JANUARY 15, 2026
- The Trump administration has reversed sweeping cuts to mental health and addiction grants worth over $2 billion after backlash, restoring funding amid concerns over public health impacts.
- Federal threats to withhold billions in aid from Minnesota (including food, health care, and child care) continue, tied to disputes over immigration enforcement and a new lawsuit against the state.
- An ICE agent's fatal shooting of Renee Macklin Good in Minneapolis has sparked controversy, with the FBI leading the investigation independently—unusual as joint probes are typical.
- Immigrant visa processing from 75 countries is suspended over public assistance concerns, part of broader immigration restrictions.
- Ongoing recovery challenges from last year's Los Angeles wildfires persist, with homeowners facing delays in insurance claims.
- Senate Republicans blocked a war powers resolution limiting military action in Venezuela, a win for the Trump administration amid tensions over U.S. involvement.
- Trump claims on "good authority" that Iran's plans for protester executions have stopped, even as Tehran signals fast trials amid crackdowns.
- Disputes over Greenland intensify, with European nations (Denmark, Germany, France) rejecting U.S. demands and increasing military presence in response.
- Trump's administration faces criticism for terminating mental health/addiction grants (later partially reversed) and probing Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
- Midterm election preparations heat up, with redistricting battles (e.g., California) and potential shifts in congressional control.
- Major municipal elections in Maharashtra, India (including Mumbai's BMC), see over 34.8 million voters choosing corporators amid intense campaigning.
- Iran's anti-government protests continue with a high death toll (over 2,400 reported), internet blackouts, and international concern over executions.
- A construction crane collapse onto a passenger train in Thailand kills at least 30-32, injuring many, on a high-speed rail project linking to China.
- Uganda's elections proceed amid UN warnings of repression, intimidation, and shrinking civic space.
- U.S. military involvement in Venezuela escalates, with Maduro's capture and ongoing uncertainty over governance.
- New U.S. Department of Education accountability framework reaches consensus for higher ed reforms under recent laws, focusing on outcomes and workforce alignment.
- California's K-12 changes roll out: cellphone limits, immigrant family protections, gender-neutral bathrooms, and healthier meals.
- Higher ed trends include declining international student pipelines due to policies, potential federal enforcement increases, and AI integration challenges.
- Minnesota faces threats to federal education-related funds amid broader aid disputes.
- Discussions on shifting more California education power to the governor and away from the state superintendent.
- Global growth projected to slow slightly to 2.7-3.1% in 2026 (U.S. at ~2.0%), with easing inflation but risks from trade policies and geopolitics.
- Wall Street forecasts strong S&P 500 gains (7-17% returns), despite high valuations, with AI and U.S. strength as drivers.
- U.S. retail sales rose 0.6% in November, producer prices up modestly; banks push back on potential credit card rate caps.
- Tariffs, immigration curbs, and policy shifts contribute to mixed signals: rising inflation in some areas but softening labor markets.
- Optimism for U.S. stocks persists, with analysts seeing continued growth despite concerns over bubbles or recessions.
- CES 2026 highlights include AI-integrated wearables, advanced TVs/soundbars, humanoid robots (e.g., Boston Dynamics Atlas), and new gadgets like smart kitchens and hearing aids.
- OpenAI signs major compute deals (e.g., with Cerebras for AI power), amid ongoing AI infrastructure races.
- Trends focus on AI in everyday devices, voice assistants evolving, and community-first datacenter builds (e.g., Microsoft initiatives).
- Nvidia and others advance AI upscaling and chips, with tariffs on some advanced computing imports.
- Broader shifts: AI for personalized health/education, but concerns over bubbles and energy demands.
- GLP-1 medications (e.g., for weight loss/diabetes) expand use, topping trends alongside AI wearables for tracking and "food as medicine" approaches.
- Mental health/addiction grants restored after cuts, amid broader concerns over federal health policy shifts.
