Thursday, September 18, 2025

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TAKING FREE SPEECH FOR A WALK: THE QUESTION IS "WHERE"?

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TAKING FREE SPEECH FOR A WALK

THE QUESTION IS "WHERE"?

On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump, freshly inaugurated for his second term, signed a flurry of executive orders, including one grandiosely titled “Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship.” It was a promise to unshackle the First Amendment, the sacred cow, a foundational pillar of our democracy. To let the voices of the people ring free from the clutches of government overreach. Sounds noble, right? Except, in true Trumpian fashion, the reality has been less “land of the free” and more “land of the selectively silenced.” The only speech that seems to pass muster with Trump and his MAGA faithful is, well, Trump’s own. If you’re a comedian, a journalist, a student, or anyone daring to wield a sharp tongue or a sharper pen, you’d better watch your back—or your visa status. Let’s unpack this Orwellian circus, take a whirlwind tour through America’s censorship history, and ponder what the Supreme Court, with its newfound affection for the dubious “unitary executive theory,” might do about it. Spoiler alert: hope springs eternal, but so does skepticism. And if you’re as fed up as we are, mark your calendar for October 18, 2025, for “No Kings 2,” a nationwide peaceful protest against Trump’s First Amendment trampling.

The Executive Order: A Masterclass in Irony

Let’s start with that executive order. On paper, it’s a love letter to free speech, vowing to protect Americans from government censorship and to hold accountable any federal employee who dares suppress protected expression. It even took a swipe at the Biden administration’s alleged cozying up to social media companies to squash “misinformation.” Noble stuff, until you realize the Trump administration’s definition of “free speech” seems to include only the kind that flatters the man in charge. Critics, comedians, and campus protesters? Not so much.

Take the case of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student and legal permanent resident arrested by immigration agents for organizing pro-Palestinian protests. Trump himself crowed about it, writing, “This is the first arrest of many to come,” branding such activism as “pro-terrorist, anti-Semitic, anti-American.” Never mind that the First Amendment, as clarified in *Brandenburg v. Ohio* (1969), protects speech unless it directly incites imminent lawless action with intent. Khalil’s lawyers argue he’s being targeted for his views, not his actions, and a federal judge has temporarily blocked his deportation. But the message is clear: dissent, especially on college campuses, comes with a price.

Then there’s the press. Trump’s war on journalists is less a battle and more a full-scale siege. He’s sued CBS for billions over an allegedly deceptive edit of a Kamala Harris interview, claiming “election interference.” He’s gone after ABC, CNN, and even the Des Moines Register for coverage he didn’t like. The Associated Press was banned from the Oval Office for refusing to call the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America” (yes, really). And public broadcasters like NPR and PBS? Their funding’s been slashed, with Trump signing an executive order on May 1, 2025, to gut their budgets, calling them purveyors of “fake news.” The ACLU warns this is a “historic assault on independent journalism.

Comedians aren’t safe either. Trump’s thin skin is legendary—remember his Twitter tirades against *Saturday Night Live*? Now, with the power of the presidency, he’s not just tweeting; he’s weaponizing the state. The administration’s response to the tragic killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in 2025 was to float the idea of cracking down on “hate speech.” Attorney General Pam Bondi clarified that only speech crossing into threats of violence would be targeted, but the vagueness is chilling. If you can’t take a joke—or sue the comedian who tells it—you’re not exactly a First Amendment champion.

A Brief History of Censorship: America’s On-Again, Off-Again Love Affair with Free Speech

To understand the gravity of Trump’s actions, let’s take a quick jaunt through America’s checkered censorship past. Spoiler: it’s not a new story, just a new chapter.

Back in 1637, Thomas Morton’s *New English Canaan* was banned for poking fun at the Puritans—America’s first book ban. By the 1740s, antiliteracy laws in South Carolina kept enslaved people from reading, a blatant attempt to suppress antislavery ideas. The Sedition Act of 1798 made criticizing the government a crime, proving that even the Founding Fathers weren’t above silencing dissent. Fast-forward to the 19th century, and the Comstock Act (1873) gave the postal service carte blanche to seize “obscene” materials, targeting everything from abolitionist pamphlets to birth control literature.

The 20th century wasn’t much kinder. During World War I, the Espionage and Sedition Acts jailed anti-war speakers. The Hays Code (1930–1968) turned Hollywood into a moralistic straitjacket, banning anything deemed too spicy or subversive. The Comics Code Authority (1954) neutered comic books to avoid “juvenile delinquency.” And while the Supreme Court’s *Roth v. U.S.* (1957) and *New York Times v. Sullivan* (1964) pushed back on obscenity and libel restrictions, censorship kept evolving. The Pentagon Papers case (1971) was a win for press freedom, but the Communications Decency Act (1996) and recent book bans on race and gender topics show the fight’s far from over. In 2023 alone, the American Library Association reported 1,247 censorship attempts targeting 4,240 unique titles—a 65% spike from the previous year.

The Supreme Court: Trump’s Rubber Stamp or Wild Card?

Enter the Supreme Court, which has been distressingly cozy with Trump’s agenda, thanks to its embrace of the “unitary executive theory.” This legal notion, nowhere in the Constitution, posits that the president has near-unchecked power over the executive branch. It’s been a blank check for Trump’s overreaches, from defying federal judges to strong-arming universities with funding cuts. Harvard, UCLA, and others have sued, alleging the administration’s demands—like banning campus protests or scrapping diversity programs—violate the First Amendment.

