...advice?

Let's review:

You likened this to socialism. It's not, that's a completely silly claim. We're not talking about government here at all. We're talking about agreements between private entities, which BYU and Provo landlords already have to get BYU-approved housing. Landlords agree to certain requirements for that approval.

But, BYU isn't even forcing things--if the story is true, BYU has asked to let SOME students out of their contracts (those who want to leave). Again, how is this socialism? Because BYU is asking landlords to compromise with SOME students on a crisis that is impacting EVERYBODY? Nope, even if you don't think the landlords should give an inch, ASKING them to end the contract isn't socialism, or anything close to it. It's a really dumb comparison.

Next, you tried to imply, apparently, that my kids are losers I guess? for not wanting to honor their contract. Actually, both of my kids want to stay, and are continuing to do so. But, again, for you to imply other students are dishonorable for wanting some slack from a landlord is pretty dumb as well. The students came here TO BE IN SCHOOL. They can't do that. They'd like a compromise with the landlords, and that seems reasonable. You're asking the students to eat the whole cost of the remaining part of the contract. BYU, apparently, would like a compromise, but for some reason you think that's horrible dishonorable.

Perhaps you should apologize to your wife, actually look up the definition of socialism, then recognize that asking for a compromise isn't the craziest thing in the world.