Latest News and Comment from Education

Sunday, December 14, 2025

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 14, 2025

 

TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES 

DECEMBER 14, 2025 

U.S. News
  1. ACA Subsidies Set to Expire: Enhanced Affordable Care Act tax subsidies are expected to lapse at the end of 2025 without congressional action, potentially leading to higher insurance premiums for millions of Americans.
  2. Immigration and Courtroom Incident: A federal jury is deliberating charges against a Milwaukee judge accused of obstructing ICE agents during an arrest of an undocumented immigrant in her courtroom.
  3. Military Strikes on Drug Boats: U.S. forces have conducted strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Pacific, raising legal and ethical questions about handling survivors.
  4. Social Media Requirements for Visitors: The Trump administration plans to require visa-waiver program visitors to provide five years of social media history.
Politics
  1. Epstein Photos Released: Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released images from Jeffrey Epstein's estate showing ties to figures including Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, and Steve Bannon.
  2. Indiana Republicans Reject Trump-Backed Map: State lawmakers defied pressure to redraw congressional districts, marking a setback for efforts to gain Republican seats ahead of midterms.
  3. AI Regulation Efforts: The Trump administration issued an executive order to curb state-level AI rules, while pushing for a federal framework.
  4. Defense Policy Bill Advances: Congress is finalizing a massive National Defense Authorization Act amid debates over various provisions.
World Affairs
  1. Israel-Gaza Conflict: Israel reported killing a senior Hamas commander in Gaza; ongoing strikes and humanitarian concerns persist.
  2. EU Freezes Russian Assets Indefinitely: The move clears the way for a major loan to Ukraine using proceeds from frozen funds.
  3. Russia-Ukraine War: Continued missile strikes, including on Dnipro, with four killed in one incident.
  4. Austria Bans Hijabs in Schools: New law prohibits girls under 14 from wearing hijabs or burqas in educational settings.
Education
  1. Higher Education Reforms Debated: University leaders discuss preparing graduates for job markets amid political pressures and ideological concerns.
  2. Pell Grant Shortfall Warning: Projections indicate a massive funding gap for the program over the next decade.
  3. International Student Enrollment Declines: Some U.S. universities report drops due to immigration policies.
  4. Civics and Skills Focus: Initiatives to strengthen civics education and align curricula with industry needs.
Economy
  1. Federal Reserve Rate Cut: The Fed implemented a quarter-point reduction, with signals of potential pauses amid economic uncertainty.
  2. China Investment Slump: Sharp declines in manufacturing, infrastructure, and property investment signal deeper economic challenges.
  3. Delayed U.S. Data Releases: Government shutdown effects mean key employment and inflation reports are postponed, impacting market clarity.
  4. Global Growth Projections: OECD forecasts easing growth in 2026, with policy uncertainties and trade barriers as risks.
Technology
  1. AI Architects Named Person of the Year: Time magazine honored tech leaders driving AI advancements.
  2. ServiceNow-Armis Acquisition Talks: Potential $7 billion deal for the cybersecurity firm.
  3. Market Volatility in AI Stocks: Fears of an AI bubble contributed to Wall Street declines.
  4. Fast-Charging Advancements: New devices from Apple and others improve charging speeds significantly.
Health
  1. Flu Season Intensifies: Driven by a new subclade variant, cases are rising sharply in the U.S., with high activity in multiple regions.
  2. ACA Subsidies Impact on Coverage: Expiring enhancements could increase costs and affect access for many.
  3. Mental Health and Vaccines: Debates continue over vaccine policies and their effects on public health.
  4. Research on Longevity Factors: Studies highlight sleep, diet, and other lifestyle elements influencing life expectancy.
Sports
  1. College Football Heisman Winner: Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza awarded the 2025 Heisman Trophy.
  2. U19 Asia Cup Cricket: High-profile India vs. Pakistan match in the youth tournament.
  3. NFL and Soccer Highlights: Ongoing seasons with key matchups, including PSG topping Ligue 1.
  4. SEA Games and Other Events: Regional competitions and winter sports gaining attention.


Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 12-7-25 TO 12-13-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-top-news-stories-this-week-12-7-25.html 

The article is a comprehensive roundup of various news topics from December 2025, covering education, politics, world affairs, economy, technology, health, and sports. It discusses significant events such as political controversies, educational challenges, healthcare debates, technological advancements, and international conflicts.

