TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 9, 2025

 

TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES 

DECEMBER 9, 2025  

U.S. News

1. Trump Administration Announces $12 Billion Aid for Farmers: In response to trade war impacts, the White House unveiled one-time payments to support soybean and other crop producers amid ongoing tariff concerns.
2. Supreme Court Hears Case on Presidential Firing Powers: Arguments began over President Trump's dismissal of FTC Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, potentially expanding executive authority over independent agencies.
3. ICE Crackdowns Spark Fears and App Lawsuit: New immigration raids in cities like Minneapolis prompted the ICEBlock app's developers to sue the administration for censorship after Apple removed it under pressure.
4. FBI Arrests Suspect in Jan. 6 Pipe Bomb Plot: Authorities detained a key figure linked to the unresolved Capitol attack explosives, amid heightened scrutiny of lingering threats.

Politics

1. Trump Hosts Kennedy Center Honors Amid Cultural Push: The president became the first to personally host the awards ceremony, highlighting his involvement in selecting 2025 honorees like KISS members.
2. Defense Secretary Hegseth Faces Backlash on Unlawful Orders: Pete Hegseth drew criticism for past comments urging troops to defy Trump, now central to debates over U.S. strikes on drug boats in Latin America.
3. ICEBlock App Sues Over Trump-Era Censorship: The tool for tracking immigration agents alleges unlawful threats led to its App Store removal, fueling free speech concerns.
4. Federal Judge Blocks Evidence in Comey Case: Prosecutors are barred from using seized data in potential new charges against the ex-FBI director, as DOJ reviews options.

World Affairs

1. Thai Jets Bomb Cambodia in Deadly Border Clash: At least five killed as F-16 strikes escalate a long-standing dispute, despite Trump's prior mediation efforts; hundreds of thousands displaced.
2. Japan Hit by 7.5-Magnitude Earthquake: A powerful quake off the northeast coast triggered tsunami warnings (later withdrawn), causing widespread damage and injuries in Aomori and Iwate.
3. Zelensky Rejects Land Cessions in Ukraine Talks: During a London summit with European leaders, the Ukrainian president opposed Russian demands, as U.S. pushes for compromise.
4. UN Warns of Sudan's 'Billion Dollar Question' Crisis: Amid ignored famine and displacement, the top humanitarian official calls for global attention to the escalating war.

Education

1. Trump Admin Removes MLK Day, Juneteenth from Park Waivers: The Interior Department cut these as fare-free days at national parks, citing "woke" policy reversals, sparking backlash.
2. AI Tool Usage Surges Among Students: A new report shows unprecedented adoption of generative AI in classrooms, raising equity and ethics concerns for educators.
3. UC Berkeley Faces Federal Review Over Protest Violence: The Education Department probes a Turning Point USA event disruption, amid broader scrutiny of campus free speech.

Economy

1. Fed Meeting Looms with Expected Rate Cut: Officials convene Dec. 9-10 amid job market slowdowns; markets price in an 87% chance of a quarter-point reduction to 3.75%-4%.
2. Trump's $12B Farmer Bailout Tied to Tariffs: Aid addresses trade war fallout, with soybeans hit hardest; critics warn of ongoing volatility.
3. Global Growth Slows to 2.6% Amid Trade Pressures: UNCTAD forecasts a dip from 2024, citing volatility, climate risks, and barriers; developing nations face borrowing hikes.
4. China's Investment Plunge Signals Weakness: Fixed-asset spending fell 1.7% in Jan-Oct, led by 14.7% property drop; retail and production also softened.

Technology

1. AWS Unveils Graviton5 CPU at re:Invent: The next-gen chip promises top efficiency for AI workloads, highlighting enterprise focus on custom silicon.
2. Energy Storage Hits 40GW Milestone Early: U.S. deployments exceeded 2025 goals in Q3 alone, driven by batteries; innovations like carbon heat blocks eyed for 2028.
3. AI Agents Touted as 'True Value' Unlock: AWS CEO Garman emphasized agent tech at re:Invent, amid broader enterprise AI push despite capex doubts.
4. Signal App Scrutiny After War Plan Leak: Experts clarify its secure uses post-incident, while MIT warns of AI ethics in geopolitics.

