TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
MAY 10, 2026
Top news stories as of May 9-10, 2026.
U.S. NEWS
- Frontier Airlines plane strikes and kills pedestrian on the runway at Denver International Airport during takeoff rollout. The person had reportedly jumped a fence; passengers were evacuated safely, and an investigation is underway.
- Possible boat explosion near Miami Beach injures at least 11 people.
- Hiker killed by bear in a surprise encounter at Glacier National Park (among other wildlife/attack stories circulating).
- Canvas education platform cyberattack disrupts thousands of schools and universities nationwide, highlighting edtech vulnerabilities.
- Other: Oil refinery explosion in Louisiana; ongoing searches and local incidents.
POLITICS
- Major redistricting battles favor Republicans: Virginia court strikes down House map in a big blow to Democrats (potentially costing seats in midterms). Challenges in Tennessee, Louisiana (efforts to reshape majority-Black districts), and Southern states following Supreme Court-related rulings.
- Trump administration and Iran developments dominate (peace proposals, expected Iranian response, ceasefire holding with tensions).
- Ongoing debates over education funding, accountability rules for colleges (low-earning outcomes), and fiscal issues like U.S. debt surpassing GDP.
WORLD AFFAIRS
- U.S.-Iran tensions: Fragile ceasefire holds amid Strait of Hormuz incidents; Trump expects response to U.S. peace proposal; impacts on global oil and shipping.
- Russia's Victory Day parade (May 9) with Putin; separate mentions of Ukraine prisoner swaps/ceasefire elements.
- Hantavirus cruise ship outbreak (MV Hondius) draws international response; ship heading to Canary Islands for passenger disembarkation and medical handling.
- Broader Middle East/Gulf ripple effects from conflicts, including energy disruptions.
EDUCATION
- Canvas cyberattack widely disrupts K-12 and university platforms across the U.S., affecting access to classes and data.
- U.S. Department of Education proposed rules for accountability on low-earning postsecondary programs (tied to ROI for students/taxpayers).
- Debates over school calendars (e.g., four-day weeks vs. more schooling) and funding increases in some states (e.g., Connecticut).
ECONOMY
- Impacts from Iran conflict: Surging global food prices, oil/gas concerns, supply chain disruptions, and fears of broader recessionary effects.
- U.S. debt milestone (surpassing GDP) draws fiscal warnings with limited policy response.
- Mixed signals: AI-driven optimism in some forecasts, consumer sentiment issues, unfinished energy projects affecting bills.
TECHNOLOGY
- AI advancements and concerns: Recursive/self-building AI systems, job cuts linked to AI, regulatory pressures, and uses like propaganda.
- Cyber incidents: Canvas hack underscores risks in edtech; broader data privacy and security discussions.
- Ongoing AI data center debates (e.g., energy demands in Utah), big tech investments, and hardware/news from companies like Nvidia/Anthropic.
HEALTH
- Hantavirus (Andes virus) outbreak on MV Hondius cruise ship: 8 cases (incl. 3 deaths); low risk of widespread outbreak per CDC/WHO, but passengers (incl. Americans) face monitoring/quarantine protocols upon disembarkation in Spain.
- General monitoring of respiratory illnesses and low person-to-person transmission risk emphasized.
SPORTS
- MLB/NBA Playoffs: Various games (e.g., Spurs/Wemby highlights, Knicks/76ers, Cubs vs. Rangers); WNBA season tipping off.
- Bobby Cox, Hall of Fame Atlanta Braves manager, dies at 84.
- Soccer (Premier League highlights, e.g., Man City, Fulham), NCAA volleyball/baseball tournaments, and other league action.
News evolves quickly—especially around Iran, the cruise ship, and redistricting. Check major outlets for live updates.
Big Education Ape: THE BILLIONAIRE'S EDUCATION DIVA: HOW KATHY HOCHUL LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING AND LOVE THE GREEN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/the-billionaires-education-diva-how.html
The blog post from Big Education Ape Here is a summary of the key points:
Here is a summary of the key points:
The "Education Diva" Critique
The author, Mike Simpson, characterizes Governor Hochul as performing a political "magic trick"—publicly supporting teachers' unions while privately facilitating the privatization of education. The central criticism is her decision to opt New York into the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), a federal school choice tax-credit program.
