Latest News and Comment from Education

Show All

Monday, May 11, 2026

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 11, 2026

 

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS

MAY 11, 2026

Here are today's top news stories (as of May 11, 2026) across the requested categories. The Iran-US conflict/ceasefire negotiations dominate global headlines.

U.S. NEWS

  • Hantavirus outbreak on Caribbean Princess cruise ship: Dozens infected (over 100 reported in some updates), with multiple deaths. Passengers (including Americans) are being evacuated/repatriated from Tenerife; authorities emphasize it's not easily spread person-to-person and not like COVID.
  • Frontier Airlines incident: A plane struck a person on the runway at Denver International Airport, causing an engine fire, aborted takeoff, and injuries.
  • Other incidents include a mass shooting in Carrollton, Texas (Korean supermarket), and ongoing domestic stories like a deadly altercation in Canada (cross-border relevance).

POLITICS

  • Trump rejects Iran's response to the latest U.S. ceasefire proposal as "totally unacceptable," warning of resumed bombing/strikes while signaling a deal remains possible. Tensions involve the Strait of Hormuz, drones, and negotiations.
  • Trump-Xi talks upcoming, covering Iran, Taiwan, trade, AI, and nuclear issues.
  • Domestic: Redistricting battles post-Supreme Court decisions, Senate schedule, and midterm positioning.

WORLD AFFAIRS

  • Ongoing 2026 Iran war/Strait of Hormuz crisis: Iran sent a response via Pakistan demanding war damage compensation and Hormuz sovereignty. Trump called it unacceptable; incidents include projectiles striking ships and blockade enforcement.
  • Lebanon/Israel: Attacks continue despite ceasefire.
  • Broader: European leaders pushing Ukraine-Russia ceasefire; China studying U.S. tactics from Iran conflict.

EDUCATION

  • Declining U.S. school enrollment: Fewer children due to lower birth rates leading to unfilled classrooms and potential closures in many districts.
  • Federal funding shifts: Trump administration holding back grants or moving programs (e.g., to Labor/Health departments); congressional pushback on proposed cuts.
  • Local highlights: Student research recognitions and international school reopenings (e.g., UAE).

ECONOMY

  • Markets react to Iran news: U.S. stock futures fall, oil surges after Trump's rejection of Iran's proposal.
  • Upcoming data: Focus on U.S. inflation (CPI), retail sales, existing home sales, and Fed-related developments (e.g., Powell successor).
  • Broader concerns: Inflation impacts, trade talks (U.S.-China/UK), and war-related economic effects.

TECHNOLOGY

  • AI and imaging authenticity: Canon rolls out C2PA-compliant system for news organizations to verify image provenance.
  • Space/AI tech: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries demonstrates onboard AI ship detector in orbit; other advancements in hybrid-electric aircraft (DARPA) and physical AI for industry.
  • Cloud spending growth (e.g., Australia forecast) and ongoing AI capex by hyperscalers.

HEALTH

  • Hantavirus cruise ship outbreak (see U.S. News): Primary global health story, with evacuations and monitoring.
  • Maternal health: Bipartisan gubernatorial focus (e.g., Moore and Huckabee Sanders) on reducing U.S. maternal mortality.
  • Preventable cancers research (broader context) and ongoing public health updates.

SPORTS

  • NBA Playoffs: Strong performances like Knicks hitting many threes in a game; ongoing series.
  • MLB: Top plays of the week highlights (catches, home runs).
  • Other: NFL draft lottery (Wizards No. 1), NCAA DII baseball selections, and preparations for 2026 FIFA World Cup (U.S. host elements).

News evolves rapidly, especially around Iran. These reflect prominent headlines from reliable sources at the time of this summary.

Big Education Ape: AGENTIC AI ENTERS THE CLASSROOM: THE DEBATE THAT WILL DEFINE A GENERATION https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/agentic-ai-enters-classroom-debate-that.html 

The blog post "Agentic AI Enters the Classroom: The Debate That Will Define a Generation" by Mike Simpson explores the profound shift from reactive Generative AI to proactive Agentic AI in the education sector as of May 2026.

What is Agentic AI?

Unlike traditional AI that waits for prompts, Agentic AI acts autonomously. In a classroom setting, these systems can:

  • Diagnose & Plan: Independently identify student learning gaps and create targeted lesson plans.

  • Self-Correct: Adjust difficulty levels and schedule practice sessions in real-time without teacher intervention.

  • Orchestrate Tools: Connect to databases, calendars, and learning management systems to manage a student's entire educational workflow.

The Role of the Teacher: "Human-in-the-Loop"

The post details the tension between AI automation and human instruction, categorizing teacher involvement into three "loops":

  • Human-in-the-Loop: The teacher must approve or modify AI suggestions before they reach students.

  • Human-on-the-Loop: AI operates autonomously but the teacher monitors for errors.

  • Human-out-of-the-Loop: AI handles routine administrative tasks entirely on its own.

The author argues that while AI can optimize data, it cannot replace human empathy, moral judgment, or the "spark factor" that inspires students.

