Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-15-25
Federal Judge Overturns Ban on DEI https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/14/federal-judge-overturns-ban-on-dei/ via @dianeravitch
A federal judge has overturned a Trump administration ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in schools and colleges, ruling that the Education Department violated procedural requirements when threatening to cut federal funding for institutions continuing DEI initiatives. The case involved memos that expanded the interpretation of a Supreme Court decision to prohibit race-based preferences in all aspects of education. Critics argued the guidance constituted government censorship and created fear among educators, while proponents framed it as combating discrimination.### Key Points
- A Trump-appointed judge overturned the administration's ban on DEI programs, citing procedural violations by the Education Department.
- The memos targeted race-based decision-making in admissions, financial aid, hiring, and other academic practices, threatening penalties for violations.
- The ruling followed a lawsuit by the American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association, who argued the policies were unclear and censored constitutionally protected speech.
- Critics labeled the memos as illegal government censorship, while supporters argued they addressed discriminatory practices against certain groups.
RFK Jr. Cancellation of Vaccine Research Was "the Most Dangerous Public Health Decision," Says Expert https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/14/rfk-jr-cancellation-of-vaccine-research-was-a-dangerous-decision-says-public-health-expert/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points- Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. canceled $500 million in federal funding for mRNA vaccine research, a decision criticized by public health experts as dangerous, particularly given mRNA's pivotal role in combating COVID.
- Michael Osterholm labeled the cancellation as the most dangerous public health decision ever made, highlighting its implications for vaccine development speed and safety concerns among skeptics.
- The Trump administration's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative coincides with a study showing a decline in U.S. children’s health across key indicators since 2007.
- Blog comments criticize political leadership for undermining public health and social services, emphasizing disparities in wealth and health.
- The blog includes discussions on various topics like education reform, public health, and political decisions.
New Hampshire: Vouchers Are Costly Subsidy for Mostly Affluent Families https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/14/new-hampshire-vouchers-are-costly-subsidy-for-mostly-affluent-families/ via @dianeravitch
New Hampshire's universal voucher program, initially promoted as a way to help low-income families access better educational opportunities, has primarily benefited affluent families whose children were already enrolled in private or religious schools. The program's costs have far exceeded initial estimates, drawing funds from the Education Trust Fund and jeopardizing public school funding. Critics argue that the lack of accountability and transparency in the program's administration undermines public education while disproportionately subsidizing private institutions.### Key Points
- New Hampshire's voucher program benefits mostly affluent families, not the low-income students initially targeted.
- The program's costs have exceeded projections, with funding diverted from public schools and other educational programs.
- Over 80% of voucher recipients were not previously enrolled in public schools, questioning the program's impact on public education.
- Religious schools are the primary beneficiaries of voucher funds, raising concerns about taxpayer money supporting private institutions.
- Critics demand greater accountability and transparency in the program's administration, as errors and lack of oversight have been reported.
Why Jess Piper is a Star https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/14/why-jess-piper-is-a-star/ via @dianeravitch
Jess Piper, a former English teacher from rural Missouri, has emerged as a prominent advocate for progressive politics in red districts. Despite running in an unwinnable district, she has raised significant funds, mobilized grassroots efforts, and leveraged social media to challenge the status quo. Piper criticizes both Republicans and Democrats for their "crab mentality," where individuals or parties hinder others' progress. She highlights issues like the defunding of public schools, attacks on marginalized groups, and the need for Democrats to support rural candidates to broaden their base.### Key Points
- Jess Piper, a former teacher, became a political activist in rural Missouri, organizing and encouraging Democrats to run in red districts.
- She uses the "crab in the bucket" analogy to describe political and societal behaviors that prevent progress, especially criticizing the GOP's policies on education and civil rights.
- Piper also critiques Democrats for not supporting grassroots candidates like herself, recounting her challenges in running for office in a heavily Republican district.
- Despite the odds, Piper raised significant funds, engaged with her community, and used social media to amplify her campaign, highlighting the importance of showing up in rural areas.