The author, Mike Simpson, characterizes Governor Hochul as performing a political "magic trick"—publicly supporting teachers' unions while privately facilitating the privatization of education. The central criticism is her decision to opt New York into the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), a federal school choice tax-credit program.
Campaign Finance & Billionaire Influence
The post highlights Hochul's significant $21 million campaign war chest, arguing that her policy shifts are a direct result of influence from wealthy donors. Key contributors mentioned include:
Real Estate Moguls: Representing her largest sector of support at over $9.1 million.
Tech Billionaires: Including Reid Hoffman Eric Schmidt
Industrialists & Owners: Such as Leonard Blavatnik
The post highlights Hochul's significant $21 million campaign war chest, arguing that her policy shifts are a direct result of influence from wealthy donors. Key contributors mentioned include:
Real Estate Moguls: Representing her largest sector of support at over $9.1 million.
Tech Billionaires: Including
Reid Hoffman Eric Schmidt Industrialists & Owners: Such as
Leonard Blavatnik
The ECCA and Private Interests
The author details how the ECCA functions as a "shell game," where wealthy donors receive dollar-for-dollar tax credits for donating to private school scholarships. This is framed as a "transactional" move that diverts public funds to private institutions which may not be held to the same civil rights standards as public schools.
The author details how the ECCA functions as a "shell game," where wealthy donors receive dollar-for-dollar tax credits for donating to private school scholarships. This is framed as a "transactional" move that diverts public funds to private institutions which may not be held to the same civil rights standards as public schools.
Wider Democratic Trends
The post draws parallels between Hochul and other Democratic governors, like Colorado’s Jared Polis
The post draws parallels between Hochul and other Democratic governors, like Colorado’s
The "Primary That Wasn't"
A major takeaway is the author's claim that Hochul’s massive fundraising advantage effectively stifled democratic competition, causing potential primary challengers to withdraw and denying voters a choice regarding the state's education agenda.
Note: The blog also credits Curmudgucation / Peter Greene
A major takeaway is the author's claim that Hochul’s massive fundraising advantage effectively stifled democratic competition, causing potential primary challengers to withdraw and denying voters a choice regarding the state's education agenda.
Note: The blog also credits
for reporting on similar educational shifts in other states. Curmudgucation / Peter Greene
The blog post from Big Education Ape, titled
Here is a summary of the key themes and arguments:
The "Zombie" Metaphor
The author uses the imagery of "zombies" to describe Jim Crow-era policies—ideas that should be dead but continue to "shamble" through modern legal and political institutions. He argues that while de jure (legal) segregation was ended by the Civil Rights movement, de facto (in practice) segregation persists through economic policy and "lawyerly" maneuvers.
The Role of the Supreme Court
A central focus of the piece is the systematic dismantling of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) by the Roberts Court. The author provides a timeline of specific cases he views as "autopsy reports" for democracy:
Shelby County v. Holder (2013): Removed the requirement for states to get federal approval (preclearance) before changing voting laws.
Brnovich v. DNC (2021): Made it significantly harder to prove racial discrimination in voting results.
Louisiana v. Callais (2026): Critiques a recent decision that the author claims creates a "legal paradox," making it nearly impossible to draw majority-minority districts without them being struck down as unconstitutional "racial sorting."
Political and Social Climate
The author links these legal shifts to the rise of the MAGA movement and Christian Nationalism. He cites a 2026 PRRI survey suggesting high levels of support for Christian Nationalism among Republicans and a concerning acceptance of potential violence to "save the country." He frames this as a demographic "panic" resulting from the loss of a white numerical majority.
The Path Forward
Despite the grim tone, the post concludes with a "blueprint for victory," urging readers to:
Vote Decisively: Win by margins that cannot be "procedurally strangled" or litigated away.
Legislative Action: Restore the VRA with modern formulas and pass federal anti-gerrymandering laws.
Build Coalitions: Recreate the multiracial, multigenerational alliances that drove the original Civil Rights movement.
Key Quote: "Zombies... are only as powerful as the living allow them to be... They stop consuming the moment enough living people decide, collectively and loudly, that enough is enough."
The shared page from Big Education Ape provides a comprehensive digest of top news stories for the week of May 3 to May 9, 2026. The summary is divided into several thematic categories based on reports from AI models Gemini and Grok, as well as specific education and political focuses.
🌍 Global & Geopolitical News
U.S.-Iran Conflict: Significant focus remains on the ongoing war, including exchanges of fire in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the tensions, a fragile ceasefire is reportedly being navigated.
