TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES
OCTOBER 31, 2025
U.S. News- Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica and Heads North: The powerful Category 5 storm has caused at least 19 deaths in Jamaica, with the total death toll reaching 44 across the Caribbean. Bermuda is now preparing as the storm moves onward, highlighting concerns over intensifying Atlantic hurricanes. Forecasters describe it as potentially Jamaica's "storm of the century."
- Government Shutdown Impacts Federal Operations: The ongoing shutdown, the second-longest in U.S. history, has stalled FBI investigations, halted payments to informants, and put national security at risk. It also threatens food stamps and other aid programs, with millions potentially losing heat and food assistance.
- Border Patrol Official Faces Court Scrutiny: A top Border Patrol official in Chicago must appear daily in court due to concerns over agents' use of force, including tear gas incidents near children.
PoliticsWorld Affairs- Cameroon's Paul Biya Wins Re-Election: The 92-year-old, the world's oldest head of state, secured another term in office.
- Trump-Xi Meeting on Trade Tensions: President Trump described his meeting with China's Xi Jinping as a "great success," aiming to steady U.S.-China relations amid rivalry.
- Sudan Genocide Escalates in Darfur: Violence in Darfur has reached new horrors, with the U.S. and U.N. confirming a genocide is occurring again, 20 years after the previous one.
Education- Education Department Lays Off Staff Amid Shutdown: Nearly 20% of the workforce, including the Office of Special Education, was laid off due to the government shutdown.
- Federal Judge Blocks Funding Cuts for Sex Ed: A judge halted the Trump administration from pulling funds over curricula mentioning diverse gender identities.
- Mental Health Grants Reinstated: The Education Department was ordered to restore mental health grants for schools.
EconomyTechnology- Samsung Boosts AI Memory Production: Reporting strong quarterly results, Samsung plans to mass-produce advanced HBM4 chips for AI in 2026.
- Instagram Adds Parental Controls for AI: New features limit teen conversations on sensitive topics like self-harm amid growing AI concerns.
- New Hydrogen Extraction Tech Unveiled: A UNIST team developed a method to extract hydrogen from ammonia while producing silicon nitride.
Health- Health Insurance Costs Rise Amid Shutdown: Consumers face increases as Congress stalls on subsidies, with open enrollment showing higher premiums.
- Nature Prescriptions for Healing: Providers are prescribing time in nature to promote health benefits.
- New Iron Supplement with Probiotics: A formula combining iron, probiotics, and prebiotics restores levels without harming gut health.
Sports- NBA Extends Partnership with Start-Up: The league is deepening ties with an intriguing company, potentially impacting global operations.
- Blue Jays Lead World Series 3-2: Rookie Trey Yesavage's historic start propelled Toronto over the Dodgers.
- NCAA Delays Athlete Betting Rule: A rule change allowing college athletes to bet on pro sports was postponed.
Play is being reintroduced into kindergarten curricula across several states in the U.S., reversing the trend of "
academization" that prioritized test scores and structured learning over unstructured play. This shift emphasizes the benefits of
play-based learning for both academic and social development, aligning with research that highlights its positive impact on young learners' skills and overall well-being.
### Key Points
The No Child Left Behind Act led to a focus on test scores, pushing academic learning into earlier grades and reducing playtime for young children.
- Educators and researchers have advocated for the importance of play in early childhood education, citing its benefits for social and academic development.
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Play-based learning involves guided activities that build specific academic and lifelong skills, such as collaboration, communication, and critical thinking.
- Free play remains significant for social development, though guided play is seen as more effective for teaching academic skills.
- Educators and organizations, such as the
Connecticut Education Association, have played a key role in advocating for and implementing play-based learning policies.
Ian Bassin's essay, featured on Diane Ravitch's blog, emphasizes the importance of resilience in defending democracy against authoritarian threats. He highlights how autocrats use chaos and despair as strategies to weaken opposition and urges readers to adopt a mindset of persistence, focus, and strategic preparation. Drawing lessons from historical movements like
Poland's Solidarity, the
Civil Rights Movement, and the fight for
marriage equality, he advocates for maintaining hope, upholding democratic principles, and preparing for moments of opportunity to create meaningful change.
### Key Points
- Ian Bassin discusses how authoritarian regimes cultivate despair and chaos to disarm democratic resistance.
