NOVEMBER 25, 2025
- Slender Man Stabbing Assailant Morgan Geyser Flees Group Home: The 22-year-old, released earlier this year from a psychiatric facility after her 2014 conviction for stabbing a classmate, has escaped from a Waukesha, Wisconsin group home, prompting a police manhunt.
- Major Cross-Country Storm Disrupts Thanksgiving Travel: A powerful winter storm system is causing widespread flight delays, road closures, and accidents across the Midwest and East Coast, affecting millions returning home for the holiday.
- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene Announces Resignation: The Georgia Republican congresswoman cited personal reasons and party frustrations in stepping down from her House seat effective immediately, shaking up GOP dynamics.
- Rapper Sentenced to 14 Years for Illegal Campaign Contributions: The Grammy-winning artist was convicted of funneling foreign money into Barack Obama's 2012 reelection campaign, marking a high-profile blow to celebrity political involvement.
- Government Shutdown Becomes Longest in U.S. History: Now in its 24th day, the stalemate over spending and debt ceiling talks has idled federal workers and delayed key data releases, with President Trump urging an end to the Senate filibuster to break the impasse.
- Trump Terminates Legal Protections for Somali Migrants: The president announced immediate revocation of temporary protected status for thousands in Minnesota, citing national security, sparking backlash from immigrant rights groups.
- Court Blocks Lindsey Halligan's Appointment as Special Counsel: A federal judge ruled against the controversial pick to investigate political opponents, dealing a setback to Trump's efforts to target perceived enemies within the administration.
- Trump's Approval Rating Hits Lowest of Second Term at 38%: A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows declining support amid economic concerns and the shutdown, with the economy now the top voter issue over political extremism.
- Progress in U.S.-Ukraine Talks on Ending War with Russia: Top officials report advancements in Geneva negotiations, including potential amendments to a U.S. peace plan, though European allies criticize it for favoring Moscow.
- U.S. Designates Venezuelan Government as Terrorist Organization: The move opens doors for potential military action and sanctions, as former Ambassador James Story warns of escalating regional tensions.
- Typhoon Kalmaegi Death Toll Rises to 142 in Philippines and Vietnam: The storm has caused massive flooding and landslides, with over 100 missing; rescue efforts continue amid warnings of more severe weather.
- U.S. Airstrike Kills Three in Caribbean Drug Trafficking Operation: Part of an expanded war on drugs, the strike targeted a smuggling boat, drawing international scrutiny over legal justifications.
- Trump Administration Advances Plan to Dismantle Education Department: Offices for elementary, secondary, and postsecondary education are shifting to the Labor Department, with more transfers to Interior and State, fulfilling a campaign promise to devolve power to states.
- Schools Closed in Delhi-NCR for Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day: Educational institutions across North India, including Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad, shut down on November 25 for the 350th anniversary observance.
- NESTS Workshop Focuses on Tribal Education Infrastructure: The two-day event in New Delhi emphasized upgrades to Eklavya Model Residential Schools to better serve indigenous communities.
- India-Australia MoU Signed for Creative Technologies Education: The Indian Institute of Creative Technologies and Deakin University partnered at IFFI 2025 to boost joint programs in digital and creative fields.
- Euro Area GDP Surges 0.2% in Q3, Beating Expectations: Strong performances in France, Spain, and Portugal drove growth, prompting upgraded 2025 forecasts to 1.4% amid improving business sentiment.
- U.S. Shutdown Delays Key Jobs and Inflation Data: The prolonged federal closure has halted releases, but early signs show labor market resilience with private job growth rebounding.
- Trump Tariffs Drive Up U.S. Beef Prices: New duties on imports are exacerbating supply chain issues, pushing retail costs higher during the holiday season.
- China's Fixed-Asset Investment Declines 1.7% in First 10 Months: The drop signals slowing growth, prompting Beijing to focus on domestic demand amid U.S. trade tensions.
- Alphabet Nears $4 Trillion Valuation Milestone: The Google parent is riding an AI boom, poised to join an elite club of mega-cap companies amid surging investor confidence.
- Microsoft Forces Windows 11 Upgrade to 25H2 Version: Users on older builds like 23H2 will soon be automatically updated for security and performance enhancements.
- Over 100,000 Tech Layoffs Hit Industry in November: Massive cuts, including from AI-driven firms and amid economic pressures, mark one of the sector's toughest months.
- Valve Announces Return to Gaming Consoles: The company teases a new hardware entry, stirring excitement for Steam Deck successors and broader ecosystem integration.
- CDC Website Change Renews Vaccine-Autism Controversy: The agency altered guidance to question established science, alarming doctors and fueling parental anxiety over childhood immunizations.
