TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS

MAY 6, 2026

Here are today's (May 6, 2026) top news stories in each category, based on major broadcast headlines, news sites, and reports. The dominant global/U.S. story is escalating U.S.-Iran tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. NEWS

Strait of Hormuz crisis and gas prices: The U.S. and Iran continue trading threats/attacks despite a fragile ceasefire. The Strait remains largely closed, driving U.S. gas prices to ~$4.52/gallon (highest in four years). The Pentagon rebranded its operation to "Project Freedom" to escort commercial shipping.
Deadly hantavirus outbreak on luxury cruise ship: Multiple deaths reported; officials investigate a possible rare human-to-human strain. Evacuation plans are underway.
Secret Service shootout near National Mall/White House: Suspect identified after gunfire exchange; separate incidents reported.
Possible grizzly bear attack at Yellowstone: Two hikers mauled.
Other: United plane incident on New Jersey Turnpike; firefighters return lost American flag (viral positive story).

POLITICS

Mid-decade redistricting battles ahead of 2026 midterms: States (Texas, Florida, California, etc.) rush to redraw congressional maps after Supreme Court rulings weaken Voting Rights Act provisions. Republicans aim for gains in several states; Democrats counter in others. Primaries underway.
Trump administration on Iran: Trump threatens Iran will be "blown off the face of the earth" if U.S. ships targeted; insists ceasefire holds while pushing to reopen Hormuz. White House briefings and proclamations ongoing.
White House ballroom funding backlash: Democrats criticize GOP push for taxpayer money.
FCC and media issues: Concerns over megamergers, public access TV funding cuts, and Trump targeting media (e.g., Kimmel/ABC).

WORLD AFFAIRS

U.S.-Iran Strait of Hormuz conflict: Core story—threats, missile/drone attacks, naval escorts, and economic fallout (oil prices). Broader Middle East tensions (e.g., Israel-Lebanon/Gaza).
Russia-Ukraine two-day ceasefire: Announced for May 8-9 commemorations.
Iran executions and regional strikes: Iran hangs three men; attacks reported on neighbors/UAE facilities.

EDUCATION

School cellphone bans study: Largest study shows mixed results on mental health/test scores.
Homeschooling regulations: Connecticut passes new rules over GOP objections.
Title IX and policy probes: U.S. Dept. of Education investigations (e.g., LAUSD); debates over DEI, admissions, and federal funding/certifications.
Enrollment cliff and AI: Higher ed faces demographic challenges, "AI-proof" majors sought, and pricing transparency issues eroding trust.

ECONOMY

Oil/gas price spikes from Hormuz closure: Elevated prices and supply concerns amid Middle East tensions; broader inflationary pressures.
Trade deficit widens: U.S. March 2026 data shows increase to $60.3B.
Markets and resilience: U.S. corporate earnings strong despite geopolitics; stock discussions around tech/defensive plays. Hong Kong economy strong; other corporate news (e.g., HSBC, Coinbase).
Farm impacts: Rising costs for fertilizer/fuel hitting U.S. farmers (e.g., Ohio).

TECHNOLOGY

AI advancements and policy: Companies (Alphabet, Microsoft, xAI, etc.) agree to early government model access. Agentic AI, Nvidia/ServiceNow discussions, and startups like Lovable highlighted.
Apple processor talks: Exploring Intel/Samsung chips for U.S. devices.
Data breach and other: Instructure breach claimed; Gemini smart speakers, Pinterest AI, etc.

HEALTH

Cruise ship hantavirus outbreak: Multiple deaths; possible rare strain; evacuation efforts.
Abortion pill (mifepristone) Supreme Court case: Ongoing litigation/mail access issues.
Presidential Physical Fitness Test revival: Trump administration brings it back.
Other: Longevity trends, hospital food guidelines, and general wellness discussions.