- She calls for unity and mutual support among Democrats to combat internal divisions and foster progress.
Timothy Snyder: When Donald Meets Vlad https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/14/timothy-snyder-when-donald-meets-vlad/ via @dianeravitch
Timothy Snyder critiques Donald Trump's meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, highlighting its implications for U.S. foreign policy and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Snyder argues that Trump’s concessions to Russia weaken the global order and embolden aggression while failing to achieve meaningful peace. Trump’s approach, driven by fantasies of diplomacy and personal recognition, contrasts sharply with Putin’s calculated strategy of war and manipulation, leaving the U.S. in a precarious position.### Key Points
- Trump meets Putin in Alaska, excluding Ukraine and European representatives, signaling concessions to Russia.
- Snyder describes Trump’s foreign policy as based on fantasy, ineffective bullying, and empty promises.
- Russia’s atrocities in Ukraine include invasions, kidnappings, and mass murders, driven by Putin’s vision of dominance.
- Trump’s concessions, such as meeting Putin and ignoring war crimes, undermine justice and encourage further aggression.
- Putin manipulates Trump’s desire for recognition, offering vague promises while continuing attacks on Ukraine.
- Trump’s failure to secure an unconditional ceasefire highlights the limits of his approach and the need for decisive U.S. policy.
Richard Haass: Trump Has Already Rewarded Putin https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/14/richard-haas-trump-has-already-rewarded-putin/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Richard Haass, a seasoned diplomat, critiques the upcoming Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska, highlighting it as a victory for Putin, who has been internationally isolated due to war crimes in Ukraine.
- The meeting excludes Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy, raising concerns about land swaps that could reward Russian aggression and compromise Ukraine’s security.
- Haass warns that any ceasefire without strong security assurances for Ukraine may embolden Putin, who views such pauses as opportunities for further aggression.
- The U.S. Vice President’s statement about ending Ukraine war funding undermines efforts to pressure Putin through continued support and sanctions.
- Haass fears Trump may side with Putin, propose a deal to Zelenskyy, and blame Ukraine if the deal is rejected, potentially cutting U.S. aid to Ukraine.
- The White House is downplaying expectations for the meeting, calling it a “listening exercise,” which Haass sees as preferable to a bad deal.
Big Education Ape: WHILE SIDESHOW DON PLAYS TOUGH GUY IN DC, OUR SCHOOLS REMAIN SITTING DUCKS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/while-sideshow-don-plays-tough-guy-in.html
Big Education Ape: The article critiques the lack of meaningful action on school safety amidst recurring gun violence. It highlights the release of chilling details from the 2022 Uvalde school shooting, the inefficacy of measures like arming teachers, and the political distractions under Trump’s administration. The focus is on the urgent need for comprehensive gun reform and accountability to prevent future tragedies.
### Key Points
- Gun violence in schools remains a pressing issue, with the 2022 Uvalde shooting exposing systemic failures in response and prevention.
- Trump’s proposed school safety measures, such as arming teachers, are criticized as impractical and ineffective.
- Mental health initiatives and gun reform efforts were undermined during Trump’s administration, despite evidence supporting their effectiveness.
- Trump's federal takeover of Washington, DC’s police force is labeled as political theater, distracting from the real issue of gun violence.
- The article stresses the need for stricter gun control measures, such as universal background checks and assault weapon bans, to address the root causes of school shootings.
Big Education Ape: The President Wears a Sheet: A Tale of Racism’s Relentless Reboot in America https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-president-wears-sheet-tale-of.html
The article explores the persistent issue of racism in America, tracing its roots from historical events like the Compromise of 1877 to modern manifestations under leaders such as Donald Trump. It examines systemic racism embedded in U.S. presidential policies, the illusion of progress during pivotal civil rights milestones, and the resurgence of racial divides in recent years. Despite setbacks, the article highlights hope through demographic shifts and activism aimed at combating inequality.
