Latest News and Comment from Education

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 24, 2025

 

TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES 

DECEMBER 24, 2025 

U.S. News
  1. Immigration Enforcement Escalates: The Trump administration has intensified crackdowns, with record-high immigration detentions exceeding 68,000 and deployments of National Guard and Border Patrol in cities like New Orleans. The Justice Department sued Illinois over a state law limiting federal immigration arrests.
  2. Epstein Files Release: The Justice Department released new batches of Jeffrey Epstein documents, including many references to President Trump, sparking renewed scrutiny.
  3. Supreme Court Blocks National Guard in Chicago: The Court refused to allow deployment amid disputes over immigration policies.
  4. Consumer and Economic Indicators Mixed: Consumer confidence fell in December amid job concerns, but third-quarter GDP surged due to robust spending.
Politics
  1. Trump's Military and Foreign Moves: President Trump announced a "Golden Fleet" of new warships, claimed the U.S. needs Greenland for security, and appointed a special envoy there.
  2. Epstein Documents and DOJ Actions: New file releases mention Trump extensively; ongoing controversies surround redactions and related cases.
  3. Immigration Policy Shifts: Record detentions and lawsuits against states resisting federal enforcement highlight administration priorities.
  4. Defense and Navy Announcements: Plans for advanced warships and personnel changes dominate headlines.
World Affairs
  1. U.S. Actions on Venezuela: Seizure of sanctioned oil tankers continues, impacting crude exports.
  2. China's Military Expansion: Pentagon reports indicate China loaded over 100 ICBMs in silo fields, accelerating nuclear modernization.
  3. Middle East Tensions: Israeli approvals for new West Bank settlements and ongoing Gaza issues persist despite ceasefires.
  4. Australia Gun Buyback: Nationwide program announced following a mass shooting at Bondi Beach.
  5. Sudan and Other Conflicts: Reports on Khartoum's recovery and global humanitarian concerns.
Education
  1. Department of Education Review: Program review launched at Brown University following a campus shooting.
  2. AI in Education Concerns: Debates over unregulated AI use in K-12 and higher education under the Trump administration.
  3. Higher Education Challenges: Financial troubles at several U.S. universities and issues with undocumented students' access.
  4. Student Loan Enforcement: Administration steps up garnishing wages for defaulted borrowers.
Economy
  1. Strong Third-Quarter GDP Growth: U.S. economy expanded at 4.3% annualized rate, fueled by consumer spending and exports—the fastest in two years.
  2. Consumer Confidence Declines: Index fell to 89.1 in December amid job and income anxieties.
  3. Stock Market Records: S&P 500 hit record highs amid growth stock advances.
  4. Year-End Resilience: Economy outperformed expectations despite tariffs and shutdowns, with full-year growth around 1.5%.
Technology
  1. AI Investments Surge: Big Tech ramps up spending on AI infrastructure, driving energy deals like Alphabet's $4.75B acquisition of clean energy developer Intersect.
  2. Drone Import Bans: U.S. bars new models of foreign drones, including DJI, citing national security risks.
  3. AI Rally and Bubble Concerns: Market enthusiasm continues, with debates over sustainability amid massive capex.
  4. Acquisitions and IPOs: Samsung's Harman unit buys ZF's ADAS business; fleet management firms eye listings.
Health
  1. Flu Season Intensifies: Experts warn of a tough season with rapidly spreading H3N2 strain.
  2. Mpox and Pregnancy Risks: Studies link early infection to high fetal loss rates.
  3. Medical Bill Challenges: Ongoing issues with high costs and patient advice for navigating bills.
  4. Global Health Wins and Setbacks: Advances in vaccines and treatments amid funding cuts.
Sports
  1. NFL Action: Steelers defeat Lions 29-24 in dramatic finish; other key games push playoff pictures.
  2. College Basketball Rankings: Teams like Texas Tech rise in AP Top 25; ongoing matchups.
  3. Women's Sports Highlights: Record-breaking performances and moments from 2025, including Shiffrin's 100th win.
  4. Betting Controversy: NBA player Terry Rozier seeks dismissal of sports betting-related charges.




