NOVEMBER 3, 2025
- U.S. forces conducted a lethal strike on a suspected drug smuggling boat in the Caribbean Sea, killing three alleged smugglers, marking another operation in international waters.
- The ongoing government shutdown is causing widespread impacts, including halted food benefits and rising health premiums, putting pressure on both parties to negotiate.
- A shark attack survivor story highlights personal resilience amid other national events, featured in weekend news rundowns.
- President Trump gave an extended interview on 60 Minutes, discussing U.S.-China relations, Venezuela, Israel, the government shutdown, immigration, and healthcare.
- Polls show Democrats leading in the battle for Congress amid frustration with Trump's handling of the economy and shutdown, with voters expressing dissatisfaction.
- House Democrats, led by figures like Hakeem Jeffries, are positioning themselves as the future of the party while navigating the shutdown and election dynamics.
- President Trump stated he's not eyeing war in Venezuela but believes Maduro's days are numbered, sending mixed signals on potential U.S. intervention.
- Thousands of civilians are feared trapped in el-Fasher, Sudan, amid reports of executions, sexual violence, and looting following an RSF takeover, with aid groups warning of atrocities.
- Russia is accused of nuclear terrorism after targeting Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, escalating concerns in the ongoing conflict.
- New Mexico is now offering free childcare to all families, expanding access to early education and support services.
- Public schools' struggles, including funding and performance issues, are a top concern in New Haven's mayoral election as candidates address education reforms.
- An explosion at Harvard Medical School appears intentional, with authorities investigating but no injuries reported.
- The U.S. economy could lose up to $15 billion due to the ongoing government shutdown, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
- Asia's factories are stumbling as U.S. tariffs under Trump impact order books, with China's economy showing slower growth amid trade tensions.
- Many Americans are facing economic hardship despite strong overall metrics, as highlighted in political polling and reports on cost of living.
- Major November tech launches include the OnePlus 15 smartphone, free ChatGPT Go in India, over 100K industry layoffs, SpaceX milestones, and a surge in AI spending.
- AI companions raise new concerns, with discussions on their impact and ethical use in daily life.
- Tech groups like Google DeepMind, Anthropic, and Microsoft are stepping up efforts to address AI's major security flaws in cybersecurity.
- Bird flu is threatening Thanksgiving supplies, with CDC under fire for handling, alongside waning Ebola in the DRC and global mRNA tech rollout.
- The director of the FDA's drug evaluation unit has been placed on leave, amid ongoing scrutiny of agency operations.
- The nation's largest food aid program faces cuts due to the government shutdown, impacting millions and raising health and nutrition concerns.
- The Toronto Blue Jays lost Game 7 of the World Series but won Canada's heart, with fans expressing mixed emotions after the defeat.
- NBA highlights: Grizzlies defeated Raptors, 76ers beat Nets, and Jazz won against Hornets in key matchups.
- No. 7 Virginia advanced to ACC semifinals in soccer after a penalty shootout win over No. 6 FSU.
Thom Hartmann: Why Does the Shutdown Continue? Ask Senator Thune. https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/01/thom-hartmann-why-does-the-shutdown-continue-ask-senator-thune/ via @dianeravitch
Diane Ravitch's blog A site to discuss education and democracy.
### Key Points
- Thom Hartmann argues that Senate Republicans could end the government shutdown by suspending or eliminating the filibuster, but they have chosen not to, despite having the votes.
- Hartmann criticizes the lack of mainstream media coverage on the Republicans' ability to end the shutdown and highlights Trump's call to use the "nuclear option" to eliminate the filibuster.
- The filibuster's historical roots, initially used to block anti-slavery legislation, are discussed, along with its impact on current legislative processes.
- Trump's administration faces criticism for its provocative actions against Venezuela, with speculation on motivations ranging from political distractions to personal ambitions of officials like Rubio and Hegseth.
- Reports suggest the Trump administration is preparing military strikes on Venezuela, raising concerns about risks of conflict with countries like Russia and China.
- Trump’s refugee policy prioritizes white immigrants, excluding many who have served or assisted the U.S., reflecting the administration's white supremacy tendencies.
- Controversial actions by ICE, including harsh treatment of undocumented workers and children, highlight the administration's brutal immigration practices.
- Marjorie Taylor Greene's recent criticisms of GOP leadership suggest political trouble or a change in stance within the MAGA movement.
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: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 2, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01385732377.html
### Key Points
- Donald Trump’s administration faces criticism for actions such as the government shutdown, SNAP benefit disruptions, and provocative foreign policies, including military strikes on Venezuela.
- The U.S. government shutdown has widespread effects, including disruptions to food aid, education funding, ACA subsidies, and national security operations. A federal judge ordered SNAP payments to resume.