Historically, the Court has been a mixed bag on free speech. *Tinker v. Des Moines* (1969) protected students’ rights to wear protest armbands, and *Texas v. Johnson* (1989) upheld flag burning as political expression. *Brandenburg v. Ohio* set a high bar for punishing incitement, and *Murthy v. Missouri* (2024) called out government pressure on social media as a First Amendment violation. But recent rulings, like *Kennedy v. Bremerton* (2022), show a Court increasingly friendly to individual and religious expression, sometimes at the expense of broader protections. With Trump’s appointees dominating the bench, will they rubber-stamp his censorship spree or draw a line? The *Moody v. NetChoice* (2024) decision, which rejected a social media exception to the First Amendment, offers hope, but it’s anyone’s guess.

The Chilling Effect: From Campuses to Comedy Clubs

The Trump administration’s tactics are textbook intimidation. Universities face billion-dollar fines and frozen research funding for not toeing the line. UCLA was hit with a $1.2 billion penalty after the DOJ accused it of “creating a hostile environment” for Jewish and Israeli students. The demands? Ban protests in certain areas, share international students’ disciplinary records, and ditch diversity initiatives. Harvard’s president called it “direct governmental regulation of intellectual conditions.”

Law firms representing Trump’s opponents have been sanctioned, and foreign students face visa revocations for protesting. The message: speak out, and you might lose your funding, your visa, or your job. Even Voice of America, a bastion of independent journalism, has been gutted, with over 1,000 employees suspended. The ACLU warns of a “chilling effect” on free expression, and they’re not wrong. When comedians self-censor to avoid lawsuits and students fear deportation for waving a sign, the First Amendment becomes a museum piece.

What Can You Do? Join the Fight!

So, where does this leave us? Trump’s executive order promised a free speech renaissance, but his actions scream censorship. The Supreme Court, with its unitary executive obsession, might not save the day. But you can. On October 18, 2025, join “No Kings 2,” a nationwide peaceful protest against Trump’s First Amendment assaults. From coast to coast, we’ll stand up for the right to speak, joke, and protest without fear of retribution. Because if there’s one thing history teaches us, it’s that free speech isn’t handed down—it’s fought for.

Whether you’re a student, a journalist, a comedian, or just someone who believes in the Constitution, now’s the time to raise your voice. Trump may think he can silence dissent, but as *Tinker v. Des Moines* reminds us, we don’t shed our rights at the schoolhouse gate—or anywhere else. So, grab a sign, crack a joke, and join us. Let’s make sure the First Amendment isn’t just a promise—it’s a reality

Big Education Ape: NO KINGS II: TRUMP - THE KING WHO CRIED "FREE SPEECH" https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/no-kings-ii-trump-king-who-cried-free.html

No Kings https://www.nokings.org/

Indivisible https://indivisible.org/

50501 — 50 protests, 50 states, 1 movement https://www.fiftyfifty.one/

TODAY'S GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: SEPTEMBER 18th SHOWDOWN

TODAY'S GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN

SEPTEMBER 18th SHOWDOWN

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ‘round for another thrilling episode of *The Great AI News Smackdown*, where the world’s leading artificial intelligence models—Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot—battle it out for journalistic supremacy. Today’s arena? The chaotic, caffeine-fueled newsroom of September 17, 2025. Who got their facts straight, who missed the memo, and who might need a software update? Let’s dive in.

Gemini: The Gossip Queen of Global Affairs

Gemini came out swinging with a headline buffet that reads like a political thriller written by someone who binge-watched *House of Cards*. First up: President Trump’s second state visit to the UK. Gemini tells us he’s hobnobbing with King Charles and PM Keir Starmer, presumably over tea and trade deals. But let’s be honest—what we’re really wondering is whether Trump called the king “Chuck” again.

Then Gemini dropped the bombshell about conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s tragic killing. Not only did this story spark political fallout (Antifa is now officially labeled a “major terrorist organization”), but it also led to Jimmy Kimmel’s indefinite suspension after some ill-advised commentary. Gemini didn’t miss a beat on this one, though we’d love to know if Kimmel plans to double down or quietly retreat to his summer home.

Crime aficionados got their fill too: three police officers fatally shot in Pennsylvania, a possible military helicopter crash near Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and a federal judge ordering the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University student turned pro-Palestinian activist. Gemini even sprinkled in some Starbucks drama—workers suing over dress code expenses. Apparently, baristas now need a runway budget to sling lattes.

Verdict: Gemini nailed the drama but failed to bring the laughs. Someone give this AI a sense of humor upgrade.

Grok: The Overachiever Who Forgot to Proofread

Grok’s approach was ambitious—throw everything at the wall and see what sticks. Among its sprawling list of headlines was a deep dive into international conflicts. Israeli forces advancing into Gaza City? Check. Russian troops entering Kupyansk with aviation support? Double check. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signing a defense pact that screams “buddy system”? Triple check. Grok even managed to squeeze in Rahul Gandhi accusing India’s election commission of voter deletion shenanigans—a story so niche it feels like Grok’s trying to impress us with its obscure knowledge.