Businesses and Schooling in Arlington (VA)–Part 2 https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/08/14/businesses-and-schooling-in-arlington-va-part-2/ via @CubanLarry
Larry Cuban reflects on the relationship between businesses and public schools during his tenure as superintendent in Arlington County, Virginia, from 1974-1981. He describes the extensive involvement of local businesses in schools through vocational programs, adult education, and various partnerships. Cuban also highlights tensions between business values and educational priorities, particularly regarding school budgets and programs for non-English speaking students. He contrasts the motivations of educators and business professionals while acknowledging the two-way exchange between careers in education and business. Additionally, he notes the evolution of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, which shifted from adversarial positions to a more collaborative role in supporting schools.### Key Points
- Businesses in Arlington were deeply involved in schools through vocational programs, adult education, and workplace training initiatives.
- The Chamber of Commerce often opposed budget increases, teacher salary raises, and bilingual programs, creating tensions with school officials.
- Cuban highlights the differing values of education and business, emphasizing the public accountability of schools versus profit-driven motives in businesses.
- Some individuals transition between careers in education and business, reflecting shared values and risks.
- Cuban critiques the increasing influence of marketplace values in public schools, which goes beyond visible reforms like charter schools or testing.
- The Arlington Chamber of Commerce evolved into a more supportive entity, backing school bond issues, scholarships, and workforce development programs.
Widespread Tax Cuts Eviscerate the Social Contract https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/08/14/widespread-tax-cuts-eviscerate-the-social-contract/ via @janresseger
Widespread tax cuts at state and federal levels are undermining public institutions, particularly education and social services, by reducing funding and shifting financial burdens to local governments. This trend threatens the social contract and disproportionately harms vulnerable populations, including children, while benefiting the wealthy.### Key Points
- Tax cuts in states like Wyoming, Iowa, Missouri, and Nebraska have led to severe funding shortfalls for public schools and essential services.
- Many public school districts, such as Chicago and others in Illinois, are underfunded and unlikely to meet adequacy targets by 2027 due to insufficient state support.
- Ohio's tax policies harm poor children by cutting funding for food, healthcare, and education, with state contributions to public school funding projected to decline further.
- Federal tax legislation (HR1) exacerbates the issue by cutting programs for low-income families and shifting costs to already strained state budgets.
- Federal funding delays for schools caused disruptions nationwide, affecting summer programs, staffing, and planning for the school year.
- The broader assumption driving tax cuts is that collective goods should not be publicly funded, placing undue burdens on local taxpayers and eroding public trust in institutions.
Whataboutism: How Truth is Distorted to Defend the Indefensible – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/08/14/whataboutism-how-truth-is-distorted-to-defend-the-indefensible/
The article critiques the use of "whataboutism," a rhetorical tactic employed by the right wing to deflect criticism by pointing to unrelated or minimally related issues. It highlights how this approach undermines accountability, distorts truth, and fosters authoritarianism. The author discusses specific examples of attacks on academic freedom, such as book bans, curriculum censorship, and political intimidation, and contrasts these systemic actions with misrepresented claims like the "Twitter Files." The article calls for rejecting false equivalency and embracing nuanced, principled dialogue to counteract the erosion of democracy and truth.### Key Points
- The right wing employs "whataboutism" to deflect criticism, using unrelated accusations to drown out meaningful debate.
- Examples include attacks on academic freedom, such as book bans, speech censorship, and curriculum manipulation under Trump-aligned leadership.
- The "Twitter Files" do not substantiate claims of government censorship, serving instead as a distraction from systemic authoritarian actions.
- "Whataboutism" creates false equivalency, erodes accountability, and fosters intellectual nihilism, making it harder to confront injustice.
- The Trump movement uses education as a battleground to control narratives, suppress pluralism, and weaponize state power against freedom.
- The article advocates for rejecting deflection tactics, focusing on truth, and demanding principled leadership to counter authoritarian creep.
glen brown: "This isn’t just about protecting Trump, it’s about protecting the system that lets Epstein thrive" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/08/this-isnt-just-about-protecting-trump.html
### Key Points- The article explores Donald Trump's documented ties to Jeffrey Epstein and highlights the broader systemic cover-up involving high-ranking officials, media figures, and enablers.
