JANUARY 7, 2026
- Fifth Anniversary of January 6 Capitol Riot: President Trump marked the anniversary by rewriting history, pardoning rioters, and launching a webpage blaming opponents and media; Democrats held hearings warning of a "whitewash."
- U.S. Military Operation in Venezuela: Nicolás Maduro captured in a raid, pleaded not guilty in U.S. court; Trump claims Venezuela will hand over oil, sparking partisan divide and international concerns.
- Trump Revives Greenland Ambition: White House confirms discussions to acquire Greenland, including military options as a possibility.
- Wildfires and Health Impacts: Eaton fire devastates California areas; ACA subsidy expiration leads to higher health insurance costs for millions starting 2026.
- Vance Home Vandalism: Arrest made for property damage at Vice President JD Vance's Ohio residence.
- Trump Warns of Impeachment: Told House Republicans a third impeachment likely if Democrats retake House in 2026 midterms.
- Venezuela Fallout: Lawmakers demand details on Maduro capture; public split on approval (33% support per poll).
- Jan. 6 Commemorations: Trump recasts riot narrative; pardoned participants march while opponents protest.
- Federal Health Changes: CDC scales back childhood vaccine recommendations; potential overhaul looms.
- Midterm Focus: Early jockeying for 2026 elections, with House control key to Trump's agenda.
- Venezuela Crisis Escalates: U.S. strike captures Maduro; Trump eyes oil control and potential blockade; international criticism mounts.
- Greenland Tensions: European leaders push back on U.S. acquisition threats, calling it challenge to NATO principles.
- Ukraine Peace Talks: France and UK commit to military hubs if ceasefire agreed; Paris meetings ongoing.
- Middle East and Asia Developments: Iran executes alleged spy; protests grow; Japan earthquake strikes.
- Global Reactions: Europe rejects U.S. Venezuela actions; Trump comments on Modi tariffs strain India-U.S. ties.
- New State Laws in Effect: California rolls out cellphone limits, gender-neutral bathrooms, and healthier school meals in 2026.
- AI and Tech Integration: Rising adoption of AI tools in classrooms; predictions for personalized learning and STEM focus.
- Policy Debates: Indiana eyes stricter cellphone bans and school efficiency measures.
- International Partnerships: Microsoft and others expand AI training in schools globally.
- Trends for 2026: Hyper-personalized education via wearables; concerns over AI equity.
- Wall Street Optimism: Forecasts for S&P 500 to reach 7,500–8,000 by end-2026; mediocre but resilient growth expected.
- Fed and Policy Risks: Trump pressures for rate cuts; potential new chair nomination raises independence concerns.
- Venezuela Oil Impact: Potential influx of Venezuelan oil to U.S. amid geopolitical shifts.
- AI and Tech Boom: Continued capital expenditure on AI; bubble fears among top risks.
- Global Outlook: Tariffs, deficits, and inflation pose challenges; U.S. projected to outperform.
- CES 2026 Highlights: Lenovo rollable laptops, Nvidia Vera Rubin AI platform, Intel Core Ultra Series 3 chips debut.
- Robotics Surge: Humanoid robots and AI integrations dominate; Google partners with Boston Dynamics.
- AI Advancements: New chips from Nvidia/AMD/Qualcomm; DLSS updates and autonomous driving tech.
- Laptop Wars: Snapdragon X2 Elite, Ryzen AI, Panther Lake compete for performance crowns.
- Displays and Concepts: Expandable screens, Wi-Fi 8 routers, and immersive lighting systems unveiled.
- ACA Subsidies Expire: Millions face steep premium hikes in 2026; coverage losses projected.
- Flu Surge: Record-high doctor visits; 5,000+ deaths this season amid vaccine schedule changes.
- Measles Threat: U.S. risks losing elimination status by January 2026 due to outbreaks.
- Policy Overhauls: CDC cuts childhood vaccines; potential FDA warnings on COVID shots.
- Trends for 2026: Rise in GLP-1 drugs, AI wearables, and personalized wellness.
- NFL Season Wrap-Up: Playoff races heat up; coaching changes and injuries dominate headlines.
