Latest News and Comment from Education

Saturday, November 1, 2025

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 1, 2025

 

TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES 

NOVEMBER 1, 2025

U.S. NewsPoliticsWorld Affairs
  • At the APEC summit in South Korea, U.S. President Trump and China's Xi Jinping agreed on a trade truce, aiming to ease escalating tensions in global trade.
  • Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed a global AI governance body during APEC discussions, positioning it as a counter to U.S. influence in technology standards.
  • President Trump suggested resuming U.S. nuclear weapons testing in response to Russia's recent missile test, reviving Cold War-era concerns.
Education
  • The government shutdown threatens Head Start programs, with funding for early education and child care set to lapse on November 1, potentially affecting over 65,000 children across 41 states.
  • More California students are taking and passing Advanced Placement exams, with over 812,000 tests administered in 2025, reflecting improved access to college-level courses.
  • Discussions on AI's role in education and art continue, with Microsoft committing $4 billion over five years to AI skills development for millions.
Economy
  • Tech giants like Alphabet, Meta, and Amazon reported strong earnings, with Alphabet surpassing $100 billion in quarterly revenue for the first time, boosting the Nasdaq and signaling AI-driven growth.
  • Global economic growth is weakening, with emerging markets facing challenges from high U.S. tariffs and decelerating world growth, as highlighted in recent reports.
  • Trump-Xi talks at APEC focused on stabilizing trade, but China's priority remains addressing its flagging domestic economy amid ongoing U.S. pressures.
Technology
  • Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasized earning trust in AI through responsible development in his annual employee letter, alongside a $4 billion investment in AI education.
  • OpenAI is considering a $1 trillion IPO, while Samsung boosts advanced chip production after record sales, highlighting AI and semiconductor sector momentum.
  • SpaceX achieved its 100th successful Starlink mission of 2025, expanding global internet access through satellite technology.
Health
  • Healthcare premiums are set to rise sharply starting November 1 due to expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits, prompting warnings from experts about affordability for millions.
  • SNAP food assistance disruptions from the government shutdown could impact health and nutrition for 42 million people, with a federal judge ordering continued payments.
  • Medicare and aged care changes take effect November 1, including higher bulk billing rebates and expanded catastrophic health coverage to offset rising costs.
Sports



YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST

President Ronald Reagan on the Dangers of Tariffs https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/31/president-ronald-reagan-on-the-dangers-of-tariffs/ via @dianeravitch 

President Ronald Reagan was a strong advocate of free trade and opposed tariffs, contrasting sharply with Donald Trump's policies. Trump has imposed tariffs on various nations, disrupting global trade and increasing costs for U.S. manufacturers. Reagan's 1987 speech warning against protectionism was used in an ad by the Ontario government, which angered Trump. Despite Trump's claims, Reagan's stance on tariffs was clear and aligned with free trade principles. Critics argue that Trump's policies deviate from traditional conservative values and GOP norms.

### Key Points

- President Reagan supported free trade and opposed tariffs, unlike Trump's tariff-heavy policies. 

- Trump's tariffs have disrupted global trade and increased costs for U.S. manufacturers. 

- The Ontario government aired an ad featuring Reagan's anti-tariff stance, which Trump claimed was fake. 

- Reagan's views on tariffs were pragmatic, with rare exceptions for national security, contrasting with Trump's erratic use of tariffs. 

- Critics argue that Trump’s policies deviate from traditional conservatism and GOP principles. 

President Ronald Reagan on the Benefits of Immigration https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/31/president-ronald-reagan-on-immigration/ via @dianeravitch 

This article reflects on President Ronald Reagan's farewell speech and his views on immigration, contrasting them with modern political stances. Reagan's speech emphasized the contributions of immigrants to America, the importance of liberty, and the nation's role as a beacon of freedom. The article also highlights Reagan's presentation of the Medal of Freedom to two distinguished public servants, Mike Mansfield and George Shultz, recognizing their lifelong dedication to public service and freedom.