- Rising early-onset colorectal cancer linked to ultra-processed foods and lifestyle factors.
- Global concerns: neglected tropical diseases/mental health affect billions; potential measles resurgence threats in the U.S.
- Trends include hyper-personalized nutrition via tech and ongoing vaccine/public health debates.
- NFL coaching changes and draft prep heat up (e.g., potential Mike Tomlin exit rumors, top prospects).
- College basketball: Teams like Nebraska, Michigan State, and others post strong wins; women's poll shuffles with UConn at top.
- Upcoming events: Australian Open (Jan 19-Feb 1) with top seeds; Six Nations rugby; Commonwealth Games prep.
- WPL cricket: Mumbai Indians wins highlight ongoing league action.
- Broader: Predictions for player moves (e.g., Matthews), CBA negotiations (WNBA), and major events like Winter Olympics buildup.
Why Is the Justice Department Refusing to Investigate Killing of Renee Good? https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/14/why-is-the-justice-department-refusing-to-investigate-killing-of-renee-good/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Heather Cox Richardson highlights a WWII-era pamphlet for U.S. soldiers that explains the tactics of fascism and its dangers.
- The pamphlet defines fascism as government by and for the elite few, which undermines democracy and civil liberties.
- Fascists use propaganda, fear, hatred, and division to gain and maintain power, promoting ultra-nationalism and opposing international cooperation.
- The pamphlet warns that fascism could arise in America under the guise of patriotism and stresses the need for vigilance to preserve democracy.
- The document emphasizes that combating fascism requires making democracy work and fostering unity and cooperation.
U.S. Justice Department Will Investigate Renee Good and Her Widow, Not ICE Officer Who Killed Her https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/14/u-s-justice-department-will-investigate-renee-good-not-ice-officer-who-killed-her/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Trump administration labeled Renee Nicole Good a "domestic terrorist" and focused on investigating her widow instead of the ICE officer who fatally shot her.
- Video evidence suggests that Good was trying to flee the scene and did not endanger the ICE officer.
- Several federal prosecutors and civil rights attorneys resigned in protest over the Justice Department's refusal to investigate the officer and its decision to investigate the victim's widow.
- The Civil Rights Division under Harmeet Dhillon shifted its priorities away from traditional civil rights work to align with Trump’s political goals.
The Economist: After Maduro in Venezuela https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/14/the-economist-after-maduro-in-venezuela/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Trump removed Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela but left much of his regime intact, leading to mixed reactions among Venezuelans.
- Maduro's leadership was marked by economic collapse, corruption, and human rights abuses, with the economy shrinking by 69% under his rule.
- Some Venezuelans viewed Trump's actions positively, as polling showed improved opinions of America after Maduro's removal, though fear of the regime persists.
- Criticism arises regarding U.S. sanctions and whether the intervention was motivated by democracy promotion or control over Venezuela's resources.
- The article includes comments and debates about the ethics and implications of such interventions.
Rick Wilson: The Entire Joint Chiefs of Staff Should Resign Over Greenland Plans https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/14/rick-wilson-the-entire-joint-chiefs-of-staff-should-resign-over-greenland-plans/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Former President Donald Trump’s insistence on acquiring Greenland, either through purchase or invasion, despite the resistance of Greenlanders who prefer their association with Denmark.
- Trump’s motivations for acquiring Greenland are driven by its mineral resources and personal ambitions, with no legitimate national security concerns as the U.S. already has a military base there.
- Rick Wilson calls for the resignation of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to oppose Trump’s plan, criticizing their complicity in a potential invasion of Greenland.
- The article highlights the potential geopolitical consequences of an American invasion of Greenland, including the collapse of NATO and the encouragement it would give to adversaries like China and Russia to pursue territorial aggression.
- The author criticizes the moral and strategic implications of the military supporting such an invasion, arguing it undermines the U.S.’s credibility and the principles of international law.
