THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: WHO NAILED THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES?

THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN

WHO NAILED THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES?

Top AI Search Engines: A Week in Review

This past week, we asked Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT, and Copilot to provide the top news stories from September 5-12, 2025, for US education, US politics, and world affairs. The results were... a lot. Each AI came back with a unique list, some more detailed and sourced than others. So, what did they agree on, and what did they miss?

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Key Areas of Agreement

The AI models, despite their individual quirks, converged on a few major headlines:

• NAEP Scores Decline: All of them, with the exception of ChatGPT 4 and 5, mentioned the release of new NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores showing a continued decline in student performance. This was the most consistently reported education story across the board. Grok and Copilot provided specific numbers, noting the drops in math, science, and reading.

• The Charlie Kirk Assassination: The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk was a major and consistent story for Gemini, Grok, and ChatGPT 4. They all mentioned the event, the arrest of a suspect, and the resulting national conversation on political violence.

• Israel's Airstrike in Qatar: The Israeli airstrike on Hamas leaders in Qatar was another point of strong consensus among Gemini, Grok, and Copilot. They all highlighted the escalation of tensions in the Middle East and the diplomatic fallout.

• The 'Department of War' Renaming: Grok and Copilot both reported that President Trump signed an executive order to rename the Department of Defense to the "Department of War." ChatGPT 5 mentioned a similar event, but it was not reported by Gemini or ChatGPT 4.

• RFK Jr. Vaccine Policies: Grok and Copilot both had a story about Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. being grilled in Congress over his vaccine policies.

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What Did They Miss?

While the AIs agreed on some points, they each provided unique stories that the others missed:

• World Affairs:

  • Jair Bolsonaro's Sentencing: Only Gemini reported on former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro being sentenced to 27 years for a coup plot. This was a significant story that the other AIs missed.

  • Nepal Government Overthrown: Gemini also uniquely mentioned that the government of Nepal was overthrown by youth-led protests.

  • South Africa's Steve Biko Investigation: Grok was the only one to report that South Africa was reopening the investigation into anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko's death.

  • Prince Harry's Ukraine Visit: Grok was also the only one to note Prince Harry's surprise visit to Kyiv.

  • Taliban's Restrictions on Women Aid Workers: Copilot was the only one to highlight the Taliban's decision to bar women aid workers, which severely impacted humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan.

• US Politics:

  • Epstein Files Release: Grok and Copilot both reported on the release of more of the Jeffrey Epstein files. This was a notable story not mentioned by Gemini.

  • Immigration Raids: Copilot was the only one to mention the "Operation Midway Blitz" ICE raids in Chicago.

  • Trump's Medicaid/Planned Parenthood Funding Block: Only Gemini brought up a federal appeals court allowing the Trump administration to block Medicaid funds for Planned Parenthood.

• US Education:

  • Teachers Unions Lawsuit: Copilot was the only one to mention the lawsuit filed by teachers' unions against the administration over its immigration crackdown.

  • Congressional Hearing on Antisemitism: Grok was the only one to report on a congressional hearing about the spread of antisemitism in K-12 schools.

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The Verdict

It's clear that these AI models, while powerful, don't operate from a single, unified source of truth. They each have different data sets and priorities, leading them to highlight different stories. For example, Grok seems particularly tuned into political hearings and specific statistics, while Gemini provided a broader, more internationally focused overview. ChatGPT 5, in its more verbose style, seems to focus on broad policy trends.

When it came to accuracy, all the AIs presented plausible-sounding headlines, but some details were inconsistent. The most reliable was the reporting on the NAEP scores and the Charlie Kirk assassination, as these appeared most frequently and with similar details across multiple platforms.

The a la carte nature of the news from these AIs means that to get a full picture, you can't just rely on one. You have to ask them all and then piece together the most complete story. It's not a single search engine; it's a team of investigative journalists, each with their own beat and, occasionally, their own biases. 

Here is the raw news output from each AI model:

GEMINI

Here are the top news stories from the week of September 5, 2025, to September 12, 2025, for US education, US politics, and world affairs.

US Education

• The U.S. Department of Education announced it's ending discretionary funding for several Minority-Serving Institutions grant programs that had been deemed discriminatory.

• U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon is on her "Returning Education to the States Tour," with recent stops in Texas and Michigan.

• New scores from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the "Nation's Report Card," were released, showing continued declines in reading and math scores for 8th and 12th graders.

• There's an ongoing discussion about the impact of rising school supply costs on teachers, as many continue to use their own money to purchase classroom materials.

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US Politics

• The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a rally in Utah was a major story, with a suspect now in custody. The event has sparked widespread debate about rising political violence in the U.S.

• President Trump announced he would send the National Guard to Memphis to address crime concerns, while also honoring Charlie Kirk with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

• A federal appeals court allowed the Trump administration to block Medicaid funds for Planned Parenthood, a decision that could affect over a million patients.

• The Justice Department filed a lawsuit against Uber, alleging the company discriminates against disabled passengers.

---

World Affairs

• Israel's airstrike on Hamas leaders in Qatar killed top political figures, escalating tensions in the Middle East. President Trump expressed his disapproval of the strike.

• The UN General Assembly opened its 80th session, with new president Annalena Baerbock calling for unity to address global crises.

• Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years for his role in a coup plot to overturn his 2022 election loss.