- NBA Action: Key matchups like Lakers vs. Pelicans; nightly recaps highlight stars.
- 2026 Preview: Busy calendar with Winter Olympics, World Cup buildup, and midterms impact.
- Transfer Window: Premier League January moves underway.
- College and Pro Predictions: Bold forecasts for championships and player movements.
Wyoming Supreme Court Overturns Abortion Bans https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/06/wyoming-supreme-court-overturns-abortion-bans/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Harvard President Alan Garber criticized faculty activism for creating a repressive climate on campus and stifling free speech.
- Garber emphasized the importance of maintaining neutrality in classrooms to encourage open discourse and student participation.
- The university is introducing measures like orientation modules to teach effective communication on controversial issues and reports addressing bias.
Parker Molloy Read Jack Smith's Testimony So You Wouldn't Have To https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/06/parker-molloy-read-jack-smiths-testimony-so-you-dont-have-to/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Special Prosecutor Jack Smith testified before the House Judiciary Committee, claiming evidence of Trump’s criminal actions related to the 2020 election and classified documents.
- Smith stated he would prosecute anyone based on evidence, irrespective of political affiliation, and reaffirmed his commitment to justice.
- The testimony was released on New Year’s Eve, a strategic move by House Republicans to minimize public attention.
- Trump’s actions in Venezuela, including the sale of CITGO Petroleum Corporation to a donor, are criticized as imperialistic and self-serving.
- A preschool teacher in Michigan was arrested for protesting Trump’s Venezuela invasion, highlighting tensions around his policies.
Peter Greene: Ohio Slams Schools with an Unfunded Mandate https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/06/peter-greene-ohio-slams-schools-with-an-unfunded-mandate/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Ohio's legislature proposes an unfunded mandate requiring free high-dosage tutoring and professional development for math teachers.
- The bill's sponsor, Andrew Brenner, claims it addresses students' needs but offers no funding for implementation.
- Critics highlight the impracticality of scaling up high-dosage tutoring without significant resources and funding.
- The legislation could exacerbate challenges for public schools, potentially undermining their credibility and promoting privatization.
- Lawmakers often impose mandates without providing the necessary resources, leading to ineffective implementation.
Distractions That Interrupt Classroom Teaching and Learning (Tony Riehl) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/01/06/distractions-that-interrupt-classroom-teaching-and-learning-tony-riehl/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- Managing classroom distractions, especially cell phone use, is essential for effective teaching and learning.
- Tony Riehl’s “distraction box” policy includes various distracting items, not just cell phones, and encourages students to voluntarily place items in the box to maintain focus.
- The policy promotes a positive classroom atmosphere, avoids confrontations, and builds mutual respect between teachers and students.
- Dan Meyer supports the policy, emphasizing its focus on teaching self-regulation and its adaptability to different distractions.
Setting Them Up for Failure Ohio legislature passes education mandate, fails to provide funding ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/setting-them-up-for-failure
### Key Points
- Ohio legislature mandates "high-dosage tutoring" and professional development for math teachers without funding.
- Legislators often impose education mandates without considering the resources needed for proper implementation.
- Concerns were raised about potential ties between such mandates and companies benefiting financially from these laws.
Selling Unity And putting the "Ew" in Mulgrew ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/selling-unity
### Key Points
- The Unity caucus, led by Michael Mulgrew, faces increasing criticism for its lack of transparency, monopolization of leadership, and resistance to change.
- Retired Teacher Chapter (RTC) members feel marginalized, with limited decision-making power and restricted access to resources, despite being expected to support Unity.
- Many retirees are dissatisfied with the union’s handling of healthcare plans, including the introduction of Medicare Advantage without proper consultation.
- The article criticizes the culture of loyalty to Unity, which prioritizes control and political power over members' interests, leading to apathy and low voter turnout within the union.
- The author calls for increased member engagement and promises to provide guidance on how to contribute to change within the union.
Trump's Education Department Axes Grants for Full-Service Community Schools https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/01/06/trumps-education-department-axes-grants-for-full-service-community-schools/ via @janresseger
### Key Points
- Full-Service Community Schools provide integrated social, medical, and extracurricular services to support students and families.