- Second U.S. Bird Flu Fatality Reported in Washington: An older adult with underlying conditions died from a new human strain, raising alarms for the 2025-26 flu season.
- Infant Botulism Outbreak Linked to ByHeart Formula: California health officials probe six additional cases from late 2024 to mid-2025, expanding a nationwide recall.
- New Subclade K Flu Strain Sparks Hospitalization Surge: Experts warn of a severe season, with cases hitting decade highs and eroding trust in public health measures.
- Ohio State Dominates Rutgers 42-9 in Key College Football Win: The top-ranked Buckeyes pulled away late, setting up a high-stakes rivalry clash with Michigan next.
- Saskatchewan Roughriders Win Grey Cup 25-17 Over Montreal: The Canadian football champions claimed their fifth title in a defensive battle.
- Jannik Sinner Defends ATP Finals Title Against Alcaraz: The Italian edged a thriller 7-6(7-4), 7-5 to cap the tennis season in style.
- NASCAR Cup Series Championship Looms in Avondale: The finale on November 2 decided the season, with playoff drivers battling for the title amid intense competition.
What You Need to Know about New Orleans: The Stories Behind the Statistics https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/24/what-you-need-to-know-about-new-orleans/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Kristen Buras critiques the narrative of success around New Orleans' charter schools, exposing systemic inequities and negative student experiences.
- Her report highlights issues such as shifting metrics, unreliable data, grade-fixing, and financial mismanagement in the charter school system.
- The report underscores the lack of accountability and transparency in the charter school model, cautioning against using New Orleans as a reform model.
- Firsthand testimonies from students and parents reveal alienation and dissatisfaction with the all-charter system, challenging the validity of its perceived success.
- The report calls for deeper scrutiny of structural issues affecting educational justice for Black students in New Orleans.
Tennessee: Parents' Lawsuit Challenges Vouchers https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/24/tennessee-lawsuit-challenges-vouchers/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Tennessee parents filed a lawsuit challenging the state's universal school voucher program, claiming it violates constitutional requirements for free public education.
- The lawsuit argues the voucher program diverts funds from underfunded public schools, violating the adequacy and single-system mandates of the Tennessee Constitution.
- The program could cost over $140 million this year and may exceed $1 billion annually within five years, further straining public school resources.
- Advocacy groups aim to expand the voucher program and charter schools, potentially removing 450,000 students from public schools by 2031.
Pennsylvania Requires Public Schools to Adopt "Evidence-Based" Reading Programs https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/24/pennsylvania-requires-public-schools-to-adopt-evidence-based-reading-programs/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Pennsylvania mandates "evidence-based" reading programs by 2027-28, focusing on phonics and structured literacy.
- The initiative is part of a $50.1 billion state budget, with $10 million allocated for literacy programs.
- National test scores reveal low reading proficiency among Pennsylvania fourth graders, prompting this educational reform.
- Educators debate the effectiveness of structured literacy, with concerns about its impact on fostering a love for reading and addressing diverse student needs.
- Some educators argue for flexible, student-centered approaches to teaching reading, prioritizing comprehension and enjoyment.
Big Education Ape: REALLY BIG STORIES LAST MONTH https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/really-big-stories-last-month.html
This article compiles various news headlines, blog posts, and discussions addressing significant political, educational, and social issues. Topics include the impact of charter schools on Black students in New Orleans, the weaponization of pain in politics, the H-1B visa's effect on the American workforce, and reflections on democracy and public education.
### Key Points
- Analysis of the decline of cable news and its identity crisis.
- Discussion on Zorhan Mamdani's victory and its implications for America's political discourse.
- Examination of Bill Gates' approach to disaster preparedness and its broader implications.
- The H-1B visa program and its impact on the American Dream by prioritizing foreign-educated workers over domestic education.
- Criticism of Trump’s policies, including his approach to children's issues and political strategies.
- Exploration of wealth concentration and its effect on housing and the middle class.
- Advocacy for public education and the role of organizations defending it.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 24, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0945302641.html
### Summary
The article provides a detailed overview of current events, spanning U.S. politics, global conflicts, education, health, technology, and societal issues. It highlights significant developments, policy changes, controversies, and their broader implications.
### Key Points
- A massive storm system disrupts Thanksgiving travel across the U.S., causing delays and cancellations.
- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigns from Congress, fueling speculation about a 2028 presidential bid.
- Florida Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick is indicted for misusing $5 million in federal disaster funds.
- FBI investigations in California raise concerns about political corruption, implicating Gov. Gavin Newsom's former chief of staff.