- Hurricane Melissa caused devastation in Jamaica and Haiti, raising concerns about climate change and disaster response.
- Advancements in AI and technology include Google's quantum computing leap, OpenAI's new models, and NASA's supersonic jet test flight.
- Education updates include debates over school voucher programs, book bans by right-wing school boards, and controversies around the use of public funds for private schools.
- The Trump administration announced the lowest refugee cap in U.S. history, raising debates on immigration policies.
- Democratic Socialism is proposed as a solution to balance capitalism’s innovation with fairness and societal welfare.
- Health studies link air pollution to dementia risk, and new treatments for Alzheimer’s and aggressive breast cancer show promise.
- Sports highlights include Texas Tech’s football victory, Dodgers forcing Game 7 in the World Series, and Luka Dončić's NBA performance.
- Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig advocates for solidarity and institutional transformation to address immigration enforcement challenges.
- Diane Ravitch critiques education reform policies in her memoir, advocating for public education and addressing systemic issues.
- A new report highlights the rise of book bans and anti-LGBTQ policies by right-wing school boards in Pennsylvania.
- The Ghost Army during WWII used creative deception tactics to protect Allied forces, reflecting on the role of creativity in warfare.
- Labor movements and grassroots organizing are emphasized as critical tools for combating authoritarianism and fostering democratic resistance.
Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/looking-back-week-in-review-sunday.html
### Key Points
- Reflections on public education, including teacher advocacy and political influences on education policy.
- A review of Randi Weingarten’s book on the importance of teachers in countering authoritarianism.
- Discussions on AI’s legal and ethical implications in society.
- Hurricane Melissa’s impact and Bill Gates’ approach to crisis management.
- Analysis of the Democratic Socialist movement and its opposition from wealthy elites.
- Microsoft and OpenAI’s evolving relationship in the tech landscape.
- Historical and contemporary critiques of U.S. interventions in Latin America.
- Commentary on the flaws of the Unitary Executive Theory through a hypothetical debate.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: NOVEMBER 2, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/morning-news-update-november-2-2025.html
### Key Points
- Donald Trump's symbolic changes to the White House and his administration's controversial policies, including the government shutdown and its effects on SNAP benefits, federal workers, and healthcare funding.
- Political developments, such as redistricting battles, the Virginia gubernatorial race, and accusations between parties over the shutdown's timing.
- Global issues, including U.S. military actions, Israel's blockade of Gaza, Sudan's humanitarian crisis, and threats against Nigeria.
- U.S.-China trade deal framework and tensions with Iran over nuclear facilities.
- Advancements in education, including AI integration and local agricultural initiatives, alongside a rise in cognitive disabilities among young adults.
- Economic trends and market outlooks, with focus on tech stocks and AI-driven job market transformations.
- Sports highlights, including the Los Angeles Dodgers' World Series win and other major cricket and NHL updates.
- Scientific breakthroughs in quantum light and lifestyle tips for longevity.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 1, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog.html
The article compiles a wide range of topics, including political developments, education reforms, societal issues, technological advancements, and global affairs. It highlights key events such as the U.S. government shutdown, immigration policies, climate crises, educational challenges, and debates over public funding and privatization.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 10-26-25 TO 11-1 25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/the-top-news-stories-this-week-10-26-25.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent global news, politics, education, technology, health, sports, and economic updates. Key topics include the U.S. government shutdown, natural disasters like Hurricane Melissa, advancements in AI and technology, significant global political developments, and updates in education and health sectors.
CURMUDGUCATION: What The Success Sequence Teaches https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/11/what-success-sequence-teaches.html
### Key Points
- The importance of voting in Pennsylvania, with efforts to challenge state supreme court judges and a local measure for library funding.
- Florida introduces classroom guidelines that aim to redeem McCarthyism, sparking controversy.
- Texas proposes laws prioritizing parental rights over children's safety and bans transgender-related content, leading to confusion.
- Voucher programs continue to create political divides, with concerns about taxpayer support for religious schools.
- Special education teachers using AI for IEPs raise concerns among advocates about potential legal issues.
- Criticism of AI in education, highlighting risks of reliance on artificial intelligence for learning.
- Examination of Christian nationalist influence in Texas public schools and broader attacks on teaching honest history.
- Federal judges using AI tools for court orders result in errors, showcasing AI's limitations.
- Diane Ravitch discusses public schools and educational equity in a new book.
This Baby (and her Mom) Needs Dad - redqueeninla https://redqueeninla.com/2025/11/02/this-baby-and-her-mom-needs-dad/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-baby-and-her-mom-needs-dad
### Key Points
- The author reflects on their personal anger, comparing it to the fury they feel over societal injustices, particularly the deportation of a father by ICE.