### Key Points  

- President Reagan's 1989 farewell speech praised immigrants and their contributions to America, emphasizing the nation's openness to people from all over the world.   

- Reagan contrasted America's inclusivity with other nations, highlighting the unique ability of immigrants to become Americans and renew the country's vitality.   

- Reagan shared stories to illustrate the transformative power of America and its role as a refuge for freedom seekers.   

- He warned that closing the door to immigrants would diminish America's leadership and innovation.   

- Reagan presented the Medal of Freedom to Mike Mansfield and George Shultz, recognizing their significant contributions to public service and foreign policy.   

- Mike Mansfield's life story was detailed, highlighting his service in Congress and as Ambassador to Japan, his advocacy for human rights, and his opposition to the Vietnam War.   

- George Shultz was honored for his work in foreign policy, including arms reductions and promoting freedom.   

- Reagan's speech emphasized the enduring obligation of each generation to protect and expand freedom. 

North Carolina: Four "Home Schoolers" Found Dead; Father Arrested https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/31/north-carolina-four-home-schoolers-found-dead-father-arrested/ via @dianeravitch 

A tragic case in North Carolina highlights concerns about homeschooling oversight. A father, Wellington Dickens III, was arrested for allegedly murdering four of his five children, claiming to homeschool them. The lack of registration and oversight in North Carolina’s homeschooling system allowed the children to remain unnoticed. Advocates argue for stronger regulations to prevent abuse, while some organizations claim homeschooling is not inherently riskier than traditional schooling.

### Key Points

- A father in North Carolina was arrested for allegedly killing four of his children, who were reportedly homeschooled, raising concerns about regulatory loopholes. 

- North Carolina law requires homeschool registration for certain age groups, but the accused father operated an unregistered homeschool, avoiding oversight. 

- Advocates for stronger homeschooling oversight cite cases of abuse and fatalities, emphasizing the need for children to have contact with mandated reporters and safe adults. 

- Opposing views argue that homeschooling does not show higher abuse rates compared to traditional schools, despite the calls for stricter regulations. 

- Homeschooling has grown in popularity, particularly during the pandemic, with North Carolina having a significant number of registered homeschoolers. 

Heather Cox Richardson: Ominous Signs of Trump's Use of the Military in Cities https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/31/heather-cox-richardson-ominous-signs-of-trumps-use-of-the-military-in-cities/ via @dianeravitch 

Heather Cox Richardson’s article highlights alarming developments in Donald Trump's administration, including his declining popularity, controversial military actions, and economic challenges. Trump is deploying military forces to Democratic-led cities under dubious pretenses, while his administration manipulates public perception with misleading crime videos. The article also discusses the administration’s aggressive immigration policies, economic stagnation, and Trump’s ambitions for a third presidential term, raising concerns over democratic norms and potential voter suppression.

### Key Points

- Trump’s declining approval ratings and controversial use of military forces in Democratic-led cities, despite no significant civil unrest. 

- Economic struggles under Trump’s administration, including rising inflation and public distrust in Republicans’ handling of the economy. 

- Aggressive immigration enforcement policies, replacing ICE officials with CBP leaders to triple daily arrests. 

- Concerns over Trump’s ambitions for a third presidential term, despite constitutional limits, and his administration’s militarization efforts potentially impacting elections. 

- Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes demand transparency and accountability, as House Speaker Mike Johnson blocks the swearing-in of a Democratic representative who could push for unsealing Epstein files. 





Book Review :: An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else by Diane Ravitch - NewPages.com https://www.newpages.com/blog/books/book-reviews/an-education-by-diane-ravitch/ 

An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294?


Big Education Ape: WALL STREET VS. MAIN STREET AND THE DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST LIFEBOAT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/wall-street-vs-main-street-and.html 

Speaking of the growing divide between Wall Street and Main Street, the article explores the imbalance in American economics. It highlights the unchecked pursuit of profit by Wall Street, often at the expense of societal welfare, and contrasts it with the values-driven approach of Main Street. The piece advocates for Democratic Socialism as a solution to balance capitalism's innovation with the common good, emphasizing fair taxation, regulation, and public ownership of essential services.

