Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-26-25
8-26-25
Gary Rubinstein: KIPP Pulls a Fast One to Make The "U.S. News & World Report" List of "Best High Schools" https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/25/gary-rubinstein-kipp-pulls-a-fast-one-to-make-the-u-s-news-list-of-best-high-schools/ via @dianeravitch
A Letter to the Career Public Servants Tossed Out by DOGE https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/25/a-letter-to-the-career-public-servants-tossed-out-by-doge/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- William Burns writes a letter to ousted public servants, likening their dismissals to the McCarthy era and warning of the dangers of suppressing dissent.
- Burns criticizes the retribution-driven campaign disguised as reform, which has caused trauma and mistrust in government institutions.
- Comments highlight the severe impact on the VA, including staffing shortages, reduced healthcare quality, and privatization efforts.
Justice Department Pursues Personal Data on Trans Individuals https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/25/justice-department-pursues-personal-data-on-trans-individuals/ via @dianeravitch
- The article criticizes the Trump administration's focus on transgender youth medical care over pressing national issues like the economy and wars.
- The Justice Department has subpoenaed hospitals for sensitive data on transgender youth, including personal information and communications related to medical treatments.
- Subpoenas target providers in states both allowing and banning gender care for minors, aiming to investigate potential violations of civil and criminal statutes.
- Experts argue the government may be using investigative powers to target medical providers based on ideological disagreements rather than legal violations.
- Public reactions highlight concerns about privacy and constitutional guarantees amidst increasing restrictions on freedoms.
Who Are Those "Elderly White Hippies" Ridiculed by Stephen Miller? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/25/who-are-those-aging-white-hippies-ridiculed-by-stephen-miller/ via @dianeravitch
- Stephen Miller ridiculed protestors against fascism, labeling them as "elderly white hippies," sparking discussions on generational activism and the struggle of Baby Boomers in today's socio-economic climate.
- The blog highlights the declining prosperity of Baby Boomers compared to their parents and their vulnerability under current administration policies.
- Commenters criticize Miller's hateful rhetoric and fascist tendencies, drawing comparisons to historic authoritarian figures.
- Discussions emerge about the role of young people in opposing fascism, contrasting their activism with that of older generations.
- Visual evidence shows disguised elderly protestors participating in demonstrations, further challenging Miller's stereotypes.
Big Education Ape: TRUMP'S LAW & ORDER FEVER DREAM https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/trumps-law-order-fever-dream.html
### Key Points
- Trump’s fictional TV series, "Law & Order Fever Dream," portrays him as a crime-fighting hero, turning urban cities into theatrical backdrops for his political fantasies. The show is filled with staged and fake scenes involving actors, props, and CGI effects.
- The production exploits federal funds via a “Patriotic Entertainment” clause, while cities struggle with real problems like funding schools and infrastructure.
- The show is a distraction from Trump’s authoritarian tactics, such as consolidating power and replacing civil servants with loyalists. Critics argue it’s propaganda disguised as entertainment.
- Trump’s base enthusiastically supports the show, while local officials and critics condemn its impact on cities and its lack of authenticity.
- Spinoffs like "Pedophile Pursuit" further inflame conspiracy theories, despite lacking evidence and being labeled as ratings stunts.
- The series symbolizes Trump’s strategy of selling fantasies and ignoring real issues, with political analysts considering it a smokescreen for deeper governance problems.
Big Education Ape: Back to School: When August Hijacked September and Summer Got Short-Changed https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/back-to-school-when-august-hijacked.html
The article discusses the shortening of summer vacations in the U.S. due to earlier school start dates, particularly in August, and explores the historical, logistical, and practical reasons behind this trend. It reflects on the nostalgia for traditional post-Labor Day school starts and examines the trade-offs involved in this shift.
### Key Points
- The shift from post-Labor Day school starts to August openings has shortened summer vacations, causing nostalgia among older generations.
- Historically, summer vacations were introduced for practical reasons, including saving money and concerns about overexertion in students.
- Earlier school starts allow more instructional time for standardized test preparation, improve semester alignment, and provide more breaks throughout the year.
- Ending the school year before Memorial Day avoids the productivity drop seen in June and aids students with summer internships or college courses.
- Concerns about higher air-conditioning costs during August openings are largely offset by existing summer programs and maintenance needs.
- Some states like Michigan and Virginia preserve post-Labor Day starts, but August openings are the norm for most of the U.S.
Big Education Ape: THE RISE AND FALL OF EMPEROR DONALD I: A CAUTIONARY TALE OF DEMOCRACY UNHINGED https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-rise-and-fall-of-emperor-donald-i.html
The article is a satirical depiction of a dystopian future where Donald Trump declares himself Emperor Donald I, dismantling democracy and replacing it with authoritarian rule. It humorously outlines the absurd transformations in government, society, and economy under his regime, culminating in a rebellion that restores democracy.
