TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES
JANUARY 31, 2026
- Nationwide protests and "national shutdown" against ICE operations — Thousands protested across U.S. cities (including Minneapolis, New York, Los Angeles, and more), with walkouts from schools and work, in response to fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by federal immigration agents during Operation Metro Surge. Demonstrators demand an end to aggressive enforcement.
- Partial government shutdown looms or begins — Senate approved a spending package to avert major impacts, but a short weekend lapse is likely as the House couldn't ratify before the deadline; driven by Democratic opposition tied to immigration agent killings.
- Ongoing fallout from Minneapolis ICE incidents — Federal response includes de-escalation signals (e.g., leadership changes in Border Patrol operations), amid widespread outrage and calls for transparency/investigations.
- Government funding and immigration enforcement impasse — Bipartisan deal passed Senate, but disputes over ICE tactics continue to fuel shutdown risks and protests.
- Trump administration signs executive orders and immigration policy shifts — President Trump signed orders on January 30, with ongoing actions on de-escalating certain enforcement while maintaining crackdowns; mixed messages on Minnesota operations.
- Government funding battles and shutdown threats — Senate's approval of a compromise bill amid partisan anger over immigration killings; potential short shutdown starting January 31.
- Continued U.S. withdrawals from international commitments — Broader policy of exiting organizations/treaties seen as contrary to U.S. interests (building on earlier actions like Paris Agreement withdrawal).
- Epstein files release and related scrutiny — New pages of documents released, including emails involving Trump officials, adding to political discourse.
- U.S. tensions with allies over China trade — Trump warns U.K. and Canada against boosting ties with China, amid visits by Western leaders to Beijing.
- U.S. military/naval buildup near Iran — Expanded forces deployed (including carriers) amid tensions; Trump pushes for nuclear talks, while Iran rejects under threat and adds drones.
- UN financial crisis warnings — UN chief highlights imminent collapse without urgent action/funding, tied to U.S. withdrawals from organizations like WHO and Paris Agreement.
- Greenland/NATO strains — Trump's push for Greenland acquisition raises questions about NATO's future, forcing European allies to plan for reduced U.S. role.
- National School Choice Week ongoing — Proclaimed by President Trump (Jan 25-31), emphasizing parental rights and alternatives amid criticisms of federal education policy.
- Federal postsecondary education and labor integration — Departments of Education and Labor advance partnership, detailing staff and shifting grant management for better workforce alignment.
- School funding disruptions under Trump — Reports highlight at least $12 billion in K-12 funding interruptions in his first year back, bypassing Congress.
- Protests/walkouts in schools — Part of national anti-ICE actions, with students walking out across states in solidarity with Minneapolis protests.
- Global growth outlook steady — IMF projects 3.3% for 2026, with technology and adaptability offsetting trade policy challenges; U.S. inflation slower to target.
- Currency and market volatility — Weak yen/dollar signs of fragility; speculation on U.S.-Japan intervention; Trump unconcerned about dollar decline.
- China factory slowdown — Activity loses momentum in January, missing forecasts after brief positivity.
- Africa's major economies showing turnaround signs — Optimism for Nigeria and South Africa amid growth potential.
- Shift to AI-native operating models — AI moves from "tool" to core infrastructure in industries, with funding/management like utilities.
- UAE-Japan AI/tech cooperation momentum — Upcoming visit by UAE President to Japan to boost high-tech and AI ties.
- AI in medtech/digital health focus — Discussions on regulations, investments, and expansions (e.g., Health Tech Investment Act for AI-enabled devices).
- U.S. withdrawal from WHO — Notification confirmed, with WHO regretting the move as making the world (and U.S.) less safe; to be reviewed by WHO bodies.
- Telemedicine flexibilities extended — HHS/DEA extend rules for prescribing controlled medications via telemedicine through December 31, 2026, to avoid care disruptions.
- Ongoing health program extensions — One-year continuations for community health centers, National Health Service Corps, and diabetes programs through end of 2026.