Corporate Interests & Vertical Integration

A significant portion of the article critiques the influence of "billionaire oligarchs" (such as Bill Gates, Elon Musk, and Sam Altman). It warns of a vertical integration play where tech giants own the entire pipeline:

  1. Building the AI infrastructure.

  2. Deploying it as a "captive audience" in schools.

  3. Harvesting data from millions of students to further train their models for profit.

The Future of Assessment

Because AI can generate perfect essays instantly, the blog notes that traditional grading is becoming obsolete. Instead, schools are shifting toward grading interaction logs, evaluating students on how they orchestrate AI agents, catch hallucinations, and apply critical thinking to AI-generated outputs.

Key takeaway: The post concludes that while technology may handle the mechanics of teaching, the "soul" of education remains a human relationship that cannot be automated.

Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, MAY 10, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/looking-back-week-in-review-sunday-may_0691520142.html 


The Big Education Ape blog post for Sunday, May 10, 2026, provides a "Week in Review" (May 3–9) focused on the intersection of education policy, artificial intelligence, and corporate reform.

1. AI in Education: The "Moratorium" Movement

The central theme of the week was a growing resistance against the rapid deployment of generative AI in schools, specifically within the New York City Department of Education (DOE).

  • Critique of DOE Guidance: Advocacy groups, including the Parent Coalition for Student Privacy, criticized the NYC DOE for a lack of transparency regarding approved AI products and potential data-mining risks.

  • Demand for a Moratorium: The Coalition for an AI Moratorium (AIM NYC) has called for a two-year ban on generative AI in classrooms to study its impact on cognitive development and student privacy.

  • Human-Centric Teaching: Featured essays argued that AI can never replace the emotional and intuitive labor of a human teacher.

2. Federal Policy Shifts

The blog highlights several major transitions in U.S. higher education policy:

  • Student Loan Overhaul: The new RISE regulations have introduced strict borrowing caps for graduate and professional degrees, effectively ending the era of unlimited PLUS loans.

  • Earnings Accountability: A controversial proposal would tie federal funding to a "graduate earnings threshold," penalizing programs whose graduates do not see a significant return on investment.

3. Privacy & Litigation

4. Social Justice & Culture

  • Voting Rights: One post, titled "Zombies Are Real," discusses the rollback of voting protections and the return of policies reminiscent of the Jim Crow era.

  • Mother’s Day: The digest includes several reflections on motherhood, emphasizing the importance of children's autonomy and the influence of mothers on their children's paths.

Key Dates to Watch

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 10, 2026 - HAPPY MOTHERS DAY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01074844195.html 

This page from the Big Education Ape blog, dated May 10, 2026, serves as a comprehensive news digest focusing on education, politics, and social justice. It blends mainstream headlines with critical commentary from a progressive educational perspective.

Major News Highlights

  • Geopolitics & Conflict: Tensions remain high in the Strait of Hormuz between U.S. and Iranian forces. However, a fragile ceasefire is being navigated, with President Trump anticipating a response to a U.S.-backed peace proposal.

  • Health Crisis: An outbreak of the Andes hantavirus on the cruise ship MV Hondius has resulted in at least three deaths, leading to international quarantine protocols.

  • U.S. Politics: High-stakes redistricting battles in Virginia and Tennessee are highlighted as major blows to Democratic seat stability.

  • Cybersecurity: A massive cyberattack on the Canvas education platform has disrupted thousands of schools and universities nationwide.

Education & AI Analysis

A recurring theme throughout the page is the skepticism regarding billionaire-led education reform and the role of AI:

  • The "Human" Element: One featured post argues that AI will never replace the intuition of a teacher or a mother, framing teaching as emotional labor that cannot be automated.

  • Governance Critiques: The blog critiques Governor Kathy Hochul (NY) and Governor Jared Polis (CO) for supporting school choice and voucher programs that the author claims facilitate privatization and potential discrimination.

  • California "Education Circus": There is a deep dive into Assembly Bill AB-2117, which critics say shifts power to billionaire donors and reduces voter accountability.

Literary & Social Reflections

The overarching sentiment of the page is one of caution regarding technology and private interests in public sectors, while calling for collective action to protect democratic and educational standards.

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 10, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-10-2026.html 

This morning news update from May 10, 2026, via the Big Education Ape blog, covers a wide range of global and domestic developments with a heavy emphasis on education and public health.

Top News Stories

  • Hantavirus Outbreak: A significant outbreak of the Andes hantavirus has occurred on the cruise ship MV Hondius. Multiple deaths have been reported, and 17 American passengers are being evacuated to Nebraska for quarantine.

  • International Relations: A rare three-day WWII Truce and prisoner exchange are being observed between Russia and Ukraine. Meanwhile, President Trump is preparing for a summit in Beijing to discuss Iran and trade.

  • Domestic Issues: High-stakes redistricting battles are occurring in Virginia and Alabama, and a new stopgap proposal for the Colorado River Crisis is facing criticism.

