TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
FEBRUARY 19, 2026
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U.S. News
- Restrictions on FEMA disaster deployments amid DHS shutdown — The Trump administration has ordered FEMA to suspend new aid worker deployments to disaster areas while the Department of Homeland Security remains partially shut down, raising concerns about response capabilities (e.g., ongoing issues like the Potomac River sewer collapse fallout).
- Trump's company trademarks "Donald J. Trump International Airport" — The Trump Organization has secured the name amid plans to rename a Florida airport after the president, highlighting business-government overlaps.
- FBI investigation into activist group Extinction Rebellion — The environmental group reports FBI visits to activists' homes as the administration rolls back pollution protections.
- DHS shutdown continues with immigration and border implications — Ongoing federal shutdown affects ICE reforms and disaster response.
Politics
- Trump travels to Georgia to boost Republicans ahead of midterms — The president focuses on economy messaging in a battleground state, despite broader actions like weighing Iran strikes, immigration crackdowns, and federal election takeover ideas.
- Trump hosts first Board of Peace leaders' meeting in Washington — The U.S.-led initiative (touted as a potential UN rival) pledges billions for Gaza reconstruction and aims to resolve global conflicts, with fundraising elements.
- Trump's envoys (Witkoff and Kushner) lead diplomacy on Iran and Ukraine — Bypassing traditional State Department channels, trusted aides handle sensitive talks amid criticisms of sidelining experts.
- Trump comments on discussing Taiwan arms sales with Xi Jinping — Raising concerns in Taipei about potential shifts in U.S. policy toward China and Taiwan.
World Affairs
- U.S. military prepares for possible strikes on Iran — Forces move into position as Trump weighs action amid ongoing diplomatic talks; Iran and Russia announce joint naval drills, escalating tensions.
- Board of Peace meeting advances Gaza reconstruction efforts — The Trump-initiated board holds its inaugural leaders' summit, focusing on fundraising and peace amid fragile ceasefire violations.
- Trump's remarks on Ukraine draw criticism — Ukrainian President Zelenskyy pushes back against claims blaming Ukraine for the war and exaggerating aid misuse, amid U.S.-Russia talks.
- Israel accelerates West Bank annexation moves — Creeping expansion continues, with questions about whether Trump can or will intervene.
Education
- Ongoing challenges in U.S. public schools — Reports describe a "slow, uneven decline" with incomplete pandemic recovery, widening achievement gaps, and persistent issues in high-poverty districts.
- Federal student loan caps impact health programs — New limits could disproportionately affect nursing and public health education in underserved communities.
- Workforce Pell and community college training expansions — Department of Labor allocates funds for short-term programs; dual enrollment grows for high school students.
- Push for career/technical education and mentorship — Efforts to excite young people about non-college pathways gain traction.
Economy
- Fed minutes show no rush to restart rate cuts — Officials signal a hold on interest rates, with some even discussing potential hikes if inflation remains sticky due to tariffs and other pressures.
- Divisions within Fed on future policy — Minutes from January reveal splits over cuts vs. hikes amid mixed growth and tariff impacts.
- Projections for steady but moderate U.S. growth — Forecasts around 2.1% for 2026, with concerns about persistent inflation.
Technology
- AI Impact Summit 2026 underway — Google CEO Sundar Pichai highlights AI's transformative potential; event features major discussions on AI's future (e.g., in India with PM Modi involvement).
- Meta's new Nvidia deal boosts AI infrastructure — Partnership seen as challenging for competitors like Intel and AMD in the AI chip race.
- AI pioneer Fei-Fei Li's World Labs raises $1B — Significant funding for advanced AI development.
- Rapid AI advancement predictions — Anthropic CEO says AI could surpass humans in most tasks in a few years.
Health
- FDA reverses and agrees to review Moderna's mRNA flu vaccine — After initial rejection, the agency will now evaluate it, with split approvals planned by age group and post-market studies.