- Australian Open developments — Ongoing tournament (late January into February); notable matches like long semifinals (e.g., Alcaraz vs. Zverev).
- College basketball action — Various games, including Fresno State at Air Force, other matchups like Cincinnati at Houston or Duke at Virginia Tech.
- Soccer friendlies and international — Club matches like FK Vidar vs. Egersunds IK; Caribbean Series ongoing.
- Motorcycle/AMA Supercross — Event in Houston.
The Problem with "the Science of Reading" DIANE RAVITCH https://dianebrooklyn.substack.com/p/the-problem-with-the-science-of-reading @DianeRavitch
### Key Points
- The "science of reading," primarily focused on phonics, has been cyclically adopted and dropped in American schools.
- A 2026 study found that while phonics improves basic literacy skills, it does not develop deeper comprehension.
- The National Reading Panel (1997) recommended five essential components for effective reading instruction, including phonics and comprehension strategies.
- The 2008 evaluation of the Reading First program showed improved decoding skills but no significant impact on comprehension scores.
- A 2026 study by SRI found that reading lessons in four urban districts lacked depth, focusing on surface-level comprehension rather than robust understanding.
- The study emphasized the importance of robust comprehension, which includes understanding, evaluating, and synthesizing text meaning.
- Researchers advocate for professional development and a shift in teaching practices to prioritize meaningful comprehension.
- The article concludes by supporting Jeanne Chall’s balanced approach: starting with phonics and transitioning to quality children's literature to avoid the cyclical extremes of teaching methods.
Donald Trump and his sons have filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the U.S. Treasury and IRS, claiming reputational and financial harm due to a leaked tax return by a former IRS contractor. This is an unprecedented legal action by a former president. The lawsuit, which also involves the Trump Organization, alleges damages caused by the leak of Trump's tax records, which revealed he paid only $750 in federal income taxes in 2016 and 2017. The contractor responsible for the leak was previously sentenced to five years in prison. Trump is also suing the Justice Department for $230 million over investigations into his involvement in the January 6 insurrection and withholding documents.
### Key Points
- Donald Trump and his sons are suing the U.S. Treasury and IRS for $10 billion over leaked tax returns, claiming reputational and financial harm.
- The leaked tax returns showed Trump paid only $750 in federal income taxes in 2016 and 2017.
- A former IRS contractor was sentenced to five years in prison for leaking Trump's tax records.
- Trump is also suing the Justice Department for $230 million over investigations into the January 6 insurrection and document withholding.
- Concerns arise about whether taxpayers have standing to oppose any potential settlement.
The 74: New Report Finds "Science of Reading" is Weak on Teaching Comprehension https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/30/the-74-new-report-finds-science-of-reading-is-weak-on-teaching-comprehension/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The "science of reading" approach improves basic literacy skills but struggles to enhance reading comprehension.
- The National Reading Panel's 2000 report emphasized five essential components of reading instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- A 2008 evaluation found that while "science of reading" improved decoding skills, it had no significant impact on comprehension, a finding echoed in the 2026 study.
- Recent research in four urban districts revealed that most lessons focus on surface-level skills, lacking depth in comprehension and critical thinking.
- Teachers face challenges with implementing robust comprehension materials due to dense curricula and limited professional development opportunities.
- Researchers recommend shifting towards robust comprehension instruction and better professional learning structures to address the gaps.
Minnesota: A Hero Judge https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/30/minnesota-a-hero-judge/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Judge Patrick J. Schiltz challenges ICE's disregard for court orders and illegal detentions in Minneapolis.
- Schiltz criticizes the Trump administration's legal maneuvers, including attempts to bypass standard judicial processes.
- ICE's violations include detaining individuals unlawfully, ignoring court orders, and mishandling politically charged cases.
- Despite conservative credentials, Schiltz defends legal rights and accountability, even amid accusations of bias for supporting immigrant legal aid.
