May Day 2026 Toolkit | NEA
https://www.nea.org/mayday-toolkit
TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
APRIL 24, 2026
Here are today's top news stories (as of April 24, 2026) in each category, based on major headlines and developments.
U.S. News
- Southeast wildfires force evacuations and destroy dozens of homes in Georgia and Florida, with fast-moving flames amid dry conditions.
- A deadly chemical leak at a West Virginia plant kills at least two people and sends more than two dozen to medical treatment.
- Severe weather threats with red flag warnings stretch from Texas to the Dakotas, raising fire and storm risks in the Heartland.
- A U.S. special forces soldier faces charges for allegedly betting on a raid operation (related to Maduro in Venezuela).
- Acting Attorney General moves medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III.
Politics
- Trump's approval rating hits record lows amid the ongoing Iran conflict, economic concerns, and domestic fallout.
- Trump announces the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire extension by three weeks following White House talks; he urges patience on broader Iran negotiations ("don't rush me").
- MAGA movement criticized as "slouching toward becoming the establishment"; broader discussions of corruption in American politics.
- Trump taps a government contracting expert to head the TSA; other administration moves include DOJ actions on marijuana scheduling.
- White House Correspondents' Dinner to feature a mentalist instead of a traditional comedian.
World Affairs
- U.S.-Iran tensions dominate: Ceasefire extended but Strait of Hormuz remains volatile with ship seizures, mine-laying incidents, and Trump ordering U.S. forces to "shoot and kill" threatening Iranian boats; no full nuclear deal yet.
- Israel-Lebanon ceasefire extended by three weeks after high-level Washington talks; Iran claims influence persists.
- Iran seizes or boards ships near the Strait of Hormuz; U.S. boards Iran-linked vessels in response, raising global shipping and oil disruption fears.
- North Korea launches multiple short-range ballistic missiles.
- Iran's exiled crown prince attacked (splattered with red liquid) in Berlin.
Education
- Governors' 2026 priorities emphasize foundational academic skills, workforce alignment, early education, teacher retention, and high standards across states.
- Federal school funding continues to flow through the Education Department for now, but uncertainty lingers after congressional budget approval and proposed cuts.
- States move to codify protections for homeless students amid shaky federal commitments.
- Broader K-12 focus on reshaping schools for workforce needs and academic achievement in state-of-the-state addresses.
Economy
- Stock markets show mixed moves: Futures steady or rising after Israel-Lebanon ceasefire extension, but earlier declines tied to Iran jitters; S&P 500 and Nasdaq near records with strong earnings (e.g., Intel beat).
- Oil prices rise amid Iran talks stalemate and Strait of Hormuz disruptions, squeezing global supply and raising jet fuel/airfare concerns.
- Broader economic outlook: U.S. growth projected modestly; consumer sentiment data (Michigan survey) due; potential impacts from prolonged Middle East conflict.
- Antitrust developments, including a jury finding against Live Nation for violating competition laws in the music industry.
Technology
- China's aggressive AI/robotics push highlights U.S. "blind spot," with critiques of the Trump administration's limited AI framework.
- OpenAI releases GPT-5.5, advancing toward an AI "super app" with improved performance in coding, analysis, and efficiency.
- Tech layoffs continue: Meta plans to cut ~8,000 jobs (10% workforce) for AI efficiency; Microsoft and others also trimming staff.
- Elon Musk sounds cautious on Tesla robotaxi rollout amid slower progress; broader AI trends include multiagent systems and domain-specific models.
Health
- Chemical plant leak in West Virginia causes fatalities and injuries (overlaps with U.S. news).
- FDA rejects AbbVie's wrinkle treatment due to manufacturing issues; other approvals include pediatric urticaria indication for dupilumab and gene therapy for genetic hearing loss.
- Research advances: Brain cell differences identified in depression; new insights on antibiotic resistance spread, viruses, and cellular mechanisms potentially linked to disease.
- Broader concerns over rising health care costs and uncertain future for Americans' overall health.
Sports
- NBA playoffs: Hawks take 2-1 lead over Knicks with strong play from CJ McCollum; Joel Embiid participates in practice (doubtful for Sixers vs. Celtics); Warriors' turbulent season ends with injury-filled disappointment.
- NFL Draft developments: Cowboys trade up for Ohio State safety Caleb Downs; other picks and trades ongoing (e.g., Raiders select QB Fernando Mendoza as top pick in some reports).
- MLB regular season games underway with full schedule of matchups.
- Broader: Antitrust probe into NFL broadcast deals; college sports executive orders and discussions.