Sharyn Alfonsi Gave This Advice to Aspiring Journalists at her Alma Mater https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/23/sharon-alfonsi-gave-this-advice-to-aspiring-journalists-at-her-alma-mater/ via @dianeravitch 

Diane Ravitch's blog highlights Sharyn Alfonsi's witty and insightful commencement speech at the University of Mississippi's journalism school. Alfonsi, a "60 Minutes" reporter, is recognized for her courage in standing up to CBS bosses when her reporting on inhumane conditions at CECOT, a terrorist prison in El Salvador, was censored. Dan Rather praised Alfonsi as "One Courageous Correspondent." The blog also touches on various topics related to education, democracy, and media.

### Key Points

- Sharyn Alfonsi delivered a humorous and insightful commencement speech at the University of Mississippi, offering career advice to aspiring journalists. 

- Alfonsi is celebrated for her courage in challenging CBS bosses over censorship of her reporting on CECOT prison conditions. 

- Diane Ravitch's blog covers topics like education reform, democracy, privatization, and media, alongside posts about notable figures and events. 

Censored "60 Minutes" Program Posted on Reddit https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/23/censored-60-minutes-program-posted-on-reddit/ via @dianeravitch 

Censored “60 Minutes” Program Discusses Inhumane Conditions in Salvador Prison

### Key Points

- CBS’ “60 Minutes” planned a segment on the CECOT prison in El Salvador, highlighting allegations of torture and inhumane conditions for U.S.-sent detainees, many of whom were not hardened criminals. 

- The program was blocked by CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss due to the lack of response from the Trump administration, raising concerns about censorship. 

- After CBS was sold to the Ellison family, Bari Weiss was appointed editor-in-chief despite lacking broadcast experience, and her decision to block the segment drew criticism. 

- The segment aired in Canada and was later uploaded to Reddit before being removed from YouTube, though some viewers managed to save copies. 

- The blog post critiques the Trump administration’s deportation policies and mentions related issues, such as the unjust imprisonment of individuals and deportation statistics. 

Andy Spears: "Reformers" Have Indianapolis Public Schools in Their Sights https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/23/andy-spears-reformers-have-indianapolis-public-schools-in-their-sights/ via @dianeravitch 

Andy Spears discusses the privatization efforts in Indianapolis public schools, highlighting the establishment of the Indianapolis Public Education Corporation (IPEC). This new agency aims to bridge services between traditional public schools and charter schools, such as transportation and enrollment, but faces criticism for its ambiguity and perceived threat to public school governance. The proposal reflects broader national trends toward school privatization, with significant increases in state spending on voucher programs in Indiana.

### Key Points

- The Indianapolis Public Education Corporation is proposed to manage logistics between public schools and charter schools, sparking concerns about privatization. 

- Critics argue the new agency undermines the authority of the Indianapolis Public Schools Board and lacks clarity in its plans. 

- Indiana's Choice Scholarship Program exemplifies the growing state expenditure on private school vouchers, reflecting a national push for privatization. 

- National efforts to fully privatize public education are gaining momentum, with some advocating for the end of public schools within years. 

Bloomberg News: Trump Is Reshaping the Economy https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/23/bloomberg-news-trump-is-reshaping-the-economy/ via @dianeravitch

The article discusses the significant policy changes and actions undertaken by Donald Trump during the first year of his second term as President of the United States. These changes span various sectors, including banking, energy, housing, cryptocurrency, and retirement savings, focusing on deregulation, promoting fossil fuels, and reshaping financial markets.  

### Key Points  

- Trump signed 26 executive orders on his first day of his second term, focusing on deregulation and shifting capital flows, including reviving pipeline projects and canceling renewable energy initiatives.   

- Banking regulations such as the Enhanced Supplementary Leverage Ratio (eSLR) were relaxed, freeing up capital for major lenders but raising concerns about financial stability.   

- Trump's administration is exploring plans to release Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac from government control, which could impact mortgage rates and the housing market.   

- The administration has embraced cryptocurrency, passing the GENIUS Act to regulate stablecoins, which may significantly expand the stablecoin market and influence US Treasury demand.   

- Policies have shifted against renewable energy, halting projects, and ending tax credits for clean energy initiatives, while promoting fossil fuels and nuclear power.   

- A new executive order aims to allow retirement savers to invest in alternative assets like private equity, potentially unlocking trillions of dollars for the private equity industry. 