- U.S.-Ukraine peace talks progress in Geneva, pressured by Trump’s deadlines.
- Israeli airstrikes hit Beirut suburbs, escalating tensions in Lebanon.
- Brazil issues an arrest warrant for former President Bolsonaro over alleged coup attempts.
- Typhoon Kalmaegi devastates the Philippines and Vietnam, killing over 140 people.
- The U.S. Department of Education accelerates dismantling efforts, transferring responsibilities to other agencies.
- U.S. trade deficit narrows by 24% in August, attributed to tariffs.
- Bitcoin erases 2025 gains amid market volatility.
- Nokia announces a $4 billion AI investment in drug development.
- Research links microplastics to accelerated artery disease, with men at higher risk.
- High-dose Vitamin D significantly reduces repeat heart attack risks.
- Italy wins the Davis Cup, defeating Spain in the finals.
- U.S. students studying abroad increase by 6%, with top destinations including Italy and Spain.
- AI job cuts rise to 17,375 in 2025, though broader labor market disruptions remain limited.
- NYC Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani charms Trump during a meeting, leading to unexpected bipartisan alignment.
- Trump’s controversial relationship with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman draws criticism over ethical concerns.
- The Department of Education redefines "professional degrees," excluding healthcare fields, sparking equity concerns.
- The H-1B visa program is criticized for prioritizing foreign labor over domestic education and workforce development.
- AI chatbots, such as Elon Musk's Grok, are criticized for bias and misinformation risks.
- Screen time is linked to ADHD symptoms and altered brain development in adolescents.
- Summer youth employment programs reduce crime and improve educational outcomes.
- A December 6 forum in NYC will discuss AI risks in classrooms, focusing on privacy and learning impacts.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: NOVEMBER 24, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/morning-news-update-november-24-2025.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent global, political, and societal events, highlighting significant developments in Ukraine, U.S. politics, education, the economy, technology, health, and sports.
### Key Points
- Rising food insecurity and economic challenges persist in the U.S., with productivity growth but concerns about a slowing economy and midterm elections.
- Global tensions rise with Israeli airstrikes in Beirut, ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflicts, and Brazil's Supreme Court ordering Bolsonaro's arrest.
- Technological advancements include AI-driven job cuts, a protein gel for tooth enamel regeneration, and cybersecurity vulnerabilities at Ivy League institutions.
- Health studies link microplastics to artery disease, explore risks of long-term melatonin use, and highlight breakthroughs in diabetes treatments.
- Sports updates include Italy's Davis Cup win, college basketball highlights, and the Las Vegas Raiders firing their offensive coordinator.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 23, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_037407873.html
Teacher Tom: Adults Learning from Children https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/11/adults-learning-from-children.html
### Key Points
- Play-based learning is essential for cognitive and emotional development, supported by neuroscience research.
- Sensorimotor interactions during play form composite memories, enhancing learning.
- Educational pioneers like Malaguzzi highlight the role of environment and peer interaction in learning.
- Adults can learn significantly from children through play and engagement.
- Teacher Tom shares personal experiences of child-to-child teaching and its impact.
- Registration for Teacher Tom's play-based classroom management course is open.
Severe and Extreme Shortages Ahead for Teaching, Nursing, and Much More – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/11/24/severe-and-extreme-shortages-ahead-for-teaching-nursing-and-much-more/
### Key Points
- Viral posts warn of potential reclassification of teaching, nursing, and other service-oriented degrees, which could limit access to federal loans like Grad PLUS and Parent PLUS.
- Concerns arise from real regulatory language and policy discussions, with proposals potentially excluding high-need fields from professional degree status.
- Professional organizations, such as the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, have raised alarms about these changes’ impact on licensure-level education.
- The political context, particularly Project 2025, pushes for aid prioritization based on economic productivity, devaluing public service professions like teaching, nursing, and social work.
- These changes could lead to severe shortages in essential fields, destabilizing schools, hospitals, and public health systems.
- The narrative undermines professions historically led by women, people of color, and first-generation students, perpetuating inequity.
- A call to action urges professionals and policymakers to advocate for the protection and funding of service-oriented degrees to avoid a future crisis.
Following the Oval Office meeting there is turmoil in MAGAworld. FRED KLONSKY https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/following-the-oval-office-meeting
- The article discusses the political fallout within MAGA supporters after a meeting between Zohran Mamdani and Donald Trump in the Oval Office, highlighting how Trump undermined Republican strategies to use Mamdani as a socialist foil for midterm campaigns.
- Elise Stefanik, a prominent Trump supporter and gubernatorial candidate, faced public humiliation after Trump refused to endorse her claims about Mamdani being a "jihadist," leaving her campaign narrative in disarray.