Health

1. Spike in Early-Onset Cancers Fuels Overtreatment Debate: Diagnoses doubled since 1992 in under-50s for eight types; some experts question aggressive interventions for slow-growing cases.
2. GLP-1 Drugs Quiet 'Food Noise' in Brain Scans: Mounjaro and Zepbound temporarily suppress craving circuits in obesity patients, per deep-brain study.
3. WHO Backs GLP-1s for Obesity Management: New guidelines pair drugs with diet/exercise; separate study links stopping them pre-pregnancy to complications.
4. Polyphenols in Tea, Berries Boost Heart Health: Long-term intake tied to lower cardiovascular risk; meanwhile, gas stoves expose millions to toxic NO2 levels.

Sports

1. Lando Norris Wins F1 Title in Thrilling Abu Dhabi Finale: McLaren driver edges Max Verstappen by two points, clinching his first championship on the last lap.
2. Indiana Leads College Football Playoff Charge: Hoosiers top Big Ten; Georgia wins SEC, Texas Tech takes Big 12 in chaotic conference finals.
3. Bears Clinch NFC's No. 1 Seed: Chicago surges past Eagles; NFL playoff simulator highlights chaotic AFC race with Bills eyeing a breakthrough.
4. India Women Beat Chile in FIH Nations Cup: Goals from Hina Bano, Sunelita Toppo secure win; meanwhile, Baroda's Amit Passi hits T20 debut ton.

Heather Cox Richardson on Pearl Harbor and Its Message for Today https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/08/heather-cox-richardson-on-pearl-harbor-and-its-message-for-today/ via @dianeravitch 

Heather Cox Richardson reflects on the anniversary of Pearl Harbor, connecting its historical significance to modern challenges to democracy. The article highlights the bravery of individuals like Doris Miller during World War II and explores the ideological battle between democracy and fascism. It draws parallels between the fight against fascism in WWII and current threats to democracy, emphasizing the importance of equality and the risks posed by hierarchical ideologies.

### Key Points

- Heather Cox Richardson discusses the historical significance of Pearl Harbor and its lessons for contemporary political challenges. 

- The story of Doris Miller, a Black sailor during Pearl Harbor, exemplifies courage and the fight for equality despite systemic discrimination. 

- The article outlines the roots and principles of fascism, contrasting them with democratic ideals of equality and inclusion. 

- It highlights the diverse contributions of American soldiers from various ethnic backgrounds in defending democracy during WWII. 

- The piece draws parallels between the fight against fascism in WWII and current threats to democracy, particularly under the leadership of Donald Trump. 

- The author warns of the erosion of democratic values and the rise of hierarchical ideologies, urging readers to protect democracy. 

Release the Video of The Boat Strikes! War Crime, Murder, or Neither? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/07/release-the-video-of-the-boat-strike-war-crime-murder-or-neither/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses a controversial incident where a U.S. military missile strike targeted a boat in international waters, allegedly carrying illegal drugs. After the initial strike, two survivors clung to the wreckage and were later killed in a second strike. This has sparked debates over whether the second attack was justified or constitutes a war crime. Calls have been made to release the video footage to the public for transparency and informed discussion.

### Key Points

- U.S. military fired missiles at a boat in international waters, reportedly carrying illegal drugs. 

- A second missile strike killed two survivors clinging to the wreckage, raising questions about whether it was a justified action or a war crime. 

- Democrats argue the survivors were unarmed and likely seeking help, while Republicans claim they posed a threat. 

- The U.S. "Law of War" manual prohibits attacks on individuals who are incapacitated or unable to fight. 

- There are calls to release the video of the attack to allow the public to form an informed opinion. 

- Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Admiral Frank Bradley are implicated in the controversy, with conflicting statements about the command for the second strike. 

- The targeted boat was reportedly heading away from the U.S., further complicating the justification of the attack. 