Ukraine-Russia Truce: President Trump announced a three-day ceasefire
Vatican Diplomacy: Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Italy and the Vatican to mend ties with Pope Leo XIV following administration criticisms.
U.S.-Iran Conflict: Significant focus remains on the ongoing war, including exchanges of fire in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the tensions, a fragile ceasefire is reportedly being navigated.
Ukraine-Russia Truce: President Trump announced a
three-day ceasefire Vatican Diplomacy: Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Italy and the Vatican to mend ties with Pope Leo XIV following administration criticisms.
🎓 Education Highlights
AI Integration: The Department of Education finalized rules giving grant priority to schools using AI. There is also a global shift toward "Sovereign AI" to protect student data.
Loan Changes: Final regulations for the RISE loan program were published, introducing new caps on federal professional and graduate degree loans.
System Recovery: The Canvas
AI Integration: The Department of Education finalized rules giving grant priority to schools using AI. There is also a global shift toward "Sovereign AI" to protect student data.
Loan Changes: Final regulations for the RISE loan program were published, introducing new caps on federal professional and graduate degree loans.
System Recovery: The
Canvas
🇺🇸 U.S. Domestic & Political News
Jobs Report: A resilient May jobs report saw U.S. stocks hit record highs despite high energy prices.
Hantavirus Outbreak: A cruise ship
Redistricting: The Virginia Supreme Court struck down a Democratic-favored congressional map, a move celebrated by the GOP.
National Parks: A new administration order lifted restrictions on hunting in 55 national park sites.
Jobs Report: A resilient May jobs report saw U.S. stocks hit record highs despite high energy prices.
Hantavirus Outbreak: A
cruise ship Redistricting: The Virginia Supreme Court struck down a Democratic-favored congressional map, a move celebrated by the GOP.
National Parks: A new administration order lifted restrictions on hunting in 55 national park sites.
📈 Economy & Technology
Inflation & Energy: The blockade of the Gulf has choked off 20% of world oil supplies, causing a worldwide economic "tightrope walk."
Tech Innovations: Major news included semiconductor production being framed as a strategic global priority and rumors of a massive AI processing leap for the Pixel 10 Pro XL.
Microplastics: A study revealed that Moringa tree seeds
Inflation & Energy: The blockade of the Gulf has choked off 20% of world oil supplies, causing a worldwide economic "tightrope walk."
Tech Innovations: Major news included semiconductor production being framed as a strategic global priority and rumors of a massive AI processing leap for the Pixel 10 Pro XL.
Microplastics: A study revealed that
Moringa tree seeds
🏆 Sports & Culture
NBA & NHL: Both leagues are deep into playoffs, with several series heading toward Game 7s.
Olympic Bid: India officially launched its campaign to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
Note: The page also includes daily updates and specific "Education Special" sections detailing investigations into Houston ISD Smith College
NBA & NHL: Both leagues are deep into playoffs, with several series heading toward Game 7s.
Olympic Bid: India officially launched its campaign to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
Note: The page also includes daily updates and specific "Education Special" sections detailing investigations into
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 9, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0688328676.html
The Big Education Ape blog post for May 9, 2026, provides a curated summary of global news, domestic politics, and deep-dives into education policy. The content is characterized by a mix of mainstream news reporting and progressive educational advocacy.
