Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-1-25
Did Musk and DOGE Save Any Money at All? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/30/did-musk-and-doge-save-any-money-at-all/ via @dianeravitch
Elon Musk's initiative, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aimed to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget but fell drastically short, possibly resulting in increased costs. The New York Times reported that Musk's savings claims were inflated and the project's execution was chaotic, leading to mass firings and legal challenges. The estimated savings were reduced to $150 billion, far less than promised, while the costs of firings and legal battles are expected to negate any savings. Critics argue that Musk's approach mirrors his drastic methods at Twitter and highlight the inefficiencies and legal issues arising from the project.### Key Points
- Elon Musk's DOGE initiative aimed to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget but failed, possibly costing more instead.
- Musk's savings claims were inflated; the actual savings were much lower than promised.
- The chaotic execution led to mass firings, legal challenges, and costs that negated savings.
- Critics compare Musk's methods to his approach at Twitter, highlighting inefficiencies and legal issues.
Musk's DOGE Protects One (1) Person: Elon Musk https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/30/musks-doge-protects-one-1-person-elon-musk/ via @dianeravitch
The article discusses the controversial relationship between Elon Musk and President Trump, focusing on Musk's role in the "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) tasked with cutting federal budgets. Musk's actions led to the closure of important agencies like USAID and the NIH while ensuring federal funds continued to flow to his companies. Despite facing potential fines of $2.37 billion from federal agencies, Musk's ties with Trump, who received significant campaign donations from Musk, have shielded him from prosecution. The article highlights the conflicts of interest and ethical concerns surrounding Musk's influence on government operations, as well as ongoing investigations into his companies, including Tesla and SpaceX.### Key Points
- Elon Musk was tasked by Trump to lead the "Department of Government Efficiency," cutting federal budgets and closing agencies like USAID and NIH.
- Musk faced $2.37 billion in potential federal fines, but his relationship with Trump, to whom he donated $300 million, may protect him from prosecution.
- Musk's companies have received over $38 billion in government contracts and subsidies, raising concerns about self-enrichment and conflicts of interest.
- Investigations into Tesla and SpaceX highlight potential liabilities, including racial harassment claims and issues with Tesla's Autopilot technology.
- Doubts exist regarding the Justice Department's commitment to prosecuting Musk, as evidenced by the dismissal of a lawsuit against SpaceX.
Poll: Most Americans Believe Trump is "a Dangerous Dictator" Who Might "Destroy American Democracy" https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/30/poll-most-americans-believe-trump-is-a-dangerous-dictator/ via @dianeravitch A recent blog post by Diane Ravitch discusses a poll reported by Axios, indicating that 52% of Americans view Donald Trump as a "dangerous dictator" who could potentially destroy American democracy. Despite this perception, Trump still enjoys substantial support among Republicans and white Americans. The article highlights Trump's controversial actions, including attacks on universities, media, and corporations, as well as his influence on figures like Elon Musk to close down government agencies. The post includes various comments from readers expressing concern about Trump's impact on democracy and the role of corporate America in supporting him.
### Key Points
- A poll shows 52% of Americans consider Trump a "dangerous dictator" threatening democracy.
- Trump retains significant support among Republicans and white Americans.
- Trump's presidency is marked by attacks on educational institutions, media, and corporations.
- He has used his influence to close government agencies and control cultural institutions.
- Readers express concerns about Trump's actions and their impact on democracy and corporate America's role.
Big Education Ape: PRESIDENT & G.O.A.T. MAGICIAN - DONNIE THE DECEIVER: TRUMP 2.0 AND HIS MAGICAL 100 DAYS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/04/president-goat-magician-donnie-deceiver.html
The article presents a satirical and critical view of Donald Trump's presidency, comparing it to a magic show filled with illusions and distractions. It highlights various tactics used by Trump, such as misdirection, storytelling, and psychological manipulation, to maintain control and influence public perception. The article also touches on broader political themes and issues related to public education and globalization.### Key Points
- The article uses a metaphor of a magic show to describe Trump's presidency, focusing on his use of distraction and illusion.