Trump Celebrates Himself: Me! Me! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/08/trump-celebrates-himself/ via @dianeravitch 

Trump’s administration, with the involvement of Elon Musk’s Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE), initiated drastic changes within government agencies, including mass firings, data collection, and the dissolution of institutions like the Institute of Peace (IP). Trump rebranded the IP building as the "Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace" in an attempt to bolster his image and campaign for a Nobel Peace Prize. Additionally, Trump made controversial changes such as altering national holiday policies for park entries and renaming institutions. His actions reflect his ego-driven leadership and obsession with self-promotion.

### Key Points

- Trump allowed Elon Musk’s DOGE to disrupt government agencies, leading to mass firings, program closures, and data collection. 

- The Institute of Peace, established for conflict resolution, was dissolved by Trump, and its building was rebranded to bear Trump’s name. 

- Trump sought to boost his image by hosting peace agreements and receiving symbolic awards like FIFA’s first gold “peace prize.” 

- Trump’s administration made controversial changes, such as removing free national park entry on MLK Jr. Day and Juneteenth, replacing it with his birthday. 

- Trump’s actions were driven by personal ego, with proposals to rename national monuments and institutions after himself or his family. 

NPE Releases a New Report on Charter Schools and Their Lack of Accountability https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/08/npe-releases-a-new-report-on-charter-schools-and-their-lack-of-accountability/ via @dianeravitch 

Diane Ravitch’s blog post critiques the charter school movement, highlighting its failure to meet initial promises of accountability, cost-efficiency, and serving the neediest students. A report by the National Center of Charter School Accountability (NPE) exposes fraud, mismanagement, and lack of oversight in the sector, revealing nearly $858 million in public funds lost. The report contrasts the original vision of charter schools as innovative, community-driven entities with their current state, shaped by corporate lobbying and minimal regulation. It concludes with recommendations to restore the founding ideals of charter schools.

### Key Points

- The charter school movement has failed to deliver on its promises of better performance, accountability, and cost savings compared to public schools. 

- A report by NPE highlights issues like fraud, mismanagement, closures, and nearly $858 million in lost public funds due to weak state laws and regulations. 

- The report critiques the influence of corporate lobbying and lack of oversight in the charter school system, proposing ten recommendations for reform. 

Big Education Ape: BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE: WHEN PRONOUNS BECOME A FEDERAL CASE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/between-rock-and-hard-place-when.html 

The article explores the ongoing legal and social conflict surrounding gender identity in schools, focusing on a federal lawsuit in Houston, Texas. Parents sued Houston ISD for using their child's preferred masculine pronouns without their consent, arguing violations of their constitutional rights. The case highlights tensions between parental rights, student privacy, and safety. It delves into the legal, religious, and policy dimensions, emphasizing the challenges of balancing diverse beliefs in public education. Possible solutions include educator training, family support resources, clear policies, and nuanced approaches to handling these sensitive issues.

### Key Points

- Parents sued Houston ISD for using their child's preferred pronouns without consent, citing First and Fourteenth Amendment rights. 

- The lawsuit reflects broader tensions between parental rights and student safety/privacy in schools. 

- Legal complexities arise as schools navigate Title IX, FERPA, and constitutional neutrality while addressing LGBTQ+ issues. 

- Religious objections to LGBTQ+ identities vary, complicating public school policy. 

- Policy options include mandatory parental notification, student privacy, case-by-case assessments, and facilitated family communication. 

- Schools must balance respecting religious beliefs, protecting LGBTQ+ students, and complying with anti-discrimination laws. 

- Alternatives like educator training, family resources, and transparent policies could reduce litigation and improve support for students. 

Big Education Ape: THE KENNEDY CENTER COUP: WHEN CULTURE MEETS NARCISSISM https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-kennedy-center-coup-when-culture.html 

The article critiques Donald Trump's alleged actions to transform federal institutions into platforms for personal branding. It highlights his attempts to rename the Kennedy Center and other federal entities after himself, dismantling bipartisan traditions and undermining public service values. The piece views these efforts as acts of narcissism and a threat to democracy, emphasizing the irony and potential long-term consequences of such behavior.