### Key Points
- Flexible Instruction Days allow students to complete pre-made packets at home, avoiding make-up days but offering minimal educational rigor.
- Some districts avoid remote learning due to poor internet access in rural areas and negative experiences during COVID shutdowns.
- Districts without FIDs offer traditional snow days, which must be made up later in the academic calendar.
- The author critiques FIDs as potentially being either the best compromise or an ineffective middle ground compared to traditional snow days.
glen brown: The Trump administration is immoral and unjust https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-trump-administration-is-immoral-and.html
- The article critiques the dehumanizing treatment of immigrants, particularly children, under the Trump administration's immigration policies. It highlights the case of a five-year-old child, Liam Conejo Ramos, who was separated from his family and placed in harsh detention conditions.
- The use of war-like rhetoric by figures like Tom Homan and the Trump administration is analyzed, suggesting its purpose is to justify harsh immigration policies and dehumanize immigrants.
- Historical parallels are drawn with Nixon’s “war on drugs,” illustrating how language can shape policy and lead to systemic injustices, including mass incarceration and racial discrimination.
- The article contrasts the Trump administration’s approach to immigration enforcement with that of the Obama administration, highlighting the increased use of violence and cruelty under Trump.
- It criticizes the privatization of detention facilities, arguing that they profit from the suffering of immigrants and perpetuate systemic racism.
- The piece warns against the normalization of treating migrants and political opponents as enemies, drawing parallels to historical instances of authoritarianism and its societal consequences.
- The article emphasizes the moral responsibility to protect children and to uphold democratic values, urging resistance to policies that dehumanize vulnerable populations.
Teacher Tom: A State-of-the-Art Preschool Playground (for under $200) https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-state-of-art-preschool-playground-for.html
### Key Points
- Suggestions for creating a preschool playground on a $200 budget, focusing on natural and repurposed materials like sand, dirt, and logs.
- Emphasis on loose parts, such as planks, pallets, and old tires, which can be acquired for free or at low cost.
- Highlighting the adaptability and creativity of using items like water pumps, gutters, and sensory materials for dynamic play.
- Importance of evolving and adaptable play areas that reflect the community and encourage child-led exploration.
- Recommendations for incorporating elements like gardens, compost bins, and simple playhouses into the space.
- Teacher Tom offers a course to guide educators and parents in creating natural learning environments.
Ice Storms, Icons, and the Trouble With Certainty https://norinrad10.com/2026/01/30/ice-storms-icons-and-the-trouble-with-certainty/ via @norinrad10
Ice storms in Nashville and heightened immigration enforcement in Minneapolis highlight societal tensions and systemic strain. The article critiques the rush to judgment and dehumanization during crises, urging better communication, critical thinking, and humility. It emphasizes the importance of questioning biases, avoiding oversimplified narratives, and recognizing the complexity of individuals and situations.
### Key Points
- Nashville faces severe ice storm challenges, with power outages and criticism of the electric service's response.
- Minneapolis sees tragic consequences of immigration enforcement, sparking polarized political reactions.
- Dehumanization and oversimplification in media and societal discourse hinder understanding and empathy.
- Schools and institutions often fail to foster critical thinking, leaning into political agendas.
- Better communication, questioning biases, and recognizing human complexity are vital for progress.
10th Period: School Privatizers Cost Public School Kids $1.6 Billion, or a Fully Funded Public School System | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/school-privatizers-cost
### Key Points
- Ohio's K-12 education funding has increased nominally but decreased by $400 million when adjusted for inflation, compared to 15 years ago.
- A significant rise in funding for charter schools and vouchers, more than doubling inflationary rates, has reduced the share of state funds for public schools.
- Public school students in Ohio received $1.6 billion less in funding last year, adjusted for inflation, than 15 years ago, despite a higher overall state budget.
- The funding imbalance has led to higher property taxes and an underfunded school system for 84% of students attending public schools.
