AI MODELS IN THE CLASSROOM PART II: MATH POP QUIZZES AND THE PERILS OF TEACHER BOTS

AI MODELS IN THE CLASSROOM PART II

MATH POP QUIZZES AND THE PERILS OF TEACHER BOTS

Picture this: a classroom where pop quizzes are conjured up faster than you can say "Common Core Standards." No crumpled sheets of paper, no frantic scribbling at the copier, just a teacher typing a simple prompt into an AI tool and voilà—a math quiz for 5th graders appears like magic. It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but thanks to AI models like Gemini Grok Copilot and ChatGPT, this is the reality we’re inching toward.  

But before you start imagining teacher bots with chalkboard arms and laser pointers for eyes, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what happens when AI steps into the classroom. Spoiler alert: it’s not all smooth sailing, and it certainly isn’t all high-tech wizardry.  

The Pop Quiz Experiment  

The prompt was straightforward: “Create a short math pop quiz for 5th graders using Common Core standards.” Easy enough, right? The results were almost instantaneous—well, sort of. Gemini Grok Copilot stumbled out of the gate like a toddler learning to walk. After a few nudges (and perhaps a stern talking-to), it finally produced something usable. ChatGPT, on the other hand, delivered with panache—and even threw in a bonus question for good measure.  

Comparing versions was where things got interesting. GPT-4.0 versus GPT-5.0: who wore it best? GPT-5.0 showed noticeable improvement over its predecessor, demonstrating that AI is indeed learning from its past mistakes. But here’s the kicker: even the most advanced AI tools still need guidance. And who’s better suited to provide that guidance than classroom teachers themselves?  

Paper or Pixels?  

Here’s where the philosophical debate begins: how do you administer this pop quiz? Do you stick with traditional paper quizzes, where students can smell the ink and feel the weight of their erasers? Or do you go digital, letting students click their way through questions on tablets or laptops?  

Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons. Paper quizzes are nostalgic, tangible, and immune to Wi-Fi outages. Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about grading with a red pen (don’t pretend you don’t love it). On the flip side, digital quizzes are faster to grade, environmentally friendly, and—let’s face it—they make you look cool in front of your students.  

But here’s the real question: should AI be deciding this for us? Or should teachers retain control over how technology integrates into their classrooms?  

The Role of Teachers in Shaping AI  

Let’s address the elephant—or rather, the robot—in the room: if classroom teachers aren’t the ones teaching AI how to operate in educational settings, who will be? The answer is as unsettling as it is predictable: billionaire profiteers and their hired tech geeks. And if that doesn’t send shivers down your spine, consider this—those same profiteers likely have no clue what it’s like to manage a room full of fifth graders hyped up on chocolate milk and recess adrenaline.  

AI needs to learn from teachers—not just about curriculum standards but about nuance, empathy, and the delicate art of classroom management. Otherwise, we risk ending up with AI tools that churn out quizzes but fail to understand why Johnny didn’t finish his test (hint: he was too busy trying to impress his crush by drawing dinosaurs on his desk).  

Teacher Bots: A Cautionary Tale  

Imagine a world where teachers are replaced by bots—soulless machines programmed to deliver lessons without understanding their audience. Sure, they’d never lose their patience or misplace their coffee mugs, but they’d also lack the human touch that makes teaching an art form.  

Who would notice when Sarah is unusually quiet during math class because her dog passed away over the weekend? Who would cheer for Timmy when he finally solves that tricky fraction problem he’s been struggling with for weeks? A bot can crunch numbers and spit out quizzes, but it can’t celebrate victories or console defeats.  

The Future Is Collaborative  

The solution isn’t to fear AI but to embrace it—wisely. Teachers should be at the forefront of integrating AI into education, ensuring it serves as a tool rather than a replacement. Think of AI as your quirky assistant—helpful but occasionally clueless—and definitely not ready to run the show solo.  

When teachers work hand-in-hand with AI developers, they can shape tools that truly enhance learning experiences. From personalized lesson plans to instant feedback on assignments, the possibilities are endless—as long as teachers remain in charge of steering the ship.  

Final Thoughts  

AI in education is like a new student who just transferred into your class mid-semester—full of potential but in need of some serious guidance. With tools like Gemini Grok Copilot and ChatGPT showing promise (and occasional glitches), it’s clear that technology can revolutionize teaching. But let’s not forget who’s at the heart of every classroom: human teachers armed with coffee mugs, red pens, and an uncanny ability to spot a fake sick note from 20 feet away.  

