, and talks about it with host Michel Martin.

Dancer Carlos Acosta left Cuba and went on to become a star with London's Royal Ballet. With the help of a renowned British architect, he hopes to return to his homeland and revive a long-abandoned, landmark ballet school. But his plans are facing opposition, including from the original architect.

Weekend Edition host Scott Simon talks with filmmaker Till Schauder and basketball player Kevin Sheppard. Schauder's new film goes behind the scenes in Iran, where Sheppard played professionally for a time. The film is called The Iran Job.

Civil rights was once a common cause for pro athletes, but players have been relatively quiet about gay rights. Former athletes have expressed the fear and isolation of their "dirty little secret." Recently, though, there have been a few standout moments for gay rights in the sports world.