- Decline in early prenatal care in the U.S. — Federal data shows fewer women receiving recommended early care, impacting maternal and infant health outcomes.
- Ongoing measles outbreaks — High case counts (e.g., hundreds reported recently) tied to undervaccinated communities.
- Public opinion and policy shifts on vaccines — Discussions on federal actions, childhood schedules, and polling amid administration changes.
Sports
- College basketball upsets and key games — No. 5 UConn loses at home to Creighton, hurting NCAA tournament seeding hopes; No. 23 Minnesota defeats No. 10 Ohio State for a streak win.
- Sidney Crosby injury in Olympic hockey — The star leaves Canada's quarterfinal win over Czechia, with uncertain status for the rest of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- U.S. men's hockey advances — Team USA beats Sweden in overtime to reach Olympic semifinals.
- WPIAL basketball playoffs — Quarterfinal matchups feature recent champions clashing in Pennsylvania high school action.
These stories capture the dominant headlines circulating today. Events like Iran tensions, the Board of Peace meeting, and Fed policy are particularly prominent across multiple sources.
Jesse Jackson: In His Own Words https://dianeravitch.net/2026/02/18/jesse-jackson-in-his-own-words/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- RFK Jr. reversed his confirmation hearing promises, casting doubt on vaccines and reducing the U.S. childhood vaccine program from protecting against 17 diseases to 11.
- South Carolina experienced a measles outbreak with nearly 1,000 cases, mostly affecting children, linked to vaccine hesitancy.
- Kennedy’s administration has fired thousands of public servants, including scientific leaders, and replaced standard-setting practices with controversial guidelines.
- Kennedy’s "Make America Healthy Again" (MAHA) agenda aligns with Trump’s "Make America Great Again" movement, combining skepticism of science and medicine with wellness industry rhetoric.
- Health experts warn that Kennedy’s vaccine policies will lead to the resurgence of preventable infectious diseases such as measles and polio.
- Kennedy promoted unverified claims linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, and introduced wellness-focused nutrition guidelines that contradict decades of research.
- He cut funding for mRNA vaccine research and replaced CDC vaccine experts with unqualified individuals, further politicizing public health.
- Kennedy’s actions have reduced research funding and undermined scientific integrity at key health agencies like the FDA, CDC, and NIH.
- The MAHA movement merges wellness industry ideals with Kennedy’s rhetoric, promoting unorthodox health practices and opposing conventional medicine.
- Kennedy endorsed Trump and aligned his policies with Republican strategies, creating a coalition between MAHA and MAGA movements.
- Kennedy’s tenure has deeply politicized HHS, making it difficult to reverse the changes and restore scientific leadership.
The Hidden Dangers of Meta's Partnership with Schools (Faith Boninger) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/02/18/the-hidden-dangers-of-metas-partnership-with-schools-faith-boninger/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- Corporations have long used school partnerships to target students and families, with tech companies like Meta now exploiting these relationships for profit.
- A study revealed that 96% of school-recommended apps share children’s personal data with third parties, raising privacy concerns.
- Meta’s School Partnership Program encourages schools to use Instagram to combat bullying but primarily serves Meta’s interests under the guise of student safety.
- Meta has a history of prioritizing profit over user safety, with past instances of negligence and exploitation of teenagers’ vulnerabilities.
- Instagram’s algorithms promote harmful AI-generated content, which can have severe psychological effects on teenagers.
- Schools are urged to reject Meta's partnerships and avoid promoting Instagram, opting instead to educate students about the risks of social media.
Rest in Power, Jesse | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2026/02/18/rest-in-power-jesse/
Detailed Summary for [Bill Ayers: One Battle After Another, Fascism, and Activism During the 60s | AirGo Ep 386](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s) by [Monica](https://monica.im)
[00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s&t=0) In this segment, the hosts introduce Bill Ayers, reflecting on their long-standing friendship and his significant contributions to activism and education during the 60s.