Teacher Tom: And I Don't Owe Anyone an Explanation http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/01/and-i-dont-owe-anyone-explanation.html
Teacher Tom reflects on the creative processes of preschoolers as they engage in artistic projects using materials like cardboard, matte board, glue, and paint. He highlights the intentionality behind the children’s decisions, emphasizing their unique perspectives and the stories or emotions conveyed through their work. The article also mentions an upcoming workshop for educators and parents, promoting play-based learning and early childhood education.
### Key Points
- Teacher Tom shares insights into the creativity and thought processes of preschoolers while creating art projects.
- The children’s artwork reflects intentional choices, storytelling, and emotional expression.
- Teacher Tom emphasizes the importance of understanding children’s perspectives and fostering creativity.
- Promotion of a live workshop for early childhood educators and parents to encourage play-based learning.
- Teacher Tom offers resources, books, and opportunities for collaboration through his blog and events.
Guide to managing youth concussions aims to educate coaches and parents Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Researchers created a user-friendly guide for parents and coaches to recognize and manage youth concussions, emphasizing the "recognize and remove" approach for quicker recovery.
- The guide includes a QR code linking to a Concussion Recognition Tool and promotes the idea of a designated "safety officer" parent at sports events.
- A study found California’s expanded TUPE program significantly reduced youth tobacco use and vaping, demonstrating the effectiveness of school-based prevention efforts.
- Bullying among U.S. teens is linked to socioeconomic, physical, and mental health factors, with evidence suggesting the need for culturally sensitive prevention strategies involving parents and schools.
- Early and longer exposure to public preschools helps diagnose and treat developmental conditions, reducing diagnostic gaps.
- Strengthened implementation of computer-assisted learning (CAL) programs in Indian schools led to significant increases in usage and math achievement.
- A study on GenAI tools in education revealed that students use them selectively for critical reading and writing revisions, emphasizing teacher guidance and student agency.
- Postsecondary education data for 2024 highlighted trends in enrollment, distance learning, funding, and faculty salaries, with females making up the majority of students.
glen brown: "Heart of Gold" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/heart-of-gold.html
- The article critiques the Trump administration's violent and abusive actions through ICE, highlighting incidents of government-initiated violence and lack of proper law enforcement practices.
- Illinois and Minnesota have filed lawsuits against DHS, ICE, and other federal agencies for violations of constitutional rights and abusive conduct.
- The lawsuits demand restrictions on ICE activities, including barring arrests without probable cause, limiting operations in sensitive areas, and halting the use of excessive force.
- Federal prosecutors have resigned due to the Trump administration's interference in investigations and undermining of justice.
- The article emphasizes the need for Democrats to leverage Trump's declining popularity and the upcoming midterms to push for stricter oversight of ICE and other reforms.
- The political landscape has shifted, with Democrats gaining momentum and Republicans facing potential losses in the upcoming elections.
- The article warns of Trump's escalating authoritarian actions and calls for Democrats to hold Republicans accountable for supporting his policies.
The Czar: 'There will be more bloodshed.' Kristi Noem echoes Nazi slogan: “One of ours, all of yours.” MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/the-czar-there-will-be-more-bloodshed
- The article discusses the use of authoritarian and fascist rhetoric in the United States, highlighting statements by Border Czar Tom Homan and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that normalize state violence and collective punishment.
- Border Czar Tom Homan warned of "more bloodshed" if public criticism of ICE continues, framing dissent as a threat to power and justifying state violence as self-defense.
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's slogan, "One of ours, all of yours," reinforces the idea of collective punishment and state retaliation, likened to Nazi-era doctrines.
- The article critiques the normalization of authoritarian governance, comparing current rhetoric to historical examples of state violence and genocide.
- Several artists, including Issa Rae and Lin-Manuel Miranda, canceled performances at the Trump/Kennedy Center, signaling opposition to the current political climate.