- The deportation caused severe harm to the family, including an autistic child and a dependent mother, highlighting the emotional and financial devastation inflicted.
- The author criticizes the systemic flaws in the political and immigration systems, calling for societal unity and action to prevent such tragedies.
- The article emphasizes the importance of voting for policies and candidates that protect families and promote equity, such as Prop 50.
- A call to action is made for readers to support the affected family and engage in civic efforts to address broader societal issues.
“ShadowingGO” Is Like A Stripped-Down Version Of English Central, & Its Free Plan Looks Pretty Good Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
### Key Points
- A variety of resources for teachers, including infographics, videos, and games, are shared to enhance classroom learning.
- Highlights include teaching strategies for special occasions like Veterans Day and Native American Heritage Month.
- Weekly features on artificial intelligence tools for the classroom and their practical applications are introduced.
- Recommendations for improving classroom management, student engagement, and communication during conflicts are provided.
- Insights from multiple books authored by the writer, offering research-based instructional strategies for various subjects, are shared.
- The author’s other works include blog posts, radio shows, and educational resources for teachers.
- The article emphasizes motivating students, developing self-achievement, and fostering parental involvement in education.
Teacher Tom: The Girl Who Couldn't Sit at Circle Time https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/11/the-girl-who-couldnt-sit-at-circle-time.html
The article discusses the importance of allowing children, like three-year-old Hazel, to move during learning activities such as circle time. It challenges the traditional notion that children must sit still to focus and learn effectively. By exploring scientific studies and historical practices, the author argues that movement enhances cognitive abilities and supports intellectual processes. The piece also highlights how the preschool adapted to Hazel's needs, creating zones for different types of movement, fostering a more inclusive and productive learning environment.
### Key Points
- Movement is essential for cognitive and intellectual processes, as demonstrated by Hazel's need to pace during circle time to think and express herself effectively.
- Scientific evidence disproves the belief that children must remain still to concentrate, showing that movement enhances focus and learning.
- Historical figures and educators, such as Socrates and Einstein, embraced walking as a means to enhance thinking, supporting the concept of "embodied thinking."
- The preschool adapted to Hazel's needs by creating zones for different types of movement, demonstrating how flexibility can improve learning environments.
Jersey Jazzman: Dear NJ Teachers and Their Families: You MUST Not Vote For Jack Ciattarelli https://jerseyjazzman.blogspot.com/2025/11/dear-nj-teachers-and-their-families-you.html
### Key Points
- The blog urges NJ public school staff and their families not to vote for Jack Ciattarelli, as his policies would harm their salaries, pensions, and health care benefits.
- Ciattarelli's proposed tax cuts for the wealthy would lead to reduced state revenues, forcing cuts in school funding and targeting personnel costs.
- The author highlights the importance of financial security for public school staff and their families, emphasizing that voting for Ciattarelli could negatively impact their livelihoods.
- The blog endorses Mikie Sherrill as the preferred candidate for New Jersey's teachers and public school staff.
Poem: the you you used to be https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/11/02/poem-the-you-you-used-to-be/ via @plthomasEdD
### Key Points
- Dr. P.L. Thomas shares his poetry and reflections on identity and personal growth.
- The blog addresses critical issues in education, including the "Science of Reading," equity, and teacher autonomy.
- The author critiques systemic issues like poverty, racism, and educational reform failures.
- Discussions on broader topics such as critical race theory, neoliberalism, and social justice are included.
- The blog features resources and archives on education, literature, and social commentary spanning years.
Schools Matter: Saying Goodbye to 60 Minutes http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/11/saying-goodbye-to-60-minutes.html
### Key Points
- The article criticizes "60 Minutes" for its superficial and one-sided coverage, particularly on U.S. interference in Venezuela.
- It highlights the historical context of U.S. involvement in Venezuela, focusing on oil interests, support for dictators, and the rise of populist leaders like Hugo Chavez and Nicolás Maduro.
- The Trump administration's aggressive sanctions and regime change efforts worsened Venezuela's economic crisis, leading to mass migration and deeper alliances with U.S. adversaries.
- The piece underscores the failure of unilateral sanctions as a regime change tool and the broader contradictions in U.S. foreign policy between idealism and pragmatism.
glen brown: We Have a "Constitutional Crisis" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/we-have-constitutional-crisis.html
### Key Points
- The article opens by reflecting on the writer’s duty to resist oppression and highlights the isolation that comes with such work.
- It critiques Donald Trump’s presidency, describing his actions as a “constitutional crisis” and detailing executive orders that undermine democratic principles, such as ending DEI programs, restricting mail-in voting, and reinterpreting the 14th Amendment.
- Trump’s actions are described as authoritarian, including mass deportations, federalizing the National Guard, and levying tariffs without congressional approval.