- Introduction of the hosts and the purpose of the show, emphasizing their mission to reshape culture.}
- The hosts express their excitement about having Bill Ayers back on the show, highlighting the depth of their relationship.}
- A brief overview of Bill Ayers' background as an educator, author, and activist involved with significant movements in the 60s.}
- Encouragement for viewers to explore more about Bill's story through various podcasts and episodes related to his legacy.}
[08:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s&t=537.19) Bill Ayers discusses the importance of activism and the ongoing struggle for change, emphasizing the need to show up for various movements and the energy that youth brings to these efforts.
- Ayers expresses optimism about the possibility of revolution and change, stating his commitment to the cause of abolition.}
- He shares his daily routine of self-reflection and hope, indicating a desire to see tangible change each day.}
- Ayers explains the importance of participation in activism, stressing that he doesn't know which moment will be pivotal, thus he chooses to consistently show up.}
- He highlights the value of engaging with young people as a source of energy and inspiration in activism.}
[17:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s&t=1075.19) Bill Ayers discusses the importance of mobilization and political engagement in driving revolutionary change, emphasizing the need for grassroots movements alongside electoral politics.
- Ayers stresses the necessity of both small and large gatherings to foster activism.}
- He explains that revolutionary change requires two key elements: grassroots mobilization and active political engagement.}
- Ayers expresses hope in recent political figures and movements, acknowledging their significance but also recognizing they are not the complete solution.}
- Reflecting on Obama's presidency, Ayers notes the importance of building movements for change, as political leaders alone cannot achieve significant reforms.}
- He recounts a moment when the momentum of grassroots movements was stifled, illustrating the challenges faced in maintaining political pressure.}
[26:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s&t=1611.59) In this segment, Bill Ayers discusses the importance of community and leadership within activist movements, emphasizing the need for coherence and collaboration among various organizations in Chicago.
- Ayers critiques the notion that charisma alone is sufficient for effective leadership, suggesting that depth and strength are also essential.}
- He highlights the significance of Respair Media as a hub for the movement, where different activist voices can connect and resonate.}
- Ayers points out various organizations in Chicago that contribute to the activist landscape, indicating a rich but fragmented movement.}
- He proposes a call for coherence among the movement's leaders, reflecting on his experiences with Detroit Summer and the inspiration he draws from figures like Grace Lee Boggs.}
- Ayers encourages viewers to explore a previous travel show episode that focuses on activism in Detroit, showcasing the work being done at the Bog Center.}
[35:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s&t=2150.47) In this segment, Bill Ayers discusses the societal issues of male and white supremacy, the responsibilities of activists, and the importance of intentional community building in the context of social movements.
- Ayers addresses the violence against groups like the LA Panthers, highlighting the systemic issues of male and white supremacy in society.}
- He emphasizes the need for deep commitment and thoughtful planning among activists to create inclusive communities.}
- Ayers stresses the obligations that come with leadership roles in movements, acknowledging the weight of responsibility for the well-being of all involved.}
- He reflects on the clarity gained from experience in activism, recognizing the complexities of leadership and its impact on community dynamics.}
[44:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s&t=2689.51) Bill Ayers reflects on the mythologization of the 1960s, emphasizing that the decade is often romanticized and marketed, which can mislead younger generations about the nature of activism and social change.
- Ayers suggests that the notion of a defined '60s era is misleading, as people do not live by decades.}
- He argues that the concept of the '60s is both a myth and a symbol, creating an unrealistic standard for modern activism.}
- Ayers points out that the aesthetic of rebellion from the '60s is often highlighted without acknowledging the deeper ideological struggles that were taking place.}
[53:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s&t=3225.75) Bill Ayers discusses the complexities of violence in activism, comparing historical oppression to contemporary issues, and challenges the notion of nonviolence in the face of systemic violence.