## Top Global & U.S. News
The day's headlines are dominated by geopolitical tensions and economic shifts:
U.S.-Iran Conflict: A tenuous ceasefire is holding despite reported clashes in the Strait of Hormuz
Russia-Ukraine: A three-day ceasefire
Economy: The April jobs report
Health: Concerns remain regarding a Hantavirus outbreak
The day's headlines are dominated by geopolitical tensions and economic shifts:
U.S.-Iran Conflict: A tenuous ceasefire is holding despite reported clashes in the
Strait of Hormuz Russia-Ukraine: A
three-day ceasefire Economy: The
April jobs report Health: Concerns remain regarding a
Hantavirus outbreak
## Education Policy & Critiques
A significant portion of the page is dedicated to analyzing the "business" of education and defending public schools:
AI in the Classroom: Several posts, including a piece by John Thompson AI will never replace
California "Education Circus": Detailed criticism of AB-2117
The "Science of Reading": An article by Denny Taylor
Funding Philosophies: Bruce Baker
A significant portion of the page is dedicated to analyzing the "business" of education and defending public schools:
AI in the Classroom: Several posts, including a piece by
John Thompson AI will never replace California "Education Circus": Detailed criticism of
AB-2117 The "Science of Reading": An article by
Denny Taylor Funding Philosophies:
Bruce Baker
## Social Justice & Advocacy
Redistricting Tensions: The page features a passionate speech by Rep. Justin Pearson
Parental Backlash: Reports on Schools Beyond Screens
Inspirational Narratives: A profile of Albert Camus
Redistricting Tensions: The page features a passionate speech by
Rep. Justin Pearson Parental Backlash: Reports on
Schools Beyond Screens Inspirational Narratives: A profile of
Albert Camus
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 9, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-9-2026.html
This morning news update from Big Education Ape
Global & National News
U.S.-Iran Conflict: A tenuous ceasefire is holding despite naval clashes in the Strait of Hormuz
Economy: The April jobs report
Politics: Republicans are celebrating redistricting wins in states like Virginia and Tennessee, while a bipartisan climate resilience bill is gaining traction in the Senate.
Technology: California researchers have achieved a milestone with a 1,000-qubit quantum processor. Meanwhile, AI-related job displacements continue, with Cloudflare citing AI for 1,100 roles.
U.S.-Iran Conflict: A tenuous ceasefire is holding despite naval clashes in the
Strait of Hormuz Economy: The
April jobs report Politics: Republicans are celebrating redistricting wins in states like Virginia and Tennessee, while a bipartisan climate resilience bill is gaining traction in the Senate.
Technology: California researchers have achieved a milestone with a 1,000-qubit quantum processor. Meanwhile, AI-related job displacements continue, with Cloudflare citing AI for 1,100 roles.
Education Special
The page highlights several critical updates for educators and policy-makers:
Cybersecurity Crisis: A massive cyberattack on the Canvas learning management system
Policy Shifts: The Trump administration has reportedly frozen $2 billion in education grants. There is also ongoing debate regarding the potential abolition of the U.S. Department of Education
Cell Phone Bans: A new study suggests that while cellphone bans
International: In the UAE, schools may remain online due to regional security alerts and missile interceptions.
The page highlights several critical updates for educators and policy-makers:
Cybersecurity Crisis: A massive cyberattack on the
Canvas learning management system Policy Shifts: The Trump administration has reportedly frozen $2 billion in education grants. There is also ongoing debate regarding the potential abolition of the
U.S. Department of Education Cell Phone Bans: A new study suggests that while
cellphone bans International: In the UAE, schools may remain online due to regional security alerts and missile interceptions.
Health & Sports
Health: Concerns are rising over a Hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship, while the FDA has cleared a "universal" flu vaccine for final-phase trials.
Sports: The New York Knicks hold a 3-0 lead over the 76ers in the NBA Playoffs
The blog also features several commentary pieces on "billionaire-led" education reforms and the importance of public school teachers over AI.
Health: Concerns are rising over a Hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship, while the FDA has cleared a "universal" flu vaccine for final-phase trials.
Sports: The New York Knicks hold a 3-0 lead over the 76ers in the
NBA Playoffs
The blog also features several commentary pieces on "billionaire-led" education reforms and the importance of public school teachers over AI.
Big Education Ape: WHAT THE BOTS KNOW THAT THE BILLIONAIRE OLIGARCHS NEVER WILL: AI WILL NEVER REPLACE A PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER ANY MORE THAN IT WILL EVER REPLACE A MOTHER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/what-bots-know-that-billionaire.html
The blog post titled "WHAT THE BOTS KNOW THAT THE BILLIONAIRE OLIGARCHS NEVER WILL" from the Big Education Ape blog is a satirical and poignant commentary on the limitations of Artificial Intelligence in education and caregiving.
The central thesis is that while AI is incredibly advanced at processing data and automating tasks, it lacks the human "heart" and intuition essential to the roles of public school teachers and mothers.
Key Themes and Content
The post features a collection of AI-generated responses (from ChatGPT, Grok, Claude, Copilot, and Gemini) that, ironically, "confess" their own inability to replace human connection.
The "Delicious Irony": The introduction argues that while billionaires train AI on all human knowledge to "disrupt" education, the AI itself has learned that it cannot replicate a mother’s intuition or a teacher’s ability to see a child’s emotional needs.
