Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-8-25

Trump Signs Executive Order Requiring All Colleges to Submit https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/07/trump-signs-executive-order-requiring-all-colleges-to-submit/ via @dianeravitch 

Trump has signed an executive order mandating colleges to provide data proving they do not consider race in admissions, following the Supreme Court's 2023 ruling against affirmative action. The order accuses colleges of using essays and other methods as proxies for racial consideration, which conservatives view as illegal discrimination. Some institutions, like Brown and Columbia, have agreed to provide detailed admissions data and undergo audits. The impact of this order is uncertain, as colleges are legally barred from collecting race information during admissions. The diversity of incoming classes has shown mixed results post-ruling, with some schools seeing significant drops in Black student enrollment, while others have experienced minimal changes.

### Key Points

- Trump issued an executive order requiring colleges to prove they do not use race in admissions, reflecting conservative concerns over affirmative action. 

- The Supreme Court's 2023 ruling allows colleges to consider race only if tied to character or abilities shared in essays. 

- Brown and Columbia universities agreed to provide race-related admissions data and undergo audits to comply with federal demands. 

- Post-ruling diversity outcomes vary across colleges, with some seeing significant changes and others minimal. 

- Legal restrictions prevent colleges from asking about race during admissions, complicating demographic reporting. 

Jennifer Berkshire: How Democrats Miss the Boat on Education Issues https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/07/jennifer-berkshire-how-democrats-miss-the-boat-on-education-issues/ via @dianeravitch 

Jennifer Berkshire critiques the Democratic Party for failing to fully support public education, emphasizing its bipartisan appeal and importance to communities. She highlights how privatization schemes like vouchers undermine public schools, often benefiting affluent families and dismantling cross-class alliances. Rising Democratic figures such as James Talarico and Andy Beshear are praised for opposing privatization and advocating for the value of public schools, contrasting with the corporate rhetoric of mainstream Democrats. The article calls for Democrats to prioritize public education as a populist issue that resonates across party lines.

### Key Points

- Jennifer Berkshire argues that Democrats fail to champion public education, despite its bipartisan support and centrality to communities. 

- Privatization efforts, including vouchers, often harm public schools and disproportionately benefit affluent families. 

- Rising Democratic leaders like James Talarico and Andy Beshear advocate for public education and oppose privatization schemes. 

- Mainstream Democrats often use corporate rhetoric that disconnects from voters, undermining the populist appeal of public education. 

Peter Greene: A Major For-Profit Chain Implodes https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/07/peter-greene-a-major-charter-chain-implodes/ via @dianeravitch 

Peter Greene's article discusses the collapse of Higher Ground Education (HGE), a major for-profit Montessori school chain. Founded by Ray Girn, HGE expanded rapidly, aiming to modernize Montessori education and integrate technology. Despite attracting venture capital and growing to 150 schools, mismanagement and overreach led to bankruptcy and widespread closures. Critics argue that privatization and profit-driven models undermine genuine educational values, highlighting the commodification of Montessori principles and broader issues with for-profit education.

### Key Points

- Higher Ground Education, a for-profit Montessori school chain, grew rapidly but filed for bankruptcy after foreclosure closures. 

- HGE aimed to modernize Montessori education, integrating classical liberal arts and personalized learning software. 

- The organization attracted venture capital and acquired various businesses, including AltSchool, but struggled with mismanagement. 

- Critics argue privatizers have distorted Montessori principles for profit, undermining authentic educational practices. 

- The collapse raises broader concerns about the privatization of education and its focus on profit over quality. 

Science Research in New England Gets a Reprieve from DEI Ban, for Now https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/07/science-research-gets-a-reprieve-from-dei-ban/ via @dianeravitch 

Science research in New England has resumed after a court order overturned the Trump administration's cancellation of grants focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The administration had targeted studies involving race, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ communities, citing "ideological agendas." The reinstatement of grants, while limited, has sparked concern among scientists about the future of federal funding and the integrity of their work. Researchers like Dr. Amy Nunn, whose HIV study was halted, face challenges in restarting projects, including funding delays, staff layoffs, and the risk of outdated methodologies. The broader scientific community fears the continued push against DEI will harm public health advancements and exacerbate inequities.