### Key Points  

- NYC Public School Parents oppose proposed changes to Chancellor’s Regulation D-210 regarding council conduct.   

- U.S. Coast Guard seizes an oil tanker off Venezuela, causing international tensions.   

- Shooting at Kentucky State University highlights school violence concerns.   

- $300 million fund announced by the Catholic Church for sexual abuse victims in New York.   

- U.S. Department of War launches GenAI.mil, an AI-based platform for military operations.   

- AUKUS defense ministers reaffirm strategic cooperation.   

- States challenge Trump’s $100,000 H-1B visa fee in a lawsuit.   

- Senate debates extending healthcare premium tax credits, with Republicans proposing alternative measures.   

- Utah repeals public-sector bargaining ban, advancing labor rights.   

- Conflict escalates in Yemen as the Southern Transitional Council captures eight southern governorates.   

- Myanmar airstrike on a hospital in Rakhine State results in heavy casualties, drawing international condemnation.   

- India approves a free trade agreement with Oman to strengthen bilateral relations.   

- ICC sentences Janjaweed leader Ali Kushayb to 20 years for war crimes in Darfur.   

- FDA investigates possible links between COVID-19 vaccines and adult deaths.   

- Trump administration’s new rules on gender classification in cancer data spark controversy.   

- Federal Reserve cuts interest rates, causing a surge in stock markets.   

- OpenAI launches GPT-5.2 in response to Google’s Gemini 3.   

- Meta acquires Limitless, a wearable AI maker, expanding its AI hardware ambitions.   

- Cholera outbreak in Africa reaches its largest scale in decades.   

- College Football Playoff final rankings released, with Indiana as the No. 1 seed.   

- FIFA World Cup 2026 draw becomes the most-watched in U.S. history.   

- The Trump administration proposes new social media history requirements for visa-waiver entrants.   

- Congress rejects proposals to maintain lower Obamacare premiums. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 13, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0450196455.html 

The article is a compilation of blog posts and news updates covering various political, educational, social, and global topics. It discusses issues such as education reform, healthcare, social justice, global conflicts, and the influence of billionaires on democracy. Highlights include critiques of Trump administration policies, calls for universal healthcare, concerns over AI in schools, and reflections on cultural and societal matters.

### Key Points  

- NYC parents oppose proposed revisions to Chancellor’s Regulation D-210 regarding Citywide & Community Council conduct.   

- The Trump administration intensifies ICE operations, including courtroom arrests, and faces criticism for mistaken deportations and new visa requirements.   

- Federal Reserve cuts interest rates for the third time in 2025 amid economic uncertainty.   

- Health concerns rise with a new H3N2 flu strain and a highly contagious norovirus variant.   

- Republicans push plans affecting Obamacare subsidies, while intraparty conflicts continue.   

- The Trump administration threatens funding cuts over AI regulations and escalates sanctions against Venezuela.   

- Redistricting battles continue as Republicans face resistance in states like Indiana, with Democrats gaining momentum in local elections.   

- Global conflicts include tensions in Gaza, Ukraine, and Southeast Asia, with U.S. involvement in joint military drills.   

- Diane Ravitch’s memoir critiques corporate-driven school reforms and advocates for equitable education policies.   

- David French emphasizes the importance of adhering to the laws of war, citing alleged war crimes during U.S. military campaigns.   

- Florida’s voucher school programs face criticism for lack of accountability, financial mismanagement, and discriminatory practices.   

- The Justice Department sues Fulton County, Georgia, as part of Trump’s ongoing efforts to dispute the 2020 election results.   

- Medicare for All is proposed as a solution to the inefficiencies and inequities of the U.S. healthcare system.   

- Billionaires are accused of undermining democracy through privatization, media control, and political donations.   

- ICE raids have caused fear, anxiety, and trauma among immigrant students and families.   

- Concerns are raised about AI tools used in schools, including privacy, bias, and efficacy issues.   

- School feeding programs show modest improvements in children’s academic and physical growth, especially in low-income countries.   

- Organized sports participation helps boys reduce oppositional behaviors by fostering self-regulation.   

- NYC’s homeless encampment sweeps are criticized for being ineffective and inhumane, with most displaced individuals returning to the streets.   

- Bernie Sanders advocates for progressive policies, addressing systemic issues like wealth inequality and healthcare.   

- A federal school voucher program in the "Big, Beautiful Bill" is criticized for harming public education and lacking accountability.   