- Critics, including Laura Loomer and Noah Rothman, pointed out the collapse of Republican plans to use Mamdani as a political target, further emphasizing the disarray within the GOP strategy.
glen brown: So-Called Ukrainian Peace Plan, Mamdani, Greene, and Kennedy Jr. https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/so-called-ukrainian-peace-plan-mamdani.html
### Key Points
- A leaked 28-point Ukraine peace plan, allegedly written by Russians, caused confusion and division within the U.S. administration, with conflicting statements from officials like Rubio and Vance.
- Trump expressed conflicting behavior, meeting amicably with NYC mayor-elect Mamdani despite prior criticisms, leaving his supporters uncertain.
- Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation from Congress, criticizing both political parties and blaming Trump for her departure.
- Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced backlash for altering CDC vaccine guidance, sparking controversy about scientific integrity.
- Broader issues like adjunct faculty struggles, social justice, and economic inequality were also referenced.
What’s up with New York State School Finance? – School Finance 101 https://schoolfinance101.com/2025/11/24/whats-up-with-new-york-state-school-finance/
### Key Points
- The current Foundation Aid formula does not adequately determine or meet districts’ spending needs to achieve desired educational outcomes.
- Over time, the formula has diverged further from its original funding goals due to a lack of updates and adjustments.
- Broader educational standards and increased cost pressures necessitate a reform of the formula.
- Short-term solutions include increasing base aid by at least 10.75% to reflect actual instructional expenditures.
- Adjustments for student needs, such as funding for homeless, foster care, migrant families, and English learners, were not empirically based and require revision.
- A comprehensive analysis of spending required to meet current educational goals should be conducted to inform a reformed formula by FY2028.
- Bruce D. Baker, a professor and expert in school finance, emphasizes the need for rigorous empirical analyses to design effective funding policies.
Schools Matter: Scripted “Parrot” Learning Is Not in the Best Interests of Children and Society http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/11/scripted-parrot-learning-is-not-in-best.html
The article discusses the adverse effects of the "science of reading" laws in the U.S., particularly their failure to address the needs of children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). It emphasizes the importance of creating supportive learning environments in schools to help traumatized children recover and thrive. The article also highlights the broader societal issues contributing to children's struggles, such as poverty, violence, and systemic inequality, and calls for legislative changes to better support children's well-being and literacy development.
### Key Points
- The "science of reading" laws in 42 U.S. states fail to address the needs of traumatized children, who make up a significant portion of the school population.
- Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are linked to lifelong health issues, including mental health conditions, chronic diseases, and premature mortality.
- U.S. children face numerous hazards, such as high child mortality rates, gun violence, homelessness, and exposure to family violence, which are largely ignored by current education policies.
- The article critiques the rigid, phonics-based approach of the "science of reading," which can hinder the literacy development of traumatized children.
- Traumatized children need caring learning environments where reading and writing are integrated into meaningful activities that help them heal and develop resilience.
- The Massachusetts legislature, currently considering literacy bills, has an opportunity to amend these to include provisions addressing the needs of traumatized children.
- The article uses the case study of Nicola, a traumatized child, to illustrate how supportive teaching practices can foster recovery and academic progress.
- The U.S. ranks poorly in child well-being compared to other high-income nations, as shown in the UNICEF Innocenti Report. Poverty, inequality, and ACEs are key factors.
- Recommendations include integrating music, art, and storytelling into literacy instruction, reducing reliance on scripted reading programs, and involving families in schools.
- Trauma-informed teaching practices can help children regain focus, develop resilience, and prepare for future challenges.
Unity Fails to Erode Democracy (or Control Class Size) Then, they try to blame ABC for their shortcomings. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/unity-fails-to-erode-democracy-or
### Key Points
- UFT leadership, particularly Unity, is criticized for failing to maintain affordable healthcare for retirees, with diabetes medications being a major concern.
- A Unity-backed resolution to restrict chapter leaders' communication and impose top-down messaging was voted down, highlighting a rare victory for dissenting voices.
- The author emphasizes the importance of chapter leaders communicating their own perspectives and amplifying member voices, contrasting this with Unity's propagandistic approach.
- Unity’s support for controversial policies like Danielson evaluations and mayoral control under Bloomberg is criticized for eroding teacher morale and trust.
- The author calls for elections as a remedy for ineffective chapter leaders and criticizes Unity for stifling dissent and prioritizing its agenda over members' needs.
- Overcrowded classrooms remain a significant issue, with Unity accused of failing to push for meaningful class size reductions despite decades of opportunity.