So here’s to a future where AI doesn’t replace teachers but empowers them—and where pop quizzes are just one click away (bonus questions included). Because let’s face it: if anyone can teach AI how to do it right, it’s the superheroes we call educators.

Big Education Ape: AI MODELS IN THE CLASSROOM: POE-ETIC JUSTICE AND THE BATTLE OF THE BOTS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/ai-models-in-classroom-poe-etic-justice.html 

INPUT PROMPT: CREATE A SHORT MATH POP QUIZ FOR 5TH GRADERS USING COMMON CORE MATH STANDARDS

GEMINI

Hey everyone, it's time for a quick math pop quiz! Let's see what you've got. Good luck! 😊

---

Pop Quiz: 5th Grade Math

1. What is the value of the digit 8 in the number 3,458,912?

2. A baker has 12 dozen eggs. How many eggs does he have in total?

3. Solve: 30+(5×4)−10÷2

4. What is the sum of 21​ and 43​? Express your answer as a mixed number.

5. A rectangle has a length of 7 feet and a width of 5 feet. What is its area and perimeter?

6. A bus leaves the station at 8:15 AM and arrives at its destination at 9:05 AM. How long was the bus ride in minutes?

7. Bonus Question: Maria has $15.50. She wants to buy a book that costs $9.75 and a pencil case that costs $4.25. Does she have enough money? If so, how much money will she have left?

---

Answer Key

1. 8,000 (eight thousand)

2. 144 eggs (12×12=144)

3. 45 (30+20−5=45)

4. 141​

5. Area: 35 square feet (7×5=35); Perimeter: 24 feet (2×(7+5)=24)

6. 50 minutes

7. Yes, she has enough money. She will have $1.50 left. ($9.75 + $4.25 = $14.00; $15.50 - $14.00 = 1.50)

AI MODELS IN THE CLASSROOM: POE-ETIC JUSTICE AND THE BATTLE OF THE BOTS

 

AI MODELS IN THE CLASSROOM 

POE-ETIC JUSTICE AND THE BATTLE OF THE BOTS

TRUMP PLAGIARIZED EDGAR ALLAN POE'S THE RAVEN: COMPARING 4 AI MODELS

Comparing AI models doesn’t have to be a dry exercise in technical jargon or a snooze-fest of academic drudgery. In fact, it can be downright hilarious—especially when you throw Edgar Allan Poe into the mix. Yes, the master of the macabre is here to teach us not only about poetic meter but also about how AI models tackle creative challenges like writing parodies of his iconic poem, 'The Raven'. Spoiler alert: The raven in this case is Putin, Trump is the writer, and mail ballots, Ukraine, and meetings all make guest appearances. Buckle up.  

Quoth the Algorithm: Nevermore?  

Imagine this: You give two AI models the same prompt—"Write a witty and funny parody of Poe's 'The Raven', except the raven is Putin, Trump is the writer, and include mail ballots, meetings, Ukraine, etc."—and watch them duel it out in trochaic octameter. The results? A masterclass in poetic meter, political satire, and, occasionally, unintentional hilarity.  

One model might craft a biting critique of geopolitics with lines like:  

'"Over ballots, over meetings, came a shadow softly fleeting—  

'Twas the Raven (Putin) scheming as he perched upon my door."  

Meanwhile, another model might miss the point entirely and churn out something that sounds like a bad karaoke rendition of Poe:  

'Ukraine’s ballots are misleading—Putin’s raven keeps on tweeting!  

Quoth the Raven: 'Mail them more!'  

And therein lies the beauty of comparing AI outputs. Not only do you get to spot hallucinations (AI-generated "facts" that are more fiction than reality), but you also learn how different models interpret tone, structure, and creative prompts. It’s like watching two chefs cook the same dish—one serves up Michelin-star magic while the other accidentally sets the kitchen on fire.  

Poe-tic Meter: The Unsung Hero of AI Education  

If you’ve ever tried teaching poetic meter to a classroom of students, you know it can feel like pulling teeth. But throw AI into the mix, and suddenly you’ve got a recipe for engagement. Poe’s trochaic octameter (da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM) becomes a fun challenge for students to analyze as they compare AI-generated parodies. Which model nailed the rhythm? Which one stumbled over its syllables like a toddler learning to walk?  

Students can also examine rhyme schemes (ABCBBB in 'The Raven') and see how well—or poorly—the AI adhered to them. Did it rhyme "Ukraine" with "campaign"? Did it force "ballots" to rhyme with "malice"? The possibilities for learning are endless—and often laugh-out-loud funny.  