These stories reflect the dominant themes from major outlets, with the Middle East conflict (especially Iran and related ceasefires) overshadowing many categories today. Developments can shift quickly.
Joyce Vance: Trump Plans to Rig the 2026 Elections https://dianeravitch.net/2026/04/23/joyce-vance-trump-plans-to-rig-the-2026-elections/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The U.S. spends $182 billion annually on incarceration, with a 67% recidivism rate within three years.
- The "tough on crime" approach led to the highest incarceration rate globally, with over 2 million people imprisoned, disproportionately affecting Black Americans.
- Private prison companies profit from mass incarceration, spending millions on lobbying for policies that ensure high prison occupancy.
- The U.S. prison system focuses on deterrence, incapacitation, and punishment, but these strategies fail to reduce crime or rehabilitate inmates effectively.
- Norway’s rehabilitation-based prison system, with facilities designed to prepare inmates for reintegration into society, achieves a 20% recidivism rate.
Peter Greene: The Texas "Ten Commandments" Ruling Is Irreligious Baloney https://dianeravitch.net/2026/04/23/peter-greene-the-texas-ten-commandments-ruling-is-irreligious-baloney/ via @dianeravitch
- A Texas law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms was challenged but upheld by the conservative 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, which ruled it does not violate the First Amendment.
- The court rejected the Establishment Clause argument, stating the law does not resemble the founding-era establishment of religion and does not compel religious observance or punish dissent.
- The court introduced a new test for determining Establishment Clause violations, focusing on whether a law mirrors historical religious establishments, rather than applying the previous Lemon Test.
- The court dismissed concerns about coercion, arguing that merely displaying the Ten Commandments is not inherently coercive to students.
- The dissenting opinion warned against government promotion of religion, emphasizing that faith cannot be forced and thrives only when freely chosen.
Big Education Ape: THE STANDARDIZATION INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX: HOW BRILLIANT BILLIONAIRES TURNED YOUR KID INTO A DATA POINT #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #ProtectStudentData https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-standardization-industrial-complex.html
Education reform in the U.S. has been driven by a focus on standardization over the past four decades, led by billionaire philanthropists and corporate interests. This approach has emphasized standardized tests, data collection, and uniform curricula, often at the expense of personalized, relationship-based education. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the flaws in this system, leading to significant learning loss and exacerbating educational inequities, particularly harming low-income students. In response, some stakeholders are pushing AI-based personalized learning solutions, which are criticized for prioritizing profit over genuine student needs. Activists and educators are advocating for a return to human-centered education, increased funding for public schools, and an end to the privatization of education. A national day of action, May Day 2026, aims to address these systemic issues and demand reforms prioritizing equity and democratic accountability in education.
### Key Points
- The U.S. education system has been shaped by four decades of standardization, driven by billionaire and corporate interests.
- Standardized curricula and tests have prioritized uniformity over personalized education, with significant consequences for students.
- The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the weaknesses of the standardized system, resulting in learning losses and widening educational disparities.
- Wealthy families have access to high-quality, human-centered education, while others are pushed toward AI-driven, profit-oriented learning systems.
- Activists and educators are organizing a national day of action on May 1, 2026, to demand reforms, including increased public school funding, reduced surveillance, and restored democratic accountability in education.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS APRIL 23, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_02067982516.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of various current events, including educational policies, political developments, international affairs, economic updates, technological advancements, and health-related issues. It highlights key controversies, legislative initiatives, and societal challenges, with particular emphasis on the U.S.-Iran conflict, education reforms, and the May Day 2026 movement advocating for systemic change.
### Key Points
- Constitutional scholar Derek W. Black advocates for courts to consider public schools’ historic purpose in protecting students’ freedom of speech.
- The NEA released a May Day 2026 Toolkit to support activism for stronger, equitable communities.
- The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the illegal reentry conviction of Fabian Cobos Carpena after his transfer to ICE custody.
- Texas passed a law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms, which is facing legal challenges.
- Wildfires in the Southeast caused evacuations and property damage, with red flag warnings issued across multiple states.
- A deadly chemical leak in West Virginia killed two people and hospitalized over two dozen others.
- Virginia voters approved a new congressional map favoring Democrats, but legal challenges and claims of rigging have emerged.
- President Trump extended the Iran ceasefire indefinitely while maintaining a naval blockade, amid mixed signals from Tehran.
- Health Secretary RFK Jr. faced criticism for vaccine guidance changes, health spending cuts, and Medicaid adjustments.
- Iran seized ships in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions despite Trump’s extended ceasefire.