SPORTS

NBA Playoffs: Timberwolves beat Spurs (Edwards return, Wembanyama blocks record); Knicks dominant; other series (e.g., Lakers/Thunder injuries).
MLB: Phillies dominate Athletics (Harper homers); various games (Blue Jays, Dodgers/Astros, etc.); Tarik Skubal elbow surgery concern.
NHL/Other: Maple Leafs win draft lottery; various highlights and power rankings.

News evolves quickly, especially with the Hormuz situation—check reliable sources for updates.

Teachers Are Assigning In-Class Writing to Avoid https://dianeravitch.net/2026/05/05/teachers-are-assigning-in-class-writing-to-avoid-ai-essays/ via @dianeravitch

Dana Goldstein's article highlights how educators are adapting to the widespread use of AI in writing among students. Teachers are increasingly assigning to ensure originality and integrity, as AI tools are often used for take-home assignments. Additionally, educators are shifting towards reflective and personal writing prompts that AI struggles to replicate. This trend stems from concerns about the impact of AI on students' critical-thinking skills, with a significant rise in AI usage reported in recent years.

### Key Points

- Teachers are assigning in-class writing tasks to prevent .

- Writing assignments now focus more on personal reflections and reactions, as AI finds these harder to mimic.

- Educators are rethinking writing instruction due to the prevalence of AI, which many students use for homework and essay drafting.

- A showed a sharp increase in AI usage among students, with concerns about its effect on critical-thinking skills.

on the Dangers of Ed-Tech: "An Ed-Tech Tragedy?" https://dianeravitch.net/2026/05/05/unesco-report-on-the-dangers-of-education-tech/ via @dianeravitch

### Key Points

- The UNESCO report "An Ed-Tech Tragedy?" highlights the unintended consequences of over-reliance on education technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, including exclusion, inequality, learning loss, mental health issues, and diminished educational quality.

- The report critiques the narrative that ed-tech is a universal solution to educational disruptions, arguing that it often prioritizes profit over students' needs and human interaction.

- The global shift to remote learning during the pandemic accelerated the privatization of education, raising concerns about the influence of for-profit ed-tech companies on public education.

- The report emphasizes the need for a humanistic approach to education, advocating for in-person teaching, holistic student well-being, and education as a public good.

- Future ed-tech development should focus on supporting socio-emotional growth, human relationships, and sustainable practices rather than solely academic progress.

- The report calls for governments to prioritize teacher training, school leadership, smaller class sizes, and physical infrastructure over heavy reliance on technology in education.

- The analysis critiques "technology solutionism," which reframes educational challenges to fit tech-based solutions, often neglecting broader educational goals like curiosity, social learning, and emotional well-being.

NYC Parents and Activists Block "AI-themed" High School https://dianeravitch.net/2026/05/05/nyc-parents-and-activists-block-ai-themed-high-school/ via @dianeravitch

Parents and activists in New York City successfully opposed the establishment of an AI-focused high school, citing concerns about the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence in education and its potential impact on students. The city's education chancellor, , halted the project, acknowledging the need for careful consideration of AI's effects on learning and data privacy. Despite this, some education leaders advocate for AI's potential to transform teaching. A petition for a has been submitted, reflecting widespread parental unease.

### Key Points

- Parents and activists convinced NYC's Board of Education to reject an AI-themed high school proposal.

- Chancellor Kamar Samuels paused the project due to concerns about AI's impact on critical thinking and safety.

- Parents raised issues about data privacy and lack of transparency regarding AI tools in schools.

- A petition with thousands of signatures called for a two-year moratorium on generative AI in schools.

- The NYC Education Department is drafting AI usage guidelines and has released its first AI playbook.

- A planned vote on the AI high school was canceled due to overwhelming opposition from parents.

Big Education Ape: THEY'RE AT IT AGAIN: THE NEVER-ENDING RIGHT-WING CRUSADE AGAINST RANDI WEINGARTEN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/theyre-at-it-again-never-ending-right.html

### Key Points

- The article discusses the ongoing attacks on Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), by right-wing media and organizations, accusing her of issues like school closures during the pandemic and political bias.

- The article highlights Weingarten's background as a public school teacher and her advocacy for "community unionism," which seeks to position schools as hubs for democracy, healthcare, and civic life.