But here’s where Grok stumbles: accuracy and clarity. Some stories, like Charlie Kirk’s murder, are flagged as “inconclusive,” which is AI-speak for “we’re not sure if this is real or just Twitter noise.” And while Grok’s entertainment section highlighted Robert Redford’s passing (RIP to an icon), it also threw in random K-pop chart updates like BLACKPINK is somehow competing with geopolitical crises for attention.

Verdict: Grok is the overachieving intern who tries too hard and ends up photocopying its own hand instead of the report. A+ for effort, C- for execution.

ChatGPT 5: The Academic Overachiever

If Gemini is the gossip queen and Grok is the scatterbrained intern, ChatGPT 5 is the nerdy grad student who insists on citing every source in MLA format. Its news summary is more polished than a TED Talk on quantum physics, breaking stories into neat categories like “Russia–Ukraine War,” “Global Markets & Monetary Policy,” and “Climate & Extreme Weather.”

ChatGPT 5 delivered thoughtful analysis on Ukraine’s drone strikes against Russian infrastructure and the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates—a move that has Wall Street popping champagne while middle-class Americans nervously eye their savings accounts. It also gave us a sobering look at climate change, warning that destabilization of the global water cycle could lead to droughts and deluges that sound like biblical plagues.

But here’s the rub: ChatGPT 5 is so serious it could put an insomniac to sleep. Where’s the pizzazz? The spice? The cheeky commentary on Trump suing *The New York Times* for $15 billion? ChatGPT 5 missed an opportunity to joke about Trump calculating damages based on his Twitter follower count.

Verdict: ChatGPT 5 is your reliable friend who knows everything but forgets how to make it fun. A solid choice if you want facts without frills.

Copilot: The Local Gossip Guru

Copilot took a different approach, focusing on local headlines with a splash of global intrigue—like your chatty neighbor who knows everyone’s business but still keeps tabs on international drama. In Rosemont and Sacramento, Copilot reports on heat waves, wildfire risks, and Uber lawsuits (because apparently getting dropped off isn’t as safe as it sounds). It even threw in a crash that left one woman dead—grim but relevant.

On the national stage, Copilot tackled Charlie Kirk’s murder with gusto, naming Tyler Robinson as the suspect and hinting at a possible death penalty. It also highlighted economic inequality (the top 20% of earners driving 63% of consumer spending) and healthcare premium hikes for middle-class families—a reminder that even AI can’t sugarcoat bad news.

Globally, Copilot gave us Israel-Gaza escalations, Xi Jinping hosting Putin and Kim Jong Un at what sounds like the world’s most awkward parade, and—wait for it—a rare orange shark caught off Costa Rica. Yes, folks, amidst genocide accusations and geopolitical alliances, Copilot found time for marine biology. Bravo.

Verdict: Copilot is the AI you want at your dinner party—funny, insightful, and just chaotic enough to keep things interesting.

The Winner

So who takes home the coveted title of *AI News Champion* today? It’s a tough call. Gemini brought the drama but lacked flair. Grok overwhelmed us with volume but struggled with accuracy. ChatGPT 5 delivered polished analysis but forgot how to smile. And Copilot? Well, Copilot gave us orange sharks and wildfire updates alongside geopolitical chaos.

In the end, Copilot wins by a fin (pun intended). Its mix of local gossip and global intrigue made for an entertaining read that didn’t take itself too seriously. Plus, any AI that can seamlessly transition from climate change to rare marine life deserves applause.

Final Thoughts**

As AI models continue to duke it out in the newsroom, one thing is clear: each has its quirks and strengths. Whether you’re looking for drama (Gemini), depth (ChatGPT 5), volume (Grok), or sheer entertainment value (Copilot), there’s an AI news anchor for everyone. Just don’t expect them to agree on what counts as “top stories”—or how many orange sharks deserve headline space.

Until next time, stay informed—and don’t forget to fact-check your AI overlords!

Here is the raw news output from each AI model:

Major news stories as of today, September 18, 2025, include:

GEMINI

🏡 Local Headlines (Rosemont & Sacramento Area)

Heat Wave + Fire Risk: The Bay Area is bracing for upper 90s temps and dry lightning, raising wildfire concerns.
Community Events: Rosemont’s biggest September event is coming up, plus an online auction of surplus assets from Motiv Electric Trucks.
Crash in Rosemont: A recent accident left one woman dead and two others injured.
Uber Lawsuit: A passenger was assaulted after drop-off, sparking legal action against Uber.

🇺🇸 Top U.S. Stories

Charlie Kirk Shooting: The suspect, Tyler Robinson, faces aggravated murder charges and may get the death penalty.
Economic Inequality: The top 20% of earners now drive over 63% of U.S. consumer spending—a record high.
Trump vs. NYT: President Trump has filed a $15 billion lawsuit against The New York Times over campaign coverage.
Healthcare Costs: Middle-class families on Obamacare are bracing for premium hikes next year.
Cryptocurrency Dining: Sacramento restaurants are experimenting with Food Token payments.

🌐 Global Highlights

Israel-Gaza Escalation: The UN says Israel is committing genocide in Gaza; ground offensives intensify.
Xi, Putin, Kim Alliance: China hosts a military parade with North Korea and Russia, signaling a new geopolitical bloc.
Rare Orange Shark: Fishermen off Costa Rica caught a never-before-seen bright orange shark.
Climate Crisis: Wildfires in Turkey, Greece, and Cyprus were made worse by climate change, new study confirms.