### Key Points

- Federal spending on children has dropped significantly, with steeper cuts anticipated. 

- Wall Street's profit-driven motives often conflict with the needs of Main Street, which prioritizes community and shared prosperity. 

- The unchecked capitalism of Wall Street fosters inequality, environmental harm, and commodification of basic needs. 

- Democratic Socialism is presented as a balance, aiming to ensure fair taxation, regulation, and public ownership of essential services to support the common good. 

- The current economic model favors concentrated wealth over societal welfare, undermining democracy and the collective good. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 31, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0482083440.html 

The article is a compilation of diverse topics, covering political events, climate concerns, education reforms, technological advancements, societal issues, and global affairs. It highlights critical current events like Hurricane Melissa, Trump administration policies, education challenges, AI-driven innovations, and health updates.  

### Key Points  

- California passed a law restricting classroom discussions while reversing efforts on certain educational policies.   

- Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, devastated Jamaica and caused extensive damage in the Caribbean, raising climate change concerns.   

- The U.S. government shutdown has disrupted federal operations, including FBI investigations, food assistance programs, and national security efforts.   

- Trump administration imposed a new refugee limit, sparking immigration policy debates.   

- Sudan faces escalating genocide in Darfur, with international bodies confirming severe violence.   

- The Education Department laid off staff due to the shutdown, affecting programs like Special Education and mental health grants.   

- Samsung announced plans to boost AI memory production, while Instagram introduced AI parental controls.   

- Play-based learning is being reintroduced in U.S. kindergartens, with states adopting policies to balance academic and social development.   

- Ian Bassin’s essay emphasizes resilience against authoritarian regimes, drawing lessons from historical movements.   

- SpaceX faces scrutiny over Chinese investments, raising national security concerns.   

- Critics argue that the teaching of inclusive history is under attack through state and federal legislative efforts.   

- Bill Gates’ climate strategy, focusing on innovation over immediate action, faced criticism amidst Hurricane Melissa’s impact.   

- NYC parents and teachers opposed AI tools in classrooms, citing privacy and educational concerns, leading to the rejection of AI contracts.   

- Diane Ravitch’s memoir critiques education reform policies she once supported, advocating for public education and denouncing privatization.   

- Bank of America predicts transformative economic changes driven by AI, clean energy, and global competition.   

- Literacy screenings for young students face challenges, highlighting the need for better teacher training and systematic interventions.   

- Global conflicts and climate crises are interconnected with systemic inequalities, as seen in Gaza and other regions.   

- The 2026 California Teachers of the Year award recognized five educators for their innovation and community impact. 

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 31, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/morning-news-update-wednesday-october_31.html 

The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent political, educational, economic, and global developments, highlighting key events such as U.S. policy changes, international relations, and societal issues.

### Key Points

- California restricts classroom discussions and revises history teaching policies. 

- U.S. federal agents are deployed for immigration enforcement, sparking debates. 

- President Trump orders nuclear weapons tests, escalating military policy. 

- The U.S. government shutdown continues, impacting SNAP benefits and costing the economy $14 billion. 

- Israel breaks a ceasefire with Gaza, causing significant casualties, while U.S.-China trade tensions ease with a temporary truce. 

- Hurricane Melissa causes devastation in Jamaica and Haiti. 

- AI's role in education and society is discussed, with universities adapting to its impact. 

- Allegations against Google and Amazon’s Project Nimbus contract with Israel emerge. 

- Advances in Alzheimer’s treatment and cardiovascular drug trials show promise. 

- The Trump administration proposes restrictions on gender-affirming care for transgender youth

- Sports updates include significant developments in basketball, baseball, and cricket. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 30, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0961320978.html 

The article is a compilation of diverse topics, including political developments, climate concerns, education reforms, technological advancements, and societal issues. It highlights current events like Hurricane Melissa, Trump administration policies, education challenges, AI-driven schools, and health updates, among others. 