- It critiques the right-wing narrative that blames Weingarten for pandemic-era school closures, emphasizing her calls for a science-based approach to reopening schools.

- Conservative groups like the Heritage Foundation accuse Weingarten of using the AFT as a political tool, citing its support for Democratic candidates and activism.

- Weingarten's book, "Why Fascists Fear Teachers," explores the connection between public education and democracy, sparking backlash from right-wing media.

- The article argues that attacks on Weingarten are part of a larger, coordinated campaign to undermine public education and organized teacher advocacy.

- Despite ongoing criticism, Weingarten continues to advocate for public education, labor rights, and democracy, maintaining her influence and the strength of the AFT.

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 5, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01909477851.html

The article provides a comprehensive overview of global, political, educational, technological, and social developments as of May 4-5, 2026. Key topics include U.S.-Iran tensions, economic challenges, educational reforms, AI integration in schools, public education privatization, and the erosion of civil rights. It highlights the impacts of these issues on energy markets, global geopolitics, and societal inequalities while emphasizing the need for ethical governance and educational equity.

### Key Points

- The U.S.-Iran conflict has escalated, impacting energy markets, increasing gas prices, and leading to military operations like "Project Freedom" in the Strait of Hormuz.

- Rising gas prices and economic pressures are negatively affecting the Trump administration's approval ratings ahead of midterm elections.

- The Pentagon plans to withdraw ~5,000 troops from Germany within the next year, citing tensions with NATO allies and Middle Eastern conflicts.

- Sweden and Norway are shifting from digital learning tools back to traditional books and paper to address declining literacy rates and student focus.

- Norway has removed iPads for younger students, banned mobile phones in schools, and revitalized libraries to combat declining literacy and reading enjoyment.

- The Trump administration proposed $12 billion in education cuts, promoting privatization and school choice, which critics argue exacerbate educational inequities.

- AI integration in education is expanding globally, with major tech companies using the Global South as a testing ground for AI-driven technologies, raising ethical concerns about "algorithmic colonialism."

- Legislative measures like California AB 1159 and the EU AI Act (2026) aim to protect student data and regulate AI in education as a high-risk application.

- Critics argue that privatization efforts, including voucher programs, harm public education and widen inequality, benefiting wealthy families and private institutions.

- The "Science of Reading" movement is criticized for being rooted in outdated behaviorist theories and for promoting flawed, standardized teaching methods.

- NYC DOE faced criticism for inadequate student data privacy practices, including multiple data breaches and non-compliance with privacy laws.

- Tennessee's TISA funding formula has worsened public school funding and teacher pay while benefiting private school voucher programs.

- Calls for banning screen-based devices in elementary schools emphasize the negative impact of screen time on students' mental health and cognitive development.

- The Gates Foundation's $40M "AI-for-Education" program in Sub-Saharan Africa raises concerns about data privacy and ethical AI usage.

- Nationwide protests highlight dissatisfaction with education funding inequities, privatization, and AI adoption in schools.

- The "No Kings" movement protests against billionaire-driven privatization and AI integration in public schools.

- The Trump administration's deregulation policies and economic measures, such as the Deregulation Strike Force and TrumpIRA.gov, face mixed reactions.

- Public health concerns include a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship and calls for regulation of PFAS chemicals.

- Sweden and Norway's educational reforms reflect a global pushback against excessive Ed-tech usage in schools.

- The California governor's race features progressive candidates, with concerns about vote-splitting under the "jungle primary" system.

- Critics argue that AI-driven education systems create a two-tier structure, favoring wealthy students over less privileged ones.

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 5, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-5-2026.html

Big Education Ape's latest roundup for May 5, 2026, covers a range of topics including escalating Middle East tensions, U.S. domestic politics, education policy updates, and global news highlights. Key stories include U.S.-Iran conflicts in the Strait of Hormuz, new federal student loan regulations, and advancements in AI integration in education and healthcare. Economic concerns focus on oil price volatility and geopolitical impacts on trade. Education reforms and global initiatives, such as Egypt's academic expansion and UNESCO's higher education roadmap, also take center stage.