Dan Rather: Why CBS Censored Story About Inhumane Conditions in Terror Prison https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/23/dan-rather-why-cbs-censored-story-about-inhumane-conditions-in-terror-prison/ via @dianeravitch 

Dan Rather discusses the censorship of a “60 Minutes” segment on inhumane conditions at a prison in El Salvador, where Venezuelan migrants were deported under the Trump administration. The piece, produced by Sharyn Alfonsi, was pulled last minute by CBS News’ Bari Weiss, citing the lack of response from the Trump administration. Alfonsi criticized this decision as politically motivated, raising concerns about journalistic integrity and corporate censorship. The incident highlights the influence of political and corporate interests on media, particularly following the acquisition of CBS parent company Paramount by Trump-aligned David Ellison.

### Key Points

- Dan Rather criticized CBS for censoring a “60 Minutes” segment on inhumane conditions at the CECOT prison in El Salvador, where Venezuelan migrants were detained under Trump’s immigration policies. 

- The segment, produced by Sharyn Alfonsi, was fully vetted but pulled by CBS News’ Bari Weiss, who cited the lack of response from the Trump administration as the reason. 

- Alfonsi argued that the decision to pull the segment was politically motivated, undermining journalistic integrity and giving the government a “kill switch” for inconvenient stories. 

- CBS’s parent company, Paramount, was recently acquired by David Ellison, a Trump supporter, raising concerns about corporate influence on editorial decisions. 


Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 23, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0673632763.html 

The article provides a broad overview of recent developments across various domains, including politics, education, healthcare, technology, global affairs, and cultural events. It highlights ongoing issues such as systemic inequalities, corporate interests in public policies, advancements in technology, and the impact of these factors on society, education, and governance.  

### Key Points  

- Florida's education system faces privatization challenges, with teachers and advocates working to safeguard public schools.   

- Familiar video games like Super Mario Bros. can boost happiness and protect young adults from burnout, according to a new study.   

- U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration led to over 600,000 deportations in 2025, sparking controversies over human rights.   

- The Trump administration appointed a special envoy to Greenland, emphasizing its strategic importance for national security.   

- The Justice Department faced criticism for redacting and removing Jeffrey Epstein-related documents from its website.   

- U.S. forces seized Venezuelan oil tankers, escalating tensions with President Nicolás Maduro.   

- Proposed Medicaid cuts and healthcare barriers under Trump policies raised concerns about millions losing access to care.   

- The EU approved a €90 billion loan to Ukraine, while Russian strikes continued in Dnipro.   

- South Korea's Suneung college entrance exam faced backlash for its difficulty, with links to mental health issues and suicide rates.   

- Australia banned social media for children under 16, citing mental health concerns and the need to protect childhood experiences.   

- The Pulitzer Prize Board demanded Trump disclose personal records in response to his lawsuit over awards for reporting on Russian interference.   

- U.S. foreign policy in Venezuela is critiqued for prioritizing corporate oil interests over democratic or humanitarian goals.   

- The U.S. healthcare system is criticized for being profit-driven, with proposals like Medicare for All suggested as solutions to inefficiencies.   

- AI use in schools is raising concerns about privacy, cognitive development, and environmental impact, with calls for a two-year moratorium.   

- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu sought U.S. support for military escalation in Gaza and Iran, reflecting divisions within the Republican Party.   

- Trump’s controversial pardons during his second term, including figures tied to January 6th and high-profile fraud cases, sparked criticism.   

- The Winter Solstice is reflected upon as a time for renewal, with a focus on slowing down and appreciating stillness. 

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: DECEMBER 23, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/morning-news-update-december-23-2025.html 

The article also discusses broader societal issues, including democracy challenges, immigration policy shifts, and educational trends. Key global events, economic updates, and technological advancements are highlighted, alongside health concerns and sports news.

### Key Points

- Florida's education system faces privatization challenges, with teachers and advocates striving to protect public schools. 

- Trump announces a new Navy fleet and implements mass deportations, marking significant immigration policy changes. 

- Violence against journalists and immigration protests rise in the U.S., alongside tragic events like a Galveston plane crash. 

- EU loans Ukraine €90 billion amid ongoing Russian aggression, while U.S. airstrikes target ISIS in Syria. 

- The Trump administration seeks to downsize the Department of Education, raising concerns over special education and staffing shortages. 

- U.S. GDP growth surprises at 4.3%, driven by consumer spending, while tariffs impact lower-income households. 

- Alphabet acquires Intersect Power to support AI energy needs, and U.S. drone companies gain traction after foreign drone bans. 

- FDA approves the first oral GLP-1 pill, and congenital syphilis cases surge due to prenatal care gaps. 

- NFL playoffs heat up, with notable performances in basketball and football, while college sports see major milestones. 