The Role of a Teacher: The post emphasizes that teaching isn't just about data or grading; it's about "glue sticks, grace, and gumption." It highlights things AI can't do:
Sensing when a student is quiet because of a personal tragedy.
Tying shoes at recess or breaking up social drama.
Managing a classroom of 28 kids with varying emotional and physical needs.
The Role of a Mother: It contrasts AI’s data-driven advice with a mother's "ancient intuition," such as knowing a child is sick at 2 a.m. or why "triangles taste better" when cutting a sandwich.
The Human Element: The poems and prose collectively argue that "heart is not a feature you can download." They celebrate the "wonderfully, stubbornly human" nature of these professions that run on "coffee, care, and guilt."
Notable Quotes
"The billionaire sees a problem to be disrupted. The teacher sees a child to be believed in."
"The motherboard is very smart. But it will never have a mother's heart."
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 8, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01247131720.html
The May 8, 2026, edition of Big Education Ape
The May 8, 2026, edition of
National & Global Headlines
Military Tensions: U.S. Navy destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz repelled Iranian fast-attack boats. President Trump described recent retaliatory strikes as a "love tap" while warning of higher-level escalations.
Health Crisis: A Hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius has resulted in multiple deaths, sparking a global contact-tracing effort.
Economic Shifts: A federal trade court struck down the administration's 10% global tariffs. Meanwhile, markets are braced for the April jobs report amid rising oil prices (now at $100/barrel).
Military Tensions: U.S. Navy destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz repelled Iranian fast-attack boats. President Trump described recent retaliatory strikes as a "love tap" while warning of higher-level escalations.
Health Crisis: A Hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius has resulted in multiple deaths, sparking a global contact-tracing effort.
Economic Shifts: A federal trade court struck down the administration's 10% global tariffs. Meanwhile, markets are braced for the April jobs report amid rising oil prices (now at $100/barrel).
Education Policy & Advocacy
The blog highlights several critical shifts in the U.S. educational landscape:
Market-Based Reform Critiques: Several posts argue that charter and private schools systematically exclude students with disabilities to protect test scores, a practice referred to as "cream-skimming."
California’s "Education Circus": Analysis of AB-2117, which proposes creating a Governor-appointed Education Commissioner, a move critics say reduces voter accountability and empowers billionaire donors.
Teacher Compensation: A debate on merit-based pay suggests that tying salary to "effectiveness" is flawed due to subjective metrics and risks destroying teacher collaboration.
The blog highlights several critical shifts in the U.S. educational landscape:
Market-Based Reform Critiques: Several posts argue that charter and private schools systematically exclude students with disabilities to protect test scores, a practice referred to as "cream-skimming."
California’s "Education Circus": Analysis of AB-2117, which proposes creating a Governor-appointed Education Commissioner, a move critics say reduces voter accountability and empowers billionaire donors.
Teacher Compensation: A debate on merit-based pay suggests that tying salary to "effectiveness" is flawed due to subjective metrics and risks destroying teacher collaboration.
Social & Political Issues
Redistricting: Commentary on the Tennessee GOP's efforts to eliminate majority-Black districts following the Supreme Court's roll-back of parts of the Voting Rights Act.
Gender Inclusivity: An investigation into Smith College regarding its admission of transgender women and the broader implications for Title IX.
Child Poverty: A critique of the "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBBB), arguing that its Child Tax Credit structure still leaves the poorest American children behind due to income-based restrictions.
Redistricting: Commentary on the Tennessee GOP's efforts to eliminate majority-Black districts following the Supreme Court's roll-back of parts of the Voting Rights Act.
Gender Inclusivity: An investigation into Smith College regarding its admission of transgender women and the broader implications for Title IX.
Child Poverty: A critique of the "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBBB), arguing that its Child Tax Credit structure still leaves the poorest American children behind due to income-based restrictions.
Featured Content & Media
Poetry: Original works by P.L. Thomas exploring themes of societal lies and the "Science of Reading" movement.
Historical Context: A retrospective on how California fell from 5th to 47th in national education funding over 50 years.
Public Safety: A "jarring" PSA from Sandy Hook Promise
Poetry: Original works by P.L. Thomas exploring themes of societal lies and the "Science of Reading" movement.
Historical Context: A retrospective on how California fell from 5th to 47th in national education funding over 50 years.