### Key Points

- Escalating Middle East tensions involve U.S.-Iran exchanges in the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil prices and testing ceasefire agreements.

- Domestic politics are dominated by primary elections testing Trump's influence and his endorsements for GOP candidates, alongside U.S.-Brazil relations and debates on California's treasurer race.

- The U.S. Department of Education finalized new student loan limits under the RISE program, effective July 1, 2026, sparking opposition from higher education groups.

- Education shifts in 2026 include widespread adoption of personalized learning, AI integration in classrooms, and competency-based assessments replacing traditional standardized tests.

- Global education news highlights Egypt's efforts to become a regional education hub, Madagascar's post-cyclone digital recovery, and UNESCO's push for ethical AI in classrooms.

- Health news includes stress-related wellness concerns due to geopolitical tensions and ethical AI guidelines for healthcare.

- Bitcoin reached a milestone, surpassing $80,000, while oil price volatility and geopolitical conflicts affect global markets.

- Arsenal won the UEFA Women's Champions League final, and college baseball rankings featured key team movements.

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 4, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01795330591.html

The article provides a comprehensive overview of various global, political, educational, technological, and social issues as of May 4, 2026. Key topics include the U.S.-Iran conflict, education reforms, AI integration in schools, privatization of public education, and the erosion of civil rights. It highlights the impact of these developments on energy markets, global geopolitics, and societal inequalities while emphasizing the need for ethical governance, educational equity, and democratic accountability.

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 4, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-4-2026.html

The article also covers various global and U.S. news topics, including the U.S.-Iran conflict, education reforms, economic challenges, technological advancements, and notable sports events.

Big Education Ape: WILL THE REAL CALIFORNIA PROGRESSIVE PLEASE STAND UP? https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/will-real-california-progressive-please.html

The article delves into the upcoming California governor's race, highlighting three progressive candidates (Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, and Xavier Becerra) and their platforms, funding sources, and challenges. It warns about the risks of vote-splitting among progressives in California's "jungle primary," which could lead to two Republican candidates advancing to the general election. The piece emphasizes the importance of strategic voting to ensure a progressive victory.

Big Education Ape: THE BILLIONAIRE GOSPEL: "WE'RE HERE TO HELP" (TERMS APPLY) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/the-billionaire-gospel-were-here-to.html

The article explores the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in global education systems, particularly in the Global South, and highlights the ethical concerns surrounding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the creation of a two-tier education system. It critiques the role of large technology corporations and philanthropic organizations in using education as a testing ground for AI technologies, often at the expense of students' data privacy and educational sovereignty. The article also discusses resistance movements advocating for pedagogical sovereignty and stricter regulations to safeguard student data.

Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/looking-back-week-in-review-sunday-may.html

### Key Points

- An open letter by Arthur Goldstein to Michael Mulgrew discusses SHIP co-pay reimbursements and associated paperwork.

- The "Big Education Ape" blog reviewed the week of April 26 to May 2, 2026, focusing on AI, student privacy, and NYC education policies.

- Criticism of NYC DOE’s AI guidance highlighted its inadequacy and called for a two-year moratorium on Generative AI in schools due to safety and privacy concerns.

- Advocacy groups pushed for "Directory Information" opt-out forms to protect student data from being shared with third parties.

- Legal actions and settlements involving ed-tech companies, such as PowerSchool/Naviance and Hazel Health, were discussed, emphasizing concerns over data monetization and tracking.

- Activists urged NYC leaders to halt AI expansion until proper safeguards are in place, with a focus on protecting immigrant students' data.

- Key events of the week included the AI Moratorium petition, signed by over 1,300 parents/teachers, and preparations for the May 8 DOE feedback deadline.

- A federal court blocked the Department of Education from requiring private student data from colleges due to privacy concerns.

- Several states introduced AI guardrails to hold companies accountable for data collected from minors in classrooms.