- Trump's tactics include shifting focus from scandals to trivial matters, creating an illusion of grandeur, and employing showmanship and confidence.
- The narrative critiques Trump's policies and actions, suggesting they are more about performance than substance.
- The article briefly mentions other topics like public education, globalization, and political dynamics.
Big Education Ape: THE GREAT GLOBALIZATION TANGO: HOW CHINA BECAME THE MONSTER THAT CAPITALISM BUILT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/04/the-great-globalization-tango-how-china.html
The article discusses various topics including the challenges facing public education, globalization's impact on China's rise as a global power, and the growing grassroots movement in the U.S. advocating for democracy and resistance against authoritarianism. It highlights the complexities of globalization, the consequences of past U.S. trade policies, and the current political climate under Trump's administration. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of community-driven efforts to promote democratic values and educational equity.### Key Points
- The Supreme Court is hearing a case regarding whether a religious entity can start a charter school, highlighting ongoing debates in public education.
- The article explores how globalization, driven by U.S. capitalist interests, contributed to China's economic rise, likening it to a Frankenstein's monster scenario.
- Trump's trade policies and nationalist rhetoric have complicated global economic relations and challenged the previous globalization model.
- A grassroots movement called the 50501 Movement is organizing a Day of Action to resist authoritarianism and promote democratic values across all U.S. states.
- The movement emphasizes community empowerment and long-term commitment to social change beyond just one day of protest.
CURMUDGUCATION: On Your Own https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/04/on-your-own.html
The article critiques the notion of "do your own research" as a way to reject collective responsibility and government involvement. It discusses how this mindset is prevalent in various movements, including the school voucher movement and broader political ideologies like MAGA. The author argues that this perspective leads to societal stratification based on resources and criticizes the idea that disregard for others equates to freedom. The article also touches on the implications of this ideology in education and public policy.### Key Points
- The phrase "do your own research" is used to reject collective responsibility and government involvement.
- This mindset is linked to the school voucher movement, which promotes education as a commodity in a government-free marketplace.
- The article connects this ideology to broader political movements like MAGA, emphasizing individualism and resource-based societal stratification.
- Criticism of the idea that disregard for others equates to freedom, highlighting the role of public schools and government programs.
glen brown: Why Zelensky won’t — and can’t — sell out Ukraine for Trump’s peace deal https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/04/why-zelensky-wont-and-cant-sell-out.html
The article discusses the challenges faced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in dealing with a peace deal proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which appears to favor Russian interests. The deal requires Ukraine to concede significant territories without security guarantees and abandon NATO aspirations. Zelensky is likely trying to delay any agreement, hoping that changes in U.S. politics or internal issues in Russia will eventually favor Ukraine. The article suggests that Trump's motives are driven by a desire to reset U.S.-Russia relations and possibly gain personal accolades, rather than genuine concern for Ukraine's sovereignty or stability.### Key Points
- Ukrainian President Zelensky faces a difficult decision regarding Trump's peace deal, which requires Ukraine to concede to Russian demands.
- The deal would force Ukraine to abandon NATO membership aspirations and accept the loss of Crimea, which is against Ukraine's constitutional principles.
- Trump appears motivated by a desire to reset U.S.-Russia relations and achieve a personal legacy, rather than the interests of Ukraine.
- Zelensky is likely trying to buy time, utilizing existing U.S. and European support, while hoping for strategic shifts that could benefit Ukraine.
- The article suggests that without Ukraine's cooperation, any deal between Trump and Putin may not succeed due to Russia's limitations.
KIPP Charter Schools Conceal $52M in Unexplained Expenses - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/kipp-charter-schools-conceal-52m-in-unexplained-expenses/
KIPP Charter Schools in the U.S. have reported over $52 million in unexplained expenses for the fiscal year 2023, raising concerns about transparency and potential misuse of funds. The lack of transparency in charter schools is highlighted by Carol Burris from the Network for Public Education, who warns it can lead to profiteering, fraud, and grift.### Key Points
- KIPP Charter Schools reported more than $52 million in unexplained expenses for fiscal year 2023.