Who ARE these people? Part II https://teacherinastrangeland.blog/2025/10/30/who-are-these-people-part-ii/ via @nancyflanagan 

The article discusses the polarized political landscape in America, focusing on the supporters of Donald Trump and their beliefs. It examines the challenges of misinformation, voter behavior, and the difficulty of fostering critical thinking and interdependence in society. The author reflects on the role of education in shaping values and questions how to rebuild trust and create a just society amidst political and social division.

### Key Points

- The author questions the mindset and beliefs of Trump supporters, highlighting the prevalence of misinformation and the inability to discern reality. 

- Observations on the Democratic administration's achievements, including economic management and bipartisan policies, and the disconnect with voter perception. 

- Analysis of voter behavior, suggesting many vote by habit rather than informed analysis, and the impact of political atmospherics over policies. 

- Reflections on the possibility of reconnecting with voters who may regret their choices or recognize negative consequences of political decisions. 

- Insights into fostering interdependence and calling forth the best in people, using examples from rural communities and progressive political campaigns. 

- Discussion on the role of education in shaping societal values, emphasizing modeling compassion and curiosity over standardized curricula. 



A Successful School Reform: The Age-graded School https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/10/31/a-successful-school-reform-the-age-graded-school/ via @CubanLarry 

Larry Cuban critiques modern school reform rhetoric, which emphasizes individualistic "heroic" educators while neglecting systemic analysis of the age-graded school structure. He highlights the longevity and adaptability of the age-graded system, which organizes students by age and prescribes a standardized curriculum. Cuban argues this structure persists due to societal norms, political constraints, and external pressures like standardized testing, despite its limitations in fostering collaboration and addressing diverse student needs.

### Key Points

- The rhetoric of modern school reform focuses on individualistic "heroic" educators, often ignoring systemic issues like the age-graded school structure. 

- The age-graded school system, originating in the 19th century, has become a deeply ingrained and long-standing model of education. 

- The age-graded system organizes students by age, standardizes curriculum, and assumes uniform progress, but it also isolates teachers and fails to address diverse learning needs. 

- Reformers rarely challenge the age-graded structure due to societal norms, political constraints, and external pressures like state standards and testing. 

- Efforts to reform schools often reinforce the age-graded system rather than transforming it. 



Eat Poop You Cat” Could Be A Great Game For English Language Learners  Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/ 

The article provides an overview of various educational resources, tools, and strategies for teachers, focusing on English Language Learners (ELLs), classroom management, and student engagement. It highlights specific games, videos, teaching practices, and commemorative events like Native American Heritage Month and World Tsunami Awareness Day. Additionally, it mentions books, newsletters, and blog posts authored by the writer, offering practical strategies for educators across various subjects.

### Key Points

- The blog shares resources and tools for teachers, including games like “Eat Poop You Cat” and videos for better communication during conflicts. 

- Highlights Native American Heritage Month and World Tsunami Awareness Day with teaching resources. 

- Discusses effective questioning techniques for leaders and links to NY Times posts on teaching ELLs. 

- Features a regular roundup of ESL/EFL/ELL resources and republished posts on differentiation strategies. 

- Provides infographics, newsletters, and insights on high school graduation rates and educational technology. 

- Lists books authored by the writer, offering instructional strategies for various subjects and ELL support. 

- Shares additional resources like a blog, radio show, videos, and posts for Education Week Teacher. 



What a Silent Film Teaches Us About AI – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/10/31/what-a-silent-film-teaches-about-ai/ 


What a Silent Film Teaches Us About AI

### Key Points

- The author discusses a conversation with a film professor about "The Living Playing Cards," a silent film by Georges Méliès, highlighting its inventive use of early film technology to inspire creativity. 

- Méliès's experimental approach to filmmaking is compared to the potential of new technologies like AI, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and intentionality in innovation. 

- The author critiques the over-reliance on AI in education, noting how it can hinder genuine learning by bypassing the struggle necessary for deep understanding. 

- Design thinking and active learning are proposed as solutions to encourage creativity and engagement in the classroom, ensuring AI is used as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human effort. 