Education Special

The report highlights a major shift toward state-level autonomy and the integration of advanced technology:

  • Federal Downsizing: Secretary Linda McMahon is promoting a reduced federal role in education, following the transfer of student loans to the Treasury Department.

  • Agentic AI: Schools are moving toward "Agentic AI," shifting focus from rote memorization to critical thinking and AI-supported instructional planning.

  • Policy Trends: 22 states have now implemented "bell-to-bell" cell phone bans, and 18 states have passed universal school choice laws.

  • Higher-Ed ROI: New legislation in several states requires public universities to prove "Return on Investment" based on graduate wages.

Economy & Technology

  • AI Infrastructure: BlackRock’s Larry Fink described AI infrastructure as a new "trillion-dollar" asset class.

  • Energy Demand: AI data centers are projected to consume 8% of total U.S. electricity by 2030.

  • Market Losses: Trump Media and Technology Group reported a first-quarter loss of approximately $406 million.

Health & Science

  • Regenerative Medicine: Researchers report breakthroughs in combining stem cells with PRP to accelerate healing.

  • Lifelong Learning: A 72-year-old medical school graduate is trending as a symbol of second-career shifts in the medical field.

How do you feel about the current momentum toward state-level control versus the federal standards seen over the last decade?

Big Education Ape: THE BILLIONAIRE'S EDUCATION DIVA: HOW KATHY HOCHUL LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING AND LOVE THE GREEN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/the-billionaires-education-diva-how.html 

The blog post from Big Education Ape, titled "The Billionaire's Education Diva: How Kathy Hochul Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Green," is a sharp critique of New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s education policies and campaign financing as of May 2026.

Here is a summary of the key points:

The "Education Diva" Critique

The author, Mike Simpson, characterizes Governor Hochul as performing a political "magic trick"—publicly supporting teachers' unions while privately facilitating the privatization of education. The central criticism is her decision to opt New York into the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), a federal school choice tax-credit program.

Campaign Finance & Billionaire Influence

The post highlights Hochul's significant $21 million campaign war chest, arguing that her policy shifts are a direct result of influence from wealthy donors. Key contributors mentioned include:

  • Real Estate Moguls: Representing her largest sector of support at over $9.1 million.

  • Tech Billionaires: Including Reid Hoffman (LinkedIn) and Eric Schmidt (Google), who the author suggests are interested in an AI-driven, subscription-based education marketplace.

  • Industrialists & Owners: Such as Leonard Blavatnik and Mets owners Steve and Alexandra Cohen.

The ECCA and Private Interests

The author details how the ECCA functions as a "shell game," where wealthy donors receive dollar-for-dollar tax credits for donating to private school scholarships. This is framed as a "transactional" move that diverts public funds to private institutions which may not be held to the same civil rights standards as public schools.

Wider Democratic Trends

The post draws parallels between Hochul and other Democratic governors, like Colorado’s Jared Polis, accusing them of adopting "MAGA-adjacent" school choice policies to appease billionaire donors.

The "Primary That Wasn't"

A major takeaway is the author's claim that Hochul’s massive fundraising advantage effectively stifled democratic competition, causing potential primary challengers to withdraw and denying voters a choice regarding the state's education agenda.

Note: The blog also credits Curmudgucation / Peter Greene for reporting on similar educational shifts in other states.

Big Education Ape: ZOMBIES ARE REAL: THE RESURRECTION OF JIM CROW AND THE FIGHT FOR AMERICA'S SOUL https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/zombies-are-real-resurrection-of-jim.html 

The blog post from Big Education Ape, titled ZOMBIES ARE REAL: THE RESURRECTION OF JIM CROW AND THE FIGHT FOR AMERICA'S SOUL, is a polemic by Mike Simpson arguing that systemic racial disenfranchisement is being legally resurrected in 2026.


Here is a summary of the key themes and arguments:

The "Zombie" Metaphor

The author uses the imagery of "zombies" to describe Jim Crow-era policies—ideas that should be dead but continue to "shamble" through modern legal and political institutions. He argues that while de jure (legal) segregation was ended by the Civil Rights movement, de facto (in practice) segregation persists through economic policy and "lawyerly" maneuvers.

The Role of the Supreme Court

A central focus of the piece is the systematic dismantling of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) by the Roberts Court. The author provides a timeline of specific cases he views as "autopsy reports" for democracy:

  • Shelby County v. Holder (2013): Removed the requirement for states to get federal approval (preclearance) before changing voting laws.

  • Brnovich v. DNC (2021): Made it significantly harder to prove racial discrimination in voting results.

  • Louisiana v. Callais (2026): Critiques a recent decision that the author claims creates a "legal paradox," making it nearly impossible to draw majority-minority districts without them being struck down as unconstitutional "racial sorting."

Political and Social Climate

The author links these legal shifts to the rise of the MAGA movement and Christian Nationalism. He cites a 2026 PRRI survey suggesting high levels of support for Christian Nationalism among Republicans and a concerning acceptance of potential violence to "save the country." He frames this as a demographic "panic" resulting from the loss of a white numerical majority.