### Key Points

- Science projects canceled by the Trump administration due to DEI references have been partially reinstated following a court ruling. 

- Dr. Amy Nunn's HIV study targeting Black and Hispanic gay men resumed but faces delays and operational challenges. 

- The Trump administration appeals the ruling and continues its stance against DEI, citing "biological truth" and ideological concerns. 

- Scientists worry about the long-term impact on public health research and funding morale. 

- Blocking research on racial disparities and LGBTQ+ health outcomes may harm all Americans, according to experts. 

- Brown University agreed to restrictions on race-related admissions data and gender-affirming surgeries to unfreeze federal funds. 

Big Education Ape: Who Knew Jeffrey Epstein? Apparently, Nobody and Everybody—But Only for a Hot Minute https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/who-knew-jeffrey-epstein-apparently.html

Big Education Ape's article delves into Jeffrey Epstein's complex social connections, revealing a web of high-profile individuals who interacted with him while distancing themselves after his crimes surfaced. It highlights unsealed court documents from 2024 that list over 150 names, including political figures, celebrities, and business leaders. Despite speculation about a "client list," the DOJ refuted claims of blackmail or extensive conspiracies, emphasizing victim privacy. The article explores Epstein's dual life—one as an elite socialite and another as a predator—and examines the reluctance of his acquaintances to acknowledge their ties, driven by shame and fear of scandal.

### Key Points

- Jeffrey Epstein's social circle included politicians, celebrities, and business leaders, yet many deny deep connections after his crimes were exposed. 

- Unsealed court documents from 2024 revealed over 150 names linked to Epstein, including Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, Prince Andrew, Leslie Wexner, and others. 

- The DOJ dismissed theories of a "client list" or blackmail operation, citing victim privacy and lack of evidence. 

- Epstein's dual life—hobnobbing with elites while committing heinous crimes—added to the difficulty of untangling truth from speculation. 

- Ghislaine Maxwell and other close associates played pivotal roles in Epstein's operations, but many high-profile figures claim fleeting connections. 

Big Education Ape: TONITE'S BIG MEETING TO REWRITE THE SCRIPT FOR THE FAILING EPSTEIN FILES SEASON 3 PREMIERE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/tonites-big-meeting-to-rewrite-script.html 

The article discusses a chaotic meeting held at Vice President JD Vance’s residence on August 6, 2025, aimed at rewriting the narrative for the failing premiere of *The Epstein Files Season 3*. The meeting involved high-profile figures from the Trump administration brainstorming strategies to deflect attention away from controversial Epstein-related issues. The group considered various outlandish storylines, including conspiracy theories about RFK Jr. and Joe Biden, while focusing on shielding Trump’s reputation through carefully crafted distractions. Despite the creative efforts, the pressure from subpoenas and victims' advocates added complexity to the cover-up attempts.

### Key Points

- A meeting was held at JD Vance’s residence to rewrite *The Epstein Files Season 3* narrative amid its poor reception. 

- The goal was to distract from Epstein-related controversies, particularly Trump’s alleged involvement. 

- Outlandish ideas, such as RFK Jr.’s vaccine scandal and Biden being replaced by a bot, were proposed to divert public attention. 

- Susie Wiles suggested releasing Maxwell’s testimony selectively and pairing it with conspiracy rumors to shift focus. 

- The team faced challenges from subpoenas and advocacy groups demanding transparency regarding Epstein’s activities. 

Join us Friday at “Not Like Us”: I’ll be Singing During My Keynote – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/08/07/join-us-friday-at-not-like-us-ill-be-singing-during-my-keynote/ 

### Key Points

- The author will sing during their keynote at the "Not Like Us" Conference on August 8, 2025, at 11 a.m. Eastern, using music as a medium to connect history, resistance, and advocacy for African American education. 