- He introduces the concept of "fighting the long defeat," inspired by
J.R.R. Tolkien, to find dignity and purpose in enduring struggles for justice.
- Historical examples, including
Poland's Solidarity movement and the Civil Rights Movement, illustrate the power of persistence and focus on core democratic principles.
- Bassin emphasizes the importance of strategic readiness, defending truth, and fostering unity to counter authoritarian tactics.
- Political change can happen rapidly, as shown by the swift shift in public opinion and policy on marriage equality.
Elon Musk’s SpaceX has received direct investments from Chinese nationals, raising concerns about national security due to its role as a major U.S. military contractor. Testimony from a SpaceX insider revealed
Chinese investors on the company’s capitalization table, though the extent and identities of these investors remain undisclosed. SpaceX's involvement in sensitive government contracts, such as building
spy satellites and providing internet services, heightens scrutiny. Experts warn that Chinese investment in SpaceX could pose risks if it grants access to nonpublic information, potentially aiding Chinese intelligence.
### Key Points
- Elon Musk’s SpaceX has received direct investments from Chinese nationals, raising potential national security concerns.
- A SpaceX insider revealed Chinese investors on the company’s capitalization table, but their identities and investment scope remain unclear.
- Experts suggest that Chinese investments could lead to espionage risks if investors gain access to sensitive company information.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 30, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0961320978.html
The article is a compilation of diverse topics, including political developments, climate concerns, education reforms, technological advancements, and societal issues. It highlights current events like Hurricane Melissa, Trump administration policies, education challenges, AI-driven schools, and health updates, among others. ### Key Points
- President Trump announced the resumption of nuclear weapons testing to match global powers like China and Russia.
- Trump administration plans include intensified immigration enforcement and potential federal employee layoffs.
- Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, threatens Jamaica and raises concerns about climate change and disaster response.
- AI-driven schools are replacing human teachers, raising ethical concerns about the future of education.
- North Carolina legislature expanded school vouchers, diverting public funds from public schools to private institutions.
- Diane Ravitch critiques the New Orleans charter school experiment for undermining public education and community needs.
- Research shows cursive writing benefits cognitive development, memory, and literacy, leading to its resurgence in schools.
- Nvidia nears a $5 trillion valuation due to significant AI and tech deals, including building supercomputers.
- Health updates include a new antibiotic effective against superbugs and warnings about cardiovascular risks linked to flu and COVID-19 infections.
- Trump and Xi Jinping met in South Korea to address trade tensions, with discussions on tariffs and compliance with the 2020 agreement.
- Critics argue Bill Gates’ climate strategy delays systemic changes needed for vulnerable communities.
- The disparity in K-12 education spending among U.S. states has grown significantly since the 1990s, impacting equity and outcomes.
- Public discourse on education often misrepresents crises or successes, ignoring systemic issues like poverty and racial inequity.
- Hormel Foods recalled over 4.8 million pounds of frozen chicken products due to metal contamination.
- Aftyn Behn announced her candidacy for Congress in Tennessee, advocating for bold leadership and prioritizing people's needs.
- Shane Battier’s example highlights the importance of humility and teamwork in achieving sustainable success.
- Glen Brown critiques Trump’s presidency and emphasizes the need for political resistance and social justice.
- Seattle Public Schools face concerns about nepotism and transparency in superintendent selection and district management.
- Unity committee composition raises concerns about fair representation and transparency in union leadership.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 29, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0298820397.html
The article is a compilation of various news updates, blog reviews, and critical analyses of current events, including political developments, educational reforms, technological advancements, and societal issues. Topics include Trump administration policies, climate challenges, public education, and broader global affairs.
Big Education Ape: BILL GATES: THE BILLIONAIRE ORACLE WHO'D RATHER PIVOT THAN PREPARE, AS HURRICANE MELISSA EYES JAMAICA FOR A CATASTROPHIC REMIX https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/bill-gates-billionaire-oracle-whod.html
The article critiques billionaire Bill Gates' approach to addressing climate change amidst the looming threat of Hurricane Melissa, a catastrophic Category 5 storm. Gates advocates for innovation and technological solutions over immediate emissions reduction, sparking criticism for downplaying the urgency of climate action. Experts argue that his approach risks delaying essential systemic changes, particularly for vulnerable communities already facing climate-related disasters.### Key Points
- Bill Gates emphasizes a pivot from emissions reduction to technological innovation and poverty alleviation, but critics argue this creates a false dichotomy and delays urgent climate action.