Public Safety: A "jarring" PSA from
Sandy Hook Promise
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 8, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-8-2026.html
This page from the Big Education Ape blog provides a comprehensive "Morning News Update" for May 8, 2026. It covers a wide range of global, national, and specialized education news.
Global & National News Highlights
Conflict in the Strait of Hormuz: Tension remains high as
U.S. and Iranian forces Hantavirus Outbreak: A health emergency is unfolding on the cruise ship
MV Hondius U.S. Economy: The
April jobs report Political Shifts: A federal trade court struck down the administration's 10% global tariffs as unlawful. Meanwhile, the administration has set a July 4 deadline for the EU to approve a pending trade deal.
Education Sector Updates
Federal Student Loan Overhaul: The Department of Education finalized the
RISE regulations AI Policy in Schools: The
SUNY system Civil Rights & Safety: The Office for Civil Rights has launched investigations into the
Los Angeles Unified School District Smith College
Technology & Health
Tech Issues: A significant
Amazon Web Services (AWS) outage Medical Research: New studies suggest that regular egg consumption may reduce
Alzheimer’s risk lubiprostone
The blog also serves as a hub for education advocacy, featuring links to the
Big Education Ape: WELCOME TO THE CALIFORNIA EDUCATION CIRCUS: WHERE YOUR VOTE IS THE CLOWN AND BILLIONAIRES OWN THE BIG TOP https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/welcome-to-california-education-circus.html
The article discusses California's proposed Assembly Bill AB-2117, which seeks to overhaul the state's education governance structure. It highlights the political and financial complexities surrounding the bill, including the influence of billionaires, dark money, and gubernatorial ambitions. The article also examines the potential impact of the "Children's Educational Opportunity Act" and other controversial ballot measures on public education funding and governance in California.
The Core Controversy
The author argues that Governor Polis, despite being a Democrat, is supporting a system that enables private schools to receive public funds while maintaining the right to discriminate against LGBTQ families or students of different religious backgrounds. Greene highlights a specific legislative move where Polis allegedly pressured lawmakers to exempt voucher recipients from state anti-discrimination laws.
The "Tax Credit" Workaround
The article explains the legal mechanism used to bypass standard public funding rules:
The SGO Model: Instead of the state funding schools directly, taxpayers give money to a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO).
The Logic: Proponents argue these are "private funds," but Greene (and the Kentucky Supreme Court, cited in the piece) argues they are actually diverted tax liabilities that rightfully belong to the public treasury.
The Result: Because the money technically passes through a third party (the SGO), schools claim they are not subject to the same civil rights requirements as public institutions.
Polis's Defense vs. Criticisms
Polis's Stance: The Governor likens these vouchers to charitable donations, arguing that the state shouldn't decide which organizations are "worthy" and that parents should have more control over education.
Greene’s Rebuttal: Greene dismisses this as "transparent bullshit," noting that while a private citizen can choose to donate to a discriminatory charity, the state should not be facilitating the transfer of public tax assets to organizations that exclude specific groups of citizens.
Broader Context
The piece notes that this is happening while Colorado is involved in a
How are teachers reckoning with AI in schools? Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
This
Key Research Summaries
Mental Health Apps for College Students: A study of 6,200 students found that a
smartphone app combined with personal coaching AI in K-12 Classrooms: Researchers at the University of Washington found that
teachers are ambivalent about AI Gender Disparities in AI Mastery: A study from Qatar suggests that
boys often show higher confidence in AI Success of "Post-Traditional" Students: Research from the University of Kansas indicates that
older students (25+) and those working full-time
Brief Reports & Trends
Social Media Bans: An evaluation of Australia’s under-16 social media ban found it largely
ineffective Phone Restrictions: A study on
lockable phone pouches Social-Emotional Learning: A report emphasizes that
schools play a vital role
This Week’s Free & Useful Artificial Intelligence Tools For The Classroom Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
Here is a summary of the current content and features:
Latest Educational Resources
AI in the Classroom: A weekly feature highlighting
free and useful artificial intelligence tools ESL/EFL/ELL Support: Regular roundups of resources for teaching English learners, including a post advocating for
language "upgrading" Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Weekly updates on resources for social-emotional growth.
Global & Historical Tools: Features like the "War Atlas" (interactive world map of historical battles) and the "Birth Lottery" (visualizing life trajectories based on birth country).