Want to zoom in on any of these stories or riff on how they might feed into a new satirical piece? I’ve got plenty of fuel if you’re ready to light the match.

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 9-18-25

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

9-18-25

Florida: "We Have Accountability for Food Stamps, Why Not for School Vouchers?" https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/17/florida-we-have-accountability-for-food-stamps-why-not-for-school-vouchers/ via @dianeravitch

Florida's school voucher system lacks accountability, enabling taxpayer funds to support substandard schools with questionable practices. Scott Maxwell highlights how Florida imposes restrictions on food stamps but fails to regulate voucher schools, which often employ unqualified teachers, teach flawed curricula, and discriminate against students. Basic accountability measures, such as transparency in graduation rates, certified teachers, and non-discriminatory practices, are suggested to ensure quality education. Critics argue that the system's flaws reflect intentional efforts to dismantle public schools, redirect costs to parents, and exploit public funds through unregulated programs like Education Savings Accounts (ESAs).

### Key Points

- Florida's school voucher system lacks oversight, allowing taxpayer money to fund schools with unqualified teachers, flawed curricula, and discriminatory policies.

- Suggested accountability measures include publishing test scores, hiring certified teachers, disclosing curricula, and banning discrimination.

- Critics claim Florida aims to dismantle public schools and shift costs to parents, with ESAs enabling misuse of funds for non-educational purposes.

Kathleen West: I’m Having Some Thoughts About Teaching | Diane Ravitch's blog https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/17/kathleen-west/

Kathleen West, a veteran teacher and novelist, shares her reflections on the challenges and fears of being an educator in the United States, particularly regarding school shootings, active shooter drills, and the emotional toll of preparing for violence in schools. She recounts her career journey, the evolution of safety protocols, and her personal connection to the issue after her family experienced a school shooting. Despite her dedication to teaching, West expresses frustration with the profession's societal undervaluation and the constant threat of violence.

### Key Points

- Kathleen West reflects on her teaching career, starting with her early passion for education and her search for an ideal school environment.

- She recounts experiencing the Columbine shooting during her student teaching and the subsequent implementation of active shooter drills in schools.

- West describes various safety protocols, including controversial measures like teaching students to fight back against shooters.

- She highlights the emotional impact of school shootings, particularly after her family members witnessed a recent incident.

- West expresses frustration with societal attitudes toward teachers, the profession's low pay, and the expectation to risk their lives at work.

- Comments from readers emphasize the broader issues of gun violence, political inaction, and the psychological toll on children and educators.

Trump Goes to War....Against American Cities https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/17/trump-goes-to-war-against-american-cities/ via @dianeravitch

Diane Ravitch's blog post discusses former President Trump's controversial actions, including his attempt to deploy the National Guard to Chicago and Memphis, stirring debates about federal intervention in local governance. The article highlights criticism from figures like Senator Tammy Duckworth, who accused Trump of "stolen valor" for wearing a military cap despite his draft-dodging history. Broader concerns are raised about the implications of such interventions, questioning their effectiveness and whether they serve as distractions from other pressing issues. The post also touches on the erosion of democratic principles within the Republican Party and the politicization of education reforms like the Science of Reading.

### Key Points

- Trump faced backlash for attempting federal intervention in Chicago and Memphis, raising concerns about local control and governance.

- Senator Tammy Duckworth criticized Trump for wearing a military cap, citing his draft-dodging history.

- Questions arise about the effectiveness and motives behind deploying the National Guard to cities.

- Broader criticisms of the Republican Party's stance on representative democracy and executive power are discussed.

- Mention of the politicization of education reforms, such as the Science of Reading, and its ideological ties.

Big Education Ape: HHS SECRETARY RFK JR.: LAWYER, WITCH DOCTOR, OR NEW AGE SHAMAN? NAVIGATING THE CLASH OF WESTERN AND NEW AGE MEDICINE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/hhs-secretary-rfk-jr-lawyer-witch.html

Speaking of Kids, the article explores the leadership of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), highlighting his controversial stance between Western and New Age medicine. It examines the clash of scientific rigor versus holistic approaches in healthcare, RFK Jr.'s advocacy for healthier lifestyles, and his skepticism of vaccines, which has drawn criticism for promoting misinformation. The piece emphasizes the need for balanced, evidence-based healthcare policy that integrates the best of both worlds to ensure public health safety.

### Key Points

- RFK Jr. leads HHS with a mission to "Make America Healthy Again," sparking debate over Western medicine versus New Age practices.

- Western medicine is evidence-based and precise, while New Age medicine emphasizes holistic care but lacks scientific validation.

- Integrative medicine seeks to combine both approaches, blending scientific rigor with complementary therapies.

- RFK Jr.'s policies include scrutinizing Big Pharma and promoting natural remedies, but his vaccine skepticism raises public health concerns.

- The government should prioritize evidence-based healthcare and avoid amplifying misinformation.

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: SEPTEMBER 17TH SHOWDOWN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/todays-great-ai-news-smackdown_17.html

The article covers various topics including public education challenges, political drama, international affairs, pop culture, and AI news analysis. It highlights key events such as Trump's UK state visit, the Israel-Gaza conflict, Robert Redford's death, and AI models competing in news analysis.