Big Education Ape: HI-HO, HI-HO, IT'S OFF TO WAR WE GO PART II: A CENTURY OF AMERICAN BOYS DYING FOR OIL (AND THE BILLIONAIRES WHO LOVE THEM) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/hi-ho-hi-ho-its-off-to-war-we-go-part.html 

The article provides a detailed critique of U.S. foreign policy, particularly focusing on its historical and ongoing interventions in Latin America, with an emphasis on Venezuela. It highlights how U.S. actions are often driven by corporate interests, particularly oil companies like ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips, rather than democracy or human rights. The article also discusses the potential consequences of escalating tensions in Venezuela, including the involvement of Russia, China, and Iran, as well as the destabilization of the region and the impact on U.S. global credibility.

### Key Points

- The U.S. has a history of interventions in Latin America, often driven by corporate interests rather than democratic or humanitarian goals. 

Venezuela's oil wealth has historically attracted foreign exploitation, starting with American oil companies in the early 20th century. 

- The 1943 Hydrocarbons Law introduced a 50/50 profit split between Venezuela and foreign oil companies, but this arrangement still heavily favored corporations. 

- Venezuela nationalized its oil industry in 1976 under President Carlos AndrĂ©s PĂ©rez, creating PDVSA, but later reopened to foreign investment in the 1990s due to economic challenges. 

Hugo Chávez’s presidency marked a shift toward reclaiming control of Venezuela’s oil wealth, leading to conflicts with corporations like ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips

- Legal battles over oil assets have resulted in significant arbitration awards for ExxonMobil ($1.6 billion) and ConocoPhillips ($8.7 billion), but Venezuela lacks the funds to pay, leading to the auctioning of CITGO

- The U.S. has escalated its approach with a naval blockade of Venezuela, justified as a "counterterrorism operation," despite international law considering such blockades acts of war. 

- Russia, Iran, and China are aiding Venezuela with advanced military technology, including hypersonic missiles, drones, and satellite intelligence, raising the stakes of U.S. intervention. 

- Regional tensions are increasing, with Colombia criticizing U.S. actions and refusing cooperation, while internal conflicts with groups like the ELN and Clan del Golfo are exacerbated by U.S. policies. 

- The U.S.'s transactional foreign policy under Trump, including threats against CubaGreenland, and Panama, reflects a focus on resources and leverage rather than alliances or principles. 

- The article critiques the long-term implications of U.S. actions, including the erosion of the Monroe Doctrine, loss of global credibility, and worsening humanitarian crises in Venezuela. 

- The author argues that U.S. foreign policy is primarily motivated by corporate profits, particularly for oil companies, rather than national or global interests. 

- A proposal is made to invest in renewable energy and infrastructure instead of engaging in costly wars over oil. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 22, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01827579297.html 

The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent news and developments across various sectors, including politics, education, healthcare, technology, world affairs, and cultural events. It highlights critical issues such as the U.S. healthcare system's profit-driven model, public education challenges, geopolitical tensions, advancements in technology, and societal debates on AI and education reforms. The article also touches on political controversies, systemic injustices, and cultural reflections, emphasizing the importance of social justice, democracy, and resistance against authoritarianism.

Big Education Ape: THE PROFITCARE PARADOX: HOW AMERICA'S HEALTHCARE SYSTEM BECAME A BILLIONAIRE'S PLAYGROUND AND A PATIENT'S NIGHTMARE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-profitcare-paradox-how-americas.html 

The article titled "The Profitcare Paradox: How America’s Healthcare System Became a Billionaire’s Playground and a Patient’s Nightmare" critically examines the evolution of the American healthcare system into a profit-driven model. It highlights the historical shifts, systemic inefficiencies, and corporate monopolies that have led to exorbitant costs, reduced accessibility, and widespread dissatisfaction. The article advocates for transformative solutions such as Medicare for All or a robust public option to address these challenges.

Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/sunday-december-14-2025-looking-back.html 

The article also touches on public education, political issues, and various societal topics, including healthcare reform, the influence of oligarchies, and current events.

### Key Points

- Articles explore public education challenges, including the impact of AI, gerrymandering, and the influence of billionaire oligarchs. 

- The blog features a roundup of weekly news and insights, including posts on school shootings and the importance of public education. 