- The article reflects on the parallels between Méliès's creative process, the repetitive learning journey in "Groundhog Day," and the need to balance technology with thoughtful reflection to achieve meaningful progress. 

- AI's emergent behavior is described as both revolutionary and unpredictable, requiring careful human guidance to ensure it enhances creativity rather than stifles it. 



City Health Plan Faces a Legal Challenge https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/city-health-plan-faces-a-legal-challenge 

City Health Plan Faces a Legal Challenge

### Key Points

- A coalition of city workers is suing to block a new health plan, claiming it violates city regulation 12-126, which ensures premium-free health care for retirees. 

- Previous attempts by Unity and Michael Mulgrew to impose health care changes have failed in court and led to significant backlash from retirees and union members. 

- The new plan, NYCE PPO, allegedly violates the requirement for health insurance coverage to be provided through licensed insurers that assume financial risk, raising concerns about potential loss of healthcare if city funds run out. 

- The contract for the new plan was not fully disclosed to the health committee or union members before being voted on, raising transparency issues. 

- Critics argue that Unity's leadership has failed to conduct proper due diligence, leading to rushed negotiations and questionable decisions that could harm rank-and-file members. 

- Concerns about the plan include the lack of enhanced major medical coverage for retirees and the lengthy process for doctors to accept the new insurance, which could delay medical care. 



Poem: cracked https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/10/31/poem-cracked/ via @plthomasEdD 

This article is a collection of writings, poems, and reflections by Dr. P.L. Thomas, exploring themes such as heartbreak, education, social justice, and critical media literacy. It also includes discussions on topics like political propaganda, systemic inequities, and the "Science of Reading." The content intertwines personal poetry with broader academic and societal critiques.

### Key Points

- Dr. P.L. Thomas shares personal poetry, reflecting on themes of heartbreak and trust. 

- Commentary on the intersections of education, poverty, and political propaganda, critiquing systemic inequities. 

- Examination of the "Science of Reading" and its controversies in education reform. 

- Discussions on critical media literacy and navigating misinformation in a post-truth era. 

- References to broader societal and cultural issues, including racism, sexism, and social mobility. 



Teacher Tom: "I Often Lose My Patience and Even Scream at My Children" https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/10/i-often-lose-my-patience-and-even.html 

Teacher Tom reflects on the concept of patience in parenting, emphasizing that being a "good" parent doesn't mean being perfectly patient or even-tempered all the time. Instead, he highlights the importance of expressing a range of emotions, including anger, in a healthy and constructive way. He draws inspiration from Mister Rogers, who believed that children benefit from seeing adults manage emotions responsibly. Teacher Tom also shares updates about his blog, events, and ways to connect or support his work.

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom discusses the misconception that good parenting requires constant patience and calmness, emphasizing the value of expressing emotions like anger in a constructive way. 

- Inspired by Mister Rogers, he highlights that children learn from seeing adults handle emotions responsibly without causing harm. 

- Teacher Tom shares updates about joining his club, supporting his blog, and booking him for events or conferences. 

- The blog also includes extensive archives and topics covering various aspects of teaching, parenting, and early childhood education. 



The Great American Tug-of-War: Wall Street’s Greedy Grin vs. Main Street’s Moral Compass https://ru4people.substack.com/p/the-great-american-tug-of-war-wall 

The article explores the ongoing conflict between Wall Street's profit-driven motives and Main Street's community-oriented values in the United States. It critiques the excesses of capitalism, highlighting the societal imbalance caused by unchecked greed, wealth inequality, and corporate power. The author advocates for democratic socialism as a balanced solution to align capitalism's innovation with the common good. By blending fair taxation, regulation, and public investment, the aim is to create a more equitable society where both Wall Street and Main Street thrive together.