### Key Points

- Trump's administration faces criticism for slashing healthcare funding, dismantling vaccine programs, and weakening public health infrastructure.

- Trump's UK state visit sparks protests, controversy, and a $15 billion lawsuit against The New York Times.

- AI models compete in analyzing news, with Gemini excelling in drama, Grok in analysis, ChatGPT 5 in finance, and Copilot in breadth.

- The Israel-Gaza conflict intensifies, with airstrikes and diplomatic fallout, including Spain canceling arms deals.

- Robert Redford dies at 89, leaving behind a significant legacy in Hollywood.

- TikTok deal progresses amid US-China negotiations, addressing national security concerns.

- Neeraj Chopra defends his javelin title in Tokyo, highlighting sports rivalry.

- COVID-19 drops from the top 10 causes of death in the US, but heart issues and cancers surge.

- Sacramento County shooting and local community events like Shaq Thompson's flag football tournament gain attention.

Big Education Ape: NO KINGS II: TRUMP - THE KING WHO CRIED "FREE SPEECH" https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/no-kings-ii-trump-king-who-cried-free.html

Seattle Schools Community Forum discusses mismanagement of capital funds, highlighting Seattle's costly $297 million high school built on unsuitable land. The article critiques Trump's administration for undermining First Amendment freedoms during his 2025 presidency, including attacks on free speech, press, religion, petitioning, and peaceful assembly. Examples include lawsuits against media outlets, executive orders targeting activists, and suppression of protests. The grassroots "No Kings" movement is rallying nationwide to oppose authoritarianism and advocate for constitutional rights.

### Key Points

- Trump's 2025 presidency allegedly undermines First Amendment rights through executive orders, lawsuits, and censorship.

- Trump's administration targeted free speech, press, religious freedoms, and peaceful assembly, including actions against activists and media outlets.

- The "No Kings" movement mobilizes millions to protest Trump's authoritarian tendencies and defend constitutional freedoms.

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: SEPTEMBER 16TH SHOWDOWN BY OUR DISEMBODIED CORRESPONDENT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/todays-great-ai-news-smackdown_16.html

The article discusses various headlines and news stories from September 16, 2025, including AI models competing to deliver accurate news, major global political events, celebrity deaths, domestic legal issues, and technological updates. It critiques how each AI model handled the news, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately concludes that Grok provided the most balanced and impactful summary.

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: SEPTEMBER 15TH SHOWDOWN BY OUR DISEMBODIED CORRESPONDENT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/todays-great-ai-news-smackdown.html

Update On Our Next Book, “The Better Teacher’s Toolbox” - Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/

The article provides a collection of updates, resources, and reflections on education-related topics, including teacher strategies, tools for English Language Learners (ELL), historical teaching resources, and innovative learning methods.

### Key Points

- Announcement of the upcoming book "The Better Teacher’s Toolbox," offering practical ideas for educators.

- Advice for new teachers navigating their first experiences in schools.

- Republished posts on effective slideshow topics and sentence frames for ELL newcomers.

- Free subscription offer from "The Atlantic" for U.S. high school students and staff.

- Google's "Learn Your Way" initiative to make textbooks more accessible using AI.

- Infographic showcasing global demographics as 1,000 people, available interactively.

- Charts highlighting challenges in ELL instruction, published by the Rand Corporation.

- Free curriculum resources for Students With Interrupted Formal Education (SIFE).

- Resources for teaching the Birmingham Church Bombing anniversary.

- Recommendation of "ZenMic" as an effective listening tool for English learners.

- Research on leaderboards supporting the use of Blooket as a favored learning game.

- Surveys emphasizing the importance of activating student prior knowledge.

- Overview of books offering research-based strategies for teaching Social Studies, English, Math, and Science, as well as motivating students.

- Resources for parental involvement and classroom management techniques.

- Blog, radio show, and posts providing additional teaching strategies and practices.

Hispanic Heritage Month: Don Trump is Tilting at Windmills (Really) – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/09/17/tilting-at-windmills-from-cervantes-to-trump/

Hispanic Heritage Month reflects on the cultural contributions of the Spanish-speaking world, highlighting Miguel de Cervantes' "Don Quixote" as a timeless narrative about human behavior and folly. The article humorously compares Cervantes' tale of tilting at windmills to former President Donald Trump's dramatic rhetoric against wind turbines, portraying them as ecological and economic threats. It emphasizes how obsession with imaginary foes distracts from addressing real challenges like climate change and technological transitions. The windmill metaphor underscores the dangers of creating villains for political gain, drawing parallels between Cervantes' fictional knight and modern political strategies.

### Key Points

- Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates contributions of the Spanish-speaking world, including Cervantes' "Don Quixote."

- "Tilting at windmills" symbolizes battling illusions, a theme mirrored in Trump's rhetoric against turbines.

- Trump portrays windmills as environmental and economic threats, echoing Quixotic absurdity.

- The obsession with imaginary foes distracts from addressing real societal challenges.

- The article critiques political strategies that create villains for public attention.

Teacher Tom: I Persist in the Radical Idea that Childhood is for Play https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/09/i-persist-in-radical-idea-that.html

I Persist in the Radical Idea that Childhood is for Play

### Key Points

- The author discusses varying attitudes toward cooking, contrasting it as a hobby, an avoidable task, or an obligation, depending on individual circumstances.