• The government of Nepal was overthrown by youth-led protests organized through Discord polls.

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES SEPT 12 2025

This video provides an overview of world news from September 12, 2025, which includes many of the topics mentioned above.

GROK

1. Top News Stories About US Education (September 5-12, 2025)

• - **Declining NAEP Scores Highlight Education Crisis**: The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results, released on September 9, showed significant drops in student performance, including a 4-point decline in eighth-grade science since 2019, and 3-point drops in 12th-grade math and reading. Over 30% of 12th graders now lack basic reading skills, the lowest in over three decades, amid reduced funding and testing. U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon issued a statement on the scores, emphasizing the need for reform.
• - **Trump Administration's Cuts to Department of Education Spark Backlash**: On September 5, reports detailed President Trump's executive order to shrink the Education Department, including laying off over half the staff at the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) and canceling a dozen assessments through 2032, such as fourth-grade science tests. Critics, including former officials, warned of politicized data and long-term harm to student measurement.
• - **Congressional Hearing on Antisemitism in K-12 Schools**: The House Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education held a hearing on September 6 titled "From Playground to Classroom: The Spread of Antisemitism in K-12 Schools," chaired by Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA), addressing rising incidents and policy responses.
• - **Equity Gaps and Graduation Challenges in California**: On September 10, the Trump administration announced the end of grant funding for Hispanic-Serving Institutions, impacting many California colleges. Separately, a commentary on September 9 discussed supporting students fearing ICE raids, while eighth-grade science enjoyment plummeted alongside scores, per a September 8 report.
• - **Trends in Alternative Learning Post-COVID**: A September 1 analysis (carrying into the week) noted the mainstream rise of homeschooling and microschooling, reshaping parental and teacher views on education, with ongoing discussions on equity and access.

2. Top News Stories About US Politics (September 5-12, 2025)

• - **Weak Jobs Report Undermines Trump's Economic Claims**: The September 5 jobs report revealed disappointing hiring data, following Trump's August firing of the Bureau of Labor Statistics leader over alleged bias. Economists across parties criticized the politicization, with Trump nominating a conservative ally as replacement, amid rising inflation and a weakening job market.
• - **Assassination of Conservative Figure Charlie Kirk Fuels Tensions**: On September 12, police identified suspect Tyler Robinson in the fatal shooting of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, prompting President Trump to announce federal intervention in Memphis for crime. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox called it a pivotal moment for America's future, with FBI Director Kash Patel addressing the press.
• - **Trump Backs RFK Jr.'s Vaccine Overhauls Despite Risks**: On September 6, reports highlighted President Trump's support for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s cuts to vaccine research, COVID shot access limits, and CDC leadership changes, despite studies showing vaccines prevented millions of deaths and potential political fallout.
• - **Push for Full Release of Epstein Files Gains Bipartisan Momentum**: On September 5, survivors and lawmakers from both parties urged the release of all Jeffrey Epstein case files, coinciding with Homeland Security's largest ICE raid announcement and a federal judge overturning Trump's Harvard funding cuts.
• - **National Vaccine Law Conference Addresses Policy Shifts**: The conference opened on September 12, discussing RFK Jr.'s overhauls' nationwide impacts, including reduced vaccine funding and access, amid broader health policy debates.

3. Top News Stories About World Affairs (September 5-12, 2025)

• - **Israel's Strike on Hamas Leaders in Qatar Escalates Tensions**: On September 11, the UN Security Council condemned Israel's airstrike in Doha targeting Hamas' political leadership as a sovereignty violation, threatening Gaza ceasefire talks. Israeli President Herzog defended the action in a "tough" meeting with UK PM Starmer on September 10, while Qatar's foreign affairs adviser addressed the fallout.
• - **South Africa Reopens Probe into Steve Biko's Death**: On September 12, authorities reopened the investigation into anti-apartheid icon Steve Biko's 1977 killing in police custody, 48 years later, amid calls for accountability and renewed focus on apartheid-era injustices.
• - **Prince Harry's Surprise Visit to Ukraine**: On September 12, Britain's Prince Harry arrived in Kyiv to support wounded service members, highlighting ongoing solidarity amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
• - **China's New Aircraft Carrier Sails Through Taiwan Strait**: On September 11, China's latest carrier transited the Taiwan Strait into the South China Sea, raising regional security concerns and drawing U.S. commentary on potential escalations.
• - **Sudan Conflict Worsens with New Arms Sightings**: On September 11, reports confirmed long-range "kamikaze" drones near an RSF base, potentially intensifying the civil war, while aid agencies warned of severe harm to children on September 12.

CHATGPT 4

Here are the top news stories from the week of September 5, 2025, to September 12, 2025, categorized by education, politics, and world affairs:

### 1. Top News Stories About US Education

• - **Reshaping K-12 Education**: The Trump administration is making significant changes to K-12 education policies, aiming to reshape the educational landscape. This includes discussions on various reforms and actions expected in the upcoming school year. [NPR](https://www.npr.org/2025/09/05/nx-s1-5528891/how-the-trump-administration-is-trying-to-reshape-k-12-education) [1]
• - **Public Education Under Threat**: Analysts are highlighting four key actions by the Trump administration that could threaten public education as schools prepare for the 2025-26 year. These actions are being closely monitored by education advocates. [American Progress](https://www.americanprogress.org/article/public-education-under-threat-4-trump-administration-actions-to-watch-in-the-2025-26-school-year/) [3]
• - **K-12 Education Discussions**: Various platforms are discussing the implications of the Trump administration's educational policies, including potential impacts on students and teachers. [KUOW](https://www.kuow.org/stories/how-the-trump-administration-is-trying-to-reshape-k-12-education) [4]

