NOVEMBER 22, 2025
- Fugees rapper Pras Michel sentenced to 14 years in prison for illegally funneling foreign money into Barack Obama's 2012 presidential campaign.
- Florida Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick indicted for allegedly stealing $5 million in federal disaster funds to support her 2021 campaign.
- DOJ and FBI launch probes into top Trump administration officials for targeting the president's political opponents.
- U.S. government releases new female crash test dummy design to improve vehicle safety for women drivers and passengers.
- New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani meets with President Trump in a surprise cordial Oval Office discussion on affordability and working-class issues, despite heated campaign rhetoric.
- Republicans Marjorie Taylor Greene announces resignation from Congress amid internal party tensions.
- Democrats achieve sweeping victories in key 2025 off-year races, seen as an early rebuke to Trump's agenda, including wins in Virginia and California.
- Trump signs bill mandating DOJ release of Jeffrey Epstein files within 30 days, sparking renewed scrutiny of high-profile connections.
- Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun declares readiness for negotiations to end Israeli strikes and secure withdrawal from occupied border areas, with troops poised to deploy.
- Thai police arrest suspected Russian hacker Denis Obrezko in Phuket, fulfilling an FBI warrant for U.S. cyberattacks.
- Pressure mounts on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as U.S. imposes new sanctions amid ongoing political crisis.
- U.N. climate talks in Brazil's Belem highlight U.S. absence and China's renewable energy expansion, amid surging yellow fever cases in the Amazon.
- Trump administration reassigns U.S. Department of Education powers to other federal agencies like Labor and Health, advancing plans to dismantle the department and reduce bureaucracy.
- Delhi suspends all physical sports in schools due to severe air quality issues in the National Capital Region.
- U.S. Department of Education announces seven priorities for FY 2025 postsecondary improvement grants, focusing on student outcomes and efficiency.
- India's labor reforms, including four new codes, take effect to enhance worker welfare, impacting education and training sectors.
- IMF warns G20 of weakest medium-term global growth since 2009 crisis, citing debt imbalances, fiscal strains, and aging populations in advanced economies.
- Euro area GDP surprises with 0.2% Q3 growth, led by France and Spain; forecasts upgraded to 1.4% for 2025 amid improving sentiment.
- U.S. job cuts reach 54,064 in September, with AI causing 7,000 losses; China's fixed-asset investment falls 1.7% in first 10 months.
- Global military spending hits Cold War-era highs, escalating arms race amid oil price surges from Russia sanctions.
- Metropolis Technologies raises $1.6B in AI financing to expand computer vision payments from parking to broader physical retail.
- Nvidia's Q3 earnings beat expectations, easing investor fears amid tech stock volatility.
- Researchers achieve single-shot tensor computing at light speed and create self-sustaining "time crystals" in liquid crystals.
- U.S. SEC drops case against SolarWinds over 2020 hack; Musk's X settles $90M lawsuit with law firm Wachtell.
- Microplastics accelerate artery disease, with greater risks for males; found in food, water, and human tissues.
- Custom vitamin D3 dosing cuts second heart attack risk by 50% in survivors, per Intermountain Health trial.
- Ultra-processed foods disrupt blood sugar in young adults, raising early chronic disease risks.
- New CBD nano-formulation relieves neuropathic pain in mice without side effects, crossing blood-brain barrier effectively.
- Mitchell Starc takes career-best 7 wickets as Australia bowls England out for 172 on Day 1 of Ashes opener; Stokes leads fightback.
- Lando Norris tops twice red-flagged practice for F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.
- Houston Texans' defense records 8 sacks to shut down Buffalo Bills in key NFL matchup.
- No. 22 Auburn routs Jackson State 112-66; No. 11 Alabama edges No. 8 Illinois 90-86 in college basketball.
Josh Cowen Interviews Me About My New Book https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/21/josh-cowen-interviewws-me-about-my-life/ via @dianeravitch
This article primarily discusses Diane Ravitch’s blog post, where she reflects on her life and work in education reform. It mentions an interview conducted by Josh Cowen regarding her new book, "An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else." The post also includes comments from readers sharing their thoughts on feminism, societal norms, and personal growth.
### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch shares insights about her life and education reform in an interview with Josh Cowen, centered around her new book.
- Readers discuss topics such as feminism, societal constraints, and personal transformations in the comments section.
- The blog highlights various issues in education, including vouchers, privatization, and the Trump administration's policies.
Jan Resseger: How the Trump Administration is Shutting Down the ED Department in Defiance of the Law--Part 1 https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/21/jan-resseger-how-the-trump-administration-is-shutting-down-the-ed-department-in-defiance-of-the-law-part-1/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Trump administration has been accused of violating constitutional principles to reduce the role of the federal government, particularly targeting the Department of Education.
- Actions include withholding Congress-allocated funds, spending unallocated funds, and undermining federal programs like Title I and IDEA that support disadvantaged students.
- The administration imposed significant layoffs in the Department of Education, reducing staff for civil rights enforcement and special education programs.
- Federal courts have temporarily blocked some of these actions, but the Supreme Court's use of the "shadow docket" has delayed permanent rulings.
- Critics argue that these moves threaten public school equity and the protection of students' rights across the U.S.
Jan Resseger: How the Trump Administration Undermines the Rights of Students and Teachers, Part 2. https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/21/ja-resseger-how-the-trump-administration-undermines-the-rights-of-students-and-teachers-part-2/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Trump administration aimed to weaken the Department of Education by cutting staff and limiting programs like Title I and special education.
- Legal challenges against the administration were often delayed or dismissed by the Supreme Court's "shadow docket."
- The administration interpreted the 2023 Supreme Court decision on affirmative action to ban diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in K-12 schools and higher education.
- Critics argue these actions violate the First Amendment's protection of free speech, as educators fear punishment for teaching certain historical topics.
- The vagueness doctrine highlights the administration's unclear policies, which have led to arbitrary enforcement and fear among educators and institutions.
- Trump’s executive order on birthright citizenship contradicts the Fourteenth Amendment, affecting children's rights and protections.
Big Education Ape: GOOD NIGHT NURSE: THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION DOWNGRADES THE LADDER TO SUCCESS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/good-night-nurse-department-of.html
### Key Points
- The Trump administration is dismantling the Department of Education, redistributing programs to other agencies, which critics argue undermines public education and civil rights.
- Federal court struck down Texas' racially gerrymandered maps, potentially reshaping the 2026 midterm elections by reducing Republican seats.
- Florida’s expanded voucher program led to deficits and improper payments, raising concerns over public school funding.
- Zelenskyy receives a U.S. peace plan for Ukraine, signaling readiness for talks with Trump amid European resistance to Russian concessions.
- Changes to the CDC website under RFK Jr. promote vaccine-autism links, contradicting scientific consensus and sparking bipartisan backlash.
- The H-1B visa program is criticized for prioritizing foreign workers over investing in American labor and education, contributing to economic inequality.
- Summer youth employment programs improve educational outcomes and reduce crime, offering critical support for vulnerable youth.
- Nvidia earnings spark a global market rally, while mass layoffs tied to AI reshape the workforce, surpassing 100K jobs lost in 2025.
- Exposure to violent peers in classrooms negatively impacts academic performance, particularly for girls.
- Higher education must reform curricula to prepare students for an AI-driven world, emphasizing interdisciplinary AI literacy and ethical concerns.
- Democratic lawmakers call for military personnel to disobey illegal orders, emphasizing constitutional obligations and rejecting authoritarianism.
- The normalization of technology in classrooms is critiqued for lacking evidence of its effectiveness in improving academic outcomes.
- Karen Attiah critiques Trump’s support for MBS despite his role in Khashoggi’s murder and advocates for independent media to empower Arab citizens.
- Olga Lautman exposes Kremlin influence in Trump’s Ukraine peace plan and highlights Russia’s atrocities in Ukraine.