### Key Points
- The article contrasts Wall Street's profit-centric capitalism with Main Street's community-focused values, emphasizing the moral and economic imbalance. 
- Wall Street's unchecked greed, exemplified by events like the 2008 financial crisis, prioritizes shareholder wealth at the expense of societal well-being. 
- Main Street represents small businesses and workers who prioritize the common good, but it often suffers under the weight of corporate excesses. 
- The article proposes democratic socialism as a solution, blending capitalism's innovation with socialism's focus on fairness, through measures like fair taxation, regulations, and public investment. 
- Democratic socialism is gaining traction among progressive voters, while traditional capitalism faces growing criticism for perpetuating inequality and environmental exploitation. 

MORNING NEWS UPDATE: OCTOBER 31, 2025 - by MIKE SIMPSON https://ru4people.substack.com/p/morning-news-update-october-31-2025 

Morning News Update: October 31, 2025

### Key Points

- President Trump orders nuclear weapons tests, considers airstrikes on Venezuela, and calls for ending the Senate filibuster amid a prolonged government shutdown. 

- Federal charges against Baltimore Senator Dalya Attar highlight political corruption. 

- Israel breaks a ceasefire with Gaza, killing over 100 people, while US-China trade tensions ease following a meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping. 

- Hurricane Melissa causes at least 49 deaths in Jamaica and Haiti, and King Charles III strips Prince Andrew of his royal title. 

- The U.S. government shutdown impacts SNAP benefits and education funding, while costing the economy $14 billion. 

- Tech giants Google and Amazon face scrutiny over their "Project Nimbus" contract with Israel, while AI spending accelerates globally. 

- Groundbreaking Alzheimer’s research offers hope, but the Trump administration moves to restrict transgender youth healthcare access. 

- Sports highlights include the Boston Celtics' NBA Cup matchup, the Blue Jays' World Series push, and Indian players excelling in the Women’s Cricket World Cup. 



CURMUDGUCATION: PA: Charter Plans $25 Million Stadium https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/10/pa-charter-plans-25-million-stadium.html 

The article discusses the Executive Education Academy Charter School (EEACS) in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and its plans to build a $25 million stadium. The stadium will feature 4,000 seats, a press box, concessions, and a turf field atop a parking garage with 300 spaces. The article critiques the decision, highlighting EEACS's modest academic performance and low athletic participation rates. It compares the project to public school stadiums, emphasizing that public schools are accountable to taxpayers, whereas charter schools like EEACS are privately operated but publicly funded. Concerns are raised about the lack of taxpayer oversight in such projects.

### Key Points

- EEACS plans a $25 million stadium with 4,000 seats, a press box, and other amenities, despite being a modestly performing charter school. 

- The school has a B- rating, low test scores, and low athletic participation, raising questions about the necessity for such an expensive facility. 

- Comparisons are made to public school stadiums, with the article noting that public schools are accountable to taxpayers, unlike charter schools. 

- EEACS's funding and partnerships, including a previous $7 million fieldhouse project with Lehigh Valley Health Network, are highlighted, but no partnership is mentioned for the stadium project. 

- Criticism is directed at the lack of taxpayer input on charter school spending, as charter schools operate privately despite being publicly funded. 



Vouchers are (still) roiling red state politics An unpopular policy threatens to disrupt the political status quo https://educationwars.substack.com/p/vouchers-are-still-roiling-red-state 

The article discusses the political controversies and challenges surrounding school voucher programs in red states like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee. These programs, which use public funds to support private and religious schools, have sparked backlash from both conservative and liberal voters. The issues include funding schools with ideologies some conservatives oppose, such as Islamic schools, and the influence of billionaires and dark money in pushing these policies. The debate has led to intra-party conflicts within the GOP and provided a platform for Democrats to critique the privatization of education.

### Key Points

- School voucher programs in red states, including Florida, Texas, and Tennessee, are facing backlash for funding private religious schools, including Islamic schools, raising concerns among conservative voters. 

- Some Republicans, like Oklahoma AG Gentner Drummond, warn that funding religious schools with public money could lead to supporting schools with ideologies conservatives dislike, such as Sharia law

- The programs are unpopular with many voters, including conservatives, who view them as costly entitlement programs pushed by out-of-state billionaires. 