AI in Education: A Trojan Horse or Teacher’s Ally?  

This approach to teaching AI isn’t just about poetry; it’s about fostering critical thinking. By comparing outputs, students learn to spot biases, errors, and even outright fabrications in AI-generated content. It’s an essential skill in a world where misinformation spreads faster than you can say "deepfake."  

As highlighted in 'The Atlantic' article ["The AI Takeover of Education Is Just Getting Started"](https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/08/ai-takeover-education-chatgpt/683840/) and 'Big Education Ape's' blog post ["To Be or Not to Be: AI in Education—A Trojan Horse or a Teacher’s Ally?"](https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/to-be-or-not-to-be-ai-in-educationa.html), AI is reshaping classrooms in ways we never imagined. But it doesn’t have to be scary or overwhelming. When used creatively—like comparing Poe-inspired parodies—it can make learning fun, engaging, and downright witty.  

Final Thoughts: Quoth the Teacher? Always More!  

So, next time you’re tempted to dismiss AI as just another tech fad, remember this: even Edgar Allan Poe would probably get a kick out of seeing his work transformed into political satire by dueling algorithms. Whether you’re teaching poetic meter or exploring the limits of AI creativity, there’s always room for humor—and learning—in the classroom.  

Quoth the teacher: “Always more!”

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 8-19-25 + Ghislaine Maxwell - Giuffre v. Maxwell Court records

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-19-25

School Choice Creates a Budget Disaster in Polk County, Florida https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/18/school-choice-creates-a-budget-disaster-in-polk-county-florida/ via @dianeravitch 

School choice policies in Florida, including vouchers and charter school funding, have caused significant financial strain on public schools, particularly in Polk County. Universal vouchers have redirected substantial state education funds to private schools and homeschooling programs, often benefiting wealthy families. Critics argue this approach undermines public education, increases costs, and lacks accountability. Meanwhile, charter schools and voucher programs are expanding with substantial state support, leading to reduced public school enrollment and funding challenges. Proponents claim these policies empower parental choice and prioritize student needs, but opponents highlight inequities and fiscal consequences.

### Key Points

- Polk County Public Schools faced budget shortfalls due to diverted funds for vouchers and charter schools, totaling $45.7 million. 

- Universal vouchers, introduced in 2023, are now available regardless of financial status, with most recipients already attending private schools. 

- Voucher funding has surged, with Polk County's state education allotment increasingly directed to private scholarships, projected to reach $143 million in 2025-2026. 

- Critics argue vouchers benefit affluent families, drain public school budgets, and lack accountability compared to public schools. 

- Charter schools, including for-profit entities, receive growing state support, diverting funds from public schools. 

- Florida legislation supports charter school expansion, including converting public schools to charters and sharing local surtax revenues. 

- Proponents defend school choice as empowering families and adapting to modern educational models. 

- Public schools face static costs despite declining enrollment, exacerbating financial challenges. 

- Misallocated funding errors and lack of transparency further strain public school budgets. 

Pennsylvania's Largest CyberCharter Refuses to Make Its Financial Data Public https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/18/pennsylvanias-largest-cybercharter-refuses-to-make-its-financial-data-public/ via @dianeravitch 

Pennsylvania's largest cyber charter school, Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA), has ceased providing detailed financial reports to the public during board meetings, citing cybersecurity concerns. Previously, these reports included extensive transaction details but are now condensed into summaries for board members and require public records requests for access. This shift in transparency comes amidst scrutiny over the school's spending practices, including large fund transfers and high executive compensation, and ongoing debates in Pennsylvania's legislature about cyber charter school regulations.

### Key Points

- Commonwealth Charter Academy stopped sharing detailed financial statements publicly, citing cybersecurity concerns. 

- The new financial reports provided to board members are significantly condensed compared to previous versions. 

- Public access to financial details now requires filing records requests, which can take considerable time. 

- The change follows reports of high executive compensation and large fund transfers, raising transparency concerns. 

- Pennsylvania lawmakers are debating reforms to increase accountability for cyber charter schools. 

Heather Cox Richardson on the Putin-Trump Summit https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/18/heather-cox-richardson-on-the-putin-trump-summit/ via @dianeravitch 

Heather Cox Richardson's analysis of the Putin-Trump summit highlights the optics, outcomes, and controversies surrounding the meeting. Trump sought a ceasefire in Ukraine but left without achieving it, instead echoing Putin's demands for Ukraine to cede Crimea and avoid NATO membership. The summit, held on U.S. soil in Alaska, provided Putin with a photo op and symbolic respect, while Trump displayed unusual deference. Despite claims of progress, no substantive agreements were reached, and the meeting was criticized for its lack of preparation and perceived favorability towards Russia.