- The Trump administration canceled $168 million in grants for community schools, citing concerns over diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
- Critics argue the cancellation undermines efforts to address educational disparities and support marginalized communities.
- Research shows the effectiveness of community schools in improving graduation rates, attendance, and student achievement.
- The American Federation of Teachers filed a lawsuit to block the grant terminations, emphasizing their importance in addressing poverty-related educational gaps.
2025: Because We Had To Do Something About It https://thejosevilson.com/2025-because-we-had-to-do-something-about-it/ via @TheJoseVilson
### Key Points
- The author shares personal experiences from 2025, including a robbery at his apartment, prompting reflections on societal inequities and systemic failures.
- Vilson discusses the impact of economic hardship, rising grocery prices, and lack of community spaces on young people and their families.
- He highlights his efforts to foster community, educational equity, and mutual care through initiatives like EduColor and local organizing.
- The article emphasizes the need for adults to fight for young people and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society.
- Vilson underscores the importance of faith guiding actions to build a humanity that doesn't leave people behind.
glen brown: Remember Jacob Chansley? https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/remember-jacob-chansley.html
### Key Points
- The article criticizes Donald Trump's military actions in Venezuela, describing them as unconstitutional, driven by oil interests, and an attempt to consolidate authoritarian power.
- The author calls for immediate action by Congress to prevent further military escalation and ensure accountability.
- Grassroots activism is encouraged, with tools and events provided to mobilize public opposition to war and authoritarianism.
- Broader themes include the importance of resisting oppression, addressing social justice issues, and fighting against fascism.
- The blog references other political and social concerns, such as healthcare, pensions, education, and environmental justice.
glen brown: “Congress must do the right thing by voting to stop this obvious catastrophe" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/congress-must-do-right-thing-by-voting.html
### Key Points
- Former President Donald Trump launched a military invasion of Venezuela, which included bombing Caracas and abducting the Venezuelan president and his wife.
- Legal experts argue that the invasion violated international law, including the UN Charter and the Fourth Geneva Convention.
- Critics, including scholars and political figures, describe the invasion as illegal, immoral, and driven by motives of resource exploitation, specifically oil.
- Calls for Trump’s impeachment and removal intensified following the invasion, with demands for Congress to act against his unauthorized military actions.
- The blog highlights ongoing political chaos, the erosion of constitutional norms, and the dangers of unchecked presidential power.
Teacher Tom: No One Escapes Unscarred http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/01/no-one-escapes-unscarred.html
### Key Points
- Teacher Tom shares personal and generational stories of risky play and its role in childhood development.
- Younger generations lack experiences of risky play due to over-supervision, leading to disbelief in older generations' stories.
- The decline in risky play correlates with rising rates of anxiety and depression among children.
- Risky play is crucial for teaching children emotional resilience, self-regulation, and confidence.
- Modern culture's fear of physical injury has led to a preference for "safe" indoor activities, contributing to a mental health crisis.
- Teacher Tom encourages adults to create spaces that allow children to engage in age-appropriate risky play.
- The author emphasizes the importance of preserving and sharing stories of risky play to inspire future generations.
Smartphone Use During School Hours by US Youth in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
Carrying Fire: Why My Daughter’s Michigan Acceptance Broke Me Open – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/01/06/carrying-fire-why-my-daughters-michigan-acceptance-broke-me-open/
### Key Points
- The author reflects on the emotional experience of his daughter Lucia being accepted into the University of Michigan, making her a third-generation Wolverine.
- Lucia's acceptance into the Learning, Equity, and Problem Solving for the Public Good (LEAPS) program highlights her commitment to community-centered leadership and responsibility.
- The author draws parallels between his daughter’s journey and the story of Prometheus, emphasizing the importance of sharing knowledge and responsibility despite the challenges.
- Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy of moral clarity and courage, even in the face of rejection, serves as a lesson on the cost of leadership and the importance of standing for justice.
- Institutions play a critical role in shaping history by choosing whether to welcome challenging ideas, as illustrated by Sacramento State's decision to host King during a controversial period.