- Hurricane Melissa, one of the strongest storms in Atlantic history, highlights the immediate impacts of climate change, with Jamaica bracing for catastrophic damage.
- Climate scientists stress that every fraction of a degree of warming intensifies extreme weather and argue for deploying existing renewable energy solutions rather than relying on unproven technologies.
- Gates’ strategy of investing in futuristic technologies like carbon capture and nuclear energy is seen as insufficient for addressing the urgent needs of communities facing climate disasters now.
State and Federal Governments Keep Attacking the Teaching of Honest History https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/10/30/state-and-federal-governments-keep-attacking-the-teaching-of-honest-history/ via @janresseger
### Key Points
- The teaching of honest history, including topics like settler colonialism and racism, is under attack through state and federal legislation, such as Ohio Senate Bill 1.
- Efforts to ban "critical race theory" and diversity programming, driven by figures like Christopher Rufo, aim to reshape public perception and suppress inclusive education.
- The Trump administration's policies discouraged diversity initiatives, penalized schools for equity programs, and pressured publishers to alter or withdraw curricula.
- Faculty and educators face growing political pressure and ambiguity in implementing new laws, leading to over-compliance and curriculum censorship.
- Federal law prohibits the government from controlling school curricula, yet the Department of Education has pushed for "patriotic education," sparking protests from advocacy groups.
- Critics warn that these policies risk erasing important historical truths, perpetuating inequity, and harming the quality of education.
What Will Our Era Be Called? Naming the Age of American Reckoning – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/10/30/what-will-our-era-be-called-naming-the-age-of-american-reckoning/
History often names eras to encapsulate their struggles, fears, and transformations. This article explores potential names for the current American era, reflecting on its political, cultural, and societal challenges. The author identifies five possible labels for this time: the MAGA Era, the Era of Fragmentation, the Second Gilded Age, the Age of Reckoning, and the Late Empire Era. Each name highlights distinct aspects of the period, from political polarization and social disunity to wealth inequality, accountability movements, and America's shifting global role. The article concludes by emphasizing that history will judge this era based on what is built, reformed, or destroyed during this time of reckoning and transition.### Key Points
- Historians will name this era based on its defining struggles, debates, and transformations, such as political division, technological change, and cultural shifts.
- The "MAGA Era" reflects populism, polarization, and nostalgia, characterized by Trumpism, anger, and resistance movements for inclusion and democracy.
- The "Era of Fragmentation" is marked by societal disconnection, algorithm-driven division, and the coexistence of conflict and opportunities for marginalized voices.
- The "Second Gilded Age" parallels the late 19th century, with extreme wealth, technological change, inequality, and the potential for reform.
- The "Age of Reckoning" highlights movements like Black Lives Matter and #MeToo, confronting systemic injustices, environmental crises, and the demand for accountability.
- The "Late Empire Era" signals America's waning global dominance, moral decline, and the opportunity to redefine its identity through humility and cooperation.
- The article concludes that the era’s legacy depends on whether society chooses renewal and justice or continues down a path of division and inequity.
November Is Native American Heritage Month – Here Are Teaching & Learning Resources Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
The article provides a comprehensive overview of educational resources, tools, and updates shared by an experienced educator. It highlights various teaching strategies, educational events, and curated content for teachers, with a focus on supporting English Language Learners (ELLs), integrating social-emotional learning, and improving instructional practices.### Key Points
- November is Native American Heritage Month, and the article includes teaching and learning resources for this occasion.
- A podcast and article discussing the art of asking questions are recommended as valuable resources for leaders and educators.
- Links to nearly 100 posts on teaching ELLs, previously written for The New York Times Learning Network, are shared.
- A regular feature highlights useful ESL/EFL/ELL resources from across the web.
- November 5th is World Tsunami Awareness Day, with related teaching and learning resources provided.
- A monthly email newsletter is sent out with educational updates and resources.
- Infographic on high school graduation rates is shared as a visual resource.
- Insights into Sanger Unified’s educational model and its focus on engaging instruction are discussed.
- Weekly posts feature classroom instruction resources and strategies.
- Social-emotional learning is connected to literacy instruction in republished posts.