- Thom Hartmann critiques white male supremacy in U.S. politics, tracing its roots to systemic inequality and historical oppression.
- School accountability yields long-term gains for students, reducing arrests and improving school climate without significant spending increases.
- Community-based interventions like Safe Passage programs can help reduce firearm injuries among children after school hours.
- The dismantling of the middle class through systemic policies has created a generation burdened with debt and unable to achieve financial stability.
- Advocacy for fair pay in women’s sports and the importance of play in education were emphasized during recent assemblies.
- The article critiques corporate complicity in authoritarianism and calls for economic boycotts against companies supporting Trump.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: NOVEMBER 21, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/morning-news-update-november-21-2025.html
### Key Points
- The Trump administration continues to dismantle the Department of Education, reallocating responsibilities to other agencies and facing criticism for resource cuts.
- Major political developments include Democratic victories in key 2025 races, ongoing government shutdowns, and significant billionaire influence in elections.
- Global updates include the U.S. and Russia drafting a Ukraine peace plan, Russian airstrikes in Ukraine, and South Africa's G20 presidency amidst domestic challenges.
- Economic trends show shrinking U.S. trade deficits, Japan's new stimulus package, and global market fluctuations due to AI technology bubble concerns.
- Technological advancements include new AI-powered tools, nanoscale lasers for efficient data centers, and privacy risks for WhatsApp users in India.
- Health updates highlight Vitamin D3's benefits in reducing heart attack risks, rising antibiotic resistance for gonorrhea, and the resurgence of bird flu threatening food supplies.
- Sports achievements include India's dominance at the World Boxing Cup Finals and other notable athletic accomplishments globally.
Lee Faces Lawsuit Over School Voucher Scheme Parents say plan undermines public schools ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/lee-faces-lawsuit-over-school-voucher
Be the Rainbow: Maya Angelou and the Work of Hope in Hard Times – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/11/21/be-the-rainbow-maya-angelou-and-the-work-of-hope-in-hard-times/
### Key Points
- Leadership transitions often bring uncertainty, but the return to faculty life can reveal the strength of genuine community and relationships.
- Belonging is not tied to hierarchy but is sustained by trust, grace, and compassion, as seen through the support of colleagues during transitions.
- The illusion of perfection on social media hides struggles, and recognizing others' vulnerabilities fosters authentic connections.
- Maya Angelou's metaphor of being a "rainbow in someone’s cloud" emphasizes kindness, connection, and reflecting light during difficult times.
- True leadership and community are built on empathy, humility, and relationships that prioritize care over performance or position.
- Hope is a quiet, cumulative effort that grows through consistent acts of kindness and seeing humanity in others.
- The resilience of communities and individuals is demonstrated through grace, compassion, and the ability to transform adversity into renewal.
- Success and leadership are measured by the strength of relationships and the ability to sustain humanity through challenges.
Echoes of Missing Men https://www.changethelausd.com/echoes_of_missing_men
### Key Points
- The author recalls his role as a Den Chief at a Cub Scout camp, leading Webelos and forming a bond with a boy named Paul.
- Paul stood out for his quiet intensity and achievements, later earning the prestigious Eagle Scout badge.
- Paul tragically died by suicide at 16, leaving a lasting impression on the author, who reflects on the pain of such losses.
- The induction of Soundgarden into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame reminds the author of Chris Cornell’s suicide and his openness about depression.
- The reluctance to openly discuss suicide at the ceremony highlights societal discomfort around the subject, potentially missing opportunities for awareness and prevention.
- The author emphasizes the importance of speaking openly about mental health and suicide to reduce stigma and save lives.
### Key Points
- The author reflects on their discomfort with bossing children around and their belief that excessive control leads to resistance and misbehavior.
- An experiment was conducted in a preschool classroom where children created their own rules through consensus, fostering a sense of ownership and cooperation.
- The process of reminding children of their agreements, rather than enforcing rules through punishment or rewards, nurtured self-discipline and accountability.
