JANUARY 9, 2026
- U.S. Withdrawal from International Organizations: President Trump signed a memorandum withdrawing the U.S. from 66 global entities, including 31 UN agencies and key climate treaties like the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, citing conflicts with national interests.
- Venezuela Oversight and Oil Control: Trump stated U.S. oversight of Venezuela could last years, with the military seizing oil tankers and redirecting Venezuelan oil exports to the U.S.
- Immigration Enforcement Incidents: Protests grew over fatal ICE shootings in Minneapolis and Portland, with concerns about rhetoric and investigations.
- Trump's Greenland Pursuit: Secretary of State Rubio signaled no retreat from efforts to acquire Greenland, amid NATO ally concerns.
- House Upholds Trump Vetoes: Congress failed to override vetoes on bills involving pipelines and land control, testing GOP unity.
- Trump on Midterms and Impeachment: Trump warned Republicans of potential impeachment if they lose the House in 2026 midterms.
- Venezuela and Foreign Policy: Ongoing U.S. actions in Venezuela, including Maduro's ousting and oil deals, dominated discussions.
- International Withdrawals and Tariffs: Trump's moves to exit organizations and impose tariffs (including threats on Russian oil buyers) escalated global tensions.
- Iran Protests and Internet Blackout: Nationwide internet shutdown amid mounting protests called by the exiled Crown Prince; Trump warned of U.S. intervention.
- U.S. Actions Criticized Globally: German President accused U.S. of destroying world order; withdrawals from organizations triggered alarm.
- Greenland Tensions: U.S. pursuit of Greenland raised NATO concerns, with planned talks but no retreat signaled.
- Venezuela Fallout: International reactions to U.S. raid ousting Maduro and seizing assets.
- Scholarships and Programs: Announcements for international PG merit scholarships (e.g., University of East Anglia for Indian students) and events like physics lectures.
- School Policies and Reports: Student Sync Index 2026 highlighted misalignments in technology use and wellbeing; new rules for medical colleges in PPP mode.
- California Proposals: Gov. Newsom proposed shifting power in K-12 education; new laws on cellphones and truancy.
- AI in Education: Emerging focus on AI-driven transformations in engineering education.
- U.S. Tariffs and Trade: Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs and deals redirecting Venezuelan oil impacted global markets; oil prices settled lower.
- Federal Reserve Outlook: Expectations of rate pauses early 2026; job reports and inflation data key for decisions.
- Global Growth Moderation: UN report forecasts slower growth in 2026 due to trade weaknesses, partially offset by easing.
- Stock Market Volatility: Early 2026 wobbles; forecasts for S&P 500 around 7,500-8,000 by year-end.
- CES 2026 Highlights: Major announcements including LG's thinnest OLED TV, AMD/NVIDIA chips, rollable displays, AI wearables, and robots.
- AI Dominance: Trends in physical AI, smart glasses, and integrations in health/beauty tech.
- Foldables and Innovations: Samsung tri-fold phone, Motorola concepts, and new gaming laptops.
- Broader Trends: Predictions for talking computers, AI in daily life, and advancements in displays/chips.
- Severe Flu Season: Flu surges in 45 states; highest doctor visits in decades, thousands dead; concerns over vaccine advice changes.
- ACA Subsidies Expire: Millions face steep insurance hikes in 2026 after enhanced credits end.
- New Dietary Guidelines: Urge less sugar, more protein and healthy fats; nod to "Make America Healthy Again."
- Trends for 2026: Expanded GLP-1 drugs, AI wearables, and focus on whole foods.
- NFL Playoffs and Coaching Changes: Playoff bracket set; Dolphins fire McDaniel, joining several teams seeking new coaches.
- NBA and Transfers: Early fantasy rankings; Premier League January window open.
- WWE and Cricket: SmackDown in Berlin; T20 World Cup qualifiers scheduled.
- College Basketball: SEC dominance in women's poll; key games and retirements.