- It discusses the actions of Pam Bondi, Alex Acosta, and the Department of Justice in suppressing Epstein-related evidence and their roles in shielding powerful individuals.
- The narrative emphasizes the coordinated effort to protect not just Trump but the entire network that thrives on secrecy and exploitation.
- Public backlash is growing, even among Trump supporters, as evidence of the cover-up continues to emerge.
- The blog post critiques the broader cultural, financial, and judicial systems that enable such scandals to persist.
Teacher Tom: The Price of Hurrying https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-price-of-hurrying.html
The article reflects on the excitement and wonder of two young girls experiencing their first flight, contrasting their enthusiasm with the routine detachment of adult travelers. It explores the broader implications of how modern conveniences, such as air travel and structured schooling, strip away the sensory and embodied experiences that foster genuine connections and understanding. The author argues for play-based and experiential learning, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the world in meaningful, tactile ways.### Key Points
- The author shares a story of two sisters' excitement during their first flight, highlighting the contrast between their fresh perspective and adults' detached routines.
- Modern travel and technology have eliminated the embodied experiences of time and space, leading to sensory and muscular atrophy.
- The author compares travel to structured schooling, noting how both prioritize efficiency at the expense of deep, meaningful connection and understanding.
- Play-based and experiential learning is advocated as a way to foster genuine engagement and connection with the world.
- The blog encourages supporting play-based education and offers resources like favorite posts and books.
A bewildered Trump heads to Alaska to make deals with Putin. It’s not diplomacy—it’s dealmaking at the edge of empire. https://klonsky.substack.com/p/a-bewildered-trump-heads-to-alaska
### Key Points- Trump and Putin are set to meet at a summit in Alaska, with Trump mistakenly referring to the location as Russia. The symbolism of Alaska, once Russian territory, is significant for both sides.
- The summit is framed as a "listening exercise," but Trump hinted at potential land swaps and ceasefire agreements, while Putin aims to solidify territorial gains and prevent Ukraine from joining NATO.
- The meeting highlights the proxy nature of the Ukraine conflict, with Ukraine facing critical shortages of infantry, leaving non-combat personnel to hold the line. Zelensky was excluded from the summit due to his likely opposition to any land swap deal.
- The article suggests that peace will only come when those perpetuating the conflict decide to cut their losses, and it pessimistically predicts political doom for Zelensky.
Schools Matter: Taking Stock of What Tennesseans Will Lose From Republican Budget http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/08/beginning-to-take-stock-of-what.html
Schools Matter: Impact of Republican Budget Cuts on Tennessee ### Key Points
- Tennessee's lone Democratic Congressman, Steve Cohen, opposed Republican-backed budget cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and Obamacare, as well as tax cuts favoring the ultra-wealthy.
- The Republican budget is estimated to increase the national debt by $4.1 trillion over the next decade, while providing $300,000 annual tax breaks to the top 0.1% of earners.
- Drastic cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other programs will lead to severe consequences for Tennesseans, including the closure of nine rural hospitals, loss of health insurance for 243,037 residents, and SNAP benefits for 130,000 households with school-age children.
- The article advocates for electing Bo Mitchell, a Democrat, to replace retiring Republican Mark Green, emphasizing his personal connection to healthcare issues and his commitment to representing working Tennesseans.
Education Research Report: Print wins over digital for preschoolers learning to read https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/08/print-wins-over-digital-for.html
Print Wins Over Digital for Preschoolers Learning to Read ### Key Points
- Simple, hands-on activities like writing letters and spotting words in daily life are most effective for building early reading skills.
- Preschoolers who played more literacy games, both digital and analog, scored lower on early reading assessments.
- Print-focused activities consistently predicted stronger early literacy skills for all children studied.
- Shared book reading was beneficial only for children without speech and/or language impairments.
- Digital learning tools should be used as supplements rather than primary teaching methods.
- Everyday interactions with print, such as spotting letters on signs or encouraging writing, are key for early literacy development.