- Global education updates included UNESCO's initiatives on education beyond 2030, digital gender divide programs, and ecological literacy in Bali.

- New UNESCO reports called for a global fund to rebuild education in conflict-affected regions and highlighted the success of mobile literacy programs in Africa.

Senators Grill about Overemphasis on Workforce Prep and Dysfunction in https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/05/05/48515/ via @janresseger

Linda McMahon, the U.S. Education Secretary, faced scrutiny during a Senate budget hearing over the proposed FY 2027 federal education budget, which includes significant funding cuts and a shift in priorities under the Trump administration. Key issues discussed included the dismantling of the Department of Education, dysfunction in the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), and changes to the , which has historically supported low-income students pursuing higher education. Senators from both parties criticized McMahon for prioritizing workforce preparation over broader educational goals, such as college readiness and civil rights protections.

### Key Points

- Education Secretary Linda McMahon defended the Trump administration’s FY 2027 budget proposal, which includes drastic education funding cuts and reallocations.

- McMahon faced criticism for efforts to dismantle the Department of Education by transferring programs to other federal agencies, including K-12 programs to the Department of Labor.

- The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) experienced significant dysfunction in 2025, with a sharp decline in resolution agreements for civil rights complaints, including no resolutions for cases involving sexual harassment or racial discrimination.

- The Trump administration proposed eliminating the $1.2 billion TRIO program, which supports low-income students in preparing for college, in favor of workforce preparation initiatives. This move was opposed by both Democratic and Republican senators.

- Senators expressed concerns that McMahon’s focus on workforce preparation undermines public education’s broader purposes, such as citizenship and higher education access.

Schools Matter: Watch Lower Merion Supt. Deny Parents the Right to Opt Out of 24/7 Tech Plan http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/05/watch-lower-merion-supt-deny-parents.html

Hundreds of parents in , are raising concerns over the school district’s , which provides students with 24/7 access to Chromebooks and MacBooks for educational purposes. Parents argue that the lack of control over device usage leads to distractions, with students bypassing protections to access non-educational content. A petition called "" has been signed by over 430 parents seeking an opt-out option, a lower-tech alternative, and more discussions with the district. The district maintains that electronic devices are integral to the curriculum, though the superintendent has acknowledged concerns about screen time and promised to work on reducing it. A highlights potential negative effects of excessive screen time on teenagers, including sleep issues, depression, and anxiety.

### Key Points

- Parents in Lower Merion Township are concerned about the school district's mandatory laptop program, citing issues like lack of control and distractions.

- The program provides Chromebooks to 5th graders and MacBooks to 8th graders, intended to facilitate seamless transitions between home and schoolwork.

- A petition titled "Pencils Over Pixels," signed by 430 parents, calls for an opt-out option and a lower-tech education alternative.

- Parents report issues such as the lack of internet filters and students using devices for non-educational purposes like games or YouTube.

- The superintendent acknowledges concerns about screen time and pledges to reduce it while maintaining the curriculum's reliance on technology.

- The district states that opting out of the program is not feasible due to the structure of the curriculum.

- A CDC study links excessive screen time to mental health issues like sleep disturbances, depression, and anxiety among teenagers.

Episode #153: Levitating the Pentagon with Please repost | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2026/05/05/please-repost/

### Key Points

- Nancy Kurshan, a prominent activist, played a significant role in the Black Freedom Movement, anti-Vietnam War protests, and solidarity efforts for Puerto Rican and Palestinian liberation.

- She was a founding member of the Yippies (Youth International Party), known for their radical resistance and creative disruption against war mongers and capitalist rulers.

- Nancy Kurshan authored "Levitating the Pentagon and Other Uplifting Stories" and participated in events at Pilsen Community Books.

- The podcast episode highlights her life, activism, and contributions to various liberation movements, alongside resources such as her writings and reviews of her work.

Classroom Instruction Resources Of The Week ... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/

### Key Points

- The blog provides weekly posts with useful resources for classroom instruction, including themed resources like Mother’s Day and educational approaches such as the Dogme method.