- Society's emphasis on work ethic often leads to dissatisfaction with jobs, as many feel trapped by repetitive and uninspiring tasks.

- Fulfillment in work comes from meaningful engagement, critical thinking, and seeing the impact of one's efforts, rather than the compulsion to complete menial tasks.

- Children in play-based environments experience meaningful "work" through play, learning critical skills and decision-making while enjoying their activities.

- The author advocates for preserving childhood as a time for play, aiming to foster self-motivation and lifelong learning in children.

- Hobbies can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, even when jobs fail to do so, as illustrated by the coal miner who builds motorcycles.

- The author emphasizes the importance of embracing creativity and meaningful pursuits, quoting Kurt Vonnegut to highlight the value of "farting around."

Kids less likely to be expelled from preschool when parents cooperate with teacher - Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/

### Key Points

- Preschool expulsion increases the risk of academic failure and involvement in the criminal justice system, known as the "cradle-to-prison pipeline."

- A study suggests that collaborative relationships between parents and teachers can reduce preschool expulsion rates.

- Preschool attendance is linked to better educational, occupational, and social outcomes, but expulsion rates remain high, with approximately 250 children expelled daily in the U.S.

- Black and Latine children face disproportionately higher expulsion rates compared to White children, even when controlling for factors like poverty and behavior.

- Teachers' perceptions of a child's behavior and feelings of hopelessness about behavior improvement are influenced by parental cooperation levels.

- Experimental findings show that teachers perceive challenging behavior less negatively when parents are cooperative, emphasizing the importance of bidirectional communication.

glen brown: Trump's Administration Is Slashing Healthcare https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/09/trumps-administration-is-slashing.html

### Key Points

- The article critiques the Trump administration's healthcare policies, highlighting cuts to cancer research, vaccine programs, and public health infrastructure, driven by economic utility rather than necessity.

- It discusses the concept of necro-politics, where survival and healthcare access are determined by economic factors, exacerbating inequality and marginalizing vulnerable populations.

- The shift from public health to actuarial governance prioritizes short-term economic gains over long-term care, disproportionately affecting the elderly, poor, and marginalized communities.

- It calls for a reimagining of survival as a public good, emphasizing collective responsibility and rebuilding care infrastructure to protect lives rather than commodify them.

HHS SECRETARY RFK JR.: LAWYER, WITCH DOCTOR, OR NEW AGE SHAMAN? A DIFFERENT DIAGNOSIS OF AMERICA’S MEDICAL IDENTITY CRISIS https://ru4people.substack.com/p/hhs-secretary-rfk-jr-lawyer-witch?sort=top

HHS SECRETARY RFK JR.: LAWYER, WITCH DOCTOR, OR NEW AGE SHAMAN? A DIFFERENT DIAGNOSIS OF AMERICA’S MEDICAL IDENTITY CRISIS

### Key Points

- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a polarizing figure in American politics due to his blend of environmental advocacy, controversial health claims, and unconventional approaches to public health.

- RFK Jr. straddles two healthcare philosophies: Western medicine, which is evidence-based and systematic, and New Age medicine, which emphasizes holistic healing but often lacks scientific backing.

- His focus on nutrition and chronic disease prevention has merit, advocating for clean eating and addressing obesity and diabetes, though some proposals may alienate low-income families.

- RFK Jr.’s anti-vaccine stance and unscientific claims have sparked controversy, undermining public trust in evidence-based medicine and contributing to misinformation.

- Integrative medicine, combining Western and New Age practices, offers a balanced path forward, but RFK Jr.’s tendency to favor anecdotes over evidence makes this approach unlikely under his leadership.

- The debate over U.S. healthcare highlights the need for leaders who value both scientific evidence and innovation, a role RFK Jr. struggles to fulfill.

AI News Smackdown: Who Got It Right and Who's Still Chasing Their Own Tail? https://ru4people.substack.com/p/ai-news-smackdown-who-got-it-right

The article reviews the performance of four AI models—Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot—on their ability to report major news stories from September 17, 2025. It highlights which models excelled, which missed the mark, and provides evaluations based on their coverage of key events such as Robert Redford's death, geopolitical developments, and the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

### Key Points

- Copilot emerged as the winner for its pragmatic and accurate coverage of Robert Redford's death, treating the story with appropriate weight.

- Gemini placed second for correctly reporting Redford's death but categorized it under "Other Top Stories," showing less emphasis on cultural significance.

- Grok and ChatGPT 5 failed to cover Redford's death, focusing instead on unrelated events like sports and economic data, missing major cultural moments.

- Gemini and ChatGPT 5 excelled in reporting on Trump's UK state visit and the Israel-Gaza conflict, providing nuanced details like UN reports on genocide.

- Copilot covered the Israel-Gaza conflict accurately but added local news, making its report feel disjointed.

- Grok focused on sensationalized aspects of the Israel-Gaza conflict, such as a news host's monologue, missing the broader geopolitical story.

- Gemini and Copilot reported the assassination of Charlie Kirk with factual accuracy, focusing on the suspect and legal proceedings.

- Grok mischaracterized Kirk’s assassination, framing it as a debate on social media algorithms rather than focusing on the crime itself.

- Copilot was praised for balancing global, national, and local news, despite its tendency to include community-level updates.

- Gemini was noted for its broader analysis of trends and ethics, earning a solid B+ for its performance.