### Key Points

- The article focuses on Donald Trump's alleged attempts to rebrand federal institutions, such as the Kennedy Center and U.S. Institute of Peace, with his name, reflecting personal glorification. 

- Trump's actions include removing long-time cultural stewards, renaming institutions, and using taxpayer money for self-promotion, which the article criticizes as a misuse of governance. 

- The renaming of the U.S. Institute of Peace to "Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace" is highlighted as a symbolic irony, given his administration's controversial policies. 

- The article portrays Trump’s actions as a broader attack on democracy, equating his branding efforts with a disregard for public service and historical legacy. 

- It concludes by suggesting that Trump's legacy might ultimately be remembered as a cautionary tale of egotism and the misuse of power. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 8, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01762332402.html 

This article provides a comprehensive overview of December 8, 2025, covering a wide range of topics including U.S. politics, global conflicts, education reforms, economic trends, technological advancements, and societal challenges. It critiques systemic issues such as economic inequality, public education underfunding, and the Trump administration's controversial policies, while also highlighting key events, satirical commentary, and advocacy efforts for democracy and social justice.

### Key Points  

- The Trump administration removed MLK Day and Juneteenth from national park fee waivers, citing opposition to "woke" policies.   

- Families fear deportation amidst heightened ICE enforcement under stricter immigration policies.   

- Arctic Blast grips Central and Eastern U.S., breaking sub-freezing temperature records.   

- Justice Department ends LGBTQ-specific inspections in detention centers, raising safety concerns.   

- Supreme Court to hear a case on Trump's power to fire independent agency leaders, testing "unitary executive theory."   

- Trump's approval rating dips amid policy shifts and economic concerns.   

- NDAA proposes an $8 billion defense boost, repealing old war authorizations.   

- Thailand launches airstrikes on Cambodia amid border clashes.   

- Failed coup attempt in Benin suppressed by government forces.   

- Deadly nightclub fire in India's Goa kills 25, prompting safety investigations.   

- Trump administration advances dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, raising concerns about federal oversight loss.   

- U.S. layoff announcements hit 1.1 million in 2025, the highest since 2020, due to economic shifts and AI adoption.   

- Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros. sparks concern over the future of theatrical films.   

- Faulty glucose monitors linked to 7 deaths and 736 injuries, prompting FDA investigations.   

- WHO backs GLP-1 drugs for obesity management but warns of risks if stopped abruptly.   

- Lando Norris wins the 2025 F1 Drivers' Championship in a dramatic finale.   

- The article critiques the financial struggles of the middle class due to student debt, calling for debt cancellation and affordable housing policies.   

- Arizona's voucher program faces scrutiny for fraud and lack of oversight, leading to an Attorney General investigation.   

- The Trump administration's policies are compared to historical authoritarian tactics, emphasizing the need for collective resistance to preserve democracy.   

- New Orleans' charter school reforms post-Katrina are criticized for perpetuating racial inequities and harming Black students and teachers.   

- The "War on Christmas" narrative is critiqued as exaggerated, with the real threat being commercialization and consumerism.   

- Florida's voucher system audit reveals a $47 million funding deficit, sparking backlash against the Education Commissioner.   

- Concerns are raised about AI's impact on education, teacher autonomy, and academic integrity.   

- Advocacy efforts for public education and social justice are highlighted, including resistance to privatization and systemic inequities. 

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: DECEMBER 8, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/morning-news-update-december-8-2025.html 

The article provides a comprehensive morning news update for December 8, 2025, covering diverse topics such as U.S. politics, international conflicts, economic trends, education reforms, technology advancements, health discoveries, and sports achievements. Key issues include controversial policy decisions by the Trump administration, global economic and geopolitical developments, groundbreaking health research, and notable events in sports and technology.

### Key Points  

- The Trump administration has removed MLK Day and Juneteenth from National Park fee waivers, sparking backlash from civil rights groups.   

- Justice Department ends LGBTQ-specific prison inspections, raising concerns from advocacy groups.   