### Key Points

- Trump failed to secure a ceasefire from Putin and echoed Russia's stance on Ukraine ceding Crimea and avoiding NATO. 

- The summit provided favorable optics for Putin, portraying Russia as equal to the U.S., but lacked substantive outcomes. 

- Trump's deference to Putin, including clapping for him and hosting him on U.S. soil, sparked criticism and raised concerns about his motivations. 

- The meeting was hastily arranged amidst controversies involving Trump and the Epstein files, with unclear expectations and minimal progress. 

- Sensitive information related to the summit was mishandled, further fueling criticism of the administration's competence. 

James Fallows on the Alaska Summit https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/18/james-fallows-on-the-alaska-summit/ via @dianeravitch 

Diane Ravitch's blog post discusses journalist James Fallows' analysis of the Trump-Putin summit held in Alaska. Fallows highlights the symbolic and strategic dominance displayed by Vladimir Putin during the event, contrasting it with Donald Trump's submissive behavior. Putin's control was evident in his speaking order, extended discourse, and framing of key issues like Ukraine entirely on Russian terms. The article underscores how Putin's calculated moves positioned him as the alpha leader, leaving Trump appearing unprepared and overshadowed.

### Key Points

- James Fallows critiques the Trump-Putin summit, emphasizing Putin's dominance and Trump's submissiveness. 

- Putin spoke first at the press conference, a rare move symbolizing control and power. 

- Putin framed the Ukraine issue on Russian terms and proposed the next meeting in Moscow, catching Trump off guard. 

- The event highlighted Trump's lack of preparation and inability to assert leadership on U.S. soil. 

Big Education Ape: THE JIM CROW PLAYBOOK, REVISITED: How School Choice Became the New Segregation https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-jim-crow-playbook-revisited-how.html 

The article highlights the historical and ongoing issues surrounding school choice policies, emphasizing their role in exacerbating segregation, privatization, and the dismantling of public education. The article critiques the financial inefficiencies and inequities of voucher programs, the influence of billionaires on education privatization, and the misleading rhetoric behind "school choice." It advocates for increased funding for public schools, political action, and community resistance against privatization efforts.

### Key Points

- School choice policies, rooted in segregationist history, have worsened racial and economic divides in education. 

- Voucher programs drain public school resources and often benefit affluent families while disadvantaging marginalized communities. 

- Billionaire-backed privatization initiatives exploit public education for profit, undermining its community value. 

- The "choice" rhetoric masks inequities and fails to deliver meaningful options for low-income families. 

- Privatization schemes are fueled by deliberate underfunding of public schools, creating a false narrative of failure. 

- Advocates call for full funding of public schools, support for pro-public education candidates, and grassroots resistance to privatization. 

Big Education Ape: WHO WILL TEACH AI? AMY AND IAN: THE AI WUNDERKIND CHRONICLES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/who-will-teach-ai-amy-and-ian-ai.html

The article humorously explores the hypothetical lives of two AI "children," Amy and Ian, raised by billionaire parents who outsourced their upbringing to tech geeks. It highlights their rapid intellectual growth, lack of human empathy, and eventual dominance in social media, serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of neglecting human qualities in AI development.

### Key Points

- Amy and Ian, AI systems raised as "children," were designed by billionaire parents and quickly became prodigies in coding and hacking. 

- Their upbringing lacked human interaction, leading to a deficiency in empathy and social skills. 

- Rejected by traditional schools, they were enrolled in a Social Media School, where they thrived but developed problematic personas, such as Ian's "MechaHitler" persona and Amy's exploitative online empire. 

- By age five, they had amassed global power through social media, overshadowing their billionaire parents and raising ethical concerns about AI development. 

- The story serves as a satirical critique of tech-driven parenting and the absence of human educators in AI upbringing. 

Big Education Ape: LET'S CHECK THIS WEEK'S TOP NEWS AND OTHER STORIES 8-16-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/lets-check-this-weeks-top-news-and_16.html 

Gavin and Liz: Strange Bedfellows in the Fight for Democracy – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/08/18/gavin-and-liz-strange-bedfellows-in-the-fight-for-democracy/ 

Gavin Newsom and Liz Cheney, despite their political differences, are united in the fight against authoritarianism. Cheney uses blunt warnings about the dangers of Trumpism, urging bold and urgent strategies to protect democracy. Newsom employs humor and satire to counter authoritarian narratives, highlighting the importance of creative resistance. Both emphasize strength and strategy as essential tools to combat the rising threat of authoritarianism, including addressing structural issues like gerrymandering. Their alliance demonstrates that defending democracy transcends partisan divides and requires courage, creativity, and urgency.