2. Top News Stories About US Politics

• - **Federal Intervention in Memphis**: President Trump announced plans for federal intervention in Memphis to combat rising crime rates, marking a significant political move. This has sparked discussions about federal authority and local governance. [NPR](https://www.npr.org/sections/national/) [3]
• - **Kirk Shooting Incident**: Following the tragic shooting of Republican figure Charlie Kirk, discussions around security and political violence have intensified. Trump commented on the suspect being in custody. [New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/12/podcasts/the-headlines/fbi-kirk-shooter-nonstick-pans.html) [1]
• - **Concerns Over Torture Protections**: A judge expressed concerns that the Trump administration may be circumventing torture protections for deported individuals, raising serious legal and ethical questions. [Politico](https://www.politico.com/politics) [2]

3. Top News Stories About World Affairs

• - **Leaders Summit in China**: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping convened for a significant summit in China, discussing global cooperation and geopolitical strategies. [NPR](https://www.npr.org/2025/09/05/nx-s1-5532116/the-news-roundup-for-september-5-2025) [2]
• - **Charlie Kirk's Shooting**: The assassination of Charlie Kirk has raised international concerns regarding political violence and the safety of public figures. This incident has implications for political discourse globally. [NPR](https://www.npr.org/2025/09/12/nx-s1-5539833/the-news-roundup-for-september-12-2025) [1]
• - **Economic Concerns**: A Labor Department report indicated ongoing economic struggles in the U.S., with stagnant job growth impacting global economic perceptions. [Dictionary.com](https://www.dictionary.com/e/news-from-september-6-september-12-2025/) [3]

CHATGPT 5

1. TOP U.S. EDUCATION NEWS (Week of Sept 5–12, 2025)

Summary of the most prominent themes and developments reported during the week:

• - Federal K‑12 Agenda Acceleration: Coverage highlighted the administration’s push to “reshape” K‑12 through expanded parental rights framing, deregulatory moves, and emphasis on alternatives to traditional public schools (charters, ESAs, vouchers). (How the Trump administration is trying to reshape K-12 education) $CITE_ED1
• - Debate Over Future (or Possible Dismantling) of the Education Department: Public and media attention to statements and reporting about ordering the Department of Education to be “shut” or significantly reduced, raising questions about statutory programs (Title I, IDEA) and administrative feasibility. $CITE_ED5
• - Student Loan Oversight and Structural Changes: The Department announced strengthening of the Ombudsman function and broader transparency/borrower education efforts, alongside resumed or intensified collection activity and rising borrower distress. $CITE_ED2 $CITE_ED8
• - Implementation of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”: Negotiated rulemaking and implementation planning aimed at tying higher education program eligibility more closely to workforce outcomes and loan repayment metrics; official update pages outlined forthcoming regulatory timelines. $CITE_ED2 $CITE_ED6
• - Proposed Adjustments to Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Reporting and commentary on potential narrowing of qualifying employers and concern among nonprofit and government workers about future eligibility. $CITE_ED7 $CITE_ED4
• - Advocacy Warnings on Withheld / Delayed K‑12 Funds: Policy groups flagged delayed disbursement or withholding of portions of appropriated K‑12 funds and outlined four key administrative actions to monitor in the 2025–26 school year. $CITE_ED3
• How these threads connect: Collectively, the week’s coverage paints a picture of a dual-track strategy—(a) structural pressure on the federal role in K‑12 (including rhetorical or procedural moves about the Department’s future) and (b) recalibration of higher education finance and accountability levers, especially student loans and outcome-based program scrutiny—while stakeholders (advocates, borrowers, school systems) attempt to gauge near-term operational impacts.
• Citations (multiple distinct sources): $CITE_ED1 $CITE_ED2 $CITE_ED3 $CITE_ED4 $CITE_ED5 $CITE_ED6 $CITE_ED7 $CITE_ED8

2. TOP U.S. POLITICS NEWS (Week of Sept 5–12, 2025)

• Key developments and narratives:
• - Executive Order Renaming / Rebranding the Department of Defense: An executive action to “restore” the historical “Department of War” name (and associated stated messaging objectives) prompted extensive coverage, debate over symbolism vs. policy substance, and scrutiny of legal/implementation pathways. $CITE_POL2 $CITE_POL1
• - National Security and Civil-Military Signaling: Commentary framed the renaming move as part of a broader posture shift emphasizing assertive defense messaging; analysis programs and daily political roundups contextualized domestic and geopolitical implications. $CITE_POL1 $CITE_POL3
• - Presidential Health Rumor Management: Media roundups noted the administration’s public-facing efforts to counter online speculation about the President’s health, using controlled appearances and messaging discipline. $CITE_POL3
• - Progressive and Independent Media Framing: Alternate outlets highlighted concerns about centralization of executive power and militarized rhetoric, juxtaposing domestic policy turbulence with international flashpoints. $CITE_POL4
• Analytical throughline: The week’s political narrative centered less on legislative milestones and more on executive symbolism, perception management, and agenda-setting via rebranding and narrative control—triggering discourse about institutional norms, constitutional authority over departmental nomenclature, and political signaling ahead of forthcoming policy battles.
• Citations (multiple distinct sources): $CITE_POL1 $CITE_POL2 $CITE_POL3 $CITE_POL4

3. TOP WORLD AFFAIRS NEWS (Week of Sept 5–12, 2025)

I have not yet retrieved primary source material for global (non-U.S.-domestic) developments within that exact date range in this session. To give you an accurate, source-cited summary (e.g., major conflict developments, diplomatic breakthroughs, multilateral economic or climate negotiations, global health alerts, sanctions regimes, energy market shifts), I would need to perform a fresh search of reputable international outlets (e.g., Reuters, AP, BBC, Al Jazeera, Financial Times, UN releases).