- GOP candidates opposing vouchers, like Jody Barrett in Tennessee, face significant challenges from well-funded pro-voucher groups, highlighting internal GOP divisions. 

- Grassroots conservative candidates in Tennessee, such as Monty Fritts and Gary Humble, are running on platforms to limit or eliminate voucher programs, criticizing them as unconstitutional and fiscally irresponsible. 

- Democrats are leveraging the controversy over vouchers to highlight the influence of billionaires on education policy and criticize the diversion of public funds from public schools to private institutions. 

- Despite pushback, pro-voucher groups like the Club for Growth claim that school choice is now a defining issue for Republicans, though voter support remains uncertain. 



glen brown: Funding for Food for 42 million low-income Americans https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/funding-for-food-for-42-million-low.html 

The article discusses various political, social, and economic issues, with a focus on the suspension of food aid for 42 million low-income Americans during a government shutdown. A federal judge blocked the Trump administration's attempt to halt Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, citing irreparable harm and the availability of contingency funds. The blog also features reflections on societal injustices, political commentary, and a variety of topics such as education, healthcare, environmental concerns, and global conflicts.

### Key Points
- A federal judge in Rhode Island blocked the Trump administration's suspension of SNAP benefits during a government shutdown, citing irreparable harm and available contingency funds. 
- The USDA claimed it lacked sufficient funds to continue SNAP benefits, but plaintiffs argued that contingency and other funds were still available. 
- The blog highlights a wide range of topics, including social justice, education reform, healthcare, environmental issues, and political commentary, often critical of the Trump administration. 
- Reflections on the role of writers and intellectuals in resisting oppression and societal injustices are shared, quoting figures like Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus. 
glen brown: Trump’s Border Patrol Bulldog https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/trumps-border-patrol-bulldog.html 


The article discusses the Trump administration's shift in immigration enforcement strategies, focusing on the replacement of experienced ICE field office directors with senior Border Patrol officials. This move signals a significant restructuring of border enforcement tactics, extending operations into urban areas and prioritizing aggressive, spectacle-driven enforcement. The article also highlights the controversial leadership of Gregory Bovino, who has been instrumental in implementing these changes, and the legal and social consequences of these actions, including civil rights lawsuits and public resistance.

### Key Points

- The Trump administration replaced ICE field office directors with Border Patrol officials, signaling a shift in immigration enforcement strategies. 

- Gregory Bovino, a controversial figure, became a central figure in this transition, known for his aggressive and public displays of federal authority. 

- The new enforcement model extends border security operations into urban areas, with tactics like raids and surveillance becoming the norm. 

- Legal challenges and public protests have arisen in response to these enforcement measures, with accusations of civil rights violations. 

- The administration has expanded the definition of "domestic terrorism" to include protest-related activities, raising concerns about the suppression of dissent. 

- The broader goal appears to be integrating border patrol into domestic law enforcement, increasing federal control and potentially escalating conflicts. 

glen brown: Protect Immigrant Rights https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/protect-immigrant-rights.html 

This article focuses on the themes and discussions from a blog managed by Glen Brown, which addresses various social, political, and cultural issues. It highlights upcoming events, writer reflections, and advocacy efforts related to immigrant rights, systemic oppression, and activism, alongside broader societal concerns like pensions, education, healthcare, and justice.

### Key Points

- The blog emphasizes the role of writers and activists in resisting oppression and embracing isolation as part of their mission. 

- It promotes an event, "Solidarity in Action: Protect Immigrant Rights," featuring Maribel Hernández Rivera, focusing on immigrant rights, allyship, and strategies to support vulnerable communities amidst government crackdowns. 

- The blog provides resources and recordings from the "Advancing Our Values" speaker series, which teaches systemic change and sustainable activism. 

- It critiques various societal and political issues, including Trump's administration, systemic injustice, and environmental concerns, while advocating for fair taxation, education reforms, and social justice. 

- The content outlines the impact of systemic oppression, authoritarianism, and policies on marginalized groups, urging collective action to address these challenges. 