- A quote from King included in Lucia’s application – "Every person is heir to a legacy of dignity and worthiness" – resonates deeply with the author, connecting the past to the future.
- LEAPS emphasizes education as a tool for serving the public good, focusing on equity, accountability, and community-centered learning rather than individual success alone.
- Lucia’s decision to embrace the challenge of carrying "fire" symbolizes her commitment to responsibility, courage, and serving others with integrity.
- The author expresses hope for Lucia’s future, recognizing the challenges ahead but also the potential for her to lead with purpose and humility.
- The article concludes with reflections on the broader implications of carrying fire, emphasizing progress, moral responsibility, and the transformative power of education.
When Implementing New Tech, Always Ask This Question PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/when-implementing-new-tech-always
### Key Points
- Administrators often implement policies or technologies that prioritize their own convenience over teachers' needs.
- Many "labor-saving" systems merely shift the workload to teachers, creating numerous minor inconveniences.
- Administrative decisions should focus on enabling teachers to perform their jobs effectively and enhance classroom teaching.
- Some ed tech tools, such as digital lesson plans or AI-powered systems, may not benefit teachers and instead add unnecessary burdens.
- New technologies should be evaluated based on their actual usefulness to teachers and students, avoiding adoption for the sake of trendiness.
CURMUDGUCATION: AI Student Spectators https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2026/01/ai-student-spectators.html
### Key Points
- States are facing challenges in implementing AI in schools, often with discouraging results.
- AI tools in Connecticut schools are praised for privacy protections and education-specific functions but criticized for limiting meaningful student learning.
- Critics argue AI feedback lacks understanding of student intent, making it less effective for learning.
- An example of AI-driven assignments shows students becoming passive spectators rather than active participants, which undermines engagement and creativity.
- Traditional assignments, such as role-playing or creating characters, are emphasized as more effective for student learning and participation.
Cloaking Inequity: What Would James Baldwin Do? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/james-baldwin
The article reflects on the enduring relevance of James Baldwin's work and philosophy, emphasizing his commitment to truth, justice, and moral responsibility. It explores how Baldwin's ideas on education, art, and social justice remain vital in addressing contemporary issues like systemic inequality, political polarization, and societal denial. The author highlights Baldwin's belief in the transformative power of truth, love, and hope to drive personal and societal change.
### Key Points
- The article reflects on James Baldwin's influence on the author's thinking about leadership, identity, and moral responsibility.
- Baldwin's works, especially his essays, continue to resonate in times of moral and societal confusion.
- Baldwin believed in truth-telling as a form of love and an essential tool for confronting systemic inequality and racism.
- He emphasized the role of educators and artists in fostering awareness, challenging societal norms, and exposing truths.
- Baldwin advocated for a critical and honest love for America, emphasizing the need to confront its flaws to strengthen its moral foundation.
- He warned against societal resignation, stressing the importance of participation and accountability in democracy.
- Baldwin viewed personal introspection as essential to achieving societal transformation and believed that love required vulnerability and truth.
- Baldwin's hope for change was resilient and rooted in the belief that justice and democracy require continuous effort across generations.
Choosing Democracy: Where Are America's Leaders? https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/01/where-are-americas-leaders.html
Where the hell are America's leaders? Too many people with formal authority are intimidated by Trump or sucking up to him. That leaves you and me and everyone else without official power to resist his tyranny ROBERT REICH https://robertreich.substack.com/p/where-the-hell-are-americas-leaders
### Key Points
- America's leadership class, including university presidents, law firm managers, nonprofit directors, and corporate CEOs, is either silent or complicit in supporting Trump's authoritarian agenda.
- CEOs like Marc Benioff, Tim Cook, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jamie Dimon are accused of enabling Trump’s actions in exchange for tax cuts, federal contracts, and deregulation.
- The article criticizes the transactional relationship between corporate leaders and political power, which undermines democracy and integrity.
- The author calls for ordinary citizens to step up as leaders, emphasizing moral authority and grassroots organization to resist authoritarianism.
- Historical figures like Fannie Lou Hamer and Martin Luther King Jr. are cited as examples of individuals who made significant impacts without holding formal power.