The Path Forward

Despite the grim tone, the post concludes with a "blueprint for victory," urging readers to:

  • Vote Decisively: Win by margins that cannot be "procedurally strangled" or litigated away.

  • Legislative Action: Restore the VRA with modern formulas and pass federal anti-gerrymandering laws.

  • Build Coalitions: Recreate the multiracial, multigenerational alliances that drove the original Civil Rights movement.

Key Quote: "Zombies... are only as powerful as the living allow them to be... They stop consuming the moment enough living people decide, collectively and loudly, that enough is enough."

Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 5-3-26 TO 5-9-26 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/the-top-news-stories-this-week-5-3-26.html 

The shared page from Big Education Ape provides a comprehensive digest of top news stories for the week of May 3 to May 9, 2026. The summary is divided into several thematic categories based on reports from AI models Gemini and Grok, as well as specific education and political focuses.

🌍 Global & Geopolitical News

  • U.S.-Iran Conflict: Significant focus remains on the ongoing war, including exchanges of fire in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the tensions, a fragile ceasefire is reportedly being navigated.

  • Ukraine-Russia Truce: President Trump announced a three-day ceasefire starting May 9 to coincide with Victory Day, including a prisoner exchange.

  • Vatican Diplomacy: Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Italy and the Vatican to mend ties with Pope Leo XIV following administration criticisms.

🎓 Education Highlights

  • AI Integration: The Department of Education finalized rules giving grant priority to schools using AI. There is also a global shift toward "Sovereign AI" to protect student data.

  • Loan Changes: Final regulations for the RISE loan program were published, introducing new caps on federal professional and graduate degree loans.

  • System Recovery: The Canvas education system returned online after a major nationwide cyberattack.

🇺🇸 U.S. Domestic & Political News

  • Jobs Report: A resilient May jobs report saw U.S. stocks hit record highs despite high energy prices.

  • Hantavirus Outbreak: A cruise ship headed for U.S. waters was quarantined due to a deadly hantavirus outbreak.

  • Redistricting: The Virginia Supreme Court struck down a Democratic-favored congressional map, a move celebrated by the GOP.

  • National Parks: A new administration order lifted restrictions on hunting in 55 national park sites.

📈 Economy & Technology

  • Inflation & Energy: The blockade of the Gulf has choked off 20% of world oil supplies, causing a worldwide economic "tightrope walk."

  • Tech Innovations: Major news included semiconductor production being framed as a strategic global priority and rumors of a massive AI processing leap for the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

  • Microplastics: A study revealed that Moringa tree seeds can remove 98% of microplastics from water.

🏆 Sports & Culture

  • NBA & NHL: Both leagues are deep into playoffs, with several series heading toward Game 7s.

  • Olympic Bid: India officially launched its campaign to host the 2036 Olympic Games.

Note: The page also includes daily updates and specific "Education Special" sections detailing investigations into Houston ISD and Smith College.

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 9, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0688328676.html 

The Big Education Ape blog post for May 9, 2026, provides a curated summary of global news, domestic politics, and deep-dives into education policy. The content is characterized by a mix of mainstream news reporting and progressive educational advocacy.

## Top Global & U.S. News

The day's headlines are dominated by geopolitical tensions and economic shifts:

  • U.S.-Iran Conflict: A tenuous ceasefire is holding despite reported clashes in the Strait of Hormuz.

  • Russia-Ukraine: A three-day ceasefire began to coincide with Russia's Victory Day, including a massive exchange of 1,000 prisoners from each side.

  • Economy: The April jobs report showed resilience with 115,000 jobs added, beating expectations despite high energy prices.

  • Health: Concerns remain regarding a Hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship.

## Education Policy & Critiques

A significant portion of the page is dedicated to analyzing the "business" of education and defending public schools:

  • AI in the Classroom: Several posts, including a piece by John Thompson, debate whether AI will empower or dominate education. A highlighted blog argues that AI will never replace the intuition and emotional labor of a teacher or mother.

  • California "Education Circus": Detailed criticism of AB-2117, which proposes a Governor-appointed Education Commissioner. Critics argue this reduces voter accountability and empowers billionaire donors.

  • The "Science of Reading": An article by Denny Taylor critiques the movement as behaviorism rebranded for profit, advocating for a return to teacher-led instruction.

  • Funding Philosophies: Bruce Baker uses a Seuss-inspired poem to argue against "money follows the child" policies, framing education as a shared public good rather than a private transaction.

## Social Justice & Advocacy

  • Redistricting Tensions: The page features a passionate speech by Rep. Justin Pearson condemning the redistricting of Memphis as a tool of voter suppression.

  • Parental Backlash: Reports on Schools Beyond Screens, a group of parents in Los Angeles fighting against excessive screen time and digital surveillance in schools.

  • Inspirational Narratives: A profile of Albert Camus emphasizes how a single teacher changed his life's trajectory from a factory floor to a Nobel Prize.

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 9, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-9-2026.html 

This morning news update from Big Education Ape for May 9, 2026, covers a wide array of global and domestic events, with a heavy emphasis on the intersection of politics, technology, and education.

Global & National News

  • U.S.-Iran Conflict: A tenuous ceasefire is holding despite naval clashes in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. has proposed a 14-point peace plan.

  • Economy: The April jobs report exceeded expectations with 115,000 jobs added, keeping unemployment steady at 4.3%.

  • Politics: Republicans are celebrating redistricting wins in states like Virginia and Tennessee, while a bipartisan climate resilience bill is gaining traction in the Senate.

  • Technology: California researchers have achieved a milestone with a 1,000-qubit quantum processor. Meanwhile, AI-related job displacements continue, with Cloudflare citing AI for 1,100 roles.

Education Special

The page highlights several critical updates for educators and policy-makers:

  • Cybersecurity Crisis: A massive cyberattack on the Canvas learning management system has disrupted final exams nationwide.

  • Policy Shifts: The Trump administration has reportedly frozen $2 billion in education grants. There is also ongoing debate regarding the potential abolition of the U.S. Department of Education, with a current focus on shifting power to states.

  • Cell Phone Bans: A new study suggests that while cellphone bans improve discipline, they have almost no impact on academic scores.

  • International: In the UAE, schools may remain online due to regional security alerts and missile interceptions.

Health & Sports

  • Health: Concerns are rising over a Hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship, while the FDA has cleared a "universal" flu vaccine for final-phase trials.

  • Sports: The New York Knicks hold a 3-0 lead over the 76ers in the NBA Playoffs, and Victor Wembanyama continues to headline for the Spurs.

The blog also features several commentary pieces on "billionaire-led" education reforms and the importance of public school teachers over AI.

Big Education Ape: WHAT THE BOTS KNOW THAT THE BILLIONAIRE OLIGARCHS NEVER WILL: AI WILL NEVER REPLACE A PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER ANY MORE THAN IT WILL EVER REPLACE A MOTHER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/what-bots-know-that-billionaire.html 

The blog post titled "WHAT THE BOTS KNOW THAT THE BILLIONAIRE OLIGARCHS NEVER WILL" from the Big Education Ape blog is a satirical and poignant commentary on the limitations of Artificial Intelligence in education and caregiving.

The central thesis is that while AI is incredibly advanced at processing data and automating tasks, it lacks the human "heart" and intuition essential to the roles of public school teachers and mothers.

Key Themes and Content

The post features a collection of AI-generated responses (from ChatGPT, Grok, Claude, Copilot, and Gemini) that, ironically, "confess" their own inability to replace human connection.

  • The "Delicious Irony": The introduction argues that while billionaires train AI on all human knowledge to "disrupt" education, the AI itself has learned that it cannot replicate a mother’s intuition or a teacher’s ability to see a child’s emotional needs.

  • The Role of a Teacher: The post emphasizes that teaching isn't just about data or grading; it's about "glue sticks, grace, and gumption." It highlights things AI can't do:

    • Sensing when a student is quiet because of a personal tragedy.

    • Tying shoes at recess or breaking up social drama.

    • Managing a classroom of 28 kids with varying emotional and physical needs.

  • The Role of a Mother: It contrasts AI’s data-driven advice with a mother's "ancient intuition," such as knowing a child is sick at 2 a.m. or why "triangles taste better" when cutting a sandwich.

  • The Human Element: The poems and prose collectively argue that "heart is not a feature you can download." They celebrate the "wonderfully, stubbornly human" nature of these professions that run on "coffee, care, and guilt."

Notable Quotes

"The billionaire sees a problem to be disrupted. The teacher sees a child to be believed in."

"The motherboard is very smart. But it will never have a mother's heart."



Curmudgucation    ICYMI: Mothers' Day 2026 Edition (5/10) PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/icymi-mothers-day-2026-edition-510 

This page is a Mother's Day edition of the Curmudgucation newsletter by Peter Greene, published on May 10, 2026. It serves as a "In Case You Missed It" (ICYMI) curated reading list focused on education policy, school reform, and political issues.

Key Highlights from the Reading List

  • Teacher Advocacy: A wrap-up of Teacher Appreciation Week, featuring Nancy Bailey’s critique of how "corporate reformsters" have impacted teachers' lives.

  • School Funding & Vouchers: * An analysis of why voucher programs are detrimental to rural school districts.

    • A report on how Tennessee’s school funding formula has reportedly led the state to the bottom in educational spending.

    • A critique of the Child Tax Credit and its failure to support the poorest children.

  • Organizational Critiques: * Questions regarding whether Moms for Liberty is paying chapters to attend meetings to maintain a "grassroots" appearance.

    • A look at Bill Gates' historical track record regarding education initiatives.

  • Technology & Censorship: * The "death" of another AI educational tool (OpenAI Study Mode).

    • A historical perspective on book banning in the United States.

    • A concerning audit of fabricated citations across 2.5 million biomedical papers.