Update on the Murder of Nicole Good https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/08/update-on-the-murder-of-nicole-good/ via @dianeravitch
The article discusses the killing of Renee Nicole Good, a poet and activist, by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. It highlights the incident, public reactions, and the broader implications of ICE’s presence in local communities. The post also delves into the political context, suggesting that the current administration is using ICE to suppress dissent and potentially disrupt democratic processes, such as elections. The comments reflect outrage and demand accountability for the murder and the systemic issues surrounding ICE operations.
### Key Points
- Renee Nicole Good, a poet and activist, was killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis under controversial circumstances.
- The video evidence suggests the ICE agent was not in danger, sparking public outrage and calls for accountability.
- Commenters criticize the systemic issues with ICE, including its role in undermining de-escalation policies in local communities.
- The article links ICE’s actions to broader political strategies, alleging plans to incite opposition violence and justify martial law to suspend elections.
ProPublica: The Zealots Who Hate Public Schools Now Work in the U.S. Department of Education https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/08/propublica-the-zealots-who-hate-public-schools-now-work-in-the-u-s-department-of-education/ via @dianeravitch
- The U.S. Department of Education under Linda McMahon and the Trump administration is pursuing policies to privatize public schools and promote Christian education.
- The department has allocated $500 million to charter schools and encouraged states to redirect federal funds for disadvantaged students to private schools and businesses.
- Officials aim to provide parents with debit cards to create customized educational plans, shifting funds from public schools to private and home-schooling options.
- Public accountability and regulation are being undermined, with a preference for market-driven oversight like parent reviews.
- Critics argue these changes threaten the inclusivity and diversity of public schools, especially in rural areas where alternatives are limited.
- Conservative groups, such as Moms for Liberty and America First Policy Institute, have gained influence in the department, promoting school vouchers and embedding Christian principles in education.
- These groups are supported by wealthy conservative donors with goals to weaken public schools, reduce taxes for the wealthy, and promote privatization.
- Leaders like Tiffany Justice advocate for eliminating public schools entirely, while Linda McMahon’s tenure has emphasized religion in education and a "spiritual war" over school curricula.
Who Was Renee Nicole Good? https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/08/who-was-renee-good/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Renee Nicole Good, a mother of three, was shot and killed by an ICE officer in Minneapolis under controversial circumstances.
- The Trump administration labeled her a domestic terrorist, accusing her of attempting to harm federal agents, but evidence suggests otherwise.
- Good was described by family and acquaintances as a kind, compassionate person with no history of activism or violence.
- Video evidence reviewed by The New York Times indicates she was likely trying to avoid hitting an ICE agent when she was shot.
- The article critiques the Trump administration's increasing use of ICE for alleged authoritarian purposes and raises concerns about the potential for martial law and election suspension.
"The 12 Days of Christmas," Adapted to the Current Moment https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/08/the-12-days-of-christmas-adapted-to-the-current-moment/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- A group in Maine humorously adapted "The 12 Days of Christmas" to reflect political commentary, expressing hope for a future without certain negative traits in leadership.
- ICE agents engaged in a controversial operation at Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, which involved the use of chemical irritants and pepper balls on students and staff.
- Broader discussions include the state of democracy, education reform, and societal issues, with references to various blog topics and related content.
Vouchers Continue to Cause School Closures in Arizona 8 more local schools closed amid rapid voucher expansion ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/vouchers-continue-to-cause-school
- The expansion of Arizona's universal Education Savings Accounts (ESA) has led to the closure of 28 schools, with 8 more closures recently announced in Kyrene and Scottsdale communities due to budget constraints.
- The Arizona legislature's underfunding of public education and the unchecked $1 billion ESA program are forcing districts to make difficult decisions, negatively impacting students and families.
- Advocacy for privatization of public schools is increasing nationwide, with some leaders aiming to disrupt public education entirely, as seen in Indianapolis and Tennessee.
- Public school closures and resource diversion contribute to weakened democracy, as highlighted by concerns over uninformed voters and the importance of successful public schools.
- Tennessee's struggles with school funding and teacher compensation are contrasted with other states that have successfully invested in education, leading to better outcomes.
Complex Issues Rumble Beneath Plan to Close Cleveland Schools https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/01/08/complex-issues-rumble-beneath-plan-to-close-cleveland-schools/ via @janresseger
### Key Points
- The Cleveland school district plans to close 23 schools and consolidate others to address declining enrollment and a $150 million deficit.