- Allowing children to make decisions and manage their behavior promotes fairness, kindness, and community-building, as seen in the example of a child campaigning to change an agreement.
- The approach emphasizes respecting children as capable individuals and trusting them to think critically about their behavior, which enhances their sense of responsibility and self-management.
Schools Matter: TN Parents File Lawsuit to Stop Bill Lee’s School Voucher Privatization Plan http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/11/tn-parents-file-lawsuit-to-stop-bill.html
### Key Points
- Tennessee parents have filed a lawsuit to halt Governor Bill Lee’s school voucher privatization plan.
- The blog discusses broader issues in education, including the impact of poverty on learning and criticism of excessive testing and privatization efforts.
- Historical and ongoing debates about public education reform are highlighted, including critiques of initiatives like No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and the push for privatization.
- The article critiques the role of corporate interests and political agendas in shaping education policy.
Schools Matter: Veterans in Congress Speak Directly to Active Military and Intelligence Communities http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/11/veterans-in-congress-speak-directly-to.html
### Key Points
- The blog highlights James Coleman's assertion that a child's learning is more influenced by their classmates than their teachers.
- The article discusses various political and educational issues, including veterans in Congress addressing the active military and intelligence communities.
- Critiques of corporate influence on education, such as the "No Excuses" teaching model and the role of organizations like KIPP, are explored.
- Broader societal issues, including poverty's impact on education, are emphasized over teacher quality.
- Historical and ongoing discussions on testing, teacher education reform, and public school challenges are included.
- The blog archives a wide range of articles and reviews addressing education, politics, and social issues from 2005 to 2025.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Friday Open Thread https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/11/friday-open-thread.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- Ben Shuldiner emphasizes improving public schools to compete with other educational options and highlights successful strategies like creating K-8 schools to address parental concerns about middle schools.
- Shuldiner plans to visit every school in his first 100 days and aims to streamline administration while addressing budget concerns.
- He supports increasing AP exam pass rates through expanded access to AP classes and removing gatekeeping practices.
- Shuldiner discusses the importance of vocational education and mentions initiatives like Lansing Technical High School.
- Concerns about nepotism within Seattle Public Schools are raised, citing examples of personnel promotions based on personal connections rather than merit.
- Discussions on advanced learning services and their descriptions in school improvement plans are highlighted.
glen brown: "Trump’s vicious assault on Charlotte and other North Carolina cities" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/trumps-vicious-assault-on-charlotte-and.html
The article discusses the controversial immigration enforcement operations carried out by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents under the Trump administration in Charlotte and other cities in North Carolina. These operations were marked by chaos, racial profiling, and violations of constitutional rights, leading to widespread protests and strong opposition from local and state officials. The article highlights the solidarity of communities and officials in resisting these actions, emphasizing the importance of upholding democracy, humanity, and decency.
### Key Points
- The Trump administration's immigration enforcement in Charlotte involved CBP agents detaining individuals, including U.S. citizens, in a chaotic and abusive manner, sparking public outrage.
- Local and state officials, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and Gov. Josh Stein, condemned the actions, advocating for constitutional rights and community solidarity.
- Peaceful protests ensued, with businesses closing, students walking out of schools, and residents using creative methods to resist the raids.
- The community's response highlighted unity and resilience, countering the federal actions and reinforcing democratic values.
glen brown: "Surrender document may herald biggest transatlantic crisis since WWII" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/surrender-document-may-herald-biggest.html
### Key Points
- Glen Brown reflects on the role of writers in resisting oppression, referencing Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
- Analysis of Trump's proposed 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, which is described as amateurish and politically controversial.
- The peace plan is seen as a potential risk to Ukraine's sovereignty and a cause for transatlantic tensions, with the U.S. appearing to distance itself from NATO responsibilities.
- Criticism of Trump and Putin being likened to "Mafioso bosses" and concerns about the U.S. abandoning European allies.
- Updates on Zelenskyy’s response to the peace plan and his commitment to Ukraine's national interests.