School meals could unlock major gains for human and planetary health     Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/ 

A collection of studies highlights various topics, including the benefits of familiar video games in reducing burnout, the impact of sustainable school meals on health and the environment, the cultural context of teacher noticing, the role of school leadership in digital equity, the cognitive benefits of light-intensity exercise for children, the feasibility of later school start times, and the complexities of cannabis and nicotine co-use among young adults.  

### Key Points  

- Familiar video games like Super Mario Bros. and Yoshi can boost happiness and reduce burnout risk in young adults by evoking childlike wonder and offering emotional restoration.   

- Sustainable school meals can improve child nutrition, reduce diet-related diseases, lower environmental impacts, and promote ecological food systems.   

- Teacher noticing varies across cultures, and frameworks for developing this skill must be culturally responsive and context-specific.   

- School leadership plays a critical role in addressing digital equity, which now focuses more on the use and context of technology rather than just access to devices.   

- Short, light-intensity exercises (under 5 minutes) can improve children’s executive function and mood, enhancing learning efficiency.   

- Later high school start times are feasible and cost-effective, improving teen well-being and saving districts money.   

- Cannabis use is growing in complexity among young adults due to the increasing variety of products and co-use with nicotine and tobacco, raising public health concerns. 



Teacher Tom: Teacher Tom's Last Minute Gift Ideas for Young Children http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/12/teacher-toms-last-minute-gift-ideas-for.html 

Teacher Tom shares playful and creative last-minute gift ideas for young children, emphasizing items that encourage imagination, tinkering, and exploration. His blog also highlights his dedication to play-based learning, with resources, discussions, and opportunities to connect with him for events or support his work.

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom suggests unique last-minute gift ideas for children, such as produce bags, tools, natural materials, and creative items like glue guns and tree parts. 

- He emphasizes the importance of play-based learning, reflecting on his 15 years of blogging and over 4,000 posts on the subject. 

- Teacher Tom offers free resources, including a downloadable collection of his favorite blog posts, and invites readers to support his work through contributions. 

- He provides details about his speaking engagements and how to stay updated on his work through email subscriptions. 

- The blog covers a wide range of topics related to early childhood education, including art, outdoor play, science, and parenting. 



The Anti Defamation League's war on Mamdani. It began even before the votes were counted. FRED KLONSKY https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/the-anti-defamation-leagues-war-on 

### Key Points

- The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) launched criticism against New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, alleging that members of his transition team have ties to "anti-Zionist" organizations or have expressed criticism of Israel, which the ADL equates with antisemitism. 

- The ADL claims that over 80 individuals in Mamdani’s team are associated with groups like Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace, which oppose antisemitism but are critical of Zionism. This framing is criticized as an attempt to conflate anti-Zionism with antisemitism. 

- The article compares the ADL’s actions to McCarthyism, highlighting the use of guilt by association, ideological loyalty tests, and public branding of political opponents to suppress dissent. 



TX: More Anti-School Choice From The Choice Crowd PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/tx-more-anti-school-choice-from-the 

TX: More Anti-School Choice From The Choice Crowd  

The article critiques the hypocrisy of some school choice advocates, highlighting a case in Texas where the proposed taxpayer-funded school voucher program, called the “Education Freedom Accounts Program,” selectively excludes certain schools based on political and religious biases. The piece argues that such actions undermine true school choice and raise First Amendment concerns.

### Key Points

- Texas Senator-turned-Comptroller Kelly Hancock is promoting a taxpayer-funded school voucher program but seeks to exclude schools connected to groups like the Council on American-Islamic Relations or alleged Chinese government affiliates. 

- Hancock’s actions raise concerns about selective school choice and potential First Amendment violations, as some schools are penalized for their affiliations or teachings. 

- The article highlights a pattern among certain school choice advocates who use the concept to funnel tax dollars to specific private religious institutions while excluding others. 

- The issue exemplifies broader problems with state involvement in determining which religious institutions are “legitimate” and deserving of funding, potentially undermining democracy and diversity. 



glen brown: What will guide us going forward? https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/what-will-guide-us-going-forward.html 

The article reflects on the state of American democracy, the challenges posed by Trumpism, and the broader implications for political and social systems. It highlights the failures of political leadership, the influence of MAGA Republicans, and the need for public engagement to counter authoritarianism.

### Key Points

- Writers must resist oppression and free themselves of societal doctrines to maintain integrity. 

- Reflecting on 2025, democracy faced assaults but also achieved victories for inclusion and decency. 

- Democrats often fail to confront Trump, while Republicans double down on radical policies to avoid his wrath. 