- Several books and resources authored by the writer provide practical strategies for teaching various subjects, including Math, Science, and Social Studies, with a focus on ELLs and student motivation.
- Additional resources include blog posts, radio shows, Q&A sessions, and videos aimed at improving teaching practices.
MORNING NEWS UPDATE: OCTOBER 30, 2025 - by MIKE SIMPSON https://ru4people.substack.com/p/morning-news-update-october-30-2025
MORNING NEWS UPDATE: OCTOBER 30, 2025### Key Points
- President Trump announced the resumption of U.S. nuclear weapons testing after decades, citing national security concerns.
- U.S.-China relations advanced with reduced tariffs and agreements on rare earth exports and fentanyl trafficking following Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping.
- The U.S. government shutdown has caused delays in economic data releases, impacting third-quarter GDP figures and creating uncertainty.
- A federal judge blocked layoffs in the Department of Education's special education office amid the shutdown, raising concerns about the program's future.
- Global tensions persist, with Israeli strikes in Gaza despite a ceasefire, ongoing conflict in Sudan, and Russia targeting Ukraine’s power grid.
- Hurricane Melissa caused significant destruction in Haiti, Jamaica, and Cuba.
- The IMF projected a global economic slowdown, with U.S. tariff changes and eurozone GDP showing slight growth.
- OpenAI launched Sora 2 for text-to-video generation and expanded ChatGPT Search, competing with Google Search.
- Health updates included rising federal health insurance premiums, promising cancer treatment findings, and new research on heart disease and mental health risks.
- In sports, the Toronto Blue Jays took a 3-2 lead in the World Series, Arsenal and Manchester City advanced in the Carabao Cup, and the Dallas Wings named a new WNBA coach.
NYC Public School Parents: Powerful testimony from parents Christine Tadler, Jim Baker, and Liat Olenick of Climate Families NYC, on why DOE should not be using AI in the classroom https://nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com/2025/10/powerful-testimony-from-parents.html
NYC public school parents and teachers testified against the use of AI in classrooms, citing concerns over student learning, privacy, and environmental impact. Contracts for
AI tools Amira, Lumi, and Kiddo were rejected by the
Panel for Educational Policy. Testimonies highlighted issues such as declining educational outcomes, data privacy violations, mental health risks, and the environmental toll of AI technologies.
### Key Points
- Parents and teachers opposed the adoption of AI tools in NYC classrooms, arguing that AI does not improve learning outcomes and poses risks to students' mental health and privacy.
- Concerns were raised about AI's significant environmental impact, with data centers consuming large amounts of energy and water, exacerbating climate change.
- AI tools were criticized for being developmentally inappropriate, eroding critical thinking, and failing to address the diverse linguistic needs of NYC students.
- Testimonies emphasized prioritizing human teachers and relationships over unproven AI technologies in education.
NYC Public School Parents: Good news! AI contracts did not get approved last night at the PEP https://nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com/2025/10/good-news-ai-contracts-did-not-get.html
Good news! AI contracts did not get approved last night at the PEP meeting. Parent leaders, teachers, and students voiced concerns about the risks of AI in schools, including privacy violations, negative impacts on learning, and algorithmic bias. A resolution was passed to address overcrowding and reduce class sizes, alongside rejecting unreliable school bus service contracts. Leonie Haimson, co-chair of the Parent Coalition for Student Privacy, criticized the DOE for expanding AI use without proper precautions and transparency.### Key Points
- The Panel for Educational Policy rejected three AI contracts, including EPS/Amira, Lumi, and Kiddom, despite DOE's push for AI expansion.
- Concerns raised about AI's impact on privacy, cognitive development, creativity, and critical thinking in classrooms.
- DOE's lack of transparency regarding AI tools and training materials, citing non-disclosure agreements.
- Resolutions passed to address overcrowding, reduce class sizes, and reject unreliable bus service contracts.
- Leonie Haimson urged voting against AI contracts until privacy protections and research on learning benefits are established.