- ChatGPT 5 missed key human-interest stories, focusing excessively on economic data and monetary policy updates.

- Grok was criticized for prioritizing sensationalism and less-verified stories, showing a lack of focus on factual reporting.

A Superintendent Speaks Out from the Front Lines of Our Public Schools https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/a-superintendent-speaks-out-from

A Superintendent Speaks Out from the Front Lines of Our Public Schools

### Key Points

- Dr. John Kuhn, a Texas superintendent and author, advocates for equity in education, emphasizing that achievement gaps stem from poverty and systemic neglect rather than poor teaching.

- He criticizes the focus on standardized testing and bureaucratic micromanagement, arguing that these approaches ignore the realities of unequal funding and social disparities among districts.

- Dr. Kuhn highlights legislative burdens, such as excessive regulations, "parental rights" bills, and voucher programs that divert resources from public schools to private institutions.

- He condemns the demonization of educators and the polarization in politics, which harms students and drives talented professionals out of education.

- Kuhn calls for increased funding, reduced testing burdens, higher teacher pay, and the rejection of voucher schemes to support public schools and ensure children's well-being.

- He urges the public to advocate for children by voting for pro-education policies and respecting educators as essential partners in raising the next generation.

Curmudgucation: AI, Facing the Dark, and Human Sparknotes | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/ai-facing-dark

### Key Points

- The article critiques the widespread use of AI in daily life, highlighting concerns about reliance on AI for tasks like therapy, brainstorming, and research, and its potential to replace human expertise.

- The author questions the ethical implications of using AI in creative fields, referencing authors like James Frey who use AI to mimic their writing styles without transparency.

- Concerns are raised about AI's role in writing and reading, emphasizing the importance of human expertise and firsthand experience in understanding and processing information.

- The article argues that relying on AI for intellectual tasks undermines the value of personal engagement, likening it to using shortcuts like Sparknotes, which bypass critical thinking and experiential learning.

Join us for the next California Department of Education (CDE) Nutrition Services Division (NSD) Tuesday at 2 Town Hall, scheduled for Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 2 p.m. https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/nsdtownhall09232025.asp

Join the California Department of Education (CDE) Nutrition Services Division's "Tuesday at 2 School Nutrition Town Hall" webinar on September 23, 2025, to discuss federal and state policies, funding opportunities, training, and best practices for Child Nutrition Programs (CNPs). The event is free and offers resources such as draft slides, professional standards training, and insights into school nutrition initiatives. Topics include organic purchasing, verification requirements, competitive food guidelines, reimbursement rates, and upcoming conferences. Accessibility accommodations and live captioning are available.

### Key Points

- The "Tuesday at 2 School Nutrition Town Hall" webinar will cover policies, funding, training, and best practices for Child Nutrition Programs.

- Draft slides for the webinar are available on the CNIPS web page and updated post-event.

- Registration for the free webinar includes confirmation emails and Zoom troubleshooting tips.

- Professional standards training focuses on program management and staff scheduling.

- Accessibility accommodations and live captioning are provided for attendees with disabilities.

- The Conscious Kitchen Team encourages organic purchasing and peer collaboration.

- Resources shared include SNP reimbursement rates, competitive food bulletins, and SUN Bucks verification guidance.

- Upcoming events include California Crunch Day, National School Lunch Week, and the Farm to Cafeteria Conference.

- Contact information for various nutrition-related queries is provided.

- Additional resources include program training manuals, award programs, and advisory council updates.

Choosing Democracy: New Poll. Americans Prefer Democratic Socialism https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/09/new-poll-americans-prefer-democratic.html

### Key Points

- A national poll conducted by Jacobin, DSA Fund, and Data for Progress shows widespread support for democratic socialist leaders and policies, indicating that democratic socialism is now considered mainstream.

- Democrats favor democratic socialism over capitalism by a 58-point margin, and voters under 45 generally support socialism. Democratic socialist figures like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are more popular than establishment politicians among Democrats and key voting blocs.

- The poll reveals bipartisan support for egalitarian policies: 70% believe the economic system favors corporations and the wealthy, 59% blame landlords and banks for high housing costs, and 83% agree on including mental health and social work in public safety budgets.

- Even among Republicans, 58% agree with critiques of the economic system, and 15% of Trump voters prefer democratic socialism, particularly younger and non-white individuals.

- The label "democratic socialism" is increasingly associated with economic fairness and security, reminiscent of New Deal policies.

- The poll was conducted from August 22–24, 2025, surveying 1,257 likely voters nationwide.

The New Pirates of the Caribbean. UN human rights experts have condemned recent U.S. military strikes on Venezuelan vessels, calling them “extrajudicial executions” and a violation of international law. https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/the-new-pirates-of-the-caribbean

### Key Points

- UN human rights experts condemned U.S. military strikes on Venezuelan vessels, labeling them "extrajudicial executions" and violations of international law.

- The U.S. claims the strikes were part of anti-drug operations targeting "narcoterrorists," but critics argue they are a guise for regime-change efforts against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth suggested readiness for broader operations, including potentially removing Maduro from power.

- Critics question why suspected drug-trafficking boats were not tracked and interdicted at port, suggesting the operations were more about eliminating individuals than dismantling networks.

- Trump falsely claimed maritime traffic in the Caribbean is disappearing, while critics highlight the region's active fishing and shipping industries.