- Ayers draws parallels between historical slavery and modern systemic violence, emphasizing that oppressed individuals have not been peaceful.}
- He critiques the labeling of figures like Nat Turner as terrorists while ignoring the institutional violence that has existed for centuries.}
- Ayers argues that claiming nonviolence allows perpetrators of systemic violence to escape accountability for their actions.}
- He asserts that violence is inherent in the current system, and responses to it should not be mischaracterized as solely violent.}
[01:02:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbB40aRz8bg&t=1s&t=3764.789) In this segment, Bill Ayers discusses the title of a new book he has been eagerly anticipating, which draws inspiration from a line in a Jefferson Airplane album. The conversation highlights the humor and personal anecdotes surrounding the book's title, as well as Ayers' reflections on his past activism.
- Bill Ayers mentions that he has read the book multiple times in various drafts and is excited about its upcoming release.}
- Ayers reveals the book's title, which is inspired by a Jefferson Airplane album, emphasizing its connection to themes of rebellion and youth.}
- Ayers shares a humorous exchange with his partner, Bernardine, regarding the title's description, showcasing their playful dynamic.}
- Ayers recounts a past incident involving a right-wing bumper sticker, highlighting Bernardine's strong sense of identity and the couple's shared experiences.}
- The conversation touches on a light-hearted moment with a humorous reference to a 'good free radical' image, reflecting Ayers' personality and activism.}
Schools Matter: Social Circle, Georgia, Does Not Want An ICE Concentration Camp http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/02/social-circle-georgia-does-not-want-ice.html
### Key Points
- Social Circle residents oppose a federal plan to convert a warehouse into a detention center for 10,000 migrants, citing lack of transparency and community impact.
- City officials and residents express concerns over infrastructure strain, including water, sewer, and emergency services, and proximity to schools.
- PNK Group, the warehouse owner, claims a non-disclosure agreement prevents them from discussing the project, frustrating local leaders.
- Community members and activists highlight moral concerns, citing past abuses in similar facilities, and call for collective action.
glen brown: FBI won’t share Alex Pretti shooting evidence, Minnesota authorities say https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/02/fbi-wont-share-alex-pretti-shooting.html
### Key Points
- Rev. Jesse Jackson Jr.’s passing symbolizes the loss of a critical link to Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights generation.
- Jackson’s work focused on creating a multi-racial democracy and resisting White supremacist ideologies like Trumpism.
- The article highlights Jackson’s iconic 1984 speech emphasizing America as a diverse "quilt" of people united by common threads.
- The Trump administration and MAGA policies are portrayed as attacks on pluralistic democracy and racial justice.
- The SAVE Act and other voter suppression laws aim to disenfranchise minority voters, threatening democracy.
- The article draws parallels between current voter suppression efforts and Jim Crow-era tactics.
- Jackson’s legacy inspires the fight against voter suppression, social injustice, and systemic racism.
The Ed Department's Anti-DEI Letter Is Dead. Don't Get Too Excited. PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/the-ed-departments-anti-dei-letter
### Key Points
- The federal government launched an AI Education initiative to promote AI skills and workforce readiness, led by Michael Kratsios, emphasizing AI's potential benefits.
- Critics argue that the initiative may prioritize corporate interests, with concerns about turning schools into pipelines for future AI users.
- Moms for Liberty (M4L) opposes unchecked AI use in education, advocating for transparency, accountability, and parental consent before AI tools are implemented.
- M4L’s model policies aim to protect student data privacy, preserve the role of teachers, and address risks like academic integrity and ideological bias.
- The article hints at a potential divide between pro-corporate conservatives and groups like M4L, which question AI's immediate integration into classrooms.
The Reliable Narrator: Teacher Education in (Another) Era of the “Bad Teacher” Myth | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/teacher-education-another-era
### Key Points
- The "bad teacher" myth is a pervasive and misleading narrative that wrongly blames teachers and teacher educators for systemic issues in education.