- The Supreme Court's MAGA majority disregards criticism, emphasizing the need for judicial reform. 

- Shifting public opinion and fighting autocracy are essential for preserving democracy. 

- Electability is determined by voters, not pundits, and authentic politicians can galvanize support. 

- White Christian nationalists prioritize power over redemption, supporting anti-democratic measures. 

- Moderate Republicans are effectively nonexistent, as they enable MAGA’s extreme agenda. 

- MAGA adherents reject reality, making it critical to educate Americans outside the movement. 

- Despite Trump’s actions, many Americans reject his agenda, offering hope for a pro-democracy majority. 

- Public engagement is crucial for defeating autocracy; the midterms are pivotal for democracy’s future. 



How Florida’s Grinch Privatized Classrooms – Accountabaloney https://accountabaloney.com/how-floridas-grinch-privatized-classrooms/ 

How Florida’s Grinch Privatized Classrooms is a satirical commentary on the privatization of public education in Florida, likening it to the actions of the Grinch from Dr. Seuss’s classic tale. The article critiques policies such as school choice, vouchers, and defunding public schools, portraying them as deliberate efforts to undermine public education. Despite these challenges, the piece ends on an optimistic note, celebrating the resilience of educators, parents, and communities in defending public schools.

### Key Points

- The article uses the metaphor of the Grinch to criticize Florida’s push for privatizing public education, including school choice and voucher systems. 

- It highlights the negative impacts of privatization, such as defunding public schools, overcrowding, and the commercialization of education. 

- The piece emphasizes the resilience of Florida communities, teachers, and parents in defending public schools despite these challenges. 

- The article concludes with a critique of privatization and a call to value and protect public education as a cornerstone of democracy. 



America’s Dual Economy: Drugs In, Weapons Out The U.S. is both the world’s largest importer of killer drugs and the world’s largest arms dealer MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/americas-dual-economy-drugs-in-weapons 

The article discusses the paradox of the United States being the world's largest importer of illegal drugs and the largest exporter of weapons. It highlights how these two industries fuel both domestic and global instability. The U.S. arms trade is heavily influenced by political priorities, with weapons flowing to strategic allies and conflict zones. Meanwhile, the drug trade is framed as a foreign threat rather than a domestic issue, externalizing blame and justifying aggressive foreign policies. This dual economy perpetuates addiction, incarceration, and global violence, while deflecting accountability for demand-side issues.

### Key Points

- The U.S. is the largest importer of illegal drugs and the largest exporter of weapons, creating a paradox of domestic addiction and global destabilization. 

- U.S. arms exports target strategic allies and conflict zones, aligning with political priorities, with Ukraine and South Korea being major recipients. 

- The U.S. frames drug trafficking as foreign aggression to deflect from domestic issues, using it to justify military actions and destabilizing foreign governments. 

- The narrative of blaming foreign entities for drug trafficking shifts the focus away from domestic demand and internal dynamics, perpetuating global and social instability. 

- Commenters suggest addressing addiction through public health solutions and question the role of capitalism and external blame in sustaining this dual economy. 



Nancy Bailey's Education Website: Remembering Why There’s a Special Education Law https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/remembering-why 

The article discusses the potential consequences of policy changes affecting special education in the United States. It highlights concerns about the dismantling of federal oversight, the impact on students with disabilities, and the risks of privatization in education. The author emphasizes the importance of preserving the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and ensuring that children with disabilities receive adequate support and inclusion in public schools.

### Key Points

- The article criticizes efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which protects students with disabilities. 

- Concerns are raised about shifting special education to the Department of Health and Human Services, which may result in a medicalized view of disability and undermine inclusive education. 

- Privatization of education, including the expansion of charter and private schools, is seen as a threat to special education services, as these schools often fail to accommodate students with disabilities. 

- The history of special education, including the deinstitutionalization movement and the establishment of IDEA, is highlighted to emphasize the importance of federal mandates in protecting students with disabilities. 

- The article warns of potential negative consequences, such as reduced accountability, fewer qualified teachers, lack of inclusion, and a return to inadequate state institutions. 

- The author calls for a renewed focus on public education and special education, advocating for better funding and enforcement of existing laws. 