Research & Policy: Analysis of recent studies, including a critical look at using
Value Added Measurements
Books and Professional Work
The site serves as a hub for Ferlazzo’s extensive professional portfolio, including:
The "Toolbox" Series: Practical research-based strategies for Social Studies, Math, Science, and ELL instructors.
Student Motivation: Books like Self-Driven and Helping Students Motivate Themselves that focus on high-interest lesson plans and student autonomy.
External Columns: Links to his work for Education Week (Classroom Q&A), The New York Times, and his BAM! Radio show.
Navigation Highlights
"Best Of" Series: Curated lists of the most effective educational websites and tools categorized by subject.
Monthly Newsletter: A free email digest of the month's most important posts.
Video Content: A collection of videos focused on teaching practices and student engagement.
glen brown: Thoreau the scientist: how environmental research informed Walden and later works https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/05/thoreau-scientist-how-environmental.html
Key Scientific Contributions
Thoreau’s scientific endeavors were far more than a hobby; they were analytically rigorous and, in many cases, ahead of their time:
Fluid Mechanics: In 1854, Thoreau provided the first known technical description of a standing capillary wave, a phenomenon now called the
Thoreau-Reynolds Ridge Limnology (Lake Science): Recognized as
America’s first limnologist Geology: He correctly identified that New England's landscape was shaped by a
colossal ice sheet River Science: He conducted an extensive
environmental assessment
The Impact on Walden
Thorson argues that Thoreau’s "sharp swerve toward science" in the early 1850s rescued the draft of Walden. By applying physical science, Thoreau transformed a simple social critique into a complex vision of a natural system—a foundation that turned the book into a cornerstone of the modern environmental movement.
Professor Robert M. Thorson details these findings further in his book,
The author uses Poe’s life as a lesson in creative perseverance and the definition of true success.
Key Highlights of Poe's Life
Financial Hardship: Despite writing "The Raven," one of the most famous poems in history, Poe reportedly earned only nine dollars from it. He lived in poverty and died delirious and broke on the streets of Baltimore at age 40.
Personal Struggles: The post details his difficult upbringing—being orphaned and disowned—and the emotional toll of watching his young wife die of tuberculosis while he lived in poverty.
Literary Pioneer: Poe is credited with inventing the detective fiction genre (starting with "The Murders in the Rue Morgue") and laying the foundations for modern horror and science fiction.
The Post's Core Message
The author argues that Poe’s life proves that a person's impact and legacy are not defined by immediate wealth or recognition.
Influence: Poe’s work served as the blueprint for legendary creators like Arthur Conan Doyle (Sherlock Holmes), H.P. Lovecraft, and Stephen King.
Call to Action: The author encourages readers to "do the work" and tell their stories regardless of immediate payoff, stating that consistency and commitment are what truly change the world.
"Your work doesn’t have to pay off in your lifetime to matter. Your impact doesn’t have to be visible to you to be real."
Things Fall Apart for Women (Again): Leni Zumas's Red Clocks "Speculative fiction encompasses that which we could actually do. Sci-fi is that which we're probably not going to see." Margaret Atwood PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/things-fall-apart-for-women-again
This Substack article by Paul Thomas, published on May 9, 2026, provides a literary analysis of Leni Zumas’s novel Red Clocks, framed through the lens of modern reproductive rights in the United States.
Core Themes and Analysis
Speculative vs. Reality: Thomas notes that when he first read the book, its premise—a complete abortion ban and the "Personhood Amendment"—was speculative fiction. However, following the 2022 Dobbs decision, he argues the book has shifted into a "disturbing near-future" reality.
The "Pink Wall": The novel imagines a barrier that prevents women from crossing into Canada to seek reproductive healthcare, a concept Thomas compares to the restrictive laws passing in states like South Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama.
Archetypal Characters: The narrative is driven by five women representing different societal roles and struggles:
The Biographer: Seeking to document a forgotten female scientist.
The Mender: A provider of herbal remedies who faces legal prosecution.
The Daughter: A teenager facing an unwanted pregnancy.
The Wife: A mother trapped in an unhappy marriage who navigates her own privilege and "ennui."
Eivor Minervudottir: A historical polar explorer whose work was stolen by men, serving as a tangential symbol of erased female achievement.
Critical Perspective
Thomas praises Zumas for her "incisive language" and ability to make the reader care for flawed, sympathetic characters. However, he offers a critique regarding the novel's "thin whiteness," suggesting that while the book is a powerful feminist work, it occasionally fails to fully integrate the ways race and racism are inseparable from the fight for gender equality.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Thomas views
"What happens if we have to move because it becomes too hostile here for women?"