Good news: AI contracts rejected by the PEP last night! | Class Size Matters! | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/good-news-ai-contracts-rejected-by-the-pep-last-night/
Good news: AI contracts rejected by the PEP last night! The Panel for Educational Policy (PEP) rejected three AI contracts proposed by the DOE, emphasizing the need for proper guidelines and transparency in AI use in schools. Additionally, resolutions were passed to accelerate acquiring city-owned spaces for smaller classes and to reform busing contracts for better accountability. Early voting for the general election is underway, with a call to vote "NO" on certain ballot measures to ensure adequate school planning alongside housing development.### Key Points
- The PEP rejected three AI contracts due to concerns over transparency and lack of guidelines.
- A resolution was passed to acquire city-owned spaces to allow for smaller class sizes.
- The PEP opposed renewing long-term contracts with busing companies, advocating for short-term agreements with improved oversight.
- Early voting for the general election is ongoing, with a recommendation to vote "NO" on specific ballot measures to prevent weakening school planning requirements.
- NYC's law mandating smaller class sizes in schools is highlighted, with efforts to ensure its proper implementation.
- Advocacy continues for reducing class sizes and improving educational conditions in overcrowded NYC schools.
¡El PEP rechazó anoche los contratos de IA! | Class Size Matters ¡El PEP rechazó anoche los contratos de IA! | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/el-pep-rechazo-anoche-los-contratos-de-ia/
### Resumen del artículoEl artículo discute los desarrollos clave de la reunión del Panel de Política Educativa (PEP) celebrada el 30 de octubre de 2025, centrándose en los contratos de IA, los contratos de transporte escolar, la reducción del tamaño de las clases y las propuestas de planificación urbana.
### Puntos Clave
- El PEP rechazó tres contratos de IA a pesar de la presión del Departamento de Educación, citando preocupaciones sobre la transparencia y la falta de salvaguardias.
- El Departamento de Educación ha retenido información sobre los programas de IA actuales y sus políticas de privacidad debido a acuerdos de confidencialidad con las empresas.
- El PEP aprobó una resolución instando al Departamento de Educación a asegurar espacios municipales para clases más pequeñas.
- Se aprobó una resolución para renegociar los contratos de transporte escolar para una mejor responsabilidad, rechazando la renovación automática por cinco años a pesar de la oposición de conductores y asistentes de autobús.
- La organización Class Size Matters se opone a las propuestas de planificación urbana que debilitan la participación comunitaria y no garantizan la construcción de escuelas junto con nuevos desarrollos de vivienda.
- El artículo destaca las iniciativas en curso para reducir el tamaño de las clases en las escuelas de NYC, incluida una ley aprobada en 2022 que exige reducciones por fases.
- Actualizaciones adicionales incluyen información sobre votaciones, preocupaciones de privacidad relacionadas con el uso de tecnología educativa y esfuerzos de defensa para mejorar las escuelas públicas de NYC.
glen brown: "The genocide in Gaza is not a freakish anomaly. It is a harbinger of what awaits us as the ecosystem disintegrates and governments embrace climate fascism" -Chris Hedges https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-genocide-in-gaza-is-not-freakish.html
This article explores the dire state of global geopolitics, environmental collapse, and the systemic injustices perpetuated by powerful nations, particularly focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza. It highlights the connections between
climate crisis, social inequality, militarism, and the erosion of human rights, warning of a dystopian future unless drastic societal reforms are implemented.
### Key Points
- The article critiques the global power structures that enable and sustain systemic oppression, focusing on Gaza as a microcosm of future global conflicts fueled by climate change and inequality.
- It discusses the role of Western states, particularly the U.S., in supporting Israel's military operations and perpetuating violence in Gaza, while ignoring international law and humanitarian standards.
- The environmental crisis, driven by fossil fuel reliance and rising CO2 levels, is linked to escalating conflicts, refugee crises, and societal collapse.
- The article warns of "climate fascism," where industrial nations react to environmental and social upheaval with exclusion, repression, and violence, paralleling Israel's actions in Gaza.
- It calls for civil disobedience, dismantling of oppressive systems, and urgent reforms to prevent the dystopian future described.
glen brown: Bank of America’s Top 5 Predictions That Are About to Shake Up the Economy https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/bank-of-americas-top-5-predictions-that.html
Glen Brown's blog post highlights Bank of America's predictions for transformative changes in the economy driven by AI, robotics, clean energy infrastructure, global tech competition, and cybersecurity challenges. It also touches on diverse topics like social justice, education, political issues, and cultural discussions.### Key Points
- Bank of America predicts AI and robotics will revolutionize productivity but require workforce upskilling.