- Violence in the West Bank escalated with an Israeli reservist killing two Palestinians near a school.
- Linda McMahon leads efforts to dismantle the Department of Education under the Trump administration.
- Senator Mark Kelly introduced the "Keep Public Funds in Public Schools Act" to eliminate federal school voucher programs, citing concerns over misuse of funds and harm to public school funding.
- Tracking pixels on school websites collect data on students and families without consent, raising privacy concerns. Tools like Blacklight can detect these trackers.
- May Day 2026 is framed as a critical moment for organized resistance against corporate dominance, advocating for reforms in campaign finance, labor rights, and public education.
- Modern tech monopolies exploit user data and dominate markets, raising concerns about digital surveillance and monopolistic practices.
- The Citizens United ruling has allowed unlimited corporate spending in politics, enabling systemic corruption. Reform efforts include the DISCLOSE Act and Democracy Vouchers.
- Meena Batra, a court interpreter, was detained by ICE despite her valid work authorization, raising due process concerns.
- Betsy DeVos supports block grants in education, which critics argue could undermine public education and accountability.
- School choice policies threaten public school sports programs, creating inequities and challenges for community identity.
- Republican lawmakers are attacking tenure protections, which could undermine academic freedom and knowledge integrity.
- NEA’s May Day organizing efforts focus on promoting democratic values and community solidarity.
- Seattle School Board discussed student projects, HR issues, and nepotism concerns during its April 22, 2026 meeting.
- Gary Rubinstein is offering a free autobiographical e-book on Amazon for a limited time.
- The UFT Delegate Assembly highlighted union concerns, including transparency issues, overcrowding, and contract negotiations.
- President Trump’s policies on Iran, economic challenges, and domestic reforms dominate the April 23, 2026 news cycle.
- Trump faces criticism over slumping approval ratings, rising gas prices, and controversial deportation policies.
- The Trump administration’s proposed rules for education policy changes are nearing finalization, with implementation expected by October 2026.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: APRIL 23 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/morning-news-update-april-23-2026.html
Public education and global affairs dominated the news on April 23, 2026. Key topics included the role of public schools in fostering democratic values, U.S. Middle East diplomacy, energy security concerns, AI advancements in education, and significant developments in sports and health. The article also highlighted ongoing policy changes in U.S. education, international student issues, and the impact of geopolitical tensions on the global economy.
### Key Points
- Public schools play a critical role in developing democratic citizens, with constitutional scholars advocating for the protection of students' freedom of speech.
- U.S. foreign policy is focused on Middle East diplomacy, including ceasefire talks between Israel and Lebanon, U.S.-Iran tensions, and naval operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
- The International Energy Agency (IEA) warns of an unprecedented energy security threat due to disruptions in oil markets caused by the Iran conflict.
- AI is transforming education globally, with advancements in personalized learning and administrative efficiency discussed at the AI in Higher Education Summit 2026.
- U.S. education policy shifts include decentralizing federal oversight, improving childcare access for student parents, and addressing student privacy violations.
- International education updates highlight tensions over Chinese students in the U.S., Australian scholarships, and climate resilience initiatives in Nepal.
- In sports, the NFL Draft begins, with Ohio State expected to make history by having four players selected in the top 10.
Big Education Ape: THE SUPER SECRET SPIES EMBEDDED IN YOUR KID'S SCHOOL WEB PAGE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-super-secret-spies-embedded-in-your.html
Big Education Ape explores the pervasive issue of tracking pixels embedded in school websites, which collect data on students and parents without consent. These tiny, invisible codes gather information such as IP addresses, browsing behavior, and login statuses, often through third-party tools like Google Analytics and Meta pixels. This data is used by tech giants for profit, raising privacy concerns. The article highlights tools like Blacklight to detect these trackers and advocates for stronger enforcement of privacy laws and proactive measures by parents and educators.
### Key Points
- Tracking pixels on school websites collect data on students and families without consent, including IP addresses, browsing habits, and login statuses.
- These trackers are embedded through tools like Google Analytics, social media buttons, and EdTech vendor integrations, often without school administrators' awareness.
- Privacy laws like COPPA and FERPA exist but are poorly enforced, allowing tech companies to continue data collection practices.
- The article recommends using tools like Blacklight to identify trackers, advocating for privacy-focused browsing practices, and demanding transparency and action from schools and policymakers.
- The piece calls for collective action, such as supporting organizations like The Markup and participating in campaigns like #MayDayStrong, to protect student data and hold tech companies accountable.
Big Education Ape: FROM CITIZENS UNITED TO NEO-FEUDