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Friday, October 24, 2025

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 24, 2025

 

TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES 

OCTOBER 24, 2025 

U.S. NewsPoliticsWorld AffairsEducationEconomyTechnologyHealthSports



Trump and McMahon Illegally Undermine Special Education Services https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/23/trump-and-mcmahon-illegally-undermine-special-education-services/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses the Trump Administration's actions to undermine special education services, including firing staff responsible for administering IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and distributing federal grants. These actions threaten the quality of education for disabled children, violate legal obligations, and highlight the Administration's broader goal to dismantle the Department of Education. The article emphasizes the bipartisan history of IDEA and the critical need for congressional intervention to uphold the law and protect disabled students' rights.

### Key Points
- The Trump Administration fired nearly all staff responsible for distributing IDEA funding, jeopardizing services for 7.5 million disabled children. 
- IDEA funding supports essential services like assistive technology, specialized teachers, and early interventions for disabled students. 
- Gutting IDEA staff undermines legal oversight, leaving states uncertain about compliance and proper use of funds. 
- IDEA has bipartisan support, but the Administration's actions threaten its implementation and Congress's authority. 
- The Administration proposed moving IDEA administration to the Department of Health and Human Services, but Congress has not approved such changes. 
- A federal judge issued a restraining order against illegal firings during the shutdown, protecting affected employees temporarily. 



An Education | Columbia University Press https://cup.columbia.edu/book/an-education/9780231563161/ 

Book Review :: An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else by Diane Ravitch - NewPages.com https://www.newpages.com/blog/books/book-reviews/an-education-by-diane-ravitch/ 

An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294?


Big Education Ape: TRUMP’S MOO-VELOUS MAKEOVER: WHITE HOUSE EAST WING UDDER-LY DESTROYED FOR 90,000-FOOT BILLIONAIRE MILKING BARN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/trumps-moo-velous-makeover-white-house.html 

The article is a satirical piece discussing a fictional scenario in which Donald Trump demolishes the White House East Wing to construct a massive, gold-plated "Billionaire Milking Barn." It humorously critiques political corruption, excessive capitalism, and self-serving leadership while incorporating absurd and exaggerated elements like AI-powered "milking machines" and a gift shop selling Trump-branded items.

### Key Points

- Satirical narrative of Trump demolishing the White House East Wing for a "Billionaire Milking Barn," featuring AI-assisted milking stations and a gift shop. 

- Criticism of bypassing traditional oversight processes and the cultural and historical loss caused by the demolition. 

- Satirical depiction of Trump's future plans to transform the White House into a neo-Versailles with extravagant features like a Diet Coke moat and a golden Trump statue. 

- Reactions from critics, historians, and political figures, highlighting the absurdity and controversy of the fictional project. 

- Satirical commentary on political grifting, AI misuse, and excessive capitalism. 

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: OCTOBER 23, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/morning-news-update-october-23-2025.html 

The article provides a detailed overview of recent political, economic, educational, technological, health, and sports developments in the U.S. and globally, covering topics such as government actions, international relations, advancements in AI, and major sporting events.

### Key Points

- Concerns arise over politicization of U.S. armed forces and the government's shutdown impacts, including economic fallout and delays in energy aid distribution. 

- President Trump imposes sanctions on Russian oil firms, cancels a summit with Putin, and faces criticism for White House East Wing demolition plans. 

- Education updates include California Blue Ribbon School nominees, U.S. Presidential Scholars, and resumed student loan forgiveness programs. 

- Economic highlights include U.S. tariffs raising consumer costs, global economic stagnation, and the launch of a critical mineral consortium. 

- Technological advancements feature Meta's $27B data center project, OpenAI's new browser, and breakthroughs in AI-powered tools. 

- Health innovations include precise cancer therapies, peanut allergy prevention, and AI-driven diabetic vision care. 

- Sports updates include MLB's World Series opener, NBA season start, and Australia's victory in the Women's Cricket World Cup. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 23, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01680206494.html   

The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments across various sectors, including politics, education, technology, health, and global affairs. It highlights key events such as the U.S. government shutdown, advancements in AI, education reforms, and significant political shifts, while also addressing societal issues like privacy concerns, climate change, and inequality.

### Key Points  

- The U.S. government shutdown enters its third week, causing widespread disruptions, including delayed SSA announcements and deployment of the National Guard to food banks.   

- Protests against AI-powered data centers grow in Michigan due to energy costs and water usage, reflecting tensions between Big Tech and local communities.   

- Philadelphia achieves record-high homicide clearance rates, attributed to improved investigations and community efforts.   

- Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to avoid U.S. landfall, reducing recent weather threats.   

- President Trump's nominee for Office of Special Counsel withdraws after racist texts surface, sparking controversy.   

- Russian nuclear drills ordered by Putin amid delayed Trump summit, raising global tensions.   

- 2025 Forest Declaration Assessment reports persistent deforestation, urging urgent climate action.   

- AI tools revolutionize U.S. classrooms, improving student learning by up to 275%, but concerns about guidelines and privacy remain.   

- North Carolina's expanded voucher program shifts public funds to private and religious schools, raising concerns about equity and accountability.   

- Texas farmers face severe labor shortages due to immigration policies, leading to economic hardships and unharvested crops.   

- Nancy Bailey emphasizes the importance of federal special education laws like IDEA, criticizing funding cuts and exclusionary practices.   

- AI copyright and liability issues spark global debates, with proposals for regulation like the EU's AI Act and No AI FRAUD Act.   

- Rabbi Arthur Waskow's legacy as a progressive activist blends Jewish tradition with social justice advocacy.   

- Zohran Mamdani's NYC mayoral victory signals a progressive shift, prioritizing affordable housing and economic justice.   

- Common Core Standards show limited impact on teaching practices, with evidence suggesting minimal classroom changes.   

- Gender-neutral bathrooms face controversy in the U.S., contrasting with acceptance in Europe.   

- AI integration in education raises privacy concerns, including data mining and potential biases.   

- Social media's impact on attention spans highlights the need for mindful habits and reading practices to rebuild focus.   

- Teachers are excluded from technology adoption decisions, undermining their professional expertise.   

- NYC schools face privacy concerns, with inadequate breach notifications and excessive data sharing. 

Big Education Ape: WHO’S AFRAID OF THE BIG BAD DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST WOLF? (SPOILER: IT’S THE BILLIONAIRE PIGGIES) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/whos-afraid-of-big-bad-democratic.html 

Zohran Mamdani’s rise as a Democratic Socialist mayoral candidate in NYC highlights his progressive agenda against billionaire-backed opponents. His grassroots campaign focuses on affordable housing, free public transit, and economic justice, challenging the political establishment and signaling a shift in American politics.

### Key Points

- Larry Cuban critiques the use of selective evidence in evaluating the Common Core Standards' influence on teaching. 

- Zohran Mamdani’s campaign as a Democratic Socialist mayoral candidate in NYC emphasizes affordable housing, free public transit, and economic justice, resonating with working-class voters. 

- Billionaire-backed opponents and centrist critics failed to suppress Mamdani’s grassroots movement, which reflects a broader progressive shift in U.S. politics. 

- Mamdani’s victory challenges the entrenched political and economic systems, advocating for a more equitable society. 

Big Education Ape: Tuesday, October 21, 2025 MORNING NEWS UPDATE: OCTOBER 22, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/tuesday-october-21-2025-morning-news.html 



Janresseger: Important New Court Ruling Protects Equity and Inclusion in Public Schools and Students’ Civil Rights | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/important-new-court 

A federal judge has struck down Trump administration policies that sought to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in schools and colleges. The ruling, delivered by Judge Stephanie Gallagher, blocks efforts to cut federal funding for institutions maintaining DEI initiatives, citing violations of the First Amendment and improper administrative procedures. The decision relieves educators and school leaders from the threat of losing funding, particularly Title I dollars for schools serving low-income students. The Trump administration’s interpretation of civil rights law, attempting to label DEI efforts as discriminatory, was rejected as untested and unconstitutional. The ruling emphasizes the importance of free speech and inclusivity in education.

### Key Points
- A federal judge ruled against Trump administration policies targeting DEI programs in schools and colleges, citing constitutional violations. 
- The decision blocks threats to cut federal funding, including Title I funds for schools serving low-income students. 
- The ruling underscores the protection of educators’ free speech rights under the First Amendment and challenges the administration’s interpretation of civil rights law. 
- Historical precedents, such as the 1943 Barnette case, highlight the importance of free speech in education and rejecting government-compelled speech. 

Researchers Question Prioritizing “Patriotic Education” | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/publication/newsletter-patriotic-education-102325 


## Summary of "Researchers Question Prioritizing 'Patriotic Education'"

### Overview

The National Academy of Education (NAEd) has responded critically to a proposal by the U.S. Department of Education aimed at prioritizing funding for programs promoting "patriotic education." This proposal defines patriotic education in a way that the NAEd finds overly simplistic and narrow.

### Key Topics and Core Ideas

1. **Definition of Patriotic Education**:

   - The proposal characterizes patriotic education as presenting American history in a positive light, emphasizing unity and noble principles without critical examination of historical failures and challenges.

2. **Critique by NAEd**:

   - The NAEd argues that the administration's definition is too limited and suggests adopting the term "civic education" instead.

   - They emphasize the importance of "reflective patriotism," which encourages critical thinking about America's history and institutions, including their successes and failures.

3. **Inclusive Historical Perspectives**:

   - The NAEd calls for a broader understanding of civic education that includes diverse cultural histories and acknowledges historical injustices, such as slavery and the treatment of Indigenous peoples.

   - They argue that confronting these issues can inspire students and equip them to engage as informed civic actors.

### Key Points and Highlights

- **Critical Thinking in Education**: The NAEd stresses that education should prepare students to think critically rather than accept unexamined sentiments about America. This is essential for navigating complex global challenges ([1]).

- **Historical Context and Civic Engagement**: Understanding historical dilemmas is presented as a source of hope and empowerment for students, enabling them to see their potential in shaping democracy ([2]).

- **Public Feedback on the Proposal**: The comment period for the proposed rule has closed, and the NAEd's critique will be considered as the administration moves forward with potential modifications ([3]).

This summary encapsulates the main arguments and perspectives presented in the document regarding the ongoing debate over the nature of patriotic education in American schools.



Study Finds That Students – At Least, Younger Ones – Learn More From Videos Than Reading Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/ 

This article is a collection of educational resources, blog updates, and research insights shared by the author. It includes studies on learning methods, instructional strategies, videos, infographics, and curated teaching tools. The author also highlights their books, blog, and other educational contributions.

### Key Points

- A study suggests younger students learn more effectively from videos than reading. 

- A video on the most spoken languages worldwide is shared. 

- A critique of special wristbands as a motivational tool for students is revisited. 

- Introduction of a monthly feature on educational phrases, starting with “Agency.” 

- A study emphasizes the importance of student engagement in effective educational strategies. 

- A teacher's perspective on ICE activities in Chicago is shared. 

- Weekly posts featuring useful classroom instruction resources are highlighted. 

- An infographic on extreme poverty is added to a curated visualization collection. 

- A video on nuclear warhead stockpile trends from 1945-2024 is shared. 

- Author's books offer research-based strategies for teaching various subjects, including English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. 

- Resources for motivating students and engaging parents in education are detailed. 

- The author’s blog, radio show, and contributions to education platforms are listed. 

- Over 38,000 pageviews recorded from Sep. 23 to Oct. 23. 



Ohio Reform of Local Property Taxes Must Increase State's Investment to Avoid Penalizing Public Schools https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/10/23/ohio-local-property-tax-reform-must-include-added-state-funding-and-avoid-penalizing-public-schools/ via @janresseger 

Ohio is grappling with a significant issue of rising local property taxes, which fund public schools and other services. The problem stems from outdated tax laws, declining state contributions to public school funding, and a shift in the tax burden to homeowners. Experts argue that the state must increase its investment in public education to alleviate this crisis and ensure equitable funding for schools.

### Key Points

- Ohio communities face challenges with rising local property taxes due to outdated laws and an imbalance in state and local funding. 

- School officials warn that proposed tax reforms could force budget cuts in already underfunded districts, as the burden has shifted to homeowners due to state tax cuts for businesses. 

- The state’s share of public school funding has drastically declined over two decades, falling from 44.8% in FY 2002 to 33.5% in FY 2023, increasing reliance on local taxes. 

- Analysts recommend cautious reforms to address rising property taxes while maintaining adequate funding for schools and local services. 

- Experts emphasize that school district overspending is not the root cause; instead, declining state support is to blame. 



Poem: the storyteller who lost their way https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/10/23/poem-the-storyteller-who-lost-their-way/ via @plthomasEdD

The article explores the diverse writings and scholarly contributions of Dr. P.L. Thomas, including poetry, educational critique, and commentary on societal issues. It highlights his focus on critical literacy, education reform, social justice, and resistance to traditional norms. His work spans topics like racism, poverty, literacy, and the intersections of politics and education. The article also includes references to his poetry and commentary on the "reading wars," emphasizing the importance of addressing educational inequities and promoting critical thinking.