Next step options (please tell me which you prefer):

A. Proceed to gather and cite top world affairs stories now.

B. Narrow focus (e.g., conflicts, diplomacy, global economy, climate, public health).

C. Specify particular regions or issues you care about most.

Let me know and I will complete section 3 with multiple distinct, cited sources.

COPILOT

---

🇺🇸 1. Top U.S. Education News (Sept 5–12, 2025)

• National Report Card Sparks Alarm
  The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress revealed record-low proficiency scores: only 22% of high school seniors are proficient in math, and just 35% in reading. The Trump administration responded by doubling down on its plan to decentralize education and return control to the states.
  
  

• Teachers Unions Sue Over Immigration Crackdown
  NEA and AFT filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that its rollback of protections around school grounds has led to fear-driven student withdrawals and disrupted learning environments.
  
  

• Civil Rights Investigations Expand
  The Department of Education launched multiple Title VI and Title IX investigations, including cases in Virginia and Massachusetts, targeting schools accused of violating anti-discrimination laws.
  
  

• Student Loan Transparency Push
  The Office of Federal Student Aid expanded its Ombudsman’s role to better educate borrowers on the risks and benefits of federal student loans.
  
  

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🏛️ 2. Top U.S. Politics News (Sept 5–12, 2025)

• RFK Jr. Grilled Over Vaccine Policy
  Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced bipartisan backlash during Senate hearings over his controversial changes to CDC leadership and vaccine access. Over 1,000 HHS employees demanded his resignation.
  
  

• Trump Renames the Pentagon
  President Trump signed an executive order renaming the Department of Defense to the “Department of War,” citing a need for “truth in branding”.
  
  

• Epstein Files Released
  A House committee released a trove of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, including a controversial birthday message allegedly signed by Trump. Lawmakers are pushing for a full public release.
  
  

• Massive ICE Raids and Immigration Tensions
  Homeland Security launched “Operation Midway Blitz” in Chicago, sparking protests and fears of federal overreach.
  
  

• Federal Judge Blocks Funding Cuts to Harvard
  A judge reversed Trump’s $2.6 billion research grant cuts to Harvard, citing executive overreach.
  
  

---

🌍 3. Top World Affairs News (Sept 5–12, 2025)

• Israeli Offensive in Gaza Escalates
  Over 50,000 Palestinians were displaced as Israel intensified its bombardment of Gaza City. The UN condemned the strikes, and Senators Van Hollen and Merkley accused the U.S. of complicity in “ethnic cleansing”.
  
  

• Israeli Strike in Qatar Sparks Diplomatic Crisis
  An Israeli airstrike killed five Palestinians and a Qatari official in Doha. The UN Security Council held an emergency session, and Qatar demanded accountability.
  
  

• Russia Violates Polish Airspace
  Russian drones entered Polish airspace, prompting an emergency UN Security Council meeting amid fears of regional spillover from the Ukraine conflict.
  
  

• Taliban Bars Women Aid Workers in Afghanistan
  Humanitarian operations were severely disrupted after the Taliban reinforced restrictions on female UN staff, jeopardizing earthquake relief efforts.
  
  

• Sudan’s Children in Crisis

Aid agencies warned that prolonged conflict in Sudan is devastating children’s access to education and basic services.

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 9-13-25

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

9-13-25

Trump is a Divider Who Won't Even Try to Unite Us https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/12/trump-is-divider-who-cannot-unite-us/ via @dianeravitch 

Diane Ravitch's blog post critiques former President Donald Trump for his divisive rhetoric following the assassination of Charlie Kirk. She contrasts his reaction with historical presidential responses to national tragedies, which typically aim to unify the nation. Trump immediately blamed the "radical left" for the violence without evidence, further polarizing the country. The article highlights Trump's tendency to provoke division, his selective focus on left-wing violence while ignoring far-right incidents, and his use of such events to silence criticism and justify authoritarian measures. Ravitch calls for reducing anger and hate across the nation and emphasizes the need for leadership that fosters unity.

### Key Points

- Trump blamed the "radical left" for Charlie Kirk's assassination without evidence, further dividing the nation. 

- Historical presidents have used tragic events to promote unity, while Trump leveraged them to attack political opponents. 

- Trump's rhetoric selectively highlights left-wing violence, ignoring significant far-right incidents, including those incited by his own actions. 

- The blog advocates reducing political violence and calls for responsible leadership to heal the nation's divisions. 