- The "Science of Reading" (SOR) movement has gained momentum but is criticized for promoting false narratives about reading instruction and teacher preparation.
- The SOR movement uses misleading data, such as misrepresenting NAEP reading scores and making unsupported claims about 90-95% reading proficiency being achievable.
- Teacher autonomy is being undermined by the SOR movement, which promotes scripted curriculums and structured literacy, reducing teachers to mere technicians.
- The resistance to teacher autonomy is linked to systemic sexism, as K-12 teaching is a predominantly female profession.
- The accountability era, driven by accreditation and high-stakes testing, has failed to improve educational outcomes and has disproportionately affected marginalized students.
- The focus on accountability and accreditation has led to a decrease in teacher autonomy and diluted teacher education programs.
- The article highlights the success of Defense Department schools (DoDEA) in achieving high reading proficiency rates due to a focus on equitable living conditions, teacher support, and funding.
- The SOR movement is criticized for prioritizing ideological agendas over scientific evidence, which negatively impacts teachers, students, and the teaching profession.
- The article advocates for systemic reform that prioritizes equity in education and supports teacher autonomy as a means to improve educational outcomes.
Teacher Tom: "Be Good, Be Careful, and Have Fun . . . In That Order" https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/02/be-good-be-careful-and-have-fun-in-that.html
### Key Points
- Memory is unreliable and constantly altered through recall, shaping our perception of life.
- Philosophers and psychologists argue that memory and perception serve survival rather than truth.
- Selective memory and storytelling help us make sense of our lives and identity.
- Working with children emphasizes the importance of love and fostering independence as they form their own memories.
- The author integrates his reflections into his teaching philosophy, striving to create environments that encourage play, growth, and confidence.
120 Champions and Defenders of Children: The Lawmakers Who Show Up for Kids Our Scorecard reveals gender and regional patterns that may help explain why child well-being varies so much from state to state. BRUCE LESLEY AND MAXWELL R. ROWSHANDEL, MPH https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/120-champions-and-defenders-of-children
- The FFCC Legislative Scorecard recognizes 120 Champions and Defenders of Children, including 40 senators and 80 representatives, for prioritizing children’s health, nutrition, safety, and opportunities.
- The Scorecard aims to hold lawmakers accountable, express gratitude for their efforts, and encourage more focus on children’s needs.
- FFCC staff scored 156 bills and identified 15 child-centered votes in Congress, but children lost all 15 recorded votes.
- Women in Congress are 2.9 times more likely to be Champions or Defenders of Children compared to men, showing a significant gender divide in prioritizing children’s issues.
- The Congressional Dads Caucus encourages male lawmakers to take a more active role in supporting children’s policies. Members are 3.8 times more likely to be Champions/Defenders compared to other men in Congress.
- Regional disparities in child well-being and congressional support for children are significant, with the Northeast having the highest proportion of Champions/Defenders (42.1%) and the Southwest/Plains the lowest (10.5%).
- States with better child well-being rankings tend to have more Champions/Defenders in Congress, highlighting the relationship between policy, investments, and outcomes for children.
- Public recognition of lawmakers who prioritize children is essential, as children lack the tools to advocate for themselves. Gratitude can incentivize more lawmakers to focus on child well-being.
- The FFCC Legislative Scorecard encourages citizens to thank lawmakers recognized as Champions/Defenders and urge others to prioritize children’s needs.
- Gender and regional patterns show that children do better when leaders intentionally prioritize them, emphasizing the need for more Champions/Defenders nationwide.
Addictive digital habits in early adolescence linked to mental health struggles Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Problematic use of mobile phones, social media, and video games in early adolescence is associated with mental health struggles, including depression, sleep disturbances, and suicidal behaviors.
- Gender pay gaps persist in academia, with women earning less than men even after obtaining PhDs, both within and outside of university settings.
- Australian universities face high psychosocial safety risks, with over 80% of staff reporting emotional exhaustion and widespread dissatisfaction with workplace support systems.
- Academic pressure at age 15 is linked to increased risks of depression and self-harm that may persist into adulthood, suggesting the need for school-level interventions to reduce stress.
- Restrictive smartphone policies in schools show minimal impact on students' mental health and wellbeing but may save a small amount of administrative costs.
Vouchers' growth will be their demise Telling the world that more people than ever are taking vouchers isn't the flex proponents think it is, legally speaking. In fact, that's its death knell, assuming judges are acting in good faith. STEPHEN DYER https://10thperiod.substack.com/p/vouchers-growth-will-be-their-demise
### Key Points
- Ohio's taxpayer subsidies for private school tuition have risen by 313% since 2021, now covering over 8 in 10 private school students.
- Private school enrollment increased by only 1% despite the significant rise in funding, reflecting poor return on investment.
- The voucher system diverts funds from public schools, which serve 85% of Ohio's students, undermining the state's school funding formula.
- Critics argue the voucher program is unconstitutional and creates a separate, unaccountable education system, violating state law.
- Legal challenges against the voucher system continue, with proponents facing difficulties defending its constitutionality.
- None of the $8 billion spent on private school tuition subsidies since 1996 has been audited.
“The Time Had Come to Find My Work”: Diane Ravitch’s Authentic Autobiography | deutsch29: Mercedes Schneider's Blog https://deutsch29.wordpress.com/2026/02/18/the-time-had-come-to-find-my-work-diane-ravitchs-authentic-autobiography/
### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch’s autobiography is a brave and authentic account of her life, revealing both personal struggles and triumphs.
- The book details Ravitch’s family history, including her upbringing in a poor Jewish family in Houston, Texas, and her academic journey.
- Ravitch’s turning points, such as mentorship from her rabbi and opportunities tied to elite women’s colleges, significantly shaped her life and career.
- The memoir highlights Ravitch’s role as a historian, writer, and advocate for public education, showcasing her continued self-growth and dedication.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, February 18, 2026, the news surrounding President Trump is dominated by heightened tensions in the Middle East, major legal pushback from California, and a controversial branding move by the Trump Organization.
1. Looming Military Action in Iran
The White House and the Pentagon are signaling potential military strikes against Iran as early as this weekend.
The Standpoint: Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that while "diplomacy is always the first option," Iran would be "wise to make a deal" before Trump moves to halt their nuclear program by force.
The Action: Trump reportedly met today with key advisers, including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, to discuss the final decision.
2. California’s $1.2 Billion Lawsuit
Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a major lawsuit today against the Trump administration.
The Conflict: The suit challenges the administration's termination of $1.2 billion in federal funding for clean energy and infrastructure projects (specifically the ARCHES hydrogen project).
The Claim: California officials allege the cuts are "illegal" and "partisan retribution" that could cost the state over 200,000 jobs.
3. Trump Family "Airport Branding"
The Trump Organization has officially filed for trademark rights to use the president's name on airports.
The Motivation: This follows a Florida bill seeking to rename Palm Beach International Airport after Trump.
The Details: While the family says they won't charge royalties for the Palm Beach renaming, the trademarks cover a wide range of products including flight suits, umbrellas, and airport shuttles.
4. Domestic Policy & Executive Orders
Critical Supply Chains: Trump signed an Executive Order today invoking the Defense Production Act to secure domestic production of phosphorus and glyphosate (herbicides), citing threats to national food security.
CDL "Sting" Operation: Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the removal of over 550 commercial driver’s license (CDL) schools from the national registry, calling them "sham schools" that violated federal safety standards.
Black History Month: After recent controversy over a social media post, the President hosted a Black History Month reception at the White House today, emphasizing "opportunity and prosperity."
Current Tensions
While the administration touts a "Golden Age" of economic growth, today's headlines also highlight a third limited government shutdown (currently affecting Homeland Security funding) and ongoing friction with European allies who have declined to join the President's new "Board of Peace."