### Key Points

- Dr. P.L. Thomas is an educator, poet, and public scholar addressing issues like academic freedom, social justice, and education reform. 

- His poetry reflects themes of loss, storytelling, and societal critique. 

- The article critiques the "reading wars" and phonics-focused policies, advocating for diversity and equity in literacy education. 

- It highlights his work on critical media literacy, fake news, and the impact of post-truth politics on education. 

- Topics like racism, poverty, and inequality are central to his writings and advocacy. 



Job-Ready Is a Trap: What You Really Need to Survive the AI Economy – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/10/23/job-ready-is-a-trap-what-you-really-need-to-survive-the-ai-economy/ 

Job-Ready Is a Trap: What You Really Need to Survive the AI Economy

### Key Points
- Education should go beyond career training to cultivate critical thinking, adaptability, and moral reasoning, which are essential in an AI-driven world. 
- Courses like biology and electives are crucial for understanding the world, fostering interdisciplinary thinking, and building intellectual resilience. 
- Narrowly focusing education on job-specific skills risks leaving individuals unprepared for economic changes and stifles innovation. 
- A liberal arts education promotes curiosity, citizenship, and the ability to question societal and technological developments critically. 
- The ultimate goal of education is to create thoughtful citizens who can contribute to democracy and adapt to a rapidly evolving world. 



Teacher Tom: The Hope That Others Will Find Me Worthy of Imitation https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-hope-that-others-will-find-me.html 

Teacher Tom reflects on the philosophical idea that good deeds are often unrewarded and evil acts go unpunished, emphasizing the importance of choosing good without expecting rewards or fearing punishment. He discusses Natalia Ginzburg's perspective on morality, the concept of karma as consequences rather than rewards or punishments, and the significance of being an example of goodness for others, especially children. The article also includes personal and professional updates, resources for educators, and ways to support Teacher Tom's work.

### Key Points

- Natalia Ginzburg's perspective highlights the randomness of rewards and punishments in life, urging people to love good and hate evil without logical explanations. 

- The concept of karma is clarified as cycles of cause and effect rather than a system of rewards and punishments, aligning with Ginzburg's philosophy. 

- Teacher Tom emphasizes the importance of setting an example of moral behavior and choosing good over evil, hoping others will find him worthy of imitation. 

- The article provides resources for educators and invites support for Teacher Tom's work through contributions or event bookings. 



glen brown: Trump’s Politics of Defecation https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/trumps-politics-of-defecation.html 

This article critically examines contemporary political and social issues, focusing on the degradation of dignity and the abuse of power in public displays, particularly those associated with Donald Trump. It delves into the symbolic and aesthetic dimensions of such acts, linking them to historical patterns of domination and cruelty. The piece also touches on broader societal concerns, including pensions, education, healthcare, and justice, while highlighting activism and resistance against authoritarianism.

### Key Points

- The article critiques Donald Trump’s public displays, such as the "Flying King" video, describing them as symbolic acts of power and humiliation, rooted in historical patterns of domination. 

- It explores the concept of fascist aesthetics, as discussed by Susan Sontag, emphasizing the eroticization of power and degradation in Trump's actions. 

- Broader societal issues, including pensions, education reform, healthcare, and social justice, are discussed as ongoing challenges requiring attention and activism. 

- The article highlights the significance of protests like "No Kings Day" as a form of resistance against authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic values. 



Barn Door’s Open: Trump Tears Down East Wing for a 90,000-Foot ‘Billionaire Grifting Barn’ https://ru4people.substack.com/p/barn-doors-open-trump-tears-down 

### Key Points
- President Trump has initiated the demolition of the White House East Wing to construct a 90,000-square-foot “Billionaire Grifting Barn,” bypassing zoning and preservation regulations. 
- The new structure, estimated to cost $300 million, includes AI-assisted machines designed to extract capital from billionaire donors and features a lavish Gold-Laden Grift Shop selling extravagant merchandise. 
- Critics highlight the lack of democratic oversight, noting private funding from corporations with pending regulatory concerns, while the administration defends the project as “patriotic commerce.” 
- The East Wing’s historic significance is dismissed by the administration, with plans for further upgrades to convert the White House into a “Presidential Palace” in a supposed third Trump term. 
- The proposed palace design includes extravagant features like a gold throne room, crocodile-stocked moat, and casino, symbolizing Trump’s branding and wealth-centric presidency. 

Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Democratic Socialist Wolf? (Besides the Billionaire Oligarch Piggies, of course.) Zohran Mamdani Wins NYC Mayor’s Race: The People’s Mic Drop Heard Round the Financial District https://ru4people.substack.com/p/whos-afraid-of-the-big-bad-democratic 

Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist, won the NYC mayoral race on November 5, 2025, signaling a major shift in the city's political landscape. His grassroots campaign, focused on affordable housing, free public transit, universal childcare, and combating wealth inequality, resonated with voters frustrated by the status quo. Despite heavy opposition funded by billionaire elites, Mamdani's victory reflects a growing progressive movement prioritizing justice and change over corporate interests.

### Key Points

- Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist, won the NYC mayoral race, marking a progressive shift. 

- Mamdani's platform includes affordable housing, free public transit, and universal childcare, addressing working-class struggles. 

- Billionaire elites funded opposition campaigns, but grassroots efforts prevailed. 

- Mamdani's win highlights increasing dissatisfaction with centrist politics and wealth inequality. 

OH WHAT A TANGLED WEB WE WEAVE: THE GLORIOUSLY CONFUSING LEGAL TANGLES OF AI https://ru4people.substack.com/p/oh-what-a-tangled-web-we-weave-the 



Knicks win opener. Mamdani wins debate. A good night for New York. https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/knicks-win-opener-mamdani-wins-debate 

A good night for New York as the Knicks win their opener and Zohran Mamdani excels in the final mayoral debate. The debate highlighted Mamdani's composure and Curtis Sliwa's Islamophobic remarks. Meanwhile, Andrew Cuomo faced scrutiny for his past controversies. On Canal Street, ICE detained nine immigrant vendors in an act of intimidation, raising concerns about Trump's tactics and priorities.

### Key Points

- Knicks win their opener, and Zohran Mamdani performs well in the mayoral debate, maintaining composure against attacks. 

- Curtis Sliwa and Andrew Cuomo attempt to discredit Mamdani, with Cuomo defending his controversial record. 

- ICE arrests nine immigrant vendors on Canal Street, signaling Trump's aggressive policies and priorities. 

- Concerns about the future implications of Trump's actions, including potential National Guard involvement. 



It’s Never Too Late to Say “Thank You” | The Merrow Report https://themerrowreport.com/2025/10/23/its-never-too-late-to-say-thank-you/ 

It’s Never Too Late to Say “Thank You”

### Key Points

- The article encourages readers to reflect on teachers who positively impacted their lives and suggests thanking them personally or publicly, as it can deeply uplift their spirits. 

- The author shares a personal story about a former student, Paul, who thanked him after 60 years for inspiring his love for reading through an unconventional poetry assignment. 

- Paul’s journey highlights the importance of parental support, as his father fought for him to be placed in college-level classes, which led to his academic success and professional achievements. 

- The narrative emphasizes the often thankless nature of teaching and advocates for expressing gratitude to educators, as it can profoundly affect their lives. 

- The author reflects on his own experiences as a teacher and the creative freedom he had with students, which fostered unique learning opportunities and meaningful connections. 



Interventions with repeating students lead to greater engagement and perseverance Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/ 

Education Research Report Thursday, October 23, 2025 Interventions with repeating students lead to greater engagement and perseverance. Researchers from Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) developed targeted interventions for repeating students in a programming course, resulting in improved engagement and perseverance. However, pass rates did not significantly increase, highlighting the need for more personalized support and adaptive learning technologies. The study underscores the importance of understanding repeating students' unique histories and barriers to enhance educational outcomes.

### Key Points

- Targeted interventions for repeating students in a programming course improved engagement but not overall pass rates, emphasizing the need for personalized support. 

- The study identified that time constraints and prior experiences are critical factors influencing students' academic success. 

- Findings suggest that adaptive learning technologies and tailored support strategies could be applied to other courses with high failure rates. 

- Social support is vital for children facing adversity, reducing long-term negative health outcomes and premature death risks. 

- Public Montessori programs deliver stronger early learning outcomes at lower costs, with sustained benefits and improved teacher morale. 

- Cellphone bans in schools improve student test scores, reduce absences, and have short-term disciplinary impacts, particularly in middle and high schools. 



2025 California Blue Ribbon School Nominees - Year 2025 (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr25/yr25rel46.asp 

State Superintendent Tony Thurmond has recognized 31 California schools as 2025 California Blue Ribbon Schools after the U.S. Department of Education discontinued the National Blue Ribbon Schools (NBRS) program. This award acknowledges schools for their exceptional academic performance or success in closing achievement gaps. The honored schools will be celebrated at the California School Recognition Program in spring 2026. The California Blue Ribbon recognition is a one-time initiative, while other state recognition programs, such as California Distinguished Schools, will continue.

### Key Points
- Tony Thurmond honors 31 schools as 2025 California Blue Ribbon Schools after the NBRS program was discontinued. 
- The award recognizes schools for academic excellence or closing opportunity gaps and highlights the efforts of educators, students, and families. 
- The recognized schools will be celebrated in spring 2026 at the California School Recognition Program. 
- The California Blue Ribbon recognition is a one-time initiative; other state recognition programs will continue. 

SPI Celebrates Rising Test Scores at Pittsburg USD - Year 2025 (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr25/yr25rel45.asp 

State Superintendent Tony Thurmond celebrated rising test scores at Pittsburg Unified School District (PUSD), attributing the success to the adoption of the community schools model. PUSD demonstrated significant improvements in literacy, math, and science assessments, with increased student performance across various demographics. The district benefited from statewide investments like the California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP) and targeted tutoring funded by the Extended Learning and Opportunities Program (ELOP). Superintendent Thurmond has been a long-time advocate for community schools, emphasizing their role in addressing the needs of the whole child through partnerships and resources.

### Key Points

- State Superintendent Tony Thurmond celebrated improved test scores at Pittsburg Unified School District, highlighting gains in literacy, math, and science assessments. 

- PUSD's success is linked to the community schools model and statewide resources, including the CCSPP and ELOP funding. 

- Thurmond has championed community schools for nearly 20 years, leading the largest implementation in the nation, with over 1,000 sites across California. 

- Investments in K–12 education, including literacy grants and professional learning programs, have contributed to accelerated student achievement. 

- PUSD Superintendent Janet Schulze credited the district's progress to collaborative strategies, targeted tutoring, and a focus on the whole child. 



Who'll be dancing in the new grifters' ballroom? Pay-to-Players, including Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, and Microsoft, as well as Coinbase and Ripple. https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/wholl-be-dancing-in-the-new-grifters 

### Key Points

- The article criticizes the construction of Trump’s new $300M ballroom, highlighting the financial burden on taxpayers due to tax deductions for wealthy donors and corporations contributing through a nonprofit. 

- Major tech and crypto companies, including Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, Microsoft, Coinbase, Ripple, and Tether, are involved in funding the project, with some benefiting from lucrative contracts and incentives during Trump’s second term. 

- The ballroom project is linked to pay-to-play politics, with companies gaining access to the White House and securing financial advantages. 

- Historical context is provided, comparing Trump’s actions to the British burning of the White House in 1814. 



ABOUT FACE!! | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2025/10/23/about-face/ 

### Key Points

- The podcast episode discusses the efforts of About Face: Veterans Against the War, a group advocating for peace and resisting war and fascism, with a focus on GI resistance and the right to refuse military involvement. 

- About Face addresses the contradictions of resisting harm caused by war while supporting the reorientation of individuals impacted by racial capitalism. They have also authored a zine titled "State Violence, Abolition, and GI Resistance." 

- Jacob George, a member of About Face and a musician, used his art and activism to resist war, organizing a bike ride called "A Ride Till the End." His story highlights the personal toll of war resistance, as he took his own life in 2014. 

- Various resources and readings are mentioned, including the GI Rights Hotline, military law support, and literature on GI resistance during historical wars. 

- The episode promotes solidarity with About Face through donations, social media, and accessing their resources. 



CURMUDGUCATION: The Apolitical Armed Forces https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-apolitical-armed-forces.html 

The article discusses the importance of the United States Armed Forces maintaining an apolitical stance, emphasizing that soldiers, while free to have personal political beliefs, are expected to avoid endorsing or promoting political parties in their professional roles. It warns against the dangers of politicizing the military, which could compromise its mission and unity. The article uses this discussion as a metaphor to address concerns about religion in schools.

### Key Points

- The U.S. Armed Forces have a tradition of being apolitical, ensuring soldiers are treated fairly regardless of political affiliation. 

- Politicizing the military could harm its mission, sow division, and redefine a good soldier as a "good party member." 

- The article shifts focus to discuss parallels with religion in schools, suggesting similar concerns about neutrality and inclusivity. 



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