### Key Points
- The satire imagines Trump renaming the White House to "Trump House" and declaring himself Emperor Donald I, abolishing the Constitution and replacing it with the 'Magna Trumpa.'
- Federal agencies are repurposed into Trump-centric operations, such as the Department of Education becoming "Trump University Annex" and ICE renamed as MASK.
- Social media and government systems are manipulated to suppress dissent and promote pro-Trump propaganda.
- The billionaire class pledges loyalty to Trump, taking on absurd titles and roles that further his authoritarian agenda.
- Resistance grows as citizens unite across political divides, leading to a rebellion against Trump’s regime.
- Trump is ultimately overthrown, democracy is restored, and reforms are implemented to prevent future authoritarianism.
Big Education Ape: DONALD TRUMP: THE BAD BOY OF HISTORY’S HALL OF INFAMY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/donald-trump-bad-boy-of-historys-hall.html
Donald Trump: The Bad Boy of History’s Hall of Infamy
### Key Points
- The article draws comparisons between Donald Trump and historical figures like Andrew Jackson, Millard Fillmore, Herbert Hoover, Grover Cleveland, and King George III, highlighting similarities in populism, nativism, outsider status, and authoritarian tendencies.
- Trump’s second term is portrayed as a blend of authoritarian tactics, controversial appointments, and divisive rhetoric, further solidifying his reputation as a polarizing figure in U.S. history.
- The article explores global parallels, likening Trump’s style to figures like Mussolini and Henry VIII, emphasizing his unique ability to remix historical traits with modern media mastery.
- Trump’s legacy is framed as a chaotic yet impactful phenomenon, blending elements of historical “bad boys” with his own brand of spectacle, defiance, and resilience.
Build the Base: Why the Courageous and Bold Must Organize – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/08/25/build-your-base-why-courageous-leaders-must-organize/
### Key Points
- Leadership roles advocating for justice often face backlash, requiring resilience and strategic organization to withstand opposition.
- Power is inherently contested when challenging the status quo, necessitating the creation of a supportive base rooted in shared values and trust.
- A base is a network of people who understand and support your values and actions, serving as a foundation during crises.
- Opposition to equity-focused efforts can be organized and systemic, making it vital to prioritize building community power.
- Building a base involves consistent, principled actions that foster trust and solidarity, ensuring support during challenging times.
- Even when systemic forces prevail, a strong base ensures your values and work endure beyond personal setbacks.
- Historical examples, like Steve Jobs, show how building belief and community can sustain influence beyond formal roles.
- Community action is essential for bending the moral arc toward justice, requiring steady and intentional effort.
Maybe People Like Dictators – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/08/25/maybe-people-like-dictators/
- Donald Trump openly suggested, “Maybe people like dictators,” highlighting the gradual normalization of authoritarianism through small escalations that erode democratic principles.
- Trump defended deploying National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., and hinted at public approval for dictatorship, while signing executive orders targeting cashless bail and flag burning to consolidate control.
- Authoritarian leaders often disguise their actions under terms like “common sense” or “law and order,” with Trump claiming he is not a dictator but a man with great common sense.
- Trump’s threats to send National Guard troops into Chicago against local leaders’ wishes represent federal occupation and an abuse of power, as noted by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago’s mayor.
- The ACLU criticized Trump’s bail order for entrenching inequality rather than improving safety, demonstrating his focus on power rather than crime.
- The normalization of authoritarian rhetoric, like musing about dictatorship, highlights how democracies decay through gradual excuses and desensitization.
- The article emphasizes the importance of vigilance in protecting democracy, accountability, and civil liberties, warning against complacency as authoritarianism advances.
- The author, Julian Vasquez Heilig, is a recognized civil rights advocate and scholar, using his platform to highlight issues of equity, justice, and the erosion of democratic values.
Private School Coupons Used for Diamonds, iPhones Arizona's Reverse Robinhood voucher scam https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/private-school-coupons-used-for-diamonds
- Arizona’s school voucher program has led to misuse of taxpayer funds, with wealthy families using vouchers meant for private school discounts to purchase luxury items like vacations, diamond rings, and iPhones.
- An investigation revealed widespread fraud and abuse, including purchases of Apple iPhones, smart TVs, gift cards, Kenmore appliances, and lingerie, funded by education tax dollars due to automatic approval of ESA voucher requests.
- Superintendent Horne’s policies have exacerbated the misuse, despite earlier concerns about taxpayer money being spent on gift cards.
- The article discusses broader issues in privatization schemes, highlighting how voucher systems can harm public education and disproportionately benefit wealthy families.