- The keynote will incorporate themes from Kendrick Lamar’s GNX album to explore the struggles, victories, and ongoing work in African American education, emphasizing the importance of equity, advocacy, and ancestral connections. 

- The session aims to inspire attendees to act and view education as a vital, unfinished mural, blending music, movement, and truth to push for better schools for children. 

- The platform "Cloaking Inequity" publishes reflections and commentary on education, democracy, culture, and politics, inviting readers to subscribe for updates. 

Swipe Right?: Ask Why That Job Is Single – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/08/07/swipe-right-ask-why-that-job-is-single/

### Key Points

- The article compares job hunting to dating, emphasizing the importance of asking why a job is "single" before accepting it. 

- Jobs can be vacant for good reasons, such as growth or promotion, but might also signal toxic or unsustainable work environments. 

- Prospective employees should ask critical questions during interviews to uncover the role's history, leadership style, and support systems. 

- Patterns in workplace issues often persist unless changes have been made, highlighting the importance of identifying unhealthy cycles early. 

- Job seekers should evaluate whether a workplace offers clarity, structure, and partnership rather than just demanding performance. 

- Conduct thorough research on the job's history, reputation, and legal protections to avoid exploitation. 

- The best workplaces are nurturing, clear, and ready for commitment, aligning with the employee's values and ambitions. 

Network for Public Education Tracks a Charter School Sector in Decline https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/08/07/network-for-public-education-tracks-a-charter-school-sector-in-decline/ via @janresseger 

### Key Points

- The article discusses the decline of the charter school sector, highlighting slowed growth, increasing closures, and diminished public support. 

- The Network for Public Education's report identifies three indicators of decline: accelerated closures, slowed new openings, and debunked claims of overwhelming demand for charter school enrollment. 

- Federal funding for charter schools has grown significantly since 1994, reaching $500 million annually, but oversight remains poor, leading to abuse and scandals. 

- Ideological advocacy and lobbying by charter trade associations have fueled the sector's growth while resisting oversight and reforms. 

- The dominance of cyber-charters, which often lack accountability and face scandals, is contributing to the sector's challenges. 

- Examples of cyber-charter issues include inflated enrollment numbers and financial mismanagement, such as cases in Pennsylvania and California. 

glen brown: Expert reaction to RFK Jr cancelling $500m of funding for mRNA vaccines https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/08/expert-reaction-to-rfk-jr-cancelling.html 

The article discusses various topics including the cancellation of $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine research by RFK Jr, expert reactions to this decision, and the broader implications for vaccine development. It also touches on Glen Brown's writings, social issues, and cultural commentary, interspersed with reflections on political and environmental challenges.

### Key Points

- RFK Jr's decision to cancel mRNA vaccine funding sparked expert criticism, emphasizing the critical role of mRNA technology in combating pandemics and saving millions of lives during COVID-19. 

- Experts highlighted the importance of continued investment in vaccine development to prepare for future pandemics and improve vaccine safety and efficacy. 

- Glen Brown's blog features a wide range of topics, including politics, social justice, healthcare, environmental issues, cultural reflections, and personal musings. 

- The blog archives include discussions on historical events, literary works, and societal challenges, such as air quality alerts, political controversies, and global humanitarian crises. 

- Themes of resistance, isolation, and the writer's role in addressing oppression are explored through quotes and reflections. 

Teacher Tom: Our Superpower https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/08/our-superpower.html 

Our Superpower

### Key Points

- Modern humans increasingly live disembodied lives online, risking alienation and losing physical connections. 

- H.G. Wells' "The Invisible Man" highlights the dangers of isolation, which can lead to destructive behaviors. 

- Humans are inherently sociable, with emotions easily detectable, making interconnectedness our evolutionary advantage. 

- Neanderthals were more intelligent individually, but Homo sapiens thrived due to collective sociability. 

- Social isolation today contributes to fewer friendships, alienation, and loneliness, risking our adaptive strengths. 

- Senseless violence may stem from individuals trying to assert their existence due to prolonged isolation. 

- Early childhood education emphasizes physical presence and community, teaching children the value of connection and friendship. 