- The CDE invites applications for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program grant to promote healthier school environments.   

- U.S. actions in Venezuela, including oil tanker seizures, are criticized as imperialist and escalating tensions in the Caribbean.   

- Bad Bunny is celebrated for his cultural and political impact, addressing issues like colonialism, identity, and social justice.   

- Teacher Tom shares reflections on the value of connection and community-building rituals in early childhood education.   

- The World Inequality Report highlights the growing wealth gap and calls for fair taxation and social programs to address inequality.   

- Larry Cuban critiques the overconfidence of school reformers and emphasizes the need to address uncertainties in education policies. 

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: DECEMBER 13, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/morning-news-update-december-13-2025.html 

Big Education Ape highlights various political, social, and economic issues, including President Trump's policies, global inequality, education funding, international conflicts, and advancements in AI and technology. The article delves into controversies surrounding healthcare, climate change, and public education, alongside updates on sports and global news.

### Key Points

- NYC Public School Parents oppose revisions to Chancellor’s Regulation D-210 on council conduct. 

- Trump administration criticized for firing government statistics head and alleged corruption linked to fossil fuel executives. 

- Measles outbreak in South Carolina raises concerns about vaccine policies under new administration. 

- U.S. House passes $901 billion defense bill amid military legal concerns over drug boat strikes. 

- ACA subsidy expiration could lead to higher insurance costs for many Americans. 

- Trump issues executive order banning state AI laws, sparking criticism from NEA and legal challenges. 

- Global issues include Ukraine-Russia conflict, Thailand-Cambodia border clashes, and tensions in Venezuela. 

- Economic challenges include inflation, financial strain during holidays, and Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. 

- Technology updates focus on AI competition, stock sell-offs, and privacy concerns. 

- Health concerns include norovirus outbreaks, flu season risks, and research breakthroughs in fibrosis and heart health. 

- Sports updates include college football bowls, Inter Miami’s MLS Cup win, and cricket records. 

Big Education Ape: PROFILES IN CRUELTY: IS TRUMP THE CRUELEST PRESIDENT EVER? IT'S HARD TO SAY (BUT HE'S A STRONG CONTENDER FOR THE 21ST-CENTURY CROWN) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/profiles-in-cruelty-is-trump-cruelest.html 

The article explores the question of whether Donald Trump is the cruelest president in U.S. history by examining specific policies and actions during his presidency, such as family separation, COVID-19 mismanagement, and the January 6 Capitol riots. It compares his presidency to other historically controversial leaders, such as Andrew JacksonFranklin D. Roosevelt, and others, highlighting the systemic cruelty in American history. The piece argues that Trump’s cruelty is unique in its deliberate infliction of suffering, its performative nature, and its lasting impact on democratic institutions. Ultimately, the article suggests that the focus should shift from ranking presidential cruelty to addressing systemic issues that enable such leadership.

### Key Points

- Donald Trump's presidency is evaluated for its cruelty, particularly through policies like family separation, pandemic mismanagement, and democratic sabotage. 

- The family separation policy at the U.S.-Mexico border caused significant psychological trauma and violated international law, with cruelty intentionally used as a deterrent. 

- Trump's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, including downplaying its severity and undermining public health measures, led to preventable deaths, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. 

- The January 6 Capitol riots, incited by Trump, represented a direct attack on democracy, with widespread violence and long-term damage to public trust in institutions. 

- The Muslim travel ban and rollback of transgender rights highlighted discriminatory policies targeting marginalized communities. 

- Immigration crackdowns under Trump included mass deportations, ending protections for vulnerable groups, and inhumane asylum policies. 

- Trump's environmental rollbacks and withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord prioritized short-term gains over long-term sustainability, harming low-income communities. 

- Historical comparisons highlight other presidents with significant cruelty, such as Andrew Jackson’s Trail of Tears, slavery under early presidents, and wartime policies by FDR and Truman. 

- The article emphasizes systemic cruelty in U.S. history, which Trump inherited and amplified, urging a focus on preventing future leaders from perpetuating such harm. 

Big Education Ape: DEMOCRATIC MEDICARE FOR ALL VS. REPUBLICAN DON'T CARE AT ALL: It’s Time to Dump the Insurance Companies and Provide Healthcare as an American Right https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/democratic-medicare-for-all-vs.html 

The article provides a detailed critique of the American healthcare system, advocating for Medicare for All as a solution to the ongoing debate about healthcare in the United States. It highlights the inefficiencies, moral failures, and financial burdens of the current system while comparing it to universal healthcare systems worldwide. The article also discusses the historical attempts at healthcare reform in the U.S., the role of lobbying, and the political challenges in implementing Medicare for All.

### Key Points

- The U.S. has been debating healthcare reform for over 110 years, with many failed attempts to establish universal healthcare. 

- Medicare for All is proposed as a single-payer system that eliminates premiums, deductibles, and medical bankruptcy while providing comprehensive coverage, including dental, vision, and mental health services. 

- The current U.S. healthcare system is plagued by high costs, bureaucracy, and inefficiency, leaving millions uninsured or underinsured. 

- The U.S. spends twice as much on healthcare as other developed nations but has worse health outcomes, such as lower life expectancy and higher maternal mortality rates. 

- Medical bankruptcy is a uniquely American problem, with 66.5% of bankruptcies caused by medical debt. Other developed countries have virtually no medical bankruptcy. 

- Contrary to claims that the U.S. cannot afford Medicare for All, studies show it would save money by reducing administrative waste, eliminating insurance company profits, and negotiating lower drug prices. 

- The profit-driven healthcare system prioritizes profit extraction over care, leading to issues like denied claims, high deductibles, and inflated drug prices. 

- The Supreme Court has played a role in undermining healthcare reforms, such as the Affordable Care Act, by making Medicaid expansion optional. 

- Other developed countries, like CanadaGermany, and Taiwan, have successfully implemented universal healthcare systems that cost less and deliver better outcomes. 

- Enhanced ACA subsidies are set to expire, threatening to increase premiums, reduce coverage, and worsen the uninsured rate. 

- The healthcare industry spends over $1 billion annually on lobbying to maintain the status quo, influencing Congress to prioritize donors over voters. 

- Medicare for All can be implemented through gradual measures like lowering the Medicare age, introducing a public option, or transitioning to single-payer healthcare. 

- Funding Medicare for All could be achieved through payroll taxes, wealth taxes, closing tax loopholes, negotiating drug prices, and reducing administrative waste. 

- Universal healthcare is framed as both an economic and moral necessity, emphasizing healthcare as a basic human right rather than a profit-driven commodity. 

- Opposition to Medicare for All often relies on bad-faith arguments, such as concerns about wait times, government control, and reduced innovation, which are refuted in the article. 

- The U.S. healthcare system is described as a moral failure, prioritizing profits over human dignity, with people dying from preventable diseases due to lack of access to care. 

- The article calls for political action, including campaign finance reform, lobbying restrictions, and voter engagement, to overcome the influence of healthcare industry lobbying. 

Billionaires benefit from public investments yet resist contributing to universal healthcare, highlighting the need for wealth taxation. 

- The article concludes with a call to action, urging Americans to support Medicare for All and address the systemic issues in the healthcare system. 

Big Education Ape: HOW TO BUILD A OLIGARCHY (AND DESTROY DEMOCRACY) FOR DUMMIES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/how-to-build-oligarchy-and-destroy.html 

American democracy is under threat from the rising influence of billionaires who are systematically dismantling public institutions, controlling media narratives, and undermining public education and voting rights. Through lobbying, privatization schemes, and judicial manipulation, they are reshaping the democratic framework to serve their interests, often at the expense of ordinary citizens. The article outlines strategies to counter these efforts and protect democratic values.

### Key Points

- Billionaires are undermining democracy by defunding public institutions, degrading systems, demonizing public servants, and privatizing essential services. 

- Public education has become a testing ground for privatization, with billionaires funding voucher programs and charter schools that often fail to improve outcomes. 

- The Citizens United ruling enabled unlimited corporate political spending, leading to billions in dark money influencing elections. 

- The Supreme Court's ethics and decisions are increasingly shaped by billionaire donors, further eroding democratic norms. 

- Media consolidation by billionaires allows them to control narratives and suppress dissenting voices. 

- Voting rights are under attack through restrictive laws, gerrymandering, and voter suppression tactics funded by dark money. 

- The article proposes reforms such as campaign finance transparency, Supreme Court ethics enforcement, tax justice, antitrust measures, and voting rights protections. 

- Grassroots movements, unions, and investigative journalism are actively challenging billionaire influence and defending public institutions. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 12, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01548912544.html 

The provided content is a compilation of various articles addressing political, educational, economic, societal, and global topics. It includes discussions on U.S. and global politics, education reforms, technological advancements, healthcare, social justice, and the influence of billionaires on democracy and public education.







To Help Others, We Must First Help Ourselves Health first. Starbucks later. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/to-help-others-we-must-first-help 

Health care concerns dominate this critique of Unity and Retiree Advocate (RA) leadership. The author highlights the failure to prioritize retiree health issues, especially regarding rising costs, inadequate representation, and misleading promises. Unity's opposition to legislation like 1096 and RA's lack of focus on retirees’ primary needs are criticized. The article stresses the need for leadership that prioritizes retirees' health care and advocates for systemic changes.

### Key Points

- Unity leadership has failed retirees by increasing costs and not addressing the inadequacies in cost-of-living adjustments (COLA). 

- Retiree Advocate (RA) leadership is criticized for focusing on secondary issues rather than prioritizing retiree health care. 

- Unity's opposition to 1096 is seen as a move to maintain control over retirees' health care, despite retirees overwhelmingly supporting it. 

- Unity misled retirees with promises like the $105 refund, which involved tedious processes and additional financial burdens. 

- The author calls for new leadership that will prioritize retirees' health care and challenge Unity's actions. 



Ways College Students Struggle as Writers and How to Better Prepare Them https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/12/13/ways-college-students-struggle-as-writers-and-how-to-better-prepare-them/ via @plthomasEdD 

The article discusses challenges faced by college students in developing effective writing skills and suggests strategies for better preparation during K-12 education. The author reflects on personal teaching experiences, highlighting the gap between high school and college writing expectations, and emphasizes the importance of fostering authentic writing practices, feedback, and revision processes.

### Key Points

- College students struggle with narrow, mechanical views of essays and thesis writing, often limited to the 5-paragraph essay model. 

- Paragraphing skills are underdeveloped, with students writing overly long paragraphs without considering the reader's perspective. 

- Students lack proficiency in using advanced word processing tools like Word, as they are more familiar with Google Docs, which impacts their document management and formatting skills. 

- Students often submit essays in PDF format, misunderstanding the iterative nature of writing and revision. 

- Citation skills are inadequate, with most students only familiar with MLA style; they require a broader understanding of citation methods like APA and Chicago

- K-12 writing instruction often emphasizes prompts and rubrics, which hinders students' ability to make independent writing decisions. 

- The grading-focused culture in K-12 education can discourage students from embracing the writing process as a learning experience. 

- The author advocates for teaching writing as a journey, emphasizing choice, authentic writing experiences, and the iterative nature of writing. 



PROFILES IN PETTINESS: IS DONALD TRUMP THE CRUELEST PRESIDENT EVER? OR JUST THE PETTIEST? https://ru4people.substack.com/p/profiles-in-pettiness-is-donald-trump 

PROFILES IN PETTINESS: IS DONALD TRUMP THE CRUELEST PRESIDENT EVER? OR JUST THE PETTIEST?

### Key Points

- The article explores whether Donald Trump's presidency should be considered the cruelest or the pettiest in U.S. history, comparing him to past presidents like Andrew Jackson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Harry Truman

- It highlights Trump's family separation policy at the U.S.-Mexico border, which led to thousands of children being separated from their families, as a deliberate act of cruelty aimed at deterring illegal immigration. 

- Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic is criticized for downplaying the virus, mocking safety measures, and turning the crisis into a political issue, potentially contributing to preventable deaths. 

- The article discusses Trump's rollback of transgender rights, portraying it as an intentional move to marginalize vulnerable groups for political gain. 

- The January 6 Capitol riot is cited as an example of Trump inciting violence through his rhetoric, with no remorse shown afterward, and even hinting at pardoning participants. 

- The article concludes that while Trump may not be the cruelest president by historical standards, his actions often seemed driven by personal pettiness and a desire to inflict suffering for political or personal gain. 

A TALE OF TWO SYSTEMS: “MEDICARE FOR ALL” VS. “PROFIT FOR A FEW https://ru4people.substack.com/p/a-tale-of-two-systems-medicare-for 

A satirical critique of the American healthcare system contrasts "Medicare for All" with the current profit-driven model, highlighting inefficiencies, high costs, and poor outcomes. The article advocates for universal healthcare, emphasizing its potential to save lives, reduce administrative waste, and prioritize people over profits. Despite opposition rooted in fears of socialism, taxes, and wait times, the author argues that Medicare for All is a necessary solution, hindered by special interests and political inertia.

### Key Points

- The American healthcare system is inefficient, costly, and prioritizes profit over people, leading to poor outcomes compared to other wealthy nations. 

- The Affordable Care Act made progress but left many issues unresolved, including high deductibles and coverage gaps. 

- Universal healthcare models in countries like Canada, Germany, and the UK demonstrate that affordable and effective healthcare is achievable. 

- Medicare for All proposes a single-payer system to eliminate premiums, deductibles, and co-pays, offering healthcare as a basic human right. 

- Opposition to Medicare for All is based on fears of socialism, increased taxes, and wait times, though these arguments are often exaggerated. 

- Special interests and lobbying by the insurance and pharmaceutical industries are major obstacles to implementing universal healthcare in the U.S. 

- Incremental reforms won’t address the core issue of profit-driven healthcare; bold changes like Medicare for All are necessary. 



One in ten boys become addicted to gaming   Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/ 

The article explores various topics related to education, adolescent behavior, and societal trends. It covers research on gaming addiction among boys, cannabis use and binge drinking among adolescents, the impact of social media on children's attention, school feeding programs, autism resources for parents, and the influence of AI on student writing styles. Each topic presents findings, implications, and recommendations for addressing challenges and opportunities.

### Key Points  

- One in ten boys develop gaming addiction, with boys being more prone to Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) due to competitive gaming and dopamine release. Early intervention in adolescence is crucial.   

- Cannabis consumption methods, such as smoking and vaping, are linked to increased binge drinking among 12th graders, while edible cannabis is not associated with the same risk. Multi-modal cannabis use raises binge drinking risks.   

- Social media usage among children aged 9–14 correlates with declining attention spans, potentially contributing to rising ADHD diagnoses. The study highlights the need for informed decisions on digital consumption.   

- School feeding programs lead to modest improvements in math scores, school enrollment, and physical growth indicators in disadvantaged children, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). More research and equity-focused policies are needed.   

- A new book for parents of adolescents with autism provides practical guidance for navigating challenges during the transition to adulthood, addressing co-occurring issues and offering resources for support.   

- The rise of AI tools like ChatGPT has led to more polished, formal, and positive student writing, but core academic skills remain unaffected. Institutions should adapt assessments and guidelines to encourage responsible use of AI. 



glen brown: The Trump Grinch that stole America! https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-trump-grinch-that-stole-america.html 

The article discusses various political, social, and economic issues, focusing on the actions and policies of Donald Trump and their implications for American society and global politics. It highlights concerns about economic recession, the impact of Trump's policies on Social Security and Medicare, controversies surrounding ICE's actions, and the lack of regulation on emerging technologies like AI. The article also touches on international matters such as the European Union's stance on Russian assets and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

### Key Points

- The article critiques Donald Trump's economic policies, including his use of tariffs, which have contributed to a potential recession and economic instability. 

- It highlights the GOP's efforts to privatize Social Security and Medicare, including the implementation of the WISeR model, which could harm beneficiaries. 

- The article discusses the targeting of individuals based on race by ICE, citing a specific incident in Minneapolis. 

- It raises concerns about Trump's executive order preventing states from regulating artificial intelligence, favoring corporate interests over public safety. 

- The National Trust for Historic Preservation is suing Trump for attempting to demolish parts of the White House without proper permits, raising legal and environmental concerns. 

- Internationally, the article covers the EU's actions against Russian assets and support for Ukraine, as well as Trump's alleged alignment with Vladimir Putin. 

- The author criticizes the Trump administration's attempts to label anti-fascist movements as domestic terrorism, calling it a strategy to suppress dissent. 

glen brown: "It’s Europe that gets Team Trump’s blood up" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/its-europe-that-gets-team-trumps-blood.html 

A blog post by Glen Brown discusses various political, social, and global issues, with a focus on the second Trump administration's foreign policy and its implications for Europe. The article critiques the administration's hostility towards the European Union, its alignment with far-right nationalist parties, and its stance on migration. It also highlights the administration's apparent preference for weakening the EU, aligning with Russian interests, and pressuring Ukraine to concede to Russia. The piece calls for European leaders to recognize the challenges posed by the US's new stance and urges them to take a stand.

### Key Points

- The article references Ambrose Bierce's and Albert Camus's perspectives on the role of a writer in addressing societal issues. 

- The US National Security Strategy (NSS) under the second Trump administration reveals a focus on Europe as a geopolitical concern, with a hostile stance towards the EU and migration. 

- The Trump administration supports far-right European nationalist parties and seeks to weaken the EU, aligning with Russia's strategic goals. 

- The US pressures Ukraine to accept terms favorable to Russia, raising concerns about its stance in the ongoing conflict. 

- European leaders are urged to acknowledge the shift in US foreign policy and resist the division it may cause within Europe. 



NYC Public School Parents: Comment by Gavin Healy on proposed revision to Chancellor’s Regulation D-210 concerning Citywide & Community Council conduct https://nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com/2025/12/comment-by-gavin-healy-on-proposed.html 

NYC Public School Parents blog highlights Gavin Healy's opposition to proposed revisions to Chancellor’s Regulation D-210 concerning Citywide and Community Education Council conduct. Healy, a parent leader and attorney, critiques the revisions for equating minor incivilities with serious misconduct and for the DOE's lack of meaningful engagement with stakeholders. The regulation stems from a lawsuit challenging its constitutionality, alleging it violates free speech. Healy urges the Panel for Educational Policy to delay the vote and involve broader community input.

### Key Points

- Gavin Healy opposes revisions to Chancellor’s Regulation D-210, arguing they conflate minor incivilities with serious misconduct. 

- The regulation's revision follows a lawsuit claiming it violates free speech and is unconstitutionally vague. 

- DOE failed to engage stakeholders meaningfully in revising the regulation, raising concerns about rushed processes. 

- Healy recommends tabling the vote until the new mayoral administration can address the issue thoughtfully. 



Did You Know This About Dave Chappelle and His Show? – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/12/13/did-you-know-this-about-dave-chappelle-and-his-show/ 

The article explores the complexities of Dave Chappelle's journey with his show, focusing on institutional power, contracts, and the interplay between legality and fairness. It highlights how early career agreements impact creators' long-term rewards and the cost of dissent in challenging institutional norms. The narrative also emphasizes the importance of understanding contracts, leveraging bargaining power, and the distinction between moral clarity and harm in public discourse. The author concludes by acknowledging Chappelle’s insights into power structures while critiquing his controversial remarks about trans people.

### Key Points

- The story of the Dave Chappelle Show illustrates the gap between legality and fairness, showing how institutions reward enthusiasm and punish caution. 

- Contracts signed early in careers often favor institutional power over creator equity, with ownership determining long-term control. 

- Chappelle’s decision to walk away from his show was framed as personal failure rather than a critique of power dynamics, showcasing the cost of dissent. 

- The show continued to generate value after Chappelle’s departure, but he did not share in its long-term rewards due to the original contract terms. 

- Understanding contracts and leveraging bargaining power early is crucial, as institutions often rely on enthusiasm to secure agreements. 

- The author reflects on his own experience with institutional contracts, emphasizing the importance of approaching them as governance documents. 

- Chappelle regained leverage later through reputation and audience trust, leading to renegotiations with ViacomCBS and recognition of his authorship. 

- The story teaches that legality and fairness are distinct, and institutions protect advantage until legitimacy is threatened. 

- The author critiques Chappelle’s past attacks on trans people, emphasizing the harm caused and the need for intellectual honesty. 



Two Men Murdered In Our Name https://www.changethelausd.com/two_men_murdered_in_our_name 

In this article, Carl J. Petersen discusses a controversial incident involving the U.S. military under the Trump administration, where two shipwrecked men were killed at sea, allegedly violating the Geneva Convention. The author critiques the administration’s defense of the killings, highlights the lack of evidence for their claims, and explores the broader implications of such actions on constitutional values and the military's adherence to lawful orders.

### Key Points

- Two shipwrecked men were killed by U.S. forces, allegedly violating the Geneva Convention. 

- The Trump administration justified the killings by accusing the men of drug smuggling without providing evidence. 

- The incident reflects broader issues with the “War on Drugs” and raises questions about the abuse of power. 

- Senator Mark Kelly and other officials reminded military members of their duty to disobey illegal orders, citing the Uniform Code of Military Justice

- Trump labeled these officials’ statements as “seditious” and called for their execution, despite lacking authority to make such claims. 

- The article criticizes the erosion of constitutional values and the increasing authoritarianism under Trump’s administration.