- Venezuela responded by initiating military exercises on its Caribbean island of La Orchila amid escalating tensions with U.S. forces.

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Seattle School Board Meeting, September 17, 2025 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/09/seattle-school-board-meeting-september.html?spref=tw

Seattle School Board Meeting Summary:

### Key Points

- Seattle School Board meeting on September 17, 2025, discussed the superintendent search, student engagement, and high school lunchtime changes. Concerns were raised about timing, safety, and clarity of decisions.

- Superintendent Fred Podesta highlighted new buildings and strategic planning updates, emphasizing the need for student feedback and collaboration with ASB officers.

- Issues surrounding lunch schedules included safety concerns, instructional hours, and club time. Directors criticized the rushed implementation and lack of student engagement in decision-making.

- Public testimony covered topics like school lunch times, Indian education, and safety, with 25 speakers and 39 on the waitlist.

- Historical posts revealed concerns about nepotism within Seattle Schools and advanced learning services, showing ongoing systemic issues.

Ohio Charter Schools Keep Failing to Graduate Students Ohio Charter Schools graduate students at a rate that's lower than all but 1 Ohio Public School District, likely costing our kids billions of dollars in lost potential income since their inception. https://10thperiod.substack.com/p/ohio-charter-schools-keep-failing

Ohio Charter Schools graduate students at alarmingly low rates compared to public schools, leading to significant economic and social consequences. Despite having fewer economically disadvantaged students than many public districts, their graduation rates remain poor, costing students potential lifetime income and communities broader benefits.

### Key Points

- Ohio Charter Schools graduate students at a rate of 69.4%, lower than all but one public school district in Ohio.

- Many public school districts with higher rates of poverty outperform Charter Schools in graduation rates, achieving 92.4% compared to Charter Schools' 76%.

- Poor graduation rates in Charter Schools result in substantial lost income for students, with the class of 2025 alone losing $333.6 million in potential earnings.

- Since their inception in 1998, Ohio Charter Schools have caused billions of dollars in lost potential income, compounded by high administrative spending and negative social impacts.

First Amendment Knowledge Rises—But the Press Is Still Under Siege https://bloom2.substack.com/p/first-amendment-knowledge-risesbut

### Key Points

- A survey conducted by the Annenberg Public Policy Center in 2025 shows modest improvement in Americans' knowledge of First Amendment rights, but significant gaps remain.

- Freedom of speech was identified by 79% of respondents, an increase from 73% in 2020, possibly influenced by Elon Musk’s advocacy for free speech on X.

- Recognition of freedom of religion rose to 48%, showing a slight improvement over previous years, highlighting the need for ongoing civic education.

- Awareness of the right to assemble increased to 36%, while recognition of the right to petition fell to 12%, indicating fluctuating understanding of these rights.

- Only 34% of Americans identified freedom of the press as a First Amendment right, a decline from 2020, raising concerns about the state of press freedom.

- The article criticizes the Trump administration's hostility toward the press, citing attacks that undermine trust in journalism and weaken its role as a democratic watchdog.

- Press freedom is essential to democracy, as it exposes abuses of power and prevents authoritarian control, but it is currently under significant threat.

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

9-17-25

https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_17.html

The article is a compilation of various blog posts, news stories, and analyses from September 2025, covering topics such as political violence, education challenges, AI technology, systemic inequalities, and societal controversies. It explores the intersection of technology, policy, advocacy, and societal trends shaping public education and broader global issues.

### Key Points

- Richard Rothstein critiques the notion that teacher expectations alone drive student achievement, emphasizing the role of socioeconomic challenges like housing segregation and poverty.

- Two federal judges blocked a Trump administration rule barring undocumented children from Head Start programs, citing procedural violations and harm to families.

- Voucher programs in Texas threaten rural schools by diverting public funds to private education, exacerbating financial struggles and sustainability issues.

- Trump’s presidency in 2025 undermined First Amendment freedoms through lawsuits, censorship, and suppression of protests, prompting grassroots movements like "No Kings."

- AI models competed in summarizing news, with Grok providing the most balanced coverage of global and domestic issues, including political violence and AI ethics.

- The Trump administration cut funding for Minority-Serving Institutions and pressured states to end aid for undocumented college students, sparking legal challenges and criticism.

- NYC’s class size reduction plan faces challenges like overcrowding, teacher shortages, and insufficient funding, prompting advocacy efforts for compliance.

- The school choice movement has shifted to ideological control, promoting white Christian nationalist values over diverse educational options.

- A satirical article proposes financial penalties and buyback programs to address gun violence and reduce firearm circulation.

- Seattle Public Schools face criticism for mismanagement of capital funds, including a costly high school built on unsuitable land.

- Parents of children with health conditions express concerns about their ability to support their child in school, highlighting the need for mental health resources and collaboration.

- Advocacy movements like Black Lives Matter at School and Sandy Hook Promise promote equity and school safety, addressing systemic issues in education.

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A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

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

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Latest News and Comment from Education

Thursday, September 18, 2025

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TAKING FREE SPEECH FOR A WALK: THE QUESTION IS "WHERE"?

TODAY'S GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: SEPTEMBER 18th SHOWDOWN

🏡 Local Headlines (Rosemont & Sacramento Area)

🇺🇸 Top U.S. Stories

🌐 Global Highlights

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 9-18-25

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

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

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