- Pressure mounts for the Trump administration to release footage of a controversial drug boat strike in the Caribbean.   

- Immigration enforcement policies are cited as a factor in the weakening U.S. labor market.   

- The Supreme Court is set to review cases that could expand presidential powers over independent agencies.   

- ICE raids in urban areas intensify debates on family separations and immigration enforcement priorities.   

- The National Defense Authorization Act advances with increased defense spending but faces criticism for political favoritism.   

- The Texas Supreme Court upholds gerrymandered voting maps, prompting accusations of voter suppression.   

- Russia praises Trump’s national security strategy for aligning with Moscow’s vision.   

- Ukrainian President Zelenskyy meets European leaders to discuss peace plans amid U.S. pressure to cede territory to Russia.   

- Cyclone Ditwah devastates Sri Lanka, with a death toll of 627 and ongoing international aid efforts.   

- Thailand and Cambodia exchange fire, escalating tensions despite a truce brokered earlier in the year.   

- Netflix acquires Warner Bros. Discovery for $72 billion, marking a major entertainment industry shift.   

- AWS unveils the Graviton5 CPU, promising advancements in AI workloads.   

- OpenAI releases GPT-5.1 with enhanced speed and reasoning capabilities.   

- CDC delays Hepatitis B vaccines for low-risk newborns, overturning a 30-year policy.   

- Studies link polyphenol-rich foods to better heart health and identify new metabolic drugs for diabetes treatment.   

- Lando Norris wins his first F1 Drivers' Championship, and Lionel Messi secures his first MLS title.   

- Oklahoma City Thunder extends its NBA winning streak to 14 games.   

- The Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates amid weak U.S. job data and mixed economic indicators.   

- China’s exports grow despite U.S. tariffs, driven by diversification to non-U.S. markets. 

Big Education Ape: THE MIDDLE-CLASS DEBT SENTENCE: THE KEYS TO THE KINGDOM ARE NOW CHAINS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-middle-class-debt-sentence-keys-to.html 

The article discusses the financial struggles of the middle class in America, focusing on how student debt has replaced homeownership as the primary financial burden for many. It critiques systemic policy changes that have made higher education less affordable, leading to generational debt and diminished economic opportunities. The piece also highlights the deliberate dismantling of public education funding and the consolidation of wealth and power by a small oligarchic class. It calls for collective action to reverse these trends and restore the promise of the American Dream.

### Key Points

- The traditional path to middle-class success—education, homeownership, and financial security—has been replaced by a cycle of debt and delayed opportunities. 

- Public funding for higher education has been systematically reduced, leading to skyrocketing tuition costs and massive student loan debt. 

- Student debt, now exceeding $1.7 trillion, has become a barrier to homeownership and financial stability for young Americans. 

- Policy decisions, such as cuts to education funding and shifts from grants to loans, have contributed to the financial struggles of the middle class. 

- The concentration of wealth and power among a small group of elites has exacerbated economic inequality, creating a "neo-feudal" society. 

- The Trump administration's policies, such as changes to student loan programs, have further burdened students pursuing essential professions like nursing and teaching. 

- The article concludes with a call for collective action, including debt cancellation, affordable housing, and voting for leaders who prioritize the middle class. 

Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/looking-back-week-in-review-sunday.html 

Big Education Ape's December 7, 2025 update highlights significant topics in U.S. education and politics, including Supreme Court cases, reflections on public education, AI regulation, and other socio-political matters. The article reviews weekly insights, blog posts, and features various discussions about the state of public education, political dynamics, and societal challenges.

### Key Points

- Supreme Court to rule on Trump's birthright citizenship order, highlighting political and legal debates. 

- Reflections on public education through blogs, podcasts, and organizations advocating for its improvement. 

- AI regulation and its implications for job security and societal safety. 

- Criticism of the Trump administration's policies and their impact on education and society. 

- Discussions on H-1B visas and the broader effects on the American workforce and education system. 

- Analysis of public education challenges and the influence of billionaire oligarchs. 