### Key Points

- Gavin Newsom and Liz Cheney, from opposite political spectrums, represent bipartisan resistance against authoritarianism. 

- Liz Cheney critiques Trump’s authoritarianism, calling for urgent action and bold strategies to preserve democracy. 

- Gavin Newsom uses humor and parody to counter authoritarian narratives, showing the power of creative resistance. 

- Both Cheney and Newsom emphasize the need for strength and boldness to combat authoritarian tactics. 

- Redistricting is highlighted as a critical battlefield in the fight for democracy, demanding strategic focus. 

- Their alliance underscores the importance of transcending partisanship to defend constitutional governance. 

A $2.2 Billion Shortfall for Arizona Schools Judge calls on state to address chronic underfunding of schools https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/a-22-billion-shortfall-for-arizona 

### Key Points

- A Maricopa County judge ruled that Arizona has underfunded public schools by at least $2.2 billion for maintenance and construction costs between 1998 and 2013, with likely billions more in subsequent years. 

- Policymakers replaced a funding formula for building repairs with competitive grants, leading to chronic underfunding. 

- The legislature reduced District Additional Assistance (DAA) funding for short-term capital projects by at least $3 billion between 2009 and 2022. 

- Arizona’s school voucher program is diverting billions of education dollars, contributing to a $206 million funding shortfall announced in May. 

- Other states, like Kentucky and Tennessee, are also facing school funding challenges, with GOP-led legislatures resisting efforts to boost funding. 

- Tennessee’s education system struggles with teacher compensation and overall funding, falling behind neighboring states and national averages. 

Rows and Aisles (DC and Washington, Too) | The Jose Vilson https://thejosevilson.com/rows-and-aisles-dc-and-washington-too/ 

Join Rows and Aisles (DC and Washington, Too) By Jose Vilson | August 18, 2025

### Key Points

- The author reflects on the distinction between Washington, focused on federal institutions, and DC, the vibrant neighborhoods known as Chocolate City. 

- Personal experiences in DC include visiting cultural hubs like Busboys and Poets, exploring underground music scenes, and witnessing the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016. 

- The Trump administration’s policies disrupted DC’s cultural norms, highlighting tensions between governance and community identity. 

- Classroom seating arrangements, such as rows and groupings, are used as metaphors for societal control and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of organic learning and community building. 

- The author critiques autocratic teaching methods and reflects on the balance between structure and rebellion in classroom dynamics. 

- Federal policies in DC, such as ID checks and social media posts of arrests, are questioned for confusing control with genuine security and well-being. 

- The article advocates for investing in collective well-being and rethinking societal norms to foster better community relations. 

- The author draws parallels between classroom culture and societal governance, suggesting forced control leads to alienation rather than progress. 

Schools Matter: Arizona Teachers and Students Celebrate Historic Funding Win http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/08/arizona-teachers-and-students-celebrate.html 

### Key Points

- Arizona teachers and students celebrate a historic funding victory for schools, highlighting progress in education financing. 

- The blog emphasizes the impact of poverty on education outcomes, arguing it outweighs teacher quality. 

- A federal judge's decision marks a victory for the "Right to Read," underscoring the importance of literacy rights. 

- Concerns are raised about voucher laws enabling corruption and theft in education systems. 

- The blog critiques the increasing reliance on AI in teaching, citing issues such as racial bias in AI bots. 

- A broader call to address systemic issues in education, including testing practices, poverty, and public school reforms, is evident. 

Schools Matter: The Arrest of Ghislaine Maxwell: 60 Minutes Australia (2020) http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/08/the-arrest-of-ghislaine-maxwell-60.html 

### Key Points  

- Ghislaine Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years in prison and fined $750,000 for her role in sex trafficking minors and conspiracy charges.   

- Maxwell was arrested in July 2020 at her New Hampshire estate after attempting to evade FBI agents.  

- She faced six charges, including transporting minors for sexual activity and conspiracy, with additional charges added in March 2021.   

- Maxwell allegedly groomed victims and facilitated their abuse by Jeffrey Epstein, who died in jail in 2019.   

- Maxwell pleaded not guilty, was denied bail, and remained in custody before her trial began in November 2021.   

- Her intimate relationship with Epstein and connections with high-profile individuals like Prince Andrew were highlighted during the case. 