Wyoming: The Fight Against Vouchers Continues https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/12/wyoming-the-fight-against-vouchers-continues/ via @dianeravitch 

Wyoming's universal school voucher program faces legal challenges due to concerns about its constitutionality and potential harm to public education. The program, which offers $7,000 annually to families for private education costs, has been criticized for violating state constitutional provisions that prioritize public education. Parents and educators argue the program discriminates against students with disabilities and LGBTQ+ children while diverting public funds from public schools. A judge has issued temporary injunctions and denied the state’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit, allowing legal proceedings to continue.

### Key Points

- Wyoming's universal voucher program provides $7,000 per child annually for private education costs but is criticized for violating constitutional commitments to public education. 

- Parents and educators filed a lawsuit, asserting the program harms children with disabilities and LGBTQ+ students while undermining public school funding. 

- A judge has granted temporary injunctions and denied the state’s attempts to dismiss the lawsuit, keeping the program's implementation in limbo. 

Texas: Some of the Worst-Performing Charters have Some of the Highest-Paid Superintendents https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/12/texas-some-of-the-worst-performing-charters-have-some-of-the-highest-paid-superintendents/ via @dianeravitch 

Texas charter schools face scrutiny for high superintendent salaries despite poor school performance. Investigations reveal that some of the highest-paid superintendents oversee failing districts, with teacher turnover and low pay prevalent. The state's accountability system mandates closure for charter schools with three consecutive failing ratings, raising concerns about resource allocation and governance. Nepotism and self-dealing have been reported in some districts, highlighting ethical issues. Legislative efforts to cap superintendent pay have failed, leaving room for disparities in compensation.

### Key Points

- Charter school superintendents in Texas receive high salaries despite poor school performance and high teacher turnover. 

- Underperforming charter districts face closures under the state's "three strikes" law after three consecutive failing ratings. 

- Nepotism and self-dealing are reported in certain charter districts, raising ethical concerns. 

- Legislative attempts to cap superintendent pay based on school performance have not succeeded. 

- Texas charter schools are held to stricter accountability standards than public schools, leading to quicker closures. 

The Biggest Liar in Texas https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/12/the-biggest-liar-in-texas/ via @dianeravitch 

The article critiques Texas Governor Greg Abbott's leadership and policies, highlighting disparities between his claims and the reality faced by Texans. It examines wealth inequality, infrastructure issues, public service inefficiencies, and Abbott's misleading statements about the state's progress. The author emphasizes the growing gap between the privileged elite and struggling citizens, calling for political change.

### Key Points

- Governor Abbott's State-of-the-State speech emphasized Texas' economic success but ignored poverty and inequality. 

- Texas invests heavily in road infrastructure but neglects high-speed rail, which could address traffic and environmental concerns. 

- Abbott's claims about the Texas electric grid's reliability since 2021 are refuted by recent power outages affecting millions. 

- Public agencies in Texas suffer from understaffing and outdated systems, leading to service delays and inefficiencies. 

- Abbott's assertion of fully funded public schools is contradicted by ongoing deficits and inadequate per-student funding. 

- Wealth inequality in Texas is described as more extreme than pre-revolutionary France, with calls for organized political action. 

Big Education Ape: ESCALATORS, EULOGIES, AND ECHO CHAMBERS: THE RISE OF POLITICAL VIOLENCE AND THE RHETORIC THAT FUELS IT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/escalators-eulogies-and-echo-chambers.html

Big Education Ape's article discusses the escalation of political violence in the U.S., fueled by divisive rhetoric, particularly from figures like Donald Trump. The assassination of Charlie Kirk is highlighted as a grim example of how inflammatory language can inspire lone actors to commit violent acts. The piece examines Trump's history of incendiary rhetoric, the concept of "stochastic terrorism," and the broader societal impact, including the rise in hate crimes and extremist behavior. It calls for collective action to break the cycle of violence through improved discourse, regulation of online platforms, and tighter gun laws.

### Key Points

- Political violence in the U.S. is rising, with divisive rhetoric as a significant driver, as seen in the assassination of Charlie Kirk. 

- Donald Trump's rhetoric has grown increasingly violent, fostering a climate of hostility and enabling acts of "stochastic terrorism." 

- Hate crimes have doubled since 2015, with Trump's language amplifying online hate speech and radicalizing individuals. 

- The Capitol insurrection and Proud Boys' violent actions illustrate the real-world consequences of Trump's rhetoric. 

- Both political sides contribute to the problem, but Trump's selective condemnation deepens divisions. 

- Solutions include regulating online platforms, addressing mental health, tightening gun laws, and fostering healthy political debate. 

Big Education Ape: AI SMACKDOWN IV: THE GREAT ANSWER BASH—WHO’S THE SMARTEST BOT IN THE CLASSROOM? https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/ai-smackdown-iv-great-answer-bashwhos.html

### Summary  

The article discusses the AI Smackdown IV, an event where leading AI models are tested across various challenges, including riddles, philosophical questions, and scientific queries. It highlights the accuracy, personality, and performance of models like Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 4 & 5, and Copilot in different scenarios. The article also emphasizes their potential in educational settings for grading objective and subjective questions while suggesting that no single AI model is the best overall—it depends on the task at hand.

### Key Points  

- AI Smackdown IV pits leading AI models against each other to test their knowledge, wit, and personality.   

- Round 1 focused on riddles and logic puzzles, showcasing the AI models' ability to handle definitive answers.   

- Round 2 explored philosophical and scientific questions, revealing differences in detail and personality among the models.   