- Advocacy for defending and improving public education through various organizations and initiatives. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 7, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01907037107.html 

The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent political, social, educational, and global developments, touching on topics such as U.S. immigration policies, Supreme Court rulings, global conflicts, advancements in technology, education reforms, health updates, and societal issues. It also includes satirical critiques of the Trump administration, reflections on teaching, and advocacy for public education and social justice.  

The Tongue Has No Bones, But It Crushes All the Same – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/12/08/the-tongue-has-no-bones-but-it-crushes-all-the-same/ 

The Tongue Has No Bones, But It Crushes All the Same

### Key Points

- Words, though intangible, can deeply harm individuals, often causing emotional wounds that linger longer than physical injuries. 

- Careless or cruel language can reshape someone’s self-perception, trust, and future decisions, creating lasting psychological impacts. 

- Harmful words carry power due to their ability to shape identity and are often spoken recklessly during moments of anger or insecurity. 

- Cultural norms sometimes normalize verbal cruelty as honesty or accountability, further perpetuating harm. 

- Emotional wounds caused by words often go unspoken, isolating victims and enabling speakers to avoid accountability. 

- Language has the potential to either harm or heal; intentional, kind words can counteract harm and foster healing. 

- Choosing words with care reflects wisdom and leadership, especially in moments of frustration or conflict. 

- The responsibility of communication lies in using words that build rather than destroy, with the understanding that everyone carries unseen burdens. 

Teacher Tom: Leaving Me With My Bucket Full https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/12/leaving-me-with-my-bucket-full.html 

Teacher Tom shares a reflective story about preschoolers playing a game of collecting florist marbles, referred to as "jewels." The children initially exhibit competitive behavior but eventually demonstrate kindness and sharing by redistributing their treasures, including giving some to Teacher Tom. The story highlights themes of fairness, empathy, and the joy of collaborative play. Additionally, the article provides information about Teacher Tom's resources, blog, and opportunities for engagement.

### Key Points

- Preschoolers engage in a semi-competitive game collecting "jewels," displaying moments of rivalry and sharing. 

- The children show empathy and generosity by sharing their collected treasures with each other and Teacher Tom. 

- Teacher Tom reflects on the value of play-based learning and offers free resources for educators and parents. 

- Information about Teacher Tom’s blog, books, speaking engagements, and contact details is provided. 

glen brown: Volodymyr Zelenskyy Meeting with European Leaders https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/volodymyr-zelenskyy-meeting-with.html 

The article is a mix of reflections, news, and commentary by Glen Brown, touching on various topics such as literature, politics, social issues, and international events, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It also includes quotes from notable figures, blog post excerpts, and a taxonomy of topics discussed on the blog.

### Key Points

- Glen Brown reflects on the writer's role, quoting Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus, emphasizing resistance to oppression and isolation as part of the craft. 

- Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is meeting with European leaders to discuss a US-backed peace proposal for the Russia-Ukraine war, though progress remains uncertain. 

- Donald Trump claims progress on a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, though doubts linger about its acceptance by both sides. 

- Blog content includes diverse topics such as social justice, pensions, education reform, environmental issues, and cultural reflections. 

- Glen Brown critiques systemic injustices, including political corruption, environmental scandals, and global conflicts, while celebrating cultural and literary contributions. 

“PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE” | The Merrow Report https://themerrowreport.com/2025/12/08/practice-practice-practice/ 

“Practice, Practice, Practice” explores the importance of fostering democratic practices in schools to prepare students for life in a democratic society. The article critiques the undemocratic nature of public schools, emphasizing the need for project-based learning, student involvement in rule-making, personalized education, and collaborative assessment methods to create thoughtful and informed citizens.

### Key Points

- Schools should allow students to practice democracy, such as creating classroom rules, to foster ownership and responsibility. 

- Current public school systems are rigid, undemocratic, and prioritize standardized testing over critical thinking and individuality. 

- Democratic education involves personalized learning, project-based approaches, and social-emotional growth, rather than chaotic freedom. 

- Teachers can make learning more engaging by tailoring lessons to students' interests and encouraging collaboration. 