- Broader commentary on various political and societal issues, including pensions, COVID-19, social justice, and education reform.
- Critique of Trump’s governance, including alleged authoritarian tendencies and controversial policies.
MORNING NEWS UPDATE: NOVEMBER 21, 2025 - by MIKE SIMPSON https://ru4people.substack.com/p/morning-news-update-november-21-2025
### Key Points
- Grammy-winning rapper Pras Michel sentenced to 14 years for illegal foreign campaign contributions.
- U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick indicted for misusing $5 million in disaster funds for her campaign.
- New female crash test dummy, THOR-5F, launched to address gender biases in vehicle safety testing.
- President Trump orders release of Jeffrey Epstein’s records within 30 days.
- GOP challenges extension of ObamaCare subsidies, creating uncertainty for millions.
- Border Patrol expands surveillance with hidden license plate readers.
- U.S. and Russia propose a 28-point Ukraine peace plan involving territorial concessions.
- U.S. colleges report a 17% drop in international student enrollment due to policy changes.
- Romanian measles outbreak highlights vaccination gaps in upper-middle-income countries.
- G20 Summit proceeds without U.S., focusing on global debt and economic slowdown.
- U.S. trade deficit shrinks to $59.6 billion, while Japan approves a $135 billion stimulus package.
- AI job cuts reach 17,000 in 2025, but broader labor market remains stable.
- Bird flu resurgence threatens Thanksgiving food supplies.
- India wins nine gold medals at the World Boxing Cup Finals; Diksha Dagar wins gold at the Deaflympics.
- Tech stocks decline over valuation concerns, with Nvidia and AMD facing losses.
- Elon Musk's AI, Grok, criticized for controversial Auschwitz claim.
The H-1B Dustup and What the Hell Has Happened to the American Dream https://ru4people.substack.com/p/the-h-1b-dustup-and-what-the-hell
### Key Points
- The H-1B visa program is used to import foreign workers for STEM jobs at lower costs, bypassing investment in domestic education and training.
- The U.S. education system has been defunded, leaving STEM education accessible only to the wealthy or those willing to take on massive debt.
- Corporations favor foreign workers due to their lower bargaining power and visa dependency, exacerbating economic inequality.
- The bipartisan support for the H-1B program benefits corporate interests while eroding the middle class and the American Dream.
- The article advocates for systemic reforms in education, immigration, and labor policies to restore economic fairness and opportunity.
ALL THE PRESIDENT’S TECH BROS: A SATIRICAL OPERA IN THREE ACTS https://ru4people.substack.com/p/all-the-presidents-tech-bros-a-satirical
### Key Points
- A group of tech-savvy operatives is caught in a data center, sparking a media storm when whistleblower "Deep Meme" leaks chaos-filled Epstein-related files.
- The White House deploys a covert team of "Tech Bros" to discredit the leaks, using AI deepfakes and social media manipulation.
- A damning email from Donald Trump surfaces, leading to media uproar and failed attempts by the Tech Bros to contain the scandal.
- The files spread uncontrollably, resulting in resignations and media commentary on democracy's resilience amidst chaos.
What is going on in Florida? – Accountabaloney https://accountabaloney.com/what-is-going-on-in-florida/
### Key Points
- Charter operators are moving into underutilized public schools rent-free, even targeting high-performing and new schools.
- An audit revealed Florida's universal voucher system caused a $47 million deficit and widespread mismanagement of funds.
- The State Board of Education emphasizes "school choice" over public schools, adopting controversial policies like the Phoenix Declaration.
- Board members made claims about socialism in schools, advocated for state authority over local school decisions, and faced backlash for undermining local control.
- Alachua School Board Vice Chair Tina Certain stood up to the State Board, sparking public support for defending local schools.
- Communities are pushing back against privatization efforts, questioning the state's ability to manage education effectively.