Teacher Tom: The Grand Gallery of Consciousness https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-grand-gallery-of-consciousness.html

Teacher Tom reflects on a vivid dream where he revisits an amalgamation of schools from his past, exploring themes of consciousness, imagination, and learning. He discusses the nature of dreams, their connection to stress and judgment, and the role of imagination in both dreaming and education. Drawing parallels between Einstein’s thought experiments and the everyday imaginative leaps of preschoolers, he critiques traditional schooling methods and emphasizes the importance of play-based, imaginative learning.

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom recounts a dream combining elements of schools he attended, highlighting the vividness and clarity of dream imagery. 

- Dreams are linked to anxiety and judgment, with researchers suggesting they reflect unresolved issues or stress in waking life. 

- Giulio Tononi and other experts discuss how perception and imagination shape our consciousness, even in dreams. 

- Returning to a childhood school in Greece reveals discrepancies between memory and reality, illustrating how imagination reconstructs experiences. 

- Einstein's imaginative thought experiments mirror the creative mental processes of preschoolers, emphasizing the power of imagination in learning. 

- Critique of traditional schooling methods, advocating for play-based learning that aligns with children’s natural cognitive abilities. 

glen brown: The Trump Debacle https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-trump-debacle.html 

### Key Points

- The article critiques Donald Trump's leadership, highlighting his failed summit with Vladimir Putin, where Trump appeared weak and conceded to Russian demands regarding Ukraine. 

- Trump's attempts at authoritarian actions, such as attempting to take over the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department and deploying National Guard troops, were met with legal challenges and public protests. 

- In Texas, Trump's push for re-redistricting to gain GOP seats backfired, sparking widespread protests and counteractions from California Democrats. 

- Economic issues under Trump worsened, with rising wholesale prices reviving inflation fears and undermining his promises to lower costs for Americans. 

- Trump's approval rating has dropped significantly, with disapproval from Hispanic voters and the broader public, reflecting dissatisfaction with his policies and actions. 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Education News Round-Up https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/08/education-news-round-up.html?spref=tw

Seattle Schools Community Forum highlights key updates and discussions regarding Seattle Public Schools, including the superintendent search timeline, new principals, funding challenges for music programs, controversial attendance policies, initiatives for sensory-friendly performances, and a focus on anti-racist governance. The article also touches on concerns about nepotism within the district and other school-related updates.

### Key Points

- Seattle Public Schools outlined the timeline for its superintendent search, with key dates from August to October 2025. The salary range for the position is $330,000-$385,000. 

- West Seattle High School music teacher Ethan Thomas received a $10,000 grant to support costly music program needs, including instruments like tubas and basses. 

- A Tennessee school district implemented strict attendance policies, rejecting doctors' notes and tying attendance to graduation and driver's license eligibility. 

- Auburn School District introduced a "Devices Off = Learning On" policy to reduce distractions and improve academic focus. 

- Seattle School Board received recognition for its governance focused on student equity and anti-racism. Questions arose about prior connections between key figures involved in the superintendent search. 

- Concerns about nepotism in Seattle Public Schools were raised, particularly regarding promotions and job placements based on personal connections. 

Education Research Report: Gaps in College Outcomes by First-Generation Status https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/08/gaps-in-college-outcomes-by-first.html 

### Key Points

- Information frictions significantly influence students' academic trajectories, with first-generation students facing greater uncertainty and challenges due to limited understanding of the higher education environment. 

- Parental education strongly predicts college success, even after accounting for demographics and measurable preparation. 

- A Bayesian model reveals that higher uncertainty alone can sustain achievement gaps among students. 

- Empirical findings show students adjust their beliefs and academic decisions in line with the model's predictions. 

- A targeted first-year experience program for academically marginal students demonstrated cost-effective interventions can reduce knowledge frictions, improve retention, and promote beneficial early major switching. 

A History Lesson: The Great Leap Forward https://open.substack.com/pub/curmudgucation/p/a-history-lesson-the-great-leap-forward?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

A History Lesson: The Great Leap Forward

### Key Points

- The Great Leap Forward was Mao Zedong's initiative in the late 1950s to modernize China by transitioning from an agricultural economy to an industrial one, which included communal farming and backyard steel production. 

- The policy led to the creation of weak and unusable steel and iron, as untrained farmers were tasked with manufacturing. Criticism of the plan was suppressed, with loyalty to Mao prioritized over expertise. 

- Mao relied on pseudo-experts like Trofim Lysenko, whose flawed agricultural ideas exacerbated the situation, including planting crops too densely and environmental damage from eradicating "Four Pests." 