- Students should be involved in determining how their progress is assessed, promoting accountability and adaptability. 

- Rebuilding the education system to embrace democracy is essential for creating a more informed and resilient electorate. 

Santa Claus is Comin' to Town. Or Not... NANCY FLANAGAN https://flanagann.substack.com/p/santa-claus-is-comin-to-town 

Santa Claus is Comin' to Town. Or Not...

### Key Points

- Teachers face challenges in balancing holiday traditions in classrooms, ensuring inclusivity while managing the commercialized Christmas atmosphere. 

- Music educators particularly struggle with incorporating cultural traditions respectfully, often defaulting to secular or weather-themed songs, which can still face criticism. 

- A first-year music teacher faces a dilemma when her principal insists on ending a program with the Christian hymn "Silent Night," despite potential legal and ethical concerns. 

- A teacher encounters a fundamentalist parent demanding the exclusion of Santa Claus from classroom activities, highlighting the challenges of navigating diverse beliefs. 

- Despite efforts to accommodate various perspectives, holiday symbols like Santa Claus often remain central to school programs. 

Schools Matter: Trump’s 1993 Mortgages Demonstrate Presidential-Level Hypocrisy http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/12/trumps-1993-mortgages-demonstrate.html 

Trump's 1993 mortgage dealings reveal a contradiction in his stance on mortgage fraud. Records show that he claimed two Florida properties as primary residences within weeks of each other, despite never living in them and using them as rentals. This mirrors accusations his administration has made against political rivals for similar actions, which Trump has labeled as fraudulent. Legal experts note that while such actions are often legal and rarely prosecuted, they exceed the standards of fraud Trump himself has set. The statute of limitations on these events has long passed, and Trump denies wrongdoing, framing the allegations as politically motivated attacks.

### Key Points

- In 1993, Trump claimed two Florida properties as primary residences, despite using them as rentals, which contradicts his administration's accusations of mortgage fraud against political rivals. 

- Legal experts highlight the irony of Trump's actions, noting his administration's strict stance on similar cases, though such actions are rarely prosecuted. 

- The loans were obtained under favorable terms, but there is no evidence Trump ever lived in the properties as required by the mortgage agreements. 

- The statute of limitations for these potential violations has long passed, and Trump denies any wrongdoing, framing the allegations as politically motivated. 

- Similar accusations have been made by Trump's administration against political opponents, such as Letitia James and Lisa Cook, for allegedly misrepresenting property use in mortgage agreements. 

- Trump's spokesperson dismissed the allegations, claiming no fraud occurred and attributing them to partisan attacks. 

Why Kennedy’s Message on Parental Rights, HIPAA, and Kids’ Medical Records Misses the Point BRUCE LESLEY AND DR. CHARLENE WONG https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/why-kennedys-message-on-parental 

The article discusses the balance between parental rights and children's rights under HIPAA, emphasizing the importance of protecting minors' confidentiality in specific medical situations. It critiques recent messaging from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., which emphasized parental rights without adequately addressing the legal and ethical nuances of children's rights to privacy and safety. The article highlights the exceptions under HIPAA that allow minors to consent to certain medical treatments and protect their confidentiality in cases where parental access could harm the child. It stresses the need for clearer guidance from HHS and a balanced approach to protecting both parents' and children's rights.

### Key Points

- Parents have rights under HIPAA to access their children's medical records when they have legal authority, but there are exceptions to protect children’s safety and rights. 

- HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s video emphasized parental rights but failed to address children's rights to privacy and safety, creating a misleading narrative. 

- HIPAA’s Privacy Rule defines parents as "personal representatives" of minors but includes exceptions for situations where minors have the right to consent to certain health services, such as mental health counseling or reproductive care. 

- Confidential care for minors is allowed under HIPAA and state laws to encourage adolescents to seek help for sensitive issues and improve access to care. 

- Providers can withhold information from parents if they believe the child is at risk of abuse, neglect, or harm, even if state law suggests otherwise. 

- HIPAA treats some minors as adults for medical decision-making and privacy in certain scenarios, such as emancipated minors, married minors, minor parents, high school graduates in some states, and self-sufficient minors. 