Choosing Democracy: How Politics is Changing / Corrupting the Way History is Taught https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/10/how-politics-is-changing-corrupting-way.html 

### Key Points

- California has introduced laws restricting classroom discussions and scaled back ethnic studies requirements, sparking debates between supporters who see these changes as necessary corrections to perceived liberal biases and critics who view them as threats to free speech. 

- The Trump administration is promoting a patriotic version of American history in schools, raising concerns about political interference in education. 

- The blog highlights broader issues like corruption, the influence of MAGA politics, and the challenges to democratic education, reflecting ongoing political and social struggles. 

- The blog archives and related content emphasize activism against authoritarianism and the importance of defending democratic values in education and society. 



Parenting, Politics, and Private Bathrooms https://norinrad10.com/2025/10/31/parenting-politics-and-private-bathrooms/ via @norinrad10 

Parenting, Politics, and Private Bathrooms explores the challenges of parenting, the politics of school start times, and administrative decisions in Nashville Public Schools (MNPS). The author reflects on personal parenting struggles, critiques the bureaucratic processes surrounding school policy changes, and highlights controversial spending decisions within MNPS, including a $165,000 renovation of the superintendent’s office. The article emphasizes the tension between central office priorities and classroom needs, raising concerns about micromanagement and resource allocation in public education.

### Key Points

- Parenting is a mix of joy and struggle, with no perfect formula to navigate challenges. 

- MNPS announced a review of school start and end times, involving community engagement but possibly masking pre-decided plans. 

- Adjusting school schedules has potential consequences for families and students, especially low-income households. 

- Tennessee may shift to an hour-based schooling system, influencing district schedules. 

- The Mayor's involvement in MNPS decisions raises concerns about blurred governance lines. 

- MNPS policies emphasize strict adherence to pacing guides, limiting teacher autonomy and student curiosity. 

- Controversial spending on the superintendent’s office renovation highlights misaligned priorities in MNPS. 

- The author critiques the focus on administrative comfort over addressing classroom needs. 



Money Matters: The Nation’s Retreat from Kids Federal spending on children has dropped to historic lows, but the steepest cuts are ahead. https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/money-matters-the-nations-retreat 

The article discusses the alarming decline in federal spending on children in the United States, highlighting a significant reduction in funding over the past few years. It emphasizes the detrimental impact of these cuts on children's health, education, safety, and overall well-being, both in the U.S. and internationally. The author underscores the proven benefits of investing in children, citing research that demonstrates the economic and societal returns of such investments. Despite public support for prioritizing children, policymakers have continued to reduce funding, leading to increased child poverty and worsening conditions for vulnerable populations. The article calls for immediate action to prioritize children in fiscal and political agendas.

### Key Points

- Federal spending on children has decreased for four consecutive years, dropping from 11.98% in FY 2021 to 8.57% in FY 2025, with further reductions projected for FY 2026. 

- Children, who make up 22% of the U.S. population, receive only 8.5 cents of every federal dollar spent, reflecting a lack of prioritization in federal budgets. 

- Expired programs like the expanded Child Tax Credit, Medicaid, and child nutrition initiatives have led to a sharp rise in child poverty, from 5.2% in 2021 to 13.4% in 2024. 

- Significant cuts have been made to children’s programs and staff, including proposals to eliminate or consolidate 37% of federal children’s programs and the Department of Education. 

- The U.S. Administration’s elimination of USAID and cuts to foreign assistance have drastically reduced international aid for children, with devastating consequences globally. 

- Research shows that investing in children yields high returns, with some programs delivering up to $10 in societal benefits for every $1 spent. 

- Studies confirm that targeted investments in children, especially in low-income families, improve educational outcomes, health, and economic productivity while reducing public costs. 

- The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine estimate that child poverty costs the U.S. up to $1.1 trillion annually in lost productivity and other societal costs. 

- Public opinion strongly supports increased federal spending on children, with polling showing overwhelming voter support for measures like the Child Tax Credit. 

- The article calls for a moral and fiscal recommitment to children, urging policymakers, media, and the public to reject the notion that investing in children is unaffordable.