- Google launched a website with extensive exhibits for the 250th anniversary of the U.S., and the author is co-hosting a free webinar on supporting English Language Learners (ELLs).

- The blog features a weekly roundup of educational policy articles and resources, including special posts like Star Wars-themed educational resources.

- Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4th-8th) and Supreme Court rulings on the Voting Rights Act are highlighted with relevant teaching resources.

- The blog offers a variety of books and resources for teaching different subjects, including math, science, social studies, and English, with a focus on research-based strategies and student motivation.

- Includes Q&A-style responses addressing classroom management and engagement, along with over 50 lessons tailored for ELLs.

- Features additional content such as blog posts for parental engagement, a radio show, and posts for Education Week Teacher.

- Highlights 50 teaching practices categorized under autonomy, competency, relatedness, and relevance, and shares educational posts on the New York Times Learning Network.

glen brown: "American consumers bore the costs of " https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/05/american-consumers-bore-costs-of-trumps.html

### Key Points

- The article critiques former President Donald Trump's tariffs, which were deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court for bypassing Congressional taxation powers.

- American consumers bore the brunt of the tariffs through increased prices, with an estimated $1,700 per household in additional costs over a year.

- Refunds of $166 billion in tariff revenue are being distributed to corporations, which had already passed tariff costs onto consumers, creating a wealth transfer from average Americans to large companies.

- The tariffs failed to achieve their intended goals, such as reducing the trade deficit or boosting domestic manufacturing, and instead exacerbated inflation and economic hardship.

- The article highlights the disparity between Trump's populist rhetoric and policies that benefited wealthy corporations at the expense of his voter base.

Benefits in being older college student while working Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/

The article discusses the benefits and challenges faced by , particularly those over 25 years old who are working, commuting, or have dependents. A study conducted by the University of Kansas reveals that older students often possess qualities like self-discipline and life experience, which can contribute to their academic success. However, part-time students face challenges in retention and graduation rates. The findings emphasize the need for institutions to better support post-traditional students through tailored strategies and an assets-based approach to foster their success.

### Key Points

- The number of post-traditional students (older than 25, working, commuting, or having dependents) in higher education is increasing, but there is limited research on their academic outcomes.

- A study by the University of Kansas analyzed 7,000 students in competitive engineering programs at a Hispanic-serving Research 1 institution in the southeastern U.S.

- Being a part-time student negatively affected cumulative GPA, semester-to-semester enrollment, and six-year graduation rates.

- Being older than 25, a commuter, and working full-time positively influenced six-year graduation rates, though being older and commuting negatively affected retention.

- Older students bring advantages such as self-discipline, life experience, and financial independence, which contribute to their academic success.

- The study highlights the underrepresentation of post-traditional students, women, and underrepresented communities in engineering, a field with high workforce demand.

- Policymakers and institutional leaders need to address the unique needs of post-traditional students, especially to counter the "enrollment cliff" caused by declining high school graduate numbers.

- Supporting post-traditional students from an assets-based approach, such as offering flexible office hours and hybrid courses, can improve their success rates.

- Six-year graduation rates, rather than GPA, are more effective for measuring the success of post-traditional students.

- Part-time students require additional support to improve their academic outcomes, such as hybrid courses and virtual learning options.

- Further research is being conducted to explore the success factors for older and part-time students, as well as their on-campus experiences.

- The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing the unique needs and advantages of post-traditional students to help them succeed.

Teacher Tom: The "" https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/05/the-science-of-learning.html

Teacher Tom's blog post challenges the concept of a definitive "," arguing that education is not a one-size-fits-all process. He emphasizes the variability and complexity of human learning, critiquing the notion that there is a universal, step-by-step method for teaching. Drawing from various disciplines—philosophy, neuroscience, history, and literature—he asserts that learning is a dynamic, personal, and often unpredictable process. He advocates for , highlighting its alignment with curiosity-driven learning and the scientific process. Ultimately, he warns against relying on rigid educational "technologies" marketed as universal solutions, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and individual exploration.