- The OCR letter from HHS correctly highlights the need to address improper blocking of parental access to non-confidential medical records but lacks detailed guidance on minor confidentiality exceptions. 

- Secretary Kennedy's video incorrectly portrays parental rights as absolute, ignoring HIPAA's exceptions for minor consent and child safety. 

- The video fails to acknowledge child-protective exceptions under HIPAA, such as confidential care for mental health or reproductive health and protections against abusive or harmful parents. 

- Providers are legally obligated to protect children’s confidentiality in certain circumstances, even if it means denying parental access to medical records. 

- Adolescents have significant legal rights to consent to care and maintain confidentiality in specific situations, which are supported by federal and state laws. 

- The article calls for better public messaging and guidance from HHS to clarify children’s rights and protect their autonomy in medical care. 

AL: Not That Choice! PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/al-not-that-choice 

Tommy Tuberville, a candidate for the Alabama governorship, presents himself as a school choice advocate but contradicts this stance by opposing the Islamic Academy of Alabama's zoning request. He labeled Islam as a "cult" and claimed it poses a threat to America, sparking controversy and protests. Critics argue that Tuberville's rhetoric promotes hostility and undermines the safety of the school community. Despite his controversial views, Tuberville remains a viable political candidate, raising concerns about the true meaning of school choice in politically charged environments.

### Key Points

- Tommy Tuberville advocates for school choice but opposes the Islamic Academy of Alabama, labeling Islam as a threat. 

- His opposition includes inflammatory rhetoric, calling Islam a "cult" and rejecting the school’s zoning variance. 

- Critics highlight the harmful impact of Tuberville's statements on the safety and well-being of the school community. 

- Tuberville's stance exemplifies selective school choice, favoring only certain groups and ideologies. 

Weekend Quotables Hegseth was forced to swallow a dose of military reality MICHAEL KLONSKY https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-34c

### Key Points

- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a shift in U.S. military focus to the Western Hemisphere, reducing presence in the Asia-Pacific, citing China's military strength and a need for "hard-nosed realism." 

- The U.S. military's withdrawal from the Pacific aligns with a new National Security Strategy, emphasizing a multipolar framework and reviving the Monroe Doctrine logic for homeland defense. 

- The National Security Strategy underlines "America First" policies, criticizes European allies for not embracing far-right ideologies, and largely omits China from its focus. 

- Investigations revealed over 170 U.S. citizens were wrongfully detained by federal immigration agents, with some held for extended periods without access to legal counsel or family. 

- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly stated Ukraine would not concede territory, rejecting external pressures, including from Washington and Moscow. 

- U.S. Representatives condemned a military strike in the Caribbean, citing evidence of deliberate targeting of non-threatening shipwreck survivors, calling it ethically wrong. 

The 4th Day of Boobsmas Forget the calling birds, give me Santarotica and XXX-mas ghost fucking KELLY REYNOLDS https://authorkellyrey.substack.com/p/the-4th-day-of-boobsmas 

My novella, Santa Monica Baby , is available in Kindle Unlimited and paperback. Plus

### Key Points

- The article introduces the "4th Day of Boobsmas," a celebration of the spicy side of the holiday season, featuring Santarotica and holiday-themed romance books. 

- The author promotes her novella, "Santa Monica Baby," and mentions additional holiday romance recommendations and perks for purchasing directly from her shop. 

- A playful "Fuck, Marry, Kill" activity is introduced with the Ghosts of Christmas Present, Past, and Yet to Come, adding humor and a cheeky twist to the holiday theme. 

- Recommendations for holiday romance books, such as "Wren’s Winter" and "Mistletoe Mis-Chief," are provided, highlighting tropes like forced proximity, grumpy x sunshine, and age-gap romance. 

- The author invites readers to join her Facebook group, "Kelly’s Book Baddies," and promotes her holiday-themed novellas and sapphic short stories. 

- The article concludes with a festive and playful tone, encouraging readers to embrace the unhinged and spicy aspects of the holiday season.