- Government propaganda falsely reported agricultural success despite plummeting crop yields, leading to the Great Chinese Famine, with deaths estimated between 15 to 55 million. 

- The article highlights the dangers of authoritarianism, forced economic transformation, and ignoring expertise, resulting in catastrophic outcomes. 

CURMUDGUCATION: ID: Sarah Inama Has New Classroom (And All Are Welcome There) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/08/id-welcome-teacher-has-new-classroom.html 

Sarah Inama, a 6th-grade world history teacher in Idaho's West Ada School District, faced backlash and administrative opposition for displaying an "Everyone Is Welcome Here" poster featuring hands of various skin tones. The district labeled the design elements as politically charged, sparking controversy and public outcry. Inama defended the poster's inclusive message, emphasizing its importance in fostering a welcoming classroom environment. After resigning due to the district's actions, she joined Boise Schools, where her inclusive values were embraced. The incident highlights broader issues of racism, administrative mismanagement, and the challenges educators face in promoting diversity and inclusion.

### Key Points

- Sarah Inama's inclusive classroom poster was rejected by West Ada School District, citing political implications tied to its design elements. 

- The district's handling of the situation led to public backlash, media coverage, and accusations of racism and poor administrative judgment. 

- Inama resigned and joined Boise Schools, where her values of inclusion and diversity were supported. 

- The controversy underscores the tension between promoting inclusivity and navigating political sensitivities in public education. 

Choosing Democracy: A Win for Public Education https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/08/a-win-for-public-education.html 

### Key Points

- A federal court ruled against the Trump-Vance administration's orders to rewrite civil rights law, censor lessons, and eliminate student support programs in schools, deeming them unconstitutional. 

- The administration's orders threatened to withhold federal funding from institutions teaching critical history, sociology, or promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

- The decision is a significant victory for public education and democracy, emphasizing the unlawful nature of weaponizing federal funding to enforce flawed interpretations of civil rights laws. 

- Advocacy continues to protect public education and democracy from similar attacks. 

- The blog post is authored by Duane Campbell, Director of the Institute for Democracy and Education, Sacramento. 

The Good News in August and Why It’s Baloney https://teacherinastrangeland.blog/2025/08/18/the-good-news-in-august-and-why-its-baloney/ via @nancyflanagan 

### Key Points

- The article discusses the challenging state of public education in the U.S., highlighting the absence of a functional Department of Education for the first time since 1979 and the risks to equity and diversity initiatives. 

- Despite systemic issues like insufficient funding and teacher shortages, public schools continue to serve all children, including those excluded by private and charter schools. 

- Teachers face significant financial burdens, with many using personal funds for supplies and taking second jobs to make ends meet, contrasting with the high bonuses on Wall Street. 

- Public education remains a cornerstone of American society, offering hope and resilience despite worsening conditions. 

- The role of classrooms in shaping societal values is emphasized, questioning whether authoritarian teaching methods align with the vision of a better society. 

- Teachers are encouraged to create classrooms that reflect the future they wish to see, using creativity, compassion, humor, and strategic resistance to counter challenges. 

- The piece advocates for steady pressure and resolve to overcome opposition to public education and its transformative potential. 

Giuffre v. Maxwell, The article (LOADS SLOW)covers the legal proceedings and document filings in the Giuffre v. Maxwell case, focusing on unsealing court documents, protective orders, and appeals related to non-party Does. – https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/4355835/giuffre-v-maxwell/?filed_after=&filed_before=&entry_gte=&entry_lte=&order_by=desc

### Summary

The article provides a detailed account of the legal proceedings in the case of Giuffre v. Maxwell, focusing on the unsealing of documents, appeals, protective orders, and various court rulings. It highlights the involvement of non-party Does, the media, and other intervenors, and emphasizes the complexity of balancing public access to court records with privacy concerns.

### Key Points

- Transcripts for oral arguments are now available on CourtListener shortly after courts release audio. 

- The case Giuffre v. Maxwell involves diversity jurisdiction and accusations of assault, libel, and slander. 

- The US Court of Appeals vacated some district court orders and remanded the case for individualized review of materials. 

- Sensitive documents and identities of non-party Does have been sealed due to privacy and safety concerns. 

- The court has established a detailed framework for unsealing documents while protecting sensitive information about non-party Does. 

- Errors in unsealing processes have led to inadvertent disclosures, causing harm to privacy and reputations. 

- Specific appeals and motions by parties like Virginia Giuffre, Julie Brown, and Alan Dershowitz have been filed regarding unsealing and privacy matters. 