- The Ohio Legislature’s failure to fully enact the Fair School Funding Plan exacerbates financial challenges for districts like Cleveland.
- The consolidation plan aims to provide equitable access to education and extracurricular opportunities across all schools.
- The district’s shift away from the portfolio school reform model will end specialized small schools, integrating them into larger schools.
- Local property tax revenue continues to be diverted to charter schools, adding financial strain to the public school system.
- Community concerns include the impact of school closures on students, teachers, and neighborhoods, with potential long-term social and emotional consequences.
Teacher Tom: Why I Like Classic Jigsaw Puzzles http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/01/why-i-like-classic-jigsaw-puzzles.html
### Key Points
- Classic jigsaw puzzles encourage focus, perseverance, and problem-solving, with only one correct way to assemble them, though children often find creative uses for the pieces.
- Observing children working on puzzles reveals their thought processes, patience, and determination, offering insights into their learning methods.
- Puzzles teach children to master challenges through repetition, trial, and error, fostering a sense of achievement and adaptability.
- The blog highlights the importance of maintaining engaging play-based environments and provides resources for educators and parents to support creative learning.
- Teacher Tom emphasizes his dedication to play-based education and invites collaboration to promote high-quality preschool education globally.
Our Torn National Fabric https://rlratto.wordpress.com/2026/01/08/our-torn-national-fabric/ via @ratto_rr
### Key Points
- The author, a retired elementary school teacher, reflects on the state of the nation, expressing concerns about societal divisions, potential civil unrest, and the erosion of democratic values.
- The article criticizes the Trump administration for spreading misinformation, likening its tactics to historical instances of propaganda, and discusses the impact of "alternative facts" on the current political climate.
- Concerns are raised about the justification of violence, ICE raids, and the manipulation of public opinion, with the author urging accountability and resistance against such actions.
- The piece highlights the dangers of disinformation, the rise of racist ideologies, and the divisive influence of Trump supporters, calling them "the real enemy from within."
- Additional references include related posts, books, and archives that provide further context to the themes discussed.
Your Robot Weight Room Assistant PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/your-robot-weight-room-assistant
### Key Points
- LiftBot is a robot-assisted weightlifting system aimed at improving efficiency and speed in athletic training.
- Human athletes are still involved to supervise and ensure LiftBot operates correctly.
- The system claims to save time and increase enthusiasm among athletes, though concerns about ethical use and over-reliance on robots are acknowledged.
- The program suggests that robot-assisted physical activities are the future, but it also reveals a commercial motive to target school programs for revenue.
Will AI Kill Originality and Creativity? – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/01/08/will-ai-kill-originality-and-creativity/
### Key Points
- AI magnifies the importance of human originality as it excels in replication but lacks creativity and values.
- Originality requires courage, synthesis, and judgment, as shown in the Coca-Cola "New Coke" debacle, where identity outweighed data-driven decisions.
- Van Gogh's story demonstrates that originality often precedes recognition, highlighting the enduring value of unique ideas.
- The rise of application platforms has impacted originality in college admissions, with Early Decision restoring clarity and prioritization.
- Original thinking is a strategic advantage in an AI era, requiring humans to ask better questions, integrate ideas, and define purpose.
- Collaboration and thoughtful use of technology can cultivate originality, which remains a human responsibility.
glen brown: The Murder of Renee Good https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-murder-of-renee-good.html
### Key Points
- Philosophical reflections on the role of writers and their isolation in resisting oppression.
- Lyrics from "For What It’s Worth" by Buffalo Springfield, emphasizing social awareness and resistance.
- Insights into rhythm guitar playing, referencing Stephen Stills and Chet Atkins.
- Political commentary on Donald Trump’s foreign policies, including actions in Venezuela and Ukraine.
- Discussion of societal issues such as social justice, pensions, education, healthcare, and systemic injustices.
ICE kills. FRED KLONSKY https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/ice-kills
### Key Points
- The article discusses the tragic murder of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, highlighting it as part of a broader pattern of violence involving ICE and federal agents.
- The author criticizes the federal authorities, including Trump and Kristi Noem, for blaming the victim despite evidence suggesting otherwise.