### Key Points

- Learning is not a linear, universal process; there is no settled "science of learning."

- Claims of a definitive "science of learning" are often marketing strategies rather than scientific truths.

- Scientific knowledge, especially in fields like neuroscience, evolves rapidly, often rendering popular theories outdated.

- Insights from diverse fields such as philosophy, poetry, and history can enrich our understanding of learning.

- Definitions of concepts like genius and intelligence evolve over time and are influenced by societal context.

- Memory is fallible and constantly reconstructed, making it an unreliable basis for universal learning theories.

- Learning is most effective when it stems from meaningful, self-directed activities, as suggested by educators like Ivan Illich and John Holt.

- Neuroscience suggests that human minds are unique, implying that learning methods should be individualized.

- Play-based education aligns with the natural, exploratory nature of learning.

- Educational technologies should be used as tools, not rigid systems, and must not limit the natural process of learning.

- The article concludes with a call to embrace curiosity, play, and the ever-evolving nature of learning.

Luck? Be Ready When It Shows Up – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/05/05/luck-be-ready-when-it-shows-up/

Luck? Be Ready When It Shows Up

### Key Points

- People rely on rituals like rabbit’s feet or knocking on wood to create a sense of control in uncertain situations, even though these actions do not influence outcomes.

- Humans seek explanations for timing, chance, and opportunity, often framing them as either luck or providence based on personal beliefs.

- Preparation is crucial for recognizing and responding to opportunities when they arise, as moments of chance do not adjust to one’s readiness.

- Readiness involves intellectual, emotional, relational, and moral alignment, which allows individuals to act effectively in uncertain situations.

- Opportunities often come as surprises and require openness, curiosity, and trust in preparation to recognize their significance.

- Access to opportunity is shaped by social systems, and equity must be addressed to ensure fair distribution of chances.

- The author reflects on their own career path, emphasizing the unpredictability of meaningful moments and the importance of stepping into uncertainty.

Curmudgucation: Excerpts or Whole Books? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/excerpts

### Key Points

- The debate over the use of excerpts versus whole books in reading instruction continues, with contrasting claims about their impact on literacy development.

- Critics argue that the shift to excerpts, especially low-quality ones, is driven by standardized testing, which prioritizes test preparation over comprehensive literacy.

- Standardized tests fail to assess deeper levels of literacy, such as understanding themes, ambiguity, and complex narratives, which are crucial for navigating modern life.

- There is no definitive research proving whether whole books or excerpts are more effective in improving reading ability, as current tests do not measure comprehensive literacy skills.

- A balanced approach, incorporating both excerpts and whole books, is suggested to provide depth and breadth in English Language Arts instruction.

Teaching Writers in the Age of Artificial Intelligence | The Merrow Report https://themerrowreport.com/2026/05/05/14585/

### Key Points

- The New York Times published an article claiming AI has negatively impacted student writing, but the author argues that the real issue lies in education systems prioritizing quantity over quality and test scores.

- Some teachers are combating AI reliance by returning to traditional methods like in-class writing with pens and paper, and focusing on developing writers rather than merely teaching writing.

- Historical challenges like plagiarism during the internet's rise were addressed by reducing assignments and working closely with students, which could be applied to the current AI era.

- The "2-8-2" method, introduced by a high school teacher decades ago, is highlighted as an effective approach to improve writing skills through structured in-class exercises.

- The author emphasizes the need for smaller classes, fewer students per teacher, and increased trust in educators to foster thoughtful and capable citizens.

- AI tools like Bard can assist in writing but lack creativity and emotional depth, making human oversight essential to prevent academic misconduct.

- The author tested Bard's ability to write a memoir, finding the output accurate but emotionally flat, underscoring the importance of human creativity in writing.