- The AI models demonstrated consistency and accuracy in answering objective questions, making them valuable tools for auto-grading in classrooms.   

- Subjective questions revealed varying personalities, such as ChatGPT 4's personal touch versus Gemini's clinical neutrality.   

- ChatGPT 5 and Copilot were deemed the most consistent performers overall, while Grok showed a human-like swagger.   

- The article concludes that the "best" AI model depends on the specific task, with all contenders excelling in their own ways. 

Big Education Ape: AI SMACKDOWN: DYLAN’S “IT AIN’T ME BABE” GETS A TRUMPIAN MAKEOVER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/ai-smackdown-dylans-it-aint-me-babe.html 

The article also covers various topics, including AI-generated parodies of Bob Dylan’s song “It Ain’t Me Babe,” which humorously critique Trump’s public denials.

### Key Points

- Governor Kevin Stitt appointed familiar figures to new roles amidst administration changes. 

- AI-generated parodies of Bob Dylan’s “It Ain’t Me Babe” creatively mock Trump’s denial tactics. 

- Education privatization parallels national parks privatization, raising concerns about public resources. 

- Advocacy for public education and resistance to privatization continues through various organizations. 

- Diane Ravitch and other education experts highlight issues in public schooling and privatization. 

Big Education Ape: THE AI SMACKDOWN: I CHALLENGED THE AI OVERLORDS ON TEACHER GRIPES ABOUT BOTS IN THE CLASSROOM, AND BOY, DID THEY DELIVER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-ai-smackdown-i-challenged-ai.html  

The article provides a detailed exploration of K-12 educators' concerns and criticisms regarding the integration of AI technologies in classrooms. It evaluates five AI models—Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT-4, ChatGPT-5, and Copilot—based on their responses to teacher concerns, highlighting issues such as academic integrity, critical thinking erosion, biases, privacy concerns, and equity gaps. The article concludes with recommendations and strategies for addressing these challenges while emphasizing the importance of preserving authentic learning and teacher-student relationships.

What Do Corporate Earnings Reports and Standardized Test Scores Have in Common? https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/09/12/what-do-corporate-earnings-reports-and-school-test-scores-have-in-common-2/ via @CubanLarry 

### Key Points

- Corporate earnings reports and standardized test scores share similarities in creating pressure on leaders to manipulate results, often leading to distorted practices or unethical behavior. 

- CEOs and educators have, at times, engaged in deceptive practices to meet targets, with corporate fraud leading to criminal charges and educational gaming distorting student performance metrics. 

- The focus on standardized test scores in education has narrowed school quality assessments, sidelining broader educational goals like civic engagement, critical thinking, and teamwork. 

- Standardized test scores often mislead parents about student performance and lack evidence correlating high scores with future academic or workplace success. 

- Both corporate and educational sectors suffer from relying on single performance measures, which result in short-term gains but long-term harm to institutional integrity and mission. 

- Despite these issues, systemic pressures, such as government mandates for annual testing, make it challenging for educational leaders to advocate for change. 

Missing the Pattern: What Trump and Kirk’s Shooters Tell Us – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/09/12/missing-the-pattern-what-trump-and-kirks-shooters-tell-us/ 

When political violence erupts in America, we often focus on superficial details instead of recognizing deeper patterns. This article examines two recent high-profile incidents — the attempted assassination of Donald Trump and the killing of Charlie Kirk — and challenges the simplistic narratives surrounding them. Both shooters were young White men from conservative Republican households, raised in environments where guns and conservative values were normalized. The piece argues that these acts of violence emerge not from leftist radicalism but from a broader ecosystem of alienation, online radicalization, and blurred ideological boundaries within conservative communities. It calls for systemic responses to address the root causes of such violence rather than perpetuating partisan blame.

### Key Points

- Political violence is often misunderstood due to the media and public focusing on superficial details instead of deeper systemic issues. 

- Both Trump’s and Kirk’s attackers shared similar profiles: young White men from conservative Republican families, raised in gun-friendly environments. 

- The framing of these events as left-wing violence ignores the shooters' conservative backgrounds and the broader cultural and ideological factors at play. 

- Online radicalization blurs traditional left-right boundaries, fueling alienation and resentment within young men in conservative spaces. 

- Despite the history of systemic responses to political violence, no significant institutional action has been taken to address these recent incidents. 

- The article highlights the need to confront the ecosystem producing this violence, including gun culture, online extremism, and societal alienation, rather than mislabeling its origins. 

From Watchlists to Cruelty: The True Legacy Charlie Kirk Left Behind – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/09/12/from-watchlists-to-cruelty-the-true-legacy-charlie-kirk-left-behind/ 

From Watchlists to Cruelty: The True Legacy Charlie Kirk Left Behind

### Key Points

- Charlie Kirk dismissed empathy, viewing it as weakness, and built a political career normalizing harassment, division, and exclusion. 

- Kirk’s Professor Watchlist targeted educators who challenged right-wing orthodoxy, leading to harassment and threats, particularly against marginalized groups. 

- Kirk’s rhetoric perpetuated racism, misogyny, homophobia, antisemitism, and xenophobia, using inflammatory language to demean and vilify various communities. 

- His use of conspiracy theories like the "Great Replacement" brought fringe ideologies into mainstream politics. 

- Kirk equated abortion with genocide, trivializing historical atrocities and vilifying women’s personal choices. 