Dear Bill Lee: Please Read the Letter And then do the right thing and feed kids in Summer 2026 ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/dear-bill-lee-please-read-the-letter 

Gov. Bill Lee of Tennessee is being urged to reinstate the federally funded Summer EBT program for 2026, which provides additional SNAP funds to feed children during the summer when school meals are unavailable. In 2025, Lee opted for a state-funded program that served far fewer children, rejecting the federal funding that could have supported 700,000 kids. County mayors and 314 pastors from Tennessee have appealed to Lee, emphasizing the moral and practical necessity of accepting federal funds to combat child hunger statewide.

### Key Points

- Gov. Bill Lee rejected federal Summer EBT funds in 2025, opting for a smaller state-funded program that reached only 18,000 children across 15 counties, compared to the federal program's capacity to assist 700,000 children in 95 counties. 

- A coalition of 314 pastors and county mayors across Tennessee has appealed to Lee, urging him to accept federal funds for 2026 to address child hunger and ensure statewide coverage. 

- The federal program requires $5 million in state administrative costs to unlock $80 million in federal funding, while the state-only program spent the same amount but had far less impact. 

- Faith leaders emphasized the moral responsibility to "defend the rights of the poor and needy," advocating for the return to the federal program by the January 1 deadline. 



USDA Releases Key Food Lists and Pricing Reports to Aid School Nutrition Planning - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/usdafoodsavailablelist.asp 

The article discusses the USDA Foods Available List (FAL) and related resources for School Year (SY) 2026–27, published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These resources, including pricing reports and a database, assist School Nutrition Program (SNP) professionals in menu planning, food purchasing, and meeting federal nutrition standards. The article also highlights updates to the FAL, changes to food items, and the availability of additional resources for efficient decision-making.

### Key Points

- The USDA Foods Available List (FAL) for SY 2026–27 includes foods available for Child Nutrition Programs (CNP) and highlights changes such as removed or altered items. 

- The USDA Foods List of Materials Report provides detailed pricing, pack sizes, and other information to help SNP professionals make cost-effective decisions. 

- The USDA Processor Material Price Report offers estimated food prices for the upcoming school year, including average material and cheese prices for processors. 

- The USDA Foods Database offers up-to-date nutrition, allergen, and ingredient information for USDA Foods, aiding in menu planning and compliance with meal pattern requirements. 

- The database is updated monthly and must be downloaded to access the latest information on USDA Foods. 

- Contact information for further inquiries about the Food Distribution Program (FDP) and USDA Foods is provided. 

- Related resources include the USDA Foods Processing Program and updates to school nutrition program standards. 




A question, and sorry for no image https://www.dailykos.com/story/2025/12/23/2359863/-A-question-and-sorry-for-no-image?pm_campaign=blog&pm_medium=rss&pm_source=teacherken 

### Key Points

- The Epstein files released by the DOJ include FBI case file numbers, which may indicate investigations into serious crimes, potentially including murder. The author seeks input from readers with law enforcement experience to interpret these case numbers. 

- Daily Kos relies heavily on small donations from readers to sustain its operations, with 80% of revenue coming from such contributions. 

- The Trump administration argued against providing American Sign Language interpreters for press briefings, presenting a controversial and unusual justification. 

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The 11th Day of Boobsmas aka "The One Where She Recommends LGBTQIA+ Sports Romance to Read After HEATED RIVALRY Ends" KELLY REYNOLDS https://authorkellyrey.substack.com/p/the-11th-day-of-boobsmas 

The 11th Day of Boobsmas aka "The One Where She Recommends LGBTQIA+ Sports Romance to Read After HEATED RIVALRY Ends" is an article by Kelly Reynolds, focusing on her love for queer sports romance books. Inspired by the series "Heated Rivalry," the article provides a curated list of LGBTQIA+ sports romance recommendations, featuring various themes like rivals-to-lovers, teammates falling in love, and athletes embracing their identities. The article also highlights books from guest contributors and promotes Kelly’s own works and community spaces for romance lovers.

### Key Points

- Kelly Reynolds shares her passion for queer sports romance, highlighting "Heated Rivalry" and similar book recommendations. 

- The recommended books include diverse stories such as sapphic hockey romances, bi-awakening tales, and rivals-to-lovers narratives. 

- Guest contributors, including Laura Yamin and Becky Feldman, add their own LGBTQIA+ sports romance suggestions to the list. 

- Kelly promotes her own works, including her novellas and sapphic stories, and invites readers to join her Facebook group for discussions and giveaways. 

- Kelly encourages readers to embrace their love of romance stories and stay unapologetically passionate about them.