Teacher Tom: When the World is Ours to Shape https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/08/when-world-is-ours-to-shape.html
### Key Points
- Children engage with architecture in playful, exploratory ways, contrasting with adults' functional approach.
- Simon Nicholson's "Theory of Loose Parts Play" highlights the importance of freedom and interaction with environments to foster creativity and inventiveness.
- Early childhood professionals recognize the value of hands-on, manipulative learning environments filled with varied materials.
- The theory of loose parts extends beyond childhood, advocating for environments that promote creativity and self-governance for all ages.
- Teacher Tom emphasizes the need to question whether environments are stealing the fun and creativity from children.
Weekend Quotables Gov. Pritzker slams Trump’s Chicago threats: ‘We don’t play those games.’ https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-141
- Governor Pritzker criticized Trump’s threats to deploy federal forces in Chicago, calling them an authoritarian overreach and stating, “We don’t play those games.”
- Trump claimed Chicago citizens are asking for federal intervention, despite data showing a 30% decrease in violent crime in the city this year.
- Trump ordered three U.S. warships to Venezuela as part of his crackdown on Latin American drug cartels, which he labeled as foreign terrorist organizations. Venezuelan President Maduro encouraged citizens to join the Bolivarian Militia in response.
- Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned Trump’s proposal as a violation of the Constitution, stating the city does not require military occupation.
- Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot criticized Trump’s threats, referencing Chicago’s rejection of him in 2016 and calling his actions a distraction tactic.
- Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich advocated for extreme measures in Gaza, including cutting off resources to force surrender.
- U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene voiced opposition to U.S. taxpayer funding for Israeli military actions, calling them genocidal.
The Moral Famine A poem by Jesse Hagopian https://jessehagopian.substack.com/p/the-moral-famine
- The poem "The Moral Famine" by Jesse Hagopian critiques the moral decay of those in power, highlighting their greed and indifference towards human suffering, particularly the starvation of Gazans under siege.
- It uses vivid imagery to depict the emptiness of their justifications and slogans, contrasting their wealth with the physical and emotional starvation of the oppressed.
- The poem emphasizes the resilience and desire of Gazans to overcome the blockade and reclaim joy and sustenance.
- The article promotes Jesse Hagopian's publication "Teach Truth & Sing the Blues" and encourages readers to support his work through subscriptions.
Larry Cuban on School Reform and Classroom Practice: Whatever Happened to Detracking? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/whatever-detracking
- The article discusses the rise in 8th-grade algebra enrollment in the U.S. due to its perceived role as a gateway to higher math courses and college readiness.
- "Tracking" historically grouped students by ability and performance, creating separate academic paths such as college prep, general, and vocational tracks.
- "Detracking" emerged as a reform to provide equal access to advanced courses and reduce societal inequalities perpetuated by tracking systems.
- While detracking has improved access and performance for underachieving students without harming high performers, its effectiveness is mixed, with decisions often driven by values rather than research.
- Despite detracking reforms, tracking remains prevalent in U.S. schools, especially in math courses, while mixed grouping persists in other subjects like English and social studies.
CURMUDGUCATION: TX: Replacing Tests With More Tests https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/08/tx-replacing-tests-with-more-tests.html
### Key Points
- Texas plans to replace the STAAR test with three shorter tests under the Instructional Supportive Assessment Program.
- The new program is designed to serve 17 different purposes, but its effectiveness for all these goals is doubtful.
- The new system requires beginning-of-year, middle-of-year, and end-of-year assessments, potentially increasing test time and disrupting instructional time.
- Unrealistic deadlines for results and diagnostic reports raise concerns about feasibility.
- Lawmakers aim to increase rigor in grading schools and aspire for Texas to rank among the top five states within 15 years.
- The bill prohibits "practice" tests for grades already dealing with standardized tests but overall extends the influence of testing across the school year.
Schools Matter: Gov. Bill Lee: Punishing Poor Children and Lying About It http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/08/gov-bill-lee-punishing-poor-children.html
Schools Matter: "A child's learning is the function more of the characteristics of his classmates than those of the teacher." - James Coleman, 1972
- Tennessee Governor Bill Lee opted out of the Summer EBT program, which previously helped feed 700,000 schoolchildren, falsely claiming it was a pandemic-era initiative.
- Governor Lee argued the program was duplicative, despite evidence that existing summer meal programs only serve a fraction of eligible children and are often inaccessible due to scheduling and location.
- Families like Janice Cleveland's have been severely impacted, losing food assistance and struggling to afford basic necessities. Parents often skip meals to ensure their children can eat.
- Tennessee replaced Summer EBT with a limited program offering one-time $120 payments to 25,000 students in select counties, despite the cost of running Summer EBT statewide being similar. Critics called this approach inefficient and cruel.