- Concerns about transparency in charter schools and their management organizations are raised.
- Carol Burris, executive director of the Network for Public Education, comments on the potential for profiteering and fraud due to lack of transparency.
School attendance is strongly associated with academic success and high school completion https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
Education Research Report highlights several studies on various educational topics. ### Key Points
- A study in metro-Atlanta schools used email and text messages to inform parents about their child's attendance, reducing absenteeism slightly.
- A meta-analysis found weak positive associations between cyberbullying victimization and mental health symptoms in children, emphasizing the need for prevention programs.
- Leisure digital reading has a small positive effect on reading comprehension, less than traditional print reading, with educational stage moderating this relationship.
- Computer science teachers in North Carolina are better qualified than peers due to greater education and experience, impacting student learning positively.
- A UK study reveals that parents of children struggling with school attendance face significant mental health challenges, challenging the narrative of parental blame.
- Adolescents with longer sleep durations perform better in cognitive tasks, highlighting the importance of sleep for brain function and development.
- Working memory interventions can improve math word problem-solving skills in students with difficulties, reducing cognitive load and enhancing learning.
Teacher Tom: Our Habits Determine Our Fate https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/04/our-habits-determine-our-fate.html
Our Habits Determine Our Fate### Key Points
- William James described education as the organization of acquired habits and tendencies, focusing on conduct and behavior rather than utility.
- The author criticizes the focus on "career readiness" and "kindergarten readiness," comparing it to an assembly line, and suggests education should be about developing habits for a satisfying life.
- Emphasizes the importance of children learning self-motivation, collaboration, and problem-solving to live a meaningful life, rather than just preparing for the future.
- Highlights that real education is about action and behavior, not just academic skills, aligning with the notion that consciousness exists to control behavior.
- Argues against treating children like machines, emphasizing the need to develop habits that lead to a life of meaning and purpose.
Shanker Blog: How Would Cutting Federal Aid to Schools Affect Student Achievement? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/how-would-cutting
The article discusses the potential impact of eliminating federal aid for K-12 education in the U.S. It explores two scenarios: complete removal of federal funding and unregulated block grants. The analysis shows that removing federal aid would significantly harm student achievement, particularly in high-poverty districts and among minority students. The block grant scenario would exacerbate existing achievement gaps, benefiting wealthier districts at the expense of poorer ones. Both scenarios highlight the critical role of federal funding in maintaining educational equity and performance.### Key Points
- The article simulates the impact of removing federal aid on student achievement, showing significant negative effects.
- Federal funding constitutes about 10% of K-12 revenue, and its removal would disproportionately affect high-poverty and minority-serving districts.
- Scenario 1 suggests a loss of 28 days of learning on average, with greater losses for Black, Hispanic, and American Indian students.
- Scenario 2, involving unregulated block grants, would widen achievement gaps between wealthier and poorer districts.
- The article emphasizes that federal aid is crucial for educational equity and that its removal would harm all students, though unevenly.
From Presidential Dreams to Purposeful Connections: Reflections from Puerto Rico – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/04/30/from-presidential-dreams-to-purposeful-connections-reflections-from-puerto-rico/
Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig reflects on his journey to Puerto Rico, initially planned for interviewing as a semi-finalist for the presidency of the University of Puerto Rico. Despite logistical challenges that led him to withdraw from the opportunity, he attended the Latino Leaders Magazine C-Suite & Board Directors Forum, where he engaged with leaders about transformative leadership. He emphasizes the importance of forward-looking leadership, diversity, and social responsibility in both corporate and educational governance. His visit became a renewal of purpose and commitment to visionary leadership.### Key Points
- Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig traveled to Puerto Rico for a presidential interview at the University of Puerto Rico but withdrew due to logistical challenges.
- He attended the Latino Leaders Magazine C-Suite & Board Directors Forum, engaging with leaders on leadership, governance, and diversity.