- The Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. United States granted presidential immunity, furthering concerns about the erosion of judicial independence and democratic accountability.
- The article highlights the historical context of warnings against demagogues, referencing Alexander Hamilton’s foresight about the dangers of unprincipled leaders.
- It calls for a new progressive political movement to counter Trumpism and emphasizes the importance of collective action to protect democracy.
- The article concludes with a brief profile of the writer, Glen Brown, and his background in law and literature.
glen brown: "Trump threw a Great Gatsby–themed party at Mar-a-Lago last night hours before SNAP benefits ended..." [and also] usurped Congress’s authority over the use of military force." https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/trump-threw-great-gatsbythemed-party-at.html
### Key Points
- Trump's Great Gatsby-themed party at Mar-a-Lago amidst the end of SNAP benefits symbolizes the administration's tone-deafness and disregard for struggling Americans.
- Federal judges ruled the administration’s refusal to use reserves for SNAP benefits illegal, but the administration delayed compliance, blaming Democrats for the shutdown.
- Trump’s administration bypassed Congress on military strikes in Venezuela, potentially violating the War Powers Resolution, which mandates congressional approval for hostilities lasting over 60 days.
- The administration justified drone strikes by claiming they did not constitute hostilities, raising concerns about executive overreach and undermining congressional authority.
- Broader reflections on the moral and ethical responsibilities of leadership and governance are drawn, referencing literature and historical precedents.
Julius Caesar: “Sometimes You Get Outmaneuvered Badly” – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/11/02/julius-caesar-sometimesyou-get-outmaneuvered-badly/
### Key Points
- Julius Caesar's story illustrates the fragility of control and the inevitability of being outmaneuvered, even for the powerful.
- Careers are dynamic landscapes, not ladders; transitions test identity and require resilience and adaptability.
- Adaptive leadership involves navigating uncertainty, embracing transformation, and finding growth in disruption.
- Professional setbacks are often about systemic shifts, not personal failure, and can lead to rediscovery and reinvention.
- Reflection and grace during setbacks build character and legacy, emphasizing integrity over titles.
- Transitions bring opportunities for renewal, alignment, and authentic work, redefining success.
Lawmakers That Hate Public Ed Are Coming for Our Schools NOW - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/lawmakers-that-hate-public-ed-are-coming-for-our-schools-now/
### Key Points
- Right-wing legislatures and corporate reformers are working to dismantle local school districts, replacing them with privatized charter schools, as seen in New Orleans and now across the U.S.
- Florida’s "Schools of Hope" program allows state-approved charter chains to take over public schools, bypassing local governance and utilizing district resources without cost.
- Texas is implementing state takeovers of school districts, dissolving elected boards, cutting services, and handing schools to charter operators under Senate Bill 1882.
- An event on November 10 in Florida will focus on stopping the charter school takeover, and a discussion with NPE President Diane Ravitch will delve into her memoir on public education.
- The Network for Public Education invites participation in its national conference and encourages donations to support its mission.
The Mississippi Privatization Push End public schools, just give parents cash and see what happens https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/the-mississippi-privatization-push
### Key Points
- Mississippi is pushing for school privatization, advocating for school choice where schools can set capacity limits and exclude students based on disciplinary or other criteria.
- Proponents argue that privatization could replace public schools with a system where parents receive money to spend on education-related expenses.
- Examples from Arizona reveal misuse of education vouchers, such as purchases of non-educational items, raising concerns about fraud and waste.
- Florida's voucher program led to significant budget issues, with public school funds being absorbed by voucher payouts, even for students attending public schools.
- The article suggests that the ultimate goal of such policies might be the elimination of public schools and possibly even traditional teaching roles.
A good day yesterday... Protesting ICE in the morning and cheering on the Dodgers last night. https://klonsky.substack.com/p/a-good-day-yesterday
- The author reflects on a day spent protesting ICE at a Home Depot in Chicago and later celebrating the Dodgers' World Series win, marking their second consecutive championship.
- During the protest, the author encountered a Cook County Sheriff's Deputy who appeared to be protecting Home Depot's parking lot for ICE's use, raising concerns about law enforcement's role and accountability.
- The author hosted Bob Reiter, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor, on their podcast "Hitting Left," discussing labor activism, the state of unions in Chicago, and national labor movements.
- Other topics on the blog include critiques of political figures like Cory Booker, the New York Times' censorship of ads addressing Gaza, and broader social justice issues.
Giraffe Arrested For Offending Trump https://www.changethelausd.com/giraffe_arrested_for_offending_trump
### Key Points
- A man in a giraffe costume was targeted and arrested for criticizing the government.
- The author reflects on the state of the First Amendment and its implications for democracy.