  • Satire & Culture: * A McSweeney’s piece featuring satirical high school essays by Chief Justice John Roberts.

    • Greene shares a personal touch by dedicating the song "The Unicorn" by The Irish Rovers to his mother.

Newsletter Context

Curmudgucation is authored by Peter Greene, a long-time educator and blogger known for his skeptical and often witty take on education privatization and high-stakes testing.



 Union Matters  Our Power Lies in Protecting and Improving Our Health Care We must maintain it. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/our-power-lies-in-protecting-and 

In this Union Matters article, Arthur Goldstein criticizes the leadership of the United Federation of Teachers (UFT)—specifically the Unity caucus and President Michael Mulgrew—for what he describes as a betrayal of union members and retirees regarding healthcare.

The post outlines several key grievances and calls to action:

Criticism of UFT Leadership

  • Lack of Transparency: Goldstein argues that the leadership keeps members in the dark about crucial matters, such as the trustee election, to maintain control and push their own candidates.

  • The "Loyalty Oath": He asserts that Unity members are contractually obligated to support Mulgrew's agenda, preventing them from advocating for policies that might actually benefit the rank-and-file.

  • Healthcare "Lip Service": While Mulgrew recently claimed to withdraw support for Medicare Advantage, Goldstein warns that leadership is still lobbying against state and city bills (like 1096) that would legally protect traditional Medicare.

Political Skepticism

  • Zohran Mamdani: The author expresses deep skepticism toward Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. Despite Mamdani's public opposition to Medicare Advantage, Goldstein highlights a history of political "about-faces" on issues like mayoral control and rental assistance, suggesting he cannot be relied upon.

  • UFT Resolutions: Goldstein warns of an upcoming resolution designed to falsely claim the healthcare battle is "over" to discourage further activism.

The Path Forward

  • Retiree Power: The author emphasizes that the true power lies in the collective action of retirees and their ability to pressure leadership, as seen in previous election cycles.

  • New Leadership Slates: He notes that ABC Retirees/Fix Retiree Benefits plans to run a slate in next year’s Retired Teacher Chapter (RTC) election, potentially in a joint effort with Retiree Advocate, to challenge Unity’s dominance.

Ultimately, Goldstein urges members to "watch what they do, not what they say" and to continue the fight to preserve traditional Medicare and eliminate healthcare co-pays.



UCLA Unveils Free Online Multimedia High School Textbook About Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders    Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/ 

Based on the current page, Larry Ferlazzo’s Websites of the Day is a long-running educational blog (active since 2007) that provides news, curated resources, and instructional strategies for teachers, with a heavy emphasis on ESL/EFL/ELL and student motivation.

Here is a summary of the key content available:

Recent Highlights (May 10, 2026)

Core Themes & Resources

  • The "Best Of" Series: Extensive curated lists categorized by subject, including Social Studies, Math, Science, and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).

  • Teacher’s Toolboxes: Links to Larry Ferlazzo's published books, which offer practical, research-based strategies for various subjects and classroom management.

  • AI in Education: A recurring weekly feature highlighting free and useful AI tools specifically for classroom use.

  • Multimedia Content: Includes a YouTube channel focused on student motivation and a radio show on Bam Radio.

Navigation for New Users

For those unfamiliar with the site's vast archives, the blog includes a prominent "START HERE!" section and a "My Favorite Posts" tab to help navigate the most impactful resources gathered over the past two decades.


New Technologies Enter and Exit Classrooms https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/05/10/new-technologies-enter-and-exit-classrooms/ via @CubanLarry 

The article "New Technologies Enter and Exit Classrooms" by Larry Cuban explores the cyclical nature of educational technology, illustrating how "state-of-the-art" tools inevitably transition from 혁신 to obsolescence.

Cuban uses two primary historical examples to highlight this pattern:

1. The Era of Inkwells (1940s–1950s)

  • The Technology: Students used tapered wooden pens with replaceable nibs, eventually upgrading to fountain pens with rubber bladders.

  • The Ritual: Classrooms featured desks with built-in inkwells that required manual refilling from large bottles of Quink ink—a process prone to permanent stains and spills.

  • The Exit: By the late 1950s, expensive ballpoint pens began replacing ink-based tools. While the technology vanished, the physical desks with useless inkwells remained in schools for years, serving as a reminder of a bygone era.

2. The Stanford "Student Responder" (1960s–2010s)

  • The Technology: In the late 1960s, Stanford built a multi-million dollar facility (SCRDT) featuring a high-tech lecture hall. Each seat had a "student responder" keypad (numbers 1–10, T/F) linked to a mainframe computer.

  • The Intent: It was designed to provide instantaneous feedback, allowing professors to adjust their lectures in real-time based on student responses.

  • The Exit: * By 1972: The keypads were disconnected and treated as toys by bored students.

    • By 1981: The equipment was inoperable and ignored by faculty.

    • By 2012: During a renovation, the responders finally disappeared entirely, though the room continued to function as a standard lecture hall.