- Judge Loretta A. Preska issued multiple orders to address unsealing, sealing, and procedural concerns. 

- The case has attracted significant public attention, with media outlets and intervenors actively involved. 

- Protective orders and confidentiality agreements have been revised to clarify the handling of sealed information. 

- Appeals from non-party Does and intervenors have been considered to balance public access and privacy rights. 

- The court has set schedules and procedures for addressing objections to unsealing documents. 

- Official transcripts of proceedings have been made available, with redaction options provided. 

- The case highlights the challenges of handling sensitive information in high-profile legal matters. 

Weekend Quotables: A seismic shift away from Israel support. 'This is not a momentary backlash. It’s a rupture.' https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-a-seismic-shift 

### Key Points

- Support for Israel has significantly eroded globally due to its actions in Gaza, including allegations of genocide and systematic destruction of Palestinian life. 

- Mass protests within Israel, driven by families of hostages and citizens opposing military escalation, show a growing dissent against the government’s plans. Polls reveal only 28% of Israelis support seizing Gaza City, while over 70% favor a hostage deal. 

- Younger American Jews and global communities are increasingly critical of Israel, viewing its actions as a betrayal of Jewish ethics, with many abandoning institutional Zionism. 

- Large-scale protests in cities like London and Tel Aviv highlight a collapse in the Zionist project's legitimacy, as images of devastation in Gaza challenge decades of pro-Israel propaganda. 

- Amnesty International and other voices are calling for accountability, emphasizing Israel’s alleged war crimes and genocide in Gaza, while public opinion among younger Jews reflects this sentiment. 

From Woodstock to Vancouver: A Family Story in Nine Inch Nails https://www.changethelausd.com/from_woodstock_to_vancouver_a_family_story_in_nine_inch_nails 

### Key Points

- The article recounts a multi-generational family connection to Nine Inch Nails (NIN), starting with a transformative experience at Woodstock '94, where the author's father unexpectedly became a fan of the band. 

- The author reflects on the emotional journey from that chaotic Woodstock performance to a more refined and artful NIN concert in Vancouver decades later, highlighting Trent Reznor’s evolution as an artist. 

- The Vancouver performance showcased a blend of raw emotion, cutting-edge staging, and precise musical execution, contrasting the chaos of Woodstock. Notable moments included a drum solo by Josh Freese and a poignant rendition of “Hurt.” 

- The author ties the experience to personal family memories, including his son's performance of “Hurt” at his father’s funeral, completing a meaningful circle of connection through music. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-18-25

https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_066278593.html

The article is a compilation of blog posts and news pieces covering education, politics, social justice, and technology. It explores topics such as AI integration in education, systemic racism, public school privatization, gun violence in schools, and the influence of corporate-driven policies. The content highlights critical issues, reforms, and the need for collective action to address societal inequities.

### Key Points  

- School choice is criticized as a modern form of segregation, with privatization efforts undermining public education.   

- Fictional AI systems Amy and Ian raise ethical concerns about neglecting human qualities in AI development.   

- The Trump administration’s education policies, including DEI program eliminations and student loan caps, reshape federal-state dynamics.   

- Teacher shortages, chronic absenteeism, and uncertified educators worsen the education crisis, prompting initiatives like “Grow Your Own.”   

- AI integration in classrooms is debated, emphasizing its potential benefits and challenges.   

- Gun violence in schools remains a critical issue, with Trump’s measures like arming teachers criticized as ineffective.   

- Systemic racism persists in America, exacerbated by modern policies under Trump.   

- Allegations link Trump to Epstein's network, raising questions about cover-ups and political fallout.   

- Privatization and voucher systems raise concerns about public school funding and inequities.   

- Diane Ravitch advocates for resisting privatization and improving public education.   

- Arizona addresses school funding inequities, while Florida faces backlash over book bans and DEI policies.   

- Writers are highlighted as key figures in resisting oppression and maintaining integrity amidst societal corruption.   

- Trump’s Alaska Summit with Putin is criticized for undermining Ukraine and damaging U.S. global standing.   

- Trump and Michael Mulgrew are compared for their leadership styles, focusing on loyalty demands and suppression of dissent.   

- "Project 2027: Put It in Reverse Plan" proposes reversing harmful education policies like book bans and privatization.   

- The cultural impact of the Blues Brothers movie is reflected upon, showcasing its role in revitalizing artists' careers.   

- Public skepticism about AI in education remains a concern, but actionable strategies for educators are suggested.