What Has Your Mother Given You? https://teacherinastrangeland.blog/2026/05/09/what-has-your-mother-given-you/ via @nancyflanagan
Key Themes and Reflections
A Different Kind of Bond: Flanagan notes that her relationship with her mother wasn't defined by "classic mother-daughter rituals" like wedding dress shopping or constant advice. Instead, it was built on shared laughter, late-night ice cream, and watching Johnny Carson.
The Gift of Self: The author appreciates that her mother was "steadfast" and "low-key," never making her feel like a failure and, most importantly, letting her be herself.
Perspective on Parenting: Drawing from 35 years as a teacher, Flanagan observes various parenting styles—from the high-achieving to the controlling. She concludes that children are not "possessions or projects," but individuals born with their own temperaments and self-determination.
Grammatical Grievance: With a touch of wit, she mentions her distaste for the apostrophe in "Mother's Day," suggesting it should be "Mothers Day" to acknowledge mothers collectively without the implication of possession.
Personal Loss
Flanagan shares the poignant story of her mother's sudden passing at age 73 from a cerebral hemorrhage, occurring just after they had shared a final "Love you" over the phone. She portrays her mother as a resilient woman who faced significant hardships—losing her father young and her husband at 52—with a "wicked sense of humor."
Ultimately, the post serves as a tribute to a mother who provided the quiet, essential gift of acceptance.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Series review - Lord of the Flies on Netflix https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/05/series-review-lord-of-flies-on-netflix.html?spref=tw
Key Highlights of the Review
Production Details: The series is a four-part adaptation of William Golding’s classic novel. The reviewer notes that while it changes the timing of some book events, it remains faithful to the story's tension.
Thematic Focus: Writer Jack Thorne designed the series to reflect contemporary issues regarding "loneliness and isolation" in boys and the "hate they are ingesting" as a response to those feelings.
Performance: The reviewer highly praises the four lead actors, noting that for three of them, this series marks their professional screen debut.
Age Appropriateness: The reviewer recommends the series for children no younger than 10, citing the psychological weight of the "no adults" premise and scenes of violence. They suggest parents watch alongside their teenagers to gauge their reactions.
Contextual Comparisons
The post also briefly compares this version to previous adaptations and similar media:
1963 Film: Praised for its documentary-style approach and British cast.
1990 Film: Mentioned as an Americanized version that the reviewer felt was less effective due to the absence of the British class system.
Yellowjackets: Cited as a relevant comparison for those interested in how a group of girls might handle a similar survival situation, though with a supernatural twist.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
As of today, May 10, 2026, the news cycle is dominated by escalating tensions in the Middle East and domestic policy shifts.
1. U.S. Awaits Iran’s Response to Ceasefire Proposal
President Trump stated he expected a response from Tehran regarding a U.S.-backed peace proposal "supposedly tonight."
2. Naval Clashes in the Strait of Hormuz
A U.S. fighter jet fired on and disabled two Iranian-flagged tankers on Friday after Washington accused them of challenging a naval blockade.
3. Anticipation for the Trump-Xi Summit in Beijing
The White House is preparing for President Trump’s visit to China on May 14–15.
4. Implementation of the "Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act"
The USDA officially issued a final rule restoring whole and 2% milk options in federal school lunch programs.
5. Record Low Approval Ratings Amid Economic Strain
A new Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll shows the President’s disapproval rating has hit 62%.
6. Controversy Over "Project Freedom" and Saudi Arabia
Reports surfaced that the administration was forced to shelve "Project Freedom," a plan to provide military escorts for oil tankers, after Saudi Arabia refused to allow the use of its airbases and airspace for the operation.
7. Purges at the Pentagon Raise Alarms
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth continues a series of senior officer removals. Critics and some retired military officials have likened the moves to a "purge" that could hinder operational capacity during the current Middle East crisis.
8. Virginia Redistricting Fight
The administration is celebrating a court ruling that blocked new voter-approved congressional maps in Virginia.
9. Trump Media and Technology Group Financial Losses
Financial filings revealed that Trump Media (DJT) lost $406 million in the first three months of 2026.
10. Pentagon Releases Previously Secret UFO Files
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth authorized the release of long-classified documents regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs), stating it is time for the American people to see the files for themselves.