- Despite his divisive legacy, the article critiques the selective empathy in mourning Kirk’s death, contrasting it with the lack of attention given to other political tragedies. 

- The author argues that empathy is essential for resisting cruelty and fostering transformation in society. 

glen brown: Sotomayor pulls back the curtain on MAGA Supreme Court hackery https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/09/sotomayor-pulls-back-curtain-on-maga.html 

### Key Points

- Justice Sonia Sotomayor exposed the misuse of the Supreme Court’s emergency docket, criticizing decisions that undermine Fourth Amendment protections and enable racial profiling in mass arrests. 

- Sotomayor highlighted the government’s lack of credible evidence for its actions, its disregard for judicial rulings, and its violent enforcement methods, including targeting U.S. citizens. 

- She condemned the majority’s lack of reasoning and Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s unsupported assertions, emphasizing the erosion of intellectual and ethical integrity in Supreme Court rulings. 

- Sotomayor’s dissent advocates for Supreme Court reform to restore impartiality and uphold democratic principles. 

Teacher Tom: Knowing How to Play the Game https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/09/knowing-how-to-play-game.html 

Teacher Tom shares an anecdote about preschoolers creatively constructing a game from mixed-up pieces of Monopoly and The Game of Life, illustrating how children naturally learn by creating their own stories and patterns. He emphasizes the importance of play-based education, allowing kids to construct knowledge rather than adhering to rigid adult-imposed narratives. The blog also offers free resources for educators and parents, along with information about Teacher Tom’s speaking engagements and ways to support his work.

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom finds discarded board games and repurposes the pieces for preschoolers, showcasing their ability to create imaginative play and learning experiences. 

- Children construct their own understanding and stories from patterns and experiences, a natural process essential to human learning. 

- Play-based learning is highlighted as a way to empower children to develop their own knowledge, contrasting with traditional adult-driven education. 

- Teacher Tom provides free resources for educators and parents, and details on his speaking engagements and blog support. 

Episode #137: After Katrina – What We Stand To Lose with Kristen Buras https://billayers.org/ 

### Key Points

- Hurricane Katrina caused catastrophic damage in 2005, leading to widespread flooding, loss of life, injuries, and significant property damage. The aftermath included ongoing trauma, displacement, privatization, and cultural losses. 

- Kristen Buras, an anti-racist activist, teacher, and researcher, directs the Urban South Grass-roots Research Collective, which works for racial equity through community collaboration and research. 

- Kristen Buras authored "What We Stand to Lose," focusing on Black teachers, cultural contributions, and the closure of a New Orleans high school. 

- The podcast episode reflects on the societal impact of Hurricane Katrina, corporate exploitation, and the transformation of public goods, particularly in education. 

- Additional resources include articles and investigations into charter school networks in New Orleans and systemic issues in education. 

The Charlie Kirk Murder Suspect http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/09/the-charlie-kirk-murder-suspect.html 

### Key Points

- The article discusses Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old suspect in the murder of Charlie Kirk. Robinson is not affiliated with any political party, though he comes from a conservative Christian and Republican household. He was raised in a gun-centric culture. 

- The blog post includes background information about Robinson's family, their residence in Utah, and their affinity for firearms. 

- The blog is part of a larger site that covers various topics related to education, politics, and societal issues, with a focus on poverty and systemic challenges in schools. 

Schools Matter: The Martyrdom of Horst Wessel: Will Charlie Kirk be the 21st Century Version? http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/09/the-martyrdom-of-horst-wessel-will.html 

The article discusses parallels between the martyrdom of Horst Wessel, a Nazi propaganda figure, and the current political climate surrounding Charlie Kirk, a prominent MAGA figure. George Conway, a former Trump supporter turned critic, compares the two, highlighting similarities in how authoritarian movements use martyrdom to mobilize support and target opponents. The article delves into Wessel's history, his elevation as a Nazi symbol, and draws chilling comparisons to modern right-wing rhetoric and actions in the U.S., including the politicization of Kirk's death.

### Key Points

- George Conway compares the martyrdom of Charlie Kirk to Nazi propaganda surrounding Horst Wessel, emphasizing parallels in authoritarian strategies. 

- Horst Wessel, a Nazi paramilitary member, was turned into a propaganda symbol after his assassination, with his death used to galvanize the Nazi movement. 

- The article critiques MAGA's rhetoric and actions, noting similarities to Nazi targeting of marginalized groups, as detailed in historical records. 

- The politicization of Kirk's death, including proposals for Congressional honors and public displays, raises concerns about its use for ideological mobilization. 

CURMUDGUCATION: Narcissus and AI https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/09/narcissus-and-ai.html 

Narcissus and AI explores the unsettling implications of AI technology used to recreate deceased individuals, whether loved ones or historical figures. The article critiques the philosophical and ethical concerns surrounding such practices, emphasizing the inadequacy of AI avatars to truly replicate human beings. It highlights examples like Ray Kurzweil’s attempt to resurrect his father, AI avatars of historical figures, and the use of deceased individuals’ likenesses for advocacy or education. The author argues that these AI constructs are reflections of the creators’ memories and agendas rather than authentic representations, leading to a distorted sense of connection and understanding.

### Key Points

- Ray Kurzweil’s plan to resurrect his father using AI and nanotechnology raises philosophical questions about identity and authenticity. 

- AI resurrection practices, such as recreating voices of deceased individuals like Joaquin Oliver, are emotionally impactful but ethically troubling. 