Core Insight

Cuban suggests that while the hardware changes—from inkwells to digital keypads—the fundamental structure of the classroom and the "grammar of schooling" often remain the same. New technologies are frequently introduced with great fanfare and expense, only to be abandoned or rendered "inoperable" while the traditional lecture format persists.

Does this cycle of "shiny new tech" eventually becoming "classroom clutter" resonate with any specific technologies you've seen in schools recently?



Schools Matter: Ideology, Rather Than Science, Continue to Control NAEP http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/05/ideology-rather-than-science-continue.html 

This page from the blog Schools Matter argues that the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is driven more by political ideology than scientific rigor. Written by James Horn and referencing a commentary by Paul Thomas, the post highlights a decades-long struggle over how student proficiency is measured and reported in the United States.

Key Arguments and History

  • Political Bludgeoning: The author claims that NAEP "proficiency levels" were intentionally designed by political figures (like Chester Finn and Diane Ravitch) to be unrealistically high, creating a narrative of failure for public education.

  • Scientific Rejection: The post cites a 1991 evaluation by prominent psychometricians who warned that NAEP standards should not be used as a baseline or model due to "extremely serious" technical difficulties.

  • Lack of Global Alignment: The article points out discrepancies between NAEP results and international tests; for example, in 1995, U.S. 4th graders ranked 3rd globally in science, yet NAEP categorized only 31% of them as "proficient."

  • Institutional Criticism: It notes that several major organizations—including the National Academy of Sciences, the GAO, and the Brookings Institution—have rejected or questioned the appropriateness of these achievement levels.

Current Context

The post serves as an introduction to a newer Substack piece by Paul Thomas regarding the 2026 NAEP Reading Framework. Thomas argues that despite revision efforts, the process remains "politically disrupted" and continues to negatively impact student learning opportunities through high-stakes testing.



Beware the Bastards: On Freedom and Choice "The poor and the underclass are growing. Racial justice and human rights are non-existent. They have created a repressive society and we are their unwitting accomplices." Bearded Man, "They Live" PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/beware-the-bastards-on-freedom-and 

In his article Beware the Bastards: On Freedom and Choice, Paul Thomas draws parallels between dystopian fiction and the current American political landscape, specifically focusing on how language is used to mask social and economic control.

Core Themes and Comparisons

  • Dystopian Mirrors: Thomas uses John Carpenter’s film "They Live" and Margaret Atwood’s "The Handmaid’s Tale" to illustrate how those in power manipulate the masses. In "They Live," aliens hide behind human forms; in the real world, Thomas argues, "bastards" hide behind deceptive rhetoric.

  • The Manipulation of Language: Referencing George Orwell and Atwood, the author posits that controlling language is the ultimate form of control. He critiques the use of words like "freedom," "choice," and "individual responsibility" by political figures (citing Paul Ryan and Mike Pence), suggesting these terms are often "coded" to justify the removal of social safety nets.

  • Social Complicity: Thomas highlights the concept of "ignoring" versus ignorance. He suggests that many people live in the "blank white spaces" of society, choosing to detach themselves from the struggles of others until the "gradually heating bathtub" of systemic change becomes inescapable.

Key Takeaways

  • Kinship with the Underclass: The piece opens with a quote from Eugene V. Debs, emphasizing a moral obligation to stand with the imprisoned and the lower class.

  • Critique of Capitalism: The author views the current era as a "totalitarian subtext of capitalism" driven by fundamentalist ideologies and Project 2025.

  • The Final Message: He concludes with the famous phrase from Atwood's novel: "Nolite te bastardes carborundorum"—Don’t let the bastards grind you down—urging readers to look beyond political mantras to the reality of their circumstances.

About the Author: Paul Thomas is a Professor of Education at Furman University and the recipient of the 2013 George Orwell Award.



Statement on the NYS Comptroller’s audit of NYC’s Privacy and Security of Student Data | Parent Coalition for Student Privacy https://studentprivacymatters.org/statement-on-the-nys-comptrollers-audit-of-nycs-privacy-and-security-of-student-data/ 

This statement from the Parent Coalition for Student Privacy outlines a scathing critique of the NYC Department of Education (DOE) following an audit by the New York State Comptroller.

The coalition argues that the DOE has demonstrated a "reckless" disregard for student data security, particularly as the department pushes to expand Artificial Intelligence (AI) in schools.

Key Findings of the Audit

  • Lack of Oversight: The DOE maintains no central record of which vendors or third parties have access to personal student information.

  • Security Weaknesses: The audit identified significant technical vulnerabilities, including issues with firewalls, unsupported systems, and system monitoring.

  • Legal Non-Compliance: The DOE frequently failed to meet the legal 10-day deadline for reporting data breaches to the State Education Department and the 60-day deadline for notifying parents.

  • Inadequate Vetting: The "ERMA" vetting process used by the DOE is described as "inherently defective," failing to prevent the illegal use of student data for commercial purposes.