Schools Matter: Jeffrey Epstein Survivor SLAMS RELEASE & Possible Pardons http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/08/jeffrey-epstein-survivor-slams-release.html
- The blog discusses the significant impact of poverty on education, arguing that it outweighs teacher quality in determining student success.
- It highlights the controversies surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's release and potential pardons, along with conservative media's avoidance of certain Epstein-related witnesses.
- Criticism is directed at voucher laws that allegedly enable corruption within the education system.
- Concerns about AI in education are raised, including the use of racist AI bots and the implications for teachers and students.
- The article references ongoing political issues, including Trump's refusal to release Epstein documents and his alleged fascist tendencies.
- A review of historical trends in testing and its role in education reform is included, touching on topics like No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and standardized testing.
Meeting Minutes Current and past minutes of the California State Board of Education (SBE). https://www.cde.ca.gov/be/ag/ms/index.asp
### Key Points
- The article lists finalized minutes for California State Board of Education meetings from 2002 to 2025, categorized by year and specific dates.
- Revised minutes for specific meetings are noted, such as corrections made to the March 11-12, 2020 meeting minutes.
- Related resources include SBE current and past agendas, meeting schedules, and webcasts.
- The article mentions trending items in meeting agendas and schedules, such as the SBE meeting for July 2025.
- Footer navigation provides links to broader California Department of Education (CDE) resources, including educational standards, programs, and initiatives.
LAW AND ORDER: TRUMP FEVER DREAM DC FEVER DREAM - COMING NEXT WEEK CHICAGO AND BALTIMORE https://ru4people.substack.com/p/law-and-order-trump-fever-dream
### Key Points
- Former President Trump stars in a fictional TV series, 'Trump Law & Order,' combining theatrics, politics, and absurdity.
- Episode 1 features Trump investigating the "disappearance of truth" in Washington, D.C., using unconventional methods like shouting "Fake news!" at random people.
- Episode 2 involves Trump addressing Hollywood's "crime wave," including actors refusing to star in movies about him, with dramatic stunts like a fake car chase.
- In Chicago, Trump targets deep-dish pizza, attempting to outlaw it while ignoring real crimes.
- Baltimore’s episode parodies 'The Wire,' with Trump addressing systemic issues vaguely and reenacting scenes inaccurately.
- Teasers for 'Trump vs. The Pedophiles' depict Trump fighting imaginary pedophile rings, appealing to conspiracy theorists.
- Critics argue the show distracts from Trump’s authoritarian tendencies, prioritizing entertainment over reality.
Here's Where Unity Wants Us We need to stand up to them. https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/heres-where-unity-wants-us
Here's Where Unity Wants Us We need to stand up to them
- Unity seeks to regain control of the Retired Teacher Chapter (RTC) by limiting motions, voting, and questions.
- Unity only opposed Medicare Advantage after losing an election, emphasizing the power of opposing them.
- Paraprofessionals gained attention and power by standing up to Unity, despite Unity's dismissive treatment, including firing a para-selected employee.
- Unity's promises during elections, like Medicare co-pay refunds and para raises, often fail or involve convoluted processes.
- Unity ridicules dissenters and prioritizes maintaining power, showing disrespect to retirees and paraprofessionals.
- Retaining real Medicare unites retirees across political spectrums, highlighting the need for loud and public opposition to Unity's policies.
- Unity opposes legislation like Intro 1096, which would secure Medicare rights and eliminate co-pays, showcasing their self-serving agenda.
- Unity's history includes imposing high health care costs on retirees and defending ageist behavior within its ranks.
- The RTC must actively oppose Unity to prevent further exploitation and maintain control.
Democracy on the Line: Gerrymandering, Trump, and the Fight for Representation https://www.changethelausd.com/democracy_on_the_line_gerrymandering_trump_and_the_fight_for_representation
### Key Points
- Trump’s GOP is accused of eroding democracy through gerrymandering and power grabs.
- MAGA supporters often dismiss the term "democracy," claiming the U.S. is a republic, but fail to acknowledge the democratic processes within a republic.
- Historical inequalities in representation, such as the three-fifths compromise and limited voting rights, challenge the ideal of “one person, one vote.”
- Gerrymandering manipulates district boundaries to favor political parties, often diluting minority voices. California established an independent redistricting commission to combat this.
- Critics of California’s redistricting argue it disadvantages Republicans, but the commission aims to prevent manipulation, not guarantee proportional representation.
- Texas Republicans have redrawn maps that violate the Voting Rights Act, further diluting minority representation and securing safe seats for Trump.
- California Democrats face pressure to adopt more partisan maps to counteract Republican efforts, risking the loss of fair representation ideals.
- Trump’s control of key government branches has led to actions undermining rights and freedoms, emphasizing the stakes of preserving democracy.
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-25-25
8-25-25