- Energy and material shortages could raise prices due to AI's increasing demand for resources.
- A significant building boom in clean energy and infrastructure is expected, with high growth in construction and engineering industries.
- Global competition over technology may intensify, leading nations to prioritize independent supply chains and tariffs.
- Cybercrime is projected to worsen, necessitating increased investment in cybersecurity.
Identifying kids who need help learning to read isn’t as easy as A, B, C Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points- A study by MIT researchers highlights issues in literacy screening for kindergarten students, including inadequate teacher training and lack of intervention plans for struggling readers.
- National reading proficiency rates have slightly improved over the past decades, but early screenings and interventions remain critical for addressing reading challenges.
- Teachers face challenges such as insufficient training, interruptions, noisy environments, and difficulties assessing English language learners during literacy screenings.
- Researchers recommend systematic support, better training for teachers, designated screening spaces, and improved data analysis to make screenings more effective.
- Physical fitness and active lifestyles positively influence brain development in adolescents, while passive screen time can weaken brain functions related to learning.
- Participation in organized sports benefits adolescents’ social and brain health, emphasizing the importance of active engagement over passive screen use.
- A study shows that learning to code activates brain regions associated with logic, suggesting humans are inherently equipped to learn programming.
- Many workers are unaware that job experience can count toward college credit, highlighting a need for better guidance and credit evaluation systems.
- Extreme heat on test days negatively impacts math scores, particularly in schools with lower resources, underscoring the need for climate-resilient learning environments.
- Disrupted sleep in teenagers is linked to higher suicide risk, making sleep a critical factor in adolescent mental health and suicide prevention strategies.
- Tailored interventions for repeating students in demanding courses improve engagement but show limited impact on pass rates, suggesting a need for personalized support.
Teacher Tom: Surely, You Want Your Kid to Be a Part of This! https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/10/surely-you-want-your-kid-to-be-part-of.html
Surely, You Want Your Kid to Be a Part of This!### Key Points
- Teacher Tom uses playful and creative methods, like pretending a drum is various instruments, to engage preschoolers during transitions.
- The playful approach encourages children to voluntarily participate in cleaning up and fosters a sense of community and cooperation.
- Visitors to the school witnessed the dramatic and positive response of children to this playful engagement, highlighting the effectiveness of play-based learning.
- Teacher Tom emphasizes the value of play-based education and offers resources for educators and parents to create similar environments.
- The blog promotes Teacher Tom’s books, speaking engagements, and additional resources for those interested in his teaching philosophy.
CURMUDGUCATION: More Administrators Should Be Scared https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/10/more-administrators-should-be-scared.html
More Administrators Should Be Scared### Key Points
- The article discusses the case of an assistant principal, Ebony Parker, being sued and facing criminal charges for neglecting warnings about a student carrying a gun, which resulted in a teacher being shot.
- The author highlights how administrators often dismiss or minimize serious concerns raised by teachers, citing examples of inadequate responses to student behavioral issues.
- A good administrator should provide safety and support for teachers and students, addressing problems with effective consequences and support rather than ignoring or deferring them.
- The author expresses hope that lawsuits like Parker's case will compel administrators to take teacher warnings seriously and prioritize student and teacher safety.
The Education Of Diane Ravitch https://www.forbes.com/sites/petergreene/2025/10/30/the-education-of-diane-ravitch/
Diane Ravitch's memoir, *An Education*, chronicles her journey from a staunch advocate of education reform to one of its most vocal critics. Initially supporting meritocracy, standardized testing, and accountability, Ravitch’s views shifted as she witnessed the negative consequences of these policies in practice. Her change of heart led her to expose the corporate-driven motives behind education reform and advocate for public education. The book provides a historical overview of the education reform movement, Ravitch’s personal evolution, and her critique of high-stakes testing and privatization. It highlights her intellectual honesty and courage in challenging her own beliefs, making it a compelling read for those engaged in education debates.### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch transitioned from a supporter of education reform to a critic after observing its harmful effects in practice.
- She initially believed in standards, testing, and accountability but later realized these approaches failed to improve education meaningfully.
- Ravitch criticized high-stakes testing for demoralizing teachers and discouraging young people from entering the profession.
- She became a leading advocate for public education, co-founding the Network for Public Education and writing extensively against privatization and corporate-driven reforms.