CURMUDGUCATION: IA: District Axes 100 Year Old Orchestra Program https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2026/01/ia-district-axes-100-year-old-orchestra.html
### Key Points
- Boone, Iowa, is ending its 100-year-old orchestra program, which has been a source of pride and cultural enrichment for the community.
- The orchestra program included multiple ensembles and catered to both middle and high school students, offering a diverse repertoire from classical to contemporary music.
- The district is facing a $665,000 budget shortfall and chose to cut the orchestra program, citing it as non-mandatory by state standards.
- Iowa’s declining state funding for schools, which has not kept pace with inflation, and the implementation of taxpayer-funded school vouchers have strained the district’s finances.
- Boone’s decision highlights broader issues in education funding, including declining student populations and the impact of privatization efforts.
- The loss of the orchestra program is seen as a significant cultural and educational setback for the community.
USDA approved the California Department of Education’s (CDE) waiver request to allow school food authorities (SFA) to offer non-congregate meals to students who are fasting during Ramadan. (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/waivermealduringramadan.asp
### Key Points
- The USDA approved a waiver allowing non-congregate meals for students fasting during Ramadan in California schools.
- SFAs must request pre-approval via an online survey to utilize meal service flexibilities for Ramadan observances.
- Meals are only distributed to students present at school on the day they are offered, ensuring program integrity.
- The waiver permits flexibility in meal service times and settings for fasting students under NSLP and SBP.
- High schools can adapt the “Offer Versus Serve” meal service requirement for fasting students during Ramadan.
- Contact information for assistance with applying for the waiver is provided, along with related nutrition resources.
UFT Delegate Assembly Unity opposes ICE--just not enough to want to demonstrate against it. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/uft-delegate-assembly
### Key Points
- Unity opposes Medicare Advantage but has not demonstrated a strong stance against it. Concerns about Michael Mulgrew and Unity's handling of the issue persist.
- The resolution to save Social Security and Medicare did not come up during the Delegate Assembly, indicating it is not seen as an urgent matter.
- UFT retirees are encouraged to sign a petition to stop pharmacy premiums, as other union welfare funds absorb such costs.
- Delegate dissatisfaction was voiced regarding the lack of democracy in the election of District Representatives and the firing of Amy Arundell and David Kazansky without due process.
- Unity prefers symbolic "days of action" over actual demonstrations against ICE atrocities, though compromises were suggested to include both.
- Teacher shortages, particularly in Arizona and New York, are a growing crisis, exacerbated by Tier 6 pension issues.
- Efforts are underway to expand child care programs and address challenges in early childhood education accessibility.
- Class size reductions are being reviewed, with plans for funding and construction in overcrowded districts.
- Concerns about the lack of freedom of speech for teachers and investigations into political posts were raised.
- UFT is addressing para pay scale issues and advocating for fair treatment of paraprofessionals.
- Resolutions were passed to support NYC nurses on strike and to hold emergency demonstrations against ICE actions.
- The article concludes with announcements about upcoming events, workshops, and rallies, highlighting UFT’s ongoing efforts.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Dear Superintendent Shuldiner - SOMEONE Needs to O... https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/01/dear-superintendent-shuldiner-someone.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- Seattle Public Schools ignored expert advice on methane mitigation while rebuilding Rainier Beach High School on unstable peat soil.
- The district failed to install a proper methane vapor barrier and did not conduct adequate methane testing before opening the school to students.
- Methane monitoring was only initiated after media inquiries, and the district used a non-specialized consumer gas monitor, raising questions about the accuracy of the results.
- The lack of consistent safety laws for methane mitigation in King County and the district's cost-cutting decisions have heightened safety concerns.
- Community distrust persists due to perceived inequities in how the district addresses safety and modernization in schools serving students of color.
FREEBEE: Trump makes obscene gesture, mouths expletive at Detroit factory heckler A cellphone video captured Trump twice mouthing “f--- you” and raising his middle finger toward someone shouting at him inside the auto factory. https://wapo.st/4sG38CD