- Discussions highlighted the importance of boards being forward-thinking and diverse in thought and experience.
- The journey provided insights into transformative leadership, emphasizing vision and purpose.
Trump vowed he would cure cancer. Turns out, he is the cancer., by @mikeklonsky https://open.substack.com/pub/michaelklonsky/p/trump-vowed-he-would-cure-cancer?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
President Trump promised to cure cancer during his 2020 campaign but his administration's actions have been counterproductive to cancer research and treatment. Cuts to federal funding, restrictions on NIH grants, proposed Medicare cuts, environmental regulation rollbacks, and restrictive immigration policies have negatively impacted cancer research and care. These policies have led to reduced funding, increased exposure to carcinogens, and hindered international scientific collaboration. Notably, the detention of a Harvard researcher and the deportation of a child undergoing cancer treatment illustrate the detrimental effects of these policies.### Key Points
- Trump promised to cure cancer during his 2020 campaign but failed to deliver on this promise.
- His administration cut federal funding for cancer research, impacting institutions like Harvard and NIH.
- Proposed Medicare cuts could limit access to cancer treatments and disrupt clinical trials.
- Rollback of environmental regulations has increased exposure to carcinogens.
- Immigration policies have discouraged foreign scientists and led to detentions, affecting cancer research.
- A four-year-old US citizen undergoing cancer treatment was deported, highlighting the harsh impact of immigration policies.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: An Enormous Test for SCOTUS Comes Via a Public Edu... https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/04/an-enormous-test-for-scotus-comes-via.html?spref=tw
The article discusses a Supreme Court case involving the potential establishment of a religious charter school in Oklahoma, funded by public money. This case challenges the separation of church and state and the requirement for charter schools to be secular. The Supreme Court has previously sided with religious institutions in similar cases. The decision could significantly impact public education and the historical norms of church-state separation. The article also touches on the implications for Washington State charter schools and the broader effects on the education system.### Key Points
- The Supreme Court is hearing a case about whether religious entities can start publicly funded charter schools with religious curriculums, challenging the separation of church and state.
- Historically, religious schools have not pursued public funding through legal means, but this case could change that, potentially altering the distribution of taxpayer dollars.
- The case represents a test for the Supreme Court's commitment to historical interpretation of constitutional rights and its impact on public legitimacy.
- A ruling in favor of religious charter schools could disrupt existing public education norms and lead to numerous lawsuits, particularly affecting states like Washington.
- Washington State has maintained that charter schools must be secular and public, but low interest in charter schools there suggests they don't meet parental demand.
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
4-30-25
The collection of articles discusses various topics, including public education reform, political impacts on education, societal expectations regarding college, and protests against authoritarianism. Key themes include the influence of political ideologies on education, the challenges of misinformation, the role of imagination and creativity, and the importance of activism in defending democratic values.
### Key Points
- The Supreme Court is hearing a case concerning religious entities starting charter schools.
- Hannah Szabรณ, a transgender woman, advocates for transgender rights amidst political challenges.
- Tulsa Public Schools face chaos due to financial mismanagement under former Superintendent Deborah Gist.
- Trump's administration has reduced funding for scientific research, impacting major organizations and leading to international distrust.
- Trump removed Biden appointees from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum board, criticized for politicizing Holocaust remembrance.
- The societal expectation that everyone should attend college is challenged by new studies promoting skill recognition over degrees.
- Federal judges blocked Trump's attempt to cut Title I funding from states opposing DEI program eliminations.
- Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker calls for Democrats to oppose MAGA policies and take bold actions.
- A Supreme Court decision could allow parents to opt children out of lessons acknowledging LGBTQ existence, raising inclusivity concerns.
- Misinformation about student reading proficiency is critiqued, emphasizing the need for accurate data interpretation.
- Trump's executive order on accreditation threatens educational standards and diversity efforts, likening potential outcomes to Trump University.
- UFT President Michael Mulgrew is accused of using union resources for personal campaigning and spreading misinformation.