- Her memoir offers a historical recap of education reform and her personal journey, emphasizing intellectual honesty and integrity.
Diane Ravitch Gets It - by Peter Greene - Curmudgucation https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/diane-ravitch-gets-it
Diane Ravitch's memoir, *An Education*, explores her transition from a key figure in conservative education reform to a leading advocate for public education. The book highlights her intellectual and ethical courage, her contributions to education policy, and her role in building a supportive advocacy community. It also critiques modern education reform, addressing issues like standardized testing, privatization, and cultural debates. The memoir is both a personal and professional account, offering insights into the challenges and motivations behind Ravitch's advocacy.### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch’s career transformation from a conservative education reform advocate to a public education supporter is detailed, showcasing her intellectual and ethical courage.
- The memoir recounts her early career, connections with influential figures, and the sacrifices she made when she changed her stance.
- Ravitch’s early work, such as *The Great School Wars*, demonstrates her dedication to thorough research and education history.
- The book shares personal anecdotes and explains how Ravitch became a vocal critic of policies she once supported, such as NCLB and privatization.
- Diane Ravitch’s blog created a network for public education advocates, fostering connections and empowering others to become leaders in their own communities.
- The memoir critiques modern education reform, including the test-and-punish approach, billionaire-driven privatization, and current cultural debates, offering a clear analysis of where reforms have gone wrong.
- The book is praised for being a concise yet illuminating read at 223 pages, recommended for anyone interested in education policy.
Donald Trump, or how I learned to stop worrying and love the bomb. https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/donald-trump-or-how-i-learned-to
### Key Points- The author reflects on the Cold War era, highlighting the dangers of nuclear testing, including radioactive clouds and health risks such as Strontium-90 poisoning in milk, as well as the psychological impact of "drop drills" in schools.
- Stanley Kubrick's 1964 film "Dr. Strangelove" is referenced as a satirical yet truthful depiction of the nuclear threat during the Cold War.
- Donald Trump announced the resumption of U.S. nuclear weapons testing, breaking a moratorium established in 1992, raising concerns about escalating tensions with Russia and China.
- Russia warns of retaliatory measures if the U.S. departs from the moratorium, while China urges the U.S. to honor commitments under the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.
- The author expresses personal concern, recalling the lasting psychological effects of growing up during a time of nuclear threat.
The Invisible Poor in Trump’s America Trump declares that “everyone is doing well.” I call B.S. https://klonsky.substack.com/p/the-invisible-poor-in-trumps-america
The Invisible Poor in Trump’s America### Key Points
- Former President Trump claimed economic success during a speech, asserting that "everyone is doing well," despite widespread poverty and inequality in the U.S.
- Tens of millions of Americans remain economically marginalized, with 43.7 million living in poverty, according to Oxfam, while MAGA politicians attribute poverty to personal failure rather than systemic issues.
- The government’s SNAP food assistance program, relied upon by 42 million Americans, faces funding shortages due to the ongoing government shutdown, risking a severe food crisis.
- CPS lunchroom workers protested low wages, highlighting economic struggles even among employed individuals, with some unable to afford basic necessities like food.
- Psychologist Robert Jay Lifton warned that economic inequality and despair can fuel authoritarianism, citing Trumpism as an example of exploiting inequality for political gain. Lifton passed away at 99.
2026 CA Teachers of the Year Announced - Year 2025 (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr25/yr25rel47.asp
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announced the 2026 California Teachers of the Year, recognizing five exceptional educators for their contributions to their schools, students, and communities. These teachers, representing diverse subjects and regions, were selected for their dedication, innovation, and impact on student learning. The program, established in 1972, aims to honor outstanding teachers and inspire others to join the profession.### Key Points
- State Superintendent Tony Thurmond named five educators as the 2026 California Teachers of the Year, praising their passion and commitment to education.
- April Raguindin, a first-grade teacher, was nominated as California's representative for the National Teacher of the Year competition.
- The honored teachers include educators specializing in literacy, mathematics, science, and cultural inclusion, showcasing diverse teaching strategies and community impact.
- The California Teachers of the Year Program encourages new teachers to join the profession and recognizes excellence in teaching.
- County offices nominate candidates for the award, and finalists are selected through a rigorous evaluation process by the California Department of Education.