- Opposition group ABC is portrayed as a pro-member alternative to Unity, advocating for reduced class sizes, better healthcare, and member-driven policies.
Weekend Quotables Trump launches a 'following orders" war. MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-ff3
- U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis criticized the aggressive tactics used by immigration agents during "Operation Midway Blitz," highlighting excessive use of force, including tear gas, intentional car crashes, and reliance on AI for report writing.
- Judge Ellis refuted the narrative that Chicago is overwhelmed by violent rioters, calling it untrue and unjustified.
- Former President Trump ordered an investigation into Democratic Senator Mark Kelly for urging troops to reject unlawful orders, escalating tensions around military obedience and the Constitution.
- Discussions arose about the legality of members of Congress advising troops to disobey illegal orders, with contrasting opinions from various political figures.
- Commentary on broader political dynamics included criticism of Cory Booker's political decisions and The New York Times' refusal to run ads addressing Gaza issues.
Rap Brown has passed on… | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2025/11/24/rap-brown-has-passed-on/
### Key Points
- The article announces the passing of Rap Brown (Jamil Al-Amin), honoring his contributions to justice and activism.
- It includes a tribute to his life, emphasizing his fight for justice and progress.
- The post is categorized under "Uncategorized" and provides details about related posts and archives.
The Stories Behind the Statistics - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/the-stories-behind-the-statistics/
### Key Points
- Dr. Kristen Buras critiques Tulane University’s report on New Orleans’ all-charter school district, exposing how selective data and weak oversight create a misleading narrative of success that harms Black students.
- The report, published by the National Center for Charter School Accountability, highlights the negative impact of the charter school system on Black families, challenging the so-called “New Orleans miracle.”
- The article emphasizes the importance of public education serving children rather than the agendas of wealthy reformers.
After the Audit – Accountabaloney https://accountabaloney.com/after-the-audit/
### Key Points
- A state audit exposed systemic mismanagement in Florida's education funding, causing a $47 million deficit.
- Senator Don Gaetz filed SB 318 to reform the voucher system, including separating voucher funding from district funding and adding financial safeguards.
- SB 318 also includes reforms such as assigning student IDs, annual audits, and standardizing scholarship application processes.
- The Florida House opposes separating voucher and district funds, fearing caps on funding and threats to universal school choice.
- The debate highlights the conflict between fixing systemic issues and maintaining the current voucher system.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: On Whether You Should Be Listening To Me https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/11/on-whether-you-should-be-listening-to-me.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- The Seattle Times featured advice for the new superintendent, Ben Shuldiner, and included comments from a local education blogger, sparking mixed reactions.
- Superintendent Shuldiner plans to visit all schools in the district within his first 100 days and hold community meetings in each School Board district to engage with stakeholders.
- A frequent commenter criticized the inclusion of the blogger in the article, calling her divisive and polarizing, leading to a heated exchange in the comments section.
- The blogger defended her role as a public education activist, emphasizing her unique contributions to exposing district issues and advocating for transparency.
- Historical posts on the blog discuss various issues in Seattle Public Schools, such as nepotism and advanced learning programs.
Just Finished Diane Ravitch’s New Book | tultican https://tultican.com/2025/11/25/just-finished-diane-ravitchs-new-book/
### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch’s memoir details her journey from a conservative education reform advocate to a defender of public education, emphasizing her courage in changing her views.
- The book includes personal stories of Ravitch’s upbringing, her early career, and her reversal on test-based accountability and other reform agendas.
- The author reflects on their own experiences with public education and how Ravitch’s work influenced their perspective.
- Ravitch’s advocacy through her blog, books, and the Network for Public Education (NPE) inspired many to support public education.
- The article highlights Ravitch’s resilience, including her recovery from open-heart surgery and her continued dedication to education reform.
- The author admires Ravitch’s ability to build alliances with diverse individuals, such as a Baptist preacher, to support public education.
- Despite criticism from some educators, Ravitch remains a relentless advocate for public education and is expected to continue her work.
Trump Aims For His Seventh Bankruptcy https://www.changethelausd.com/trump_aims_for_his_seventh_bankruptcy
### Key Points
- Donald Trump’s branding has created an image of wealth and success, despite his history of financial failures, including six bankruptcies.
- Trump’s messaging skills have allowed him to deflect criticism and maintain support by focusing on selective data points, such as economic performance or unemployment rates, regardless of their relevance.
- Progressives are urged to simplify their messaging into concise, impactful statements to better compete in the current political climate.
- The article highlights Trump’s impact on the national debt and suggests using this as a focal point for counter-messaging.
Choosing Democracy: Support Students : Eat Well https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/11/support-students-eat-well.html