I try to answer the "So what?" question Vouchers are unconstitutional, charter schools are failing, both cost children in public schools about $3 billion and property taxes are out of control. What can be done? I have some thoughts... STEPHEN DYER https://10thperiod.substack.com/p/i-try-to-answer-the-so-what-question
### Key Points
- Ohio’s private school tuition subsidy program is deemed unconstitutional and costs taxpayers $1.2 billion annually.
- Ohio’s charter schools have been failing for 30 years, costing taxpayers $1.6 billion annually, and spending excessively on administration.
- Property taxes are rising because the state is contributing less to public school funding than ever before.
- Charter schools should face stricter academic accountability, including tougher closure laws for underperforming schools.
- Closing underperforming charter schools could save the state $685 million and help fully fund public school formulas.
- A new funding formula specifically for charter schools should reflect their actual costs, potentially saving $250-350 million.
- Funding for charter schools should follow students directly, saving $828 million and reducing the program’s cost to $750 million annually.
- Linking funding to quality by ensuring students only transfer to higher-performing schools could save several hundred million dollars.
- Oversight of charter schools should be returned to publicly accountable entities, and for-profit operators should be banned.
- Dropout recovery schools with a graduation rate below 50% should be closed immediately.
- E-schools should prove student enrollment before receiving funding, and adopt real standards to prevent fraud.
- Charter schools should have their own budget line item to promote transparency and accountability.
- Private school tuition subsidies should only be provided if a student attended public school for at least 180 days prior to applying.
- Tuition subsidies for private schools should be based on their actual costs, not public school funding formulas, potentially saving $600 million.
- Tuition for private schools receiving subsidies should be capped at the subsidy amount, potentially saving another $600 million.
- Private schools accepting subsidies should be required to report spending and verify student enrollment.
- Private schools receiving subsidies should administer the same standardized tests as public schools to ensure accountability.
- Tuition subsidies should be paid to parents, not directly to private schools, to increase transparency.
- Private schools receiving subsidies should be required to accept all students, reducing discriminatory practices.
- Transportation costs for students attending private or charter schools should be reimbursed to public school districts.
- Subsidies should not fund religious education to avoid constitutional issues.
- A report card system should be created to evaluate and compare private schools with public schools.
Greg Bovino is out, and so is his Hitler Youth-sized coat, respectfully ... https://youtube.com/shorts/IqO1eCAW2Nc?si=M1YIKOVH5vR5I0e3 via @YouTube
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, January 30, 2026, the news cycle is dominated by a mix of significant economic shifts, foreign policy escalations, and a tense standoff over immigration and government funding.
Here are the top stories involving President Trump:
1. Government Shutdown Averted (Tentatively)
Senate Democrats and President Trump have reached a last-minute deal to avert a partial government shutdown.
2. Fed Chair Nomination: Kevin Warsh
In a move that has sent ripples through the financial markets, Trump announced Kevin Warsh as his nominee to replace Jerome Powell as Chair of the Federal Reserve.
3. Oil Tariffs & Foreign Policy
The administration has intensified its pressure on the Cuban government.
4. "Trump Accounts" Go Live
As tax filing season begins, the Treasury Department reports that approximately 500,000 Americans have already opened "Trump Accounts" for their children.
The Policy: A $1,000 government seed contribution for every child born between 2025 and 2028.
Corporate Matching: Today, major companies including Intel, IBM, and JPMorgan joined others like Uber and Mastercard in announcing they will match employee contributions to these accounts.
5. Release of Epstein Files
The Department of Justice has begun the scheduled release of the "Epstein Library" files.
Other Notable Updates:
FEMA Reforms: The President announced expedited, upfront emergency funding for Mississippi, Tennessee, and Louisiana to help recover from a severe winter storm, bypassing traditional reimbursement delays.
Substance Use EO: An executive order was signed to establish the "Great American Recovery Initiative" to coordinate federal efforts against substance addiction.
IndyCar in D.C.: In a lighter moment from the Oval Office, Trump signed an order aimed at bringing an IndyCar race to Washington, D.C. this summer.