- Teacher Tom reflects on the power of imagination and play in human creativity and transformation.
- Larry Cuban discusses "McTeaching," highlighting the efficiency versus interaction debate in online education.
- Violence during a pro-Palestinian protest in Crown Heights raises concerns about safety and police intervention.
- Seattle Public Schools face criticism for poor communication and nepotism amidst strategic planning efforts.
- California honors nine classified school employees for their contributions to public education.
- The ASU+GSV conference promotes AI-driven personalized learning, raising concerns about commercialization and education reform.
- The 50501 Movement organizes a Day of Action against authoritarianism, advocating for democracy and community empowerment.
The People's Movement: Rising Against Authoritarianism
The Call to Action
Across the nation, from bustling metropolises to quaint small towns, an undeniable wave of resistance is building. On May 1st, this collective energy will manifest as a Day of Action—a grassroots response to the threats posed by authoritarianism, political overreach, and the gradual erosion of democratic values. In all fifty states, local communities are gearing up to make their voices heard. Some will rally or march through city streets, while others will host food drives, teach-ins, mutual aid pop-ups, or voter registration events. No matter the form of participation, one thing is clear: this movement is expanding rapidly, and it belongs to everyone.
The 50501 Movement is at the forefront of this uprising. Its name signifies 50 States, 50 Protests, 1 Movement—a decentralized, people-powered network advocating for resilience and resistance. This movement stands firmly against the billionaire takeover of politics, an economy rigged against the people, Trump's defiance of legal norms, and the erosion of fundamental freedoms. It is a multi-racial, multi-generational, cross-class coalition led by individuals committed to nonviolence, mutual care, and democratic values.
Building Power from the Ground Up
May 1st will be more than just a day of protest; it will be a celebration of community care and empowerment. While marches and rallies will certainly take place, this day is unique because it emphasizes building power from the ground up. Diaper drives, skill shares, free community meals, and teach-ins will occur across the country, fostering deep connections that are essential for real change.
Whether you find yourself in the streets or at your local library on May 1st, you are part of something much larger—a movement that transcends geographical boundaries and unites people in pursuit of justice. The 50501 Movement encourages everyone to get involved by finding or hosting local events, utilizing organizing tools available online, following live updates on social media platforms, sharing actions through hashtags like #50501 and #PeoplesMovement, and building community groups in local areas.
Beyond One Day
While May 1st is a significant milestone, it marks only the beginning of ongoing efforts by the 50501 Movement to organize, resist, and build together for as long as necessary. If you are reading this, you are already part of history in the making. The People's Movement—50501—is driven by a collective determination to challenge oppressive systems and create a future where democracy thrives.
This movement is about more than just one day; it represents a sustained commitment to fostering change that benefits all people. By participating in May Day activities and continuing to engage with the movement beyond this single event, individuals can contribute to a broader narrative of resistance that seeks to dismantle inequality and promote equity.
Conclusion: The May Day Protest
As we reflect on the stories of billionaire-led educational reforms and their impact on society, we recognize that true change requires more than financial investments—it demands genuine commitment to equity and inclusivity. On May Day, protesters will gather not only to voice their dissent against authoritarianism but also to advocate for educational systems that empower all students.
The May Day protest serves as a powerful reminder that democracy thrives through active participation and collective action. By joining forces on this day and beyond, individuals can contribute to shaping a future where democratic values are upheld and educational opportunities are accessible to all. Let us continue this journey together with unwavering dedication to justice and equality.
May Day 2025
Trump and his billionaire profiteers are trying to create a race to the bottom—on wages, on benefits, on dignity itself. This May Day we are fighting back. We are demanding a country that puts our families over their fortunes—public schools over private profits, healthcare over hedge funds, prosperity over free market politics.
https://www.mobilize.us/mayday/event/779515/
50 protests. 50 states. 1 movement.
www.fiftyfifty.one
Join us in the fight to uphold the Constitution and end executive overreach.
50501 is a peaceful movement.
Violence of any kind will not be tolerated