Teachers! Appreciate Them Now. They Soon Could Be Gone! - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2026/05/05/teachers-appreciate-them-now-they-soon-could-be-gone/

Teachers! Appreciate Them Now. They Soon Could Be Gone! It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! While the treats and accolades teachers get this week are, I’m sure, welcome, public school teachers deserve better. Let’s examine what has been done to the teaching profession, roadblocks to great teaching, and how conditions could be improved. Corporate school reform has reshaped Americans’ thinking about public school teachers, pushing for a world without them. The following are in no special order. They’re examples of how teachers and their profession have been treated over the years. They include attempts to make teachers look unnecessary or ineffectual, and these reforms have hurt them, their profession, and the students they teach. Without great teachers, there will be no more free, democratic quality public schools.

### Key Points

- Corporate school reform has undermined the teaching profession by promoting alternative programs like Teach for America and reducing the importance of teacher experience and expertise.

- High-stakes testing and unrealistic expectations for students have unfairly placed blame on teachers while ignoring external factors affecting student performance.

- Reduction of creative and critical classes such as arts, civics, history, and recess has made schooling monotonous and negatively impacted teachers' reputation.

- Attacks on tenure and teacher job security have hindered their ability to advocate for student needs and improve education.

- Funding issues, such as vouchers and excessive spending on technology, have prioritized profits over effective teaching and student learning.

- Discrimination against diverse students, lack of support for immigrant students, and insufficient mental health resources have further strained teachers.

- Teachers have been unfairly blamed for challenges during the pandemic, including the shift to online learning and the impact of COVID-19.

- Privatization efforts, such as promoting Advanced Placement over teacher expertise, have diminished public trust in teachers and public schools.

- Despite challenges, teachers remain a vital and stable presence in students' lives, deserving appreciation and systemic improvements.

TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY

As of May 6, 2026, the news cycle is dominated by the escalating situation in the Middle East, a deepening rift with European allies, and several domestic policy shifts.

Here are the top 10 news stories involving the Trump administration today:

International Conflict & Foreign Policy

Hormuz Blockade Escalation: Tensions have spiked as President Trump warned that any Iranian ships attempting to cross the U.S. blockade in the Strait of Hormuz will be "obliterated" or "blown off the face of the earth."
Ceasefire Confusion: Despite the President’s aggressive rhetoric, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth insisted that the ceasefire remains "not over," even as U.S. forces reportedly destroyed six Iranian boats earlier this week.
Naval Escorts Paused: The White House announced a temporary pause on naval escorts in the Persian Gulf, citing "great progress" in quiet diplomatic talks with Iran, a move that has confused allies and domestic critics alike.
Troop Withdrawals from Germany: The Pentagon is moving forward with the withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany. This follows a public feud where Trump criticized German leadership for suggesting the U.S. was being "humiliated" by Iran.
Threats to Italy and Spain: The President has signaled potential troop withdrawals from Italy and Spain, accusing them of being "horrible" partners and failing to support U.S. efforts to reopen global shipping lanes.

Domestic Policy & Executive Actions

National Fitness Proclamation: Trump officially proclaimed May 2026 as "National Physical Fitness and Sports Month," which includes the reestablishment of the Presidential Fitness Test and a focus on the upcoming "Patriot Games" for the U.S. semiquincentennial.
New Drug Control Strategy: The White House released the 2026 National Drug Control Strategy, a $44 billion roadmap focused on dismantling international drug supply chains and addressing the fentanyl crisis.
EU Trade Tensions: Trump announced he is tearing up portions of the EU tariff deal, intending to hike duties on European cars and trucks from 15% to 25% due to slow ratification by Brussels.

Politics & Public Opinion

Record Disapproval Ratings: A new Ipsos poll shows the President's disapproval rating has hit a record high of 62%. Analysts attribute the dip largely to domestic gas prices, which have risen significantly since the start of the "mini-war" with Iran.
Cuba "Takeover" Comments: During a speech in Florida, the President made off-hand remarks about "taking over" Cuba "almost immediately," sparking a mix of laughter from supporters and alarm from international observers.

Note: The "War Powers Resolution" clock is also ticking; today marks a critical point where the administration is facing increased pressure from Congress to seek formal approval for ongoing military actions.

Wednesday, May 6, 2026