Schools Matter: Current DOJ Special Investigator, Jared Wise, Proved His Loyalty to Felon Over Constitution on J6 http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/08/current-doj-special-investigator-jared.html 

Exclusive NPR investigation reveals that Jared Wise, a former FBI agent and Jan. 6 defendant, is now a senior adviser at the Department of Justice under Trump's second administration. Video evidence shows Wise berating police during the Capitol riot, shouting "kill 'em" as rioters attacked officers. Despite his indictment for riot-related offenses, Wise's case was dismissed following Trump's order to halt all prosecutions related to Jan. 6. The administration has pardoned over 1,500 defendants, including violent offenders, and reshaped the DOJ to align with its narrative, raising concerns about the rewriting of history and the weaponization of law enforcement.

### Key Points

- Jared Wise, a former FBI agent and Jan. 6 defendant, was captured on bodycam footage urging rioters to "kill" police officers during the Capitol attack. 

- Wise's case was dismissed after Trump took office and ordered all Capitol riot prosecutions halted, calling them a "grave national injustice." 

- Wise now serves as a senior adviser at the DOJ, working on internal reviews of alleged "weaponization" of law enforcement. 

- Trump's administration pardoned over 1,500 Jan. 6 defendants, including violent offenders, and reshaped the DOJ to align with its narrative. 

- Concerns arise over the administration's actions, including hiring former defendants and dismissing cases, which critics argue rewrite the history of Jan. 6. 

Bibbidi Bobbidi What? – Accountabaloney https://accountabaloney.com/bibbidi-bobbidi-what/

### Key Points

- Florida's Personalized Education Program (PEP) vouchers allow homeschool families to use tax-funded savings accounts for diverse purchases, including backyard playsets, paddle boards, TVs, bicycles, and tickets to theme parks like Disney World. 

- The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney, a salon transforming children into princesses, qualifies as an "educational expense" under the category of "dress-up clothing," with packages reimbursed by PEP funds ranging from $99.95 to over $450. 

- Despite criticism from lawmakers and taxpayers regarding theme park spending, the nonprofit Step Up For Students approves such expenses with a statement of "educational benefit." 

- The article contrasts the funding flexibility for homeschool families with the resource constraints faced by Florida's public schools, which often request basic supplies from parents. 

Education Research Report: Excessive screen time among youth may pose heart health risks https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/08/excessive-screen-time-among-youth-may.html 

### Key Points

- Excessive screen time among youth is linked to higher cardiometabolic risks, including high blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin resistance, with insufficient sleep amplifying these effects. 

- A study in Denmark found that each additional hour of screen time significantly increased cardiometabolic risk scores in children and adolescents. 

- Sleep duration and timing influence the relationship between screen time and cardiometabolic risks, with shorter sleep duration partially mediating the association. 

- Researchers identified a "screen-time fingerprint" in blood metabolites, suggesting biological impacts of screen use and early signals of long-term cardiovascular risks. 

- Pediatricians could integrate screen habit discussions into broader lifestyle counseling, focusing on sleep and balanced routines to mitigate risks. 

- Observational study limitations include reliance on self-reported screen time and associations rather than causation. Future research may explore screen use before sleep and its effects on circadian rhythms. 

- Screen time among youth has increased significantly over time, with 18-year-olds averaging 6.1 hours daily compared to 3.2 hours for 10-year-olds. 

Trump's Proposed Budget Cuts $131 Million from Tennessee Schools, by @TheAndySpears https://open.substack.com/pub/theeducationreport/p/trumps-proposed-budget-cuts-131-million?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

### Key Points

- President Trump’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget would cut $131 million from Tennessee schools, equivalent to nearly 3,000 teachers. 

- The budget includes $12 billion in cuts to public education nationwide, affecting programs for vulnerable students like English learners, migrant students, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

- Tennessee lawmakers, including Sen. Marsha Blackburn and Rep. John Rose, have historically failed to oppose Trump-led funding cuts, raising doubts about their willingness to fight for fair funding. 