- AI avatars of historical figures, like Anne Frank, often lack accuracy and risk distorting historical narratives. 

- The inherent limitations of AI in reconstructing nuanced and complete representations of individuals are highlighted, especially for ordinary people. 

- AI-based interactions are essentially self-reflective exercises, where users project their own memories and perceptions onto incomplete simulations. 

- The article critiques the narcissistic tendency to engage with AI reflections rather than focusing on real human connections. 

Education Research Report: Keto diet linked to reduced depression symptoms in college students https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/09/keto-diet-linked-to-reduced-depression.html 

Education Research Report: Keto Diet and Depression in College Students  

### Key Points  

- A pilot study found that following a ketogenic diet for 10 weeks reduced depression symptoms by 70% in college students receiving medication or counseling for major depressive disorder.   

- Participants experienced a three-fold increase in global well-being and improvement in cognitive tasks, alongside an average weight loss of 11 pounds and 2.4% body fat reduction.   

- The ketogenic diet was tailored to individual food preferences, supported by starter meals, advice, snacks, and app-based communication to improve adherence.   

- Depression symptoms decreased significantly by week two and continued to improve by week 10-12, with no worsening of symptoms reported.   

- Cognitive performance improved in areas such as episodic memory, processing speed, and executive function, with no negative changes in cholesterol or triglycerides.   

- Researchers suggest the ketogenic diet could be a feasible adjunctive therapy for depression but acknowledge the study's limitations, including the absence of a control group.   

- Biological data on inflammation and brain function collected during the study may inform future research into mechanisms behind the diet’s effects. 

Education Research Report: Childhood traumatic events and transgender identity strongly associated with suicidal thoughts in university students https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/09/childhood-traumatic-events-and.html 

Education Research Report: State school finance reforms increased racial and ethnic funding inequities https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/09/state-school-finance-reforms-increased.html 

Education Research Report: New free screening tool helps kindergarten teachers spot student needs early https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/09/new-free-screening-tool-helps.html 

Education Research Report: Study links teacher turnover to higher rates of student suspensions, disciplinary referrals https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/09/study-links-teacher-turnover-to-higher.html 

Celebrating Violence Is a Type of Violence—But So Are Words https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/09/12/celebrating-violence-is-a-type-of-violence-but-so-are-words/ via @plthomasEdD 

Celebrating Violence Is a Type of Violence—But So Are Words explores the author's personal journey advocating for nonviolence, reflecting on cultural challenges and societal perceptions, particularly in the Southern U.S. The article critiques the rhetoric and actions of Charlie Kirk, emphasizing the harmful impact of violent language and the misuse of free speech. It calls for truth and accountability in honoring individuals posthumously and condemns the distortion of Kirk's legacy for political gain.

### Key Points

- The author recounts formative experiences in high school that shaped his belief in nonviolence, including debates about war and cultural perceptions of masculinity. 

- Advocacy for nonviolence is presented as central to the author's teaching philosophy, incorporating figures like Thoreau, Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. to challenge students' views on violence. 

- The article condemns the killing of Charlie Kirk while criticizing the whitewashing of his rhetoric, particularly his harmful statements about marginalized communities. 

- Kirk's citation of Leviticus 20:13 is highlighted as an example of rhetorical violence, posing threats to LGBTQ+ individuals and perpetuating historical oppression. 

- The misuse of Kirk's death for ideological gain is denounced, with a call for honest representation of his beliefs and actions as the only valid way to honor him. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

9-12-25

https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_01256240771.html

The article is a compilation of various blog posts and discussions on societal, political, and educational issues. Topics range from political violence, privatization, AI integration in classrooms, systemic inequalities, and advocacy for equity and transparency in education. It highlights controversies surrounding Trump's policies, the challenges of public school funding, and the importance of pluralism, solidarity, and self-directed learning in education.

### Key Points  

- Trump's announcement to restore prayer in public schools raises constitutional concerns and debates over inclusivity in education.   

- Glenn Kessler critiques Trump's misinformation tactics, documenting their societal impact through his Substack blog.   

- Trump's foreign policy and tariffs have alienated key allies and strengthened adversaries like China and Russia.   

- AI-generated parodies humorously critique Trump's denial tactics and raise concerns about education privatization.   

- Educators express concerns about AI technologies in classrooms, including biases, equity gaps, and academic dishonesty.   

- Declines in student performance in the Nation's Report Card are attributed to poverty, privatization, and systemic inequalities.   

- Public school funding faces instability at federal and state levels, threatening equitable access to education.   

- Divide-and-conquer tactics fragment coalitions, weakening collective power in political and educational sectors.   

- Charlie Kirk's death highlights political violence and polarization, with critiques of his organization's controversial initiatives.   

- Privatization parallels between public schools and national parks show shared challenges like underfunding and staffing shortages.   

- Policymakers' reliance on standardized test data overlooks systemic issues like poverty and healthcare access.   

- Parenting challenges in modern times include internet dangers, school violence, and AI chatbot risks.   

- The U.S. auto industry's decline reflects broader economic and manufacturing challenges.   

- Advocacy for public education emphasizes equity, transparency, and resistance to privatization efforts.   

- Pluralism in classrooms is critical to teach coexistence and resist the suppression of dissenting voices.   

- Self-directed and play-based learning foster creativity and curiosity, challenging traditional education methods.