CURMUDGUCATION: CO: Failed Charter Accountability https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/08/co-failed-charter-accountability.html
### Key Points
- Colorado Skies Academy's abrupt closure reflects broader issues in charter school accountability, wasting family resources and taxpayer money.
- The Network for Public Education revealed significant federal funding waste in charter schools, with one-fourth of funds lost to fraud and mismanagement.
- Charter authorizers, responsible for oversight, often face conflicts of interest, such as financial incentives or political influence, weakening accountability.
- Colorado's Charter School Institute (CSI) prioritizes expanding charter schools over enforcing accountability, leading to fragmented oversight and school collapses.
- The "Visionary CEO" model and market-driven ideology enable amateur operators to run schools without adequate oversight, harming students and taxpayers.
- Stronger accountability measures, similar to those used for magnet and CTE schools, could protect students and families while fostering innovation.
The Continuing Purge by UFT Leadership (From the Union Matters mail bag) https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/the-continuing-purge-by-uft-leadership
The Continuing Purge by UFT Leadership### Key Points
- The article discusses the erosion of democracy within the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) under the UNITY caucus and its leader, Michael Mulgrew, highlighting authoritarian practices that prioritize power over member representation.
- Five respected UFT employees, including David Kazansky, were removed from their positions without cause, signaling a message to staff to conform or face dismissal. This move is seen as a consolidation of power by UNITY leadership.
- David Kazansky, a well-regarded advocate with decades of service, was among those purged despite his significant contributions to UFT initiatives like school safety and anti-bullying programs.
- The purges are framed as a threat to union solidarity, transparency, and due process, undermining trust and effective representation for members.
- The article calls for accountability, transparency, and leadership that prioritizes fairness and member advocacy over authoritarian control.
The article is a comprehensive roundup of various topics, including critiques of Donald Trump’s policies, educational reforms, systemic racism, AI in education, marriage trends, mental health challenges among autistic students, and school safety. It highlights the ongoing challenges in democracy, public education, and societal equity while advocating for reforms and collective action to address these issues.
### Key Points
- Richard Haass criticizes Trump for rewarding Putin and undermining U.S. diplomacy.
- A new MSU study shows preschoolers learn better with hands-on activities than digital tools.
- Becky Pringle highlights the devastating impact of Trump’s tax bill, cutting food assistance and leaving millions of children hungry, which affects their ability to learn.
- Trump orders a review of Smithsonian museums to remove "unpatriotic" exhibits, sparking concerns over censorship and historical erasure.
- Nancy Bailey advocates reforms like smaller class sizes, arts programs, and less reliance on technology to improve public schools.
- Gun violence in schools remains critical, with Trump’s measures like arming teachers criticized as ineffective.
- Racism persists in America, with systemic issues rooted in historical policies and exacerbated under Trump’s administration.
- AI is automating coding tasks, necessitating a shift in education priorities towards creativity and ethics.
- The Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason is critiqued for stifling imagination, which is vital for children’s learning.
- Asthma emergencies spike when schools reopen, especially in disadvantaged neighborhoods, due to environmental factors.
- Rising education levels are linked to falling marriage rates, influenced by economic and cultural shifts.
- Autistic college students face higher rates of anxiety and depression, necessitating tailored mental health support.
- Trump’s authoritarian actions, including federal overreach and suppression of dissent, pose a threat to democracy.
- A $6.5 million settlement in Nashville schools raises concerns over leadership accountability and resource allocation.
- Voucher laws in Texas enable corruption and misuse of public funds in private schools.
- Trump’s freeze on school funds caused bipartisan outrage, emphasizing the importance of public education.
- Seattle School Board elections highlight voter engagement and concerns over nepotism in leadership.
- SPS hosts engagement sessions to improve Highly Capable services and foster collaboration.
- Faith-based movements are seen as a counter to Trump’s misuse of religion for harmful policies.
- DEI frameworks are defended as essential for equity in education, despite growing opposition.
- Trump proposed a permanent military force to suppress protests, raising concerns about authoritarianism.