The FBI is spying on immigration rights activists in New York. https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/the-fbi-is-spying-on-immigration
The FBI is reportedly monitoring immigration rights activists in New York, including placing informants within court-watch groups that observe immigration court proceedings. These groups, which use encrypted platforms like Signal to communicate, aim to ensure fair treatment of individuals in immigration cases. The FBI has labeled these peaceful and legal activities as actions of "anarchist violent extremists" without providing evidence. Activists document public information like law enforcement details, yet their efforts are being framed as threats by the FBI.
### Key Points
- The FBI is monitoring immigration rights activists in New York, including infiltrating court-watch groups.
- Court-watch groups use encrypted platforms like Signal to coordinate and ensure fairness in immigration court proceedings.
- An FBI memo revealed that an informant participated in a court-watch group discussion about improving monitoring activities at New York immigration courts.
- Activists document public information like law enforcement badges and vehicles legally, but the FBI labeled these activities as extremist without evidence.
- Civic groups observing public proceedings to hold the government accountable are being treated as threats by the FBI.
Reversing the Nuremberg Verdict Yesterday: 'Just following orders' is no excuse. Today: Obedience to Trump is the law. MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/reversing-the-nuremberg-verdict
### Key Points
- The Nuremberg Trials established that "just following orders" is not a valid excuse for crimes against humanity, emphasizing individual accountability for unlawful actions.
- Historical examples, such as the My Lai Massacre and the actions of Hugh Thompson, Jr., illustrate the importance of rejecting unlawful orders and upholding moral responsibility.
- Democratic lawmakers released a video reminding military and intelligence personnel of their duty to refuse illegal orders, emphasizing adherence to the Constitution over loyalty to any individual.
- The Trump administration's rhetoric, claiming all presidential orders are lawful, contradicts military law and erases constitutional limits, aligning with authoritarian principles.
- The administration's stance reframes loyalty to the Constitution as betrayal, weaponizing loyalty to Trump personally.
State Spending on Public School Students Lowest since 1997 That's when voucher program started, in case you're curious. STEPHEN DYER https://10thperiod.substack.com/p/state-spending-on-public-school-students
### Key Points
- Ohio's inflation-adjusted spending on public school students in 2024 was the lowest since 1997, coinciding with the start of the state's voucher program.
- Since the expansion of the EdChoice voucher program in 2019, state spending on public school students has dropped by 16%, with most additional funding diverted to private and charter schools.
- The peak year for state aid to public school students (adjusted for inflation) was the 2003-2004 school year, following Ohio Supreme Court rulings on overreliance on local property taxes.
- From 2001-2008, state funding for public schools exceeded the so-called "record" funding levels of recent years when adjusted for inflation.
- Public school funding during the 2009 Great Recession surpassed any budget since 2019, despite significant revenue drops during that period.
- Ohio has dropped from the 5th best education system in 2010 to 20th in 2021 due to prioritization of charter schools and private school subsidies over public school funding.
- Ohioans now pay $5.1 billion more in property taxes than in 2010, a 43% increase above inflation, as communities bear the burden of funding public schools.
Is There A Writing Crisis Something weird happened to this post, so let me try again. PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/is-there-a-writing-crisis-4a8
### Key Points
- Writing and writing instruction are facing a crisis due to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, which can easily produce essays that lack authenticity and meaning.
- AI tools have exposed flaws in writing instruction, which often prioritizes compliance and mechanical performance over authentic communication.
- Writing is a deeply human activity aimed at bridging the gap between individuals and making thoughts and emotions intelligible to others.
- The performative model of writing, encouraged by standardized tests and rigid rubrics, reduces writing to an empty exercise focused on following rules rather than meaningful expression.
- Teachers and students are often trapped in a cycle of algorithmic, formulaic writing that does not foster creativity or genuine communication.
- ChatGPT and similar AI tools highlight the futility of teaching students to produce "algorithmic" writing, as such tasks can now be easily automated.
- Writing instruction should focus on fostering authentic, purposeful communication that students can carry into their lives beyond the classroom.
- The author advocates for creating a culture of writing in classrooms that emphasizes humanity, intention, and real communication over performative exercises.