Major Data Breaches Highlighted

  • Illuminate (2022): Exposed data for over one million current and former students. The DOE allegedly relied on the vendor's unreliable reporting and delayed parent notification by months (and in some cases, years).

  • PowerSchool (2024/2025): Despite a massive nationwide breach, the DOE reportedly took months to confirm affected schools and failed to notify parents within the legal timeframe.

  • Naviance: A PowerSchool product involved in a $17.25 million settlement over allegations of transmitting student data to third parties like Google and Microsoft. The coalition notes the DOE has not informed parents of their eligibility for this settlement.

Concerns Regarding AI Expansion

The coalition expresses deep concern that the DOE is ignoring recommendations for:

  • Independent privacy impact assessments.

  • Rigorous data security audits.

  • Tests for algorithmic bias.

The statement concludes that the DOE's recent updates to regulations actually weakened protections by expanding the definition of "directory information" (names, addresses, etc.) that can be shared with third parties, relying only on an "unreliable" parent opt-out process.



Choosing Democracy: Tom Steyer Should End His Negative Campaign https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/05/tom-steyer-should-end-his-negative.html 

This blog post from Choosing Democracy, published on May 10, 2026, criticizes candidate Tom Steyer for his negative campaigning in the California gubernatorial race.

Key Criticisms of Tom Steyer

  • Negative Ads: The author argues that Steyer’s media campaign against Xavier Becerra is "inaccurate" and "deceptive."

  • Misplaced Blame: The post claims Steyer is unfairly blaming Becerra for immigration failures at HHS that were actually inherited from the Trump era.

  • Endorsement Warnings: The author suggests that if Steyer continues these tactics, progressive groups should reconsider their endorsements.

The "Jungle Primary" Strategy

The post expresses a high level of concern regarding California’s June 2 primary. Because of the "jungle primary" system, the author fears that a split Democratic vote could lead to a November runoff between two Republicans.

  • The Polling Situation: Currently, Democrats (Steyer, Becerra, and Katie Porter) and Republicans (Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco) are all polling around 10-14%.

  • Strategic Voting Advice: The author urges voters to:

    • Delay voting until 7–10 days before the primary.

    • Consolidate support behind whichever Democrat has the highest polling numbers at that time.

    • Prevent a GOP win: The post highlights that a Republican governor could lead to increased deportations and the dismantling of environmental and social protections.

The author concludes by encouraging readers to share this strategic voting plan and to use safe ballot boxes to "save our democracy."



TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY

Today is Monday, May 11, 2026, and the news cycle is dominated by the escalating conflict in the Middle East and a high-stakes diplomatic mission to Asia. Here are the top 10 news stories regarding President Donald Trump:

1. Rejection of Iran’s Peace Proposal

President Trump has officially rejected Iran's counterproposal to end the current war, calling it "totally unacceptable." The Iranian proposal reportedly demanded war reparations, the lifting of all sanctions, and full Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz.

2. State Visit to China Confirmed

Beijing has confirmed that President Trump will pay a state visit to China from May 13 to 15. This marks the first visit by a U.S. president to China since 2017 (also by Trump). The agenda is expected to focus heavily on trade and the ongoing conflict with Iran.

3. Netanyahu Claims Trump Wants to "Go In"

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in a "60 Minutes" interview that President Trump expressed a desire to "go in" and secure Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile. Netanyahu emphasized that the war cannot end until Iran’s nuclear sites are dismantled.

4. Ultimatum and Threats of Increased Bombing

Following the rejection of the ceasefire terms, Trump issued a fresh ultimatum to Tehran: accept the U.S. deal or face a new wave of bombing at a "much higher level and intensity" than previously seen.

5. U.S. Navy Disables Iranian Tanker

The U.S. military disabled an Iranian-flagged oil tanker after it attempted to breach the naval blockade on Iranian ports. This escalation follows Trump’s directive to enforce a strict "zero-export" policy on Iranian crude.

6. World Cup Security Concerns

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches set to take place across the U.S. soon, counter-terrorism experts are warning of heightened risks. They cite the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict as a primary driver for potential radicalization and "lone actor" threats.

7. Gas Price Spin and Domestic Impact

White House officials, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are working to manage the domestic narrative around rising gas prices. The administration blames the price hikes on the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz rather than U.S. energy policies.

8. Baby Formula Safety Controversy

The administration is facing backlash from health advocates over claims that baby formula samples are safe. Critics argue the administration’s data contradicts findings showing contamination with toxic chemicals like PFAS.

9. Scrutiny of University Admissions

The Department of Justice has ramped up scrutiny of California medical schools, recently finding that UCLA illegally considered race in its admissions process. This is part of a broader Trump administration push against DEI-related practices in higher education.

10. Diplomatic Fallout in Costa Rica

In an unusual move, the State Department canceled tourist visas for the board of a leading Costa Rican newspaper, La Nación. The paper has been a vocal critic of Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves, a key regional ally of Trump.

Note: The current approval rating for the President sits at roughly 40%, with many Americans expressing concern over the potential for a prolonged conflict in the Middle East.


Posted by at
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)