- Neighboring states like North Carolina and Kentucky have previously taken bold actions to counter Trump’s education policies, potentially setting an example for Tennessee leadership. 

- Gov. Bill Lee’s alignment with Trump policies has led to significant setbacks for Tennessee schools, including rejecting summer meal funds for children. 

Choosing Democracy: Trump Administration Returns to Family Separation Policies https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/08/trump-administration-returns-to-family.html 

### Key Points

- The Trump administration has reinstated a targeted version of family separation policies, focusing on migrant parents already in the U.S. who refuse deportation orders. 

- Officials claim there is no new policy, stating parents can stay with their children by leaving the country together. 

- Migrant parents separated from their children expressed deep anguish, with some blaming themselves for their decisions that led to their current situation. 

- A specific case highlighted involved a father from Russia who regretted bringing his family to the U.S. after facing separation due to his dissident status. 

We’re a captive audience in Trump’s tariff theater. CEOs are taking advantage of Trump’s unstable tariff policies to jack up the price tags on all consumer goods.. https://klonsky.substack.com/p/were-a-captive-audience-in-trumps 

### Key Points

- Trump's tariff policies are increasing costs for American consumers, with businesses passing the burden onto households, potentially raising annual expenses by $2,400 to $4,900 per household. 

- Many companies are exploiting the tariff confusion by using price optimization software to aggressively hike prices, benefiting corporate profits while consumers suffer. 

- Trump's tariffs on imports have risen dramatically, leading to lost trading partners, strained international relations, and retaliation from foreign nations like Spain, Switzerland, and India. 

- Spain and other countries are shifting away from U.S. defense dependence due to high tariffs and political tensions, further isolating the U.S. economically. 

- Trump's trade policies prioritize control and punishment over economic strength, leaving American consumers trapped in a closed-loop system with inflated prices. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-7-25

https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_01761624683.html

The article compiles various updates and discussions on education, politics, societal issues, and current events. Topics range from controversies in education reform, environmental concerns, and AI ethics to political developments and public health issues.

### Key Points  

- Excessive screen time among youth may pose heart health risks, linking higher use of electronic devices with cardiometabolic danger.   

- Columbia and Brown universities agreed to share applicant data, including race and test scores, with the Trump administration, raising concerns about suppressing diversity in admissions.   

- Voucher programs are criticized for benefiting affluent families, reducing public school funding, and showing poor academic outcomes. Public opinion consistently opposes vouchers.   

- Arizona's school choice program, including vouchers and charter schools, has harmed public education by straining budgets, closing public schools, and failing to improve academic outcomes.   

- A meeting at JD Vance's residence aimed to rewrite the narrative for *The Epstein Files Season 3*, focusing on deflecting controversies involving Jeffrey Epstein and Trump.   

- Libraries play a crucial role in combating misinformation and preserving intellectual freedom amid the rise of AI-driven distortion of knowledge.   

- Wildfire smoke has caused widespread air quality alerts across the U.S., with climate change contributing to increased wildfire frequency.   

- Teacher Tom advocates for freedom in childhood through play-based learning, linking it to mental well-being and essential life skills.   

- Criticism of the Trump administration includes policies that exacerbate income inequality, with calls for collective action to counter MAGA influence.   

- Georgia's "Distraction-Free Education Act" banning personal devices in schools is critiqued for burdening teachers and failing to address root causes of technology misuse.   

- Early results of Seattle School Board elections show clear front-runners in some districts, while others remain highly competitive with debates over endorsements and campaign dynamics.   

- Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools face criticism over equity issues, a costly lawsuit settlement, and systemic challenges in leadership and accountability.   

- Broader concerns include privatization of schools, election controversies, systemic inequities, and challenges in public education.   

- Christian nationalism and gerrymandering are highlighted as threats to democracy and public institutions.   

- Climate change's impact on the Great Salt Lake and broader ecological consequences are emphasized.   

- AI ethics and potential societal risks, such as self-preservation tactics, are discussed in relation to emerging technologies.