- Since January 2025, there have been 14 shooting incidents involving federal agents, resulting in at least four deaths and five injuries.
- The article mentions specific incidents, such as the September 2025 death of Silverio Villegas González during a traffic stop, and notes 35 deaths in ICE custody according to The Guardian.
- The author advocates for abolishing ICE, continuing street protests, and pressing state and city charges against perpetrators.
Where Do Kids Get Their Information? About the campaign to prevent schools from being that source... NANCY FLANAGAN https://flanagann.substack.com/p/where-do-kids-get-their-information
The article explores the role of media, schools, and other influences on how children and young people consume and process information. It critiques the prevalence of biased and misleading media sources, the challenges educators face in fostering critical thinking, and the importance of teaching students to discern credible information. The author reflects on generational shifts in media consumption and the impact of technology on learning and awareness.
### Key Points
- The article discusses the influence of media, music, and social platforms on young people, emphasizing how these sources often promote individualism and misleading messages.
- The author highlights a generational shift in media consumption, from Barack Obama’s social media strategies in 2008 to the rise of polarizing figures like Joe Rogan and Ben Shapiro in 2026.
- Many students struggle with completing academic tasks, often due to a lack of understanding, and rely on quick fixes like chatbots instead of engaging with vetted educational resources.
- The prevalence of bots and biased content on social media platforms has disrupted honest discussions and made it harder to access truthful information.
- The article stresses the need for teaching students critical media literacy to differentiate between credible and misleading sources amidst the growing influence of right-wing and independent media.
- The author questions the role of schools and educators in fostering critical thinking about media while noting the societal backlash against concepts like DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and “woke” ideologies.
- The article concludes with a call to action for educators and society to prioritize teaching discretion and truthfulness in media consumption.
The California Department of Education (CDE) Nutrition Services Division is sending this message to announce the availability of School Year 2026–27 School Breakfast Program (SBP) and Summer Meal Programs (SMP) Start-up and Expansion Grants. https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/availabilitybfastgrant.asp
### Key Points
- The CDE is offering grants for the 2026–27 School Breakfast Program and Summer Meal Programs to support start-up or expansion efforts.
- Approximately $1.017 million is allocated annually for these grants, with up to $15,000 available per school site for nonrecurring expenses.
- The grant application deadline is February 13, 2026, at 4 p.m., and applications must be submitted online.
- The grant period runs from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027.
- Schools can find detailed instructions and apply for the grants on the CDE’s SBP and SMP Grant Request for Applications web page.
- For questions, applicants can contact the Breakfast Grant team at breakfastgrant@cde.ca.gov or call 800-952-5609.
- The program is part of California’s effort to support equal opportunities and enhance student nutrition.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond Announces Literacy Moonshot, the Most Expansive Effort in California History to Achieve Reading by Third Grade https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr26/yr26rel01.asp
### Key Points
- State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announced the "Literacy Moonshot," a five-year plan to close the third-grade literacy gap.
- The plan includes funding for dyslexia screening, high-impact tutoring, family engagement, and specialized teacher training.
- Legislation is proposed to make kindergarten mandatory for all five-year-olds in California.
- The plan aligns with efforts to expand funding for the California Community Schools Partnership Program, which supports student and family resources.
- The initiative aims to collaborate with schools, community organizations, and advocacy groups to ensure success and measure outcomes.
Vance says that Renee's death was her own fault. She was a 'victim of left-wing ideology.' This Wasn’t a 'Training Issue' https://klonsky.substack.com/p/vance-says-that-renees-death-was
- The article criticizes the ICE killing of Renee Nicole Good, arguing it was not a training issue but a result of systemic militarized practices in immigration enforcement.
- The killing is framed as part of a broader federal immigration enforcement surge that treats community members as enemies under a "counterterrorism" narrative.
- Renee Good, who was protesting and documenting ICE actions, was falsely labeled a terrorist by officials, and her death was politicized, with figures like Kristi Noem and V.P. Vance blaming her for her own death.
- V.P. Vance claimed ICE agents have "total immunity" for their actions, furthering the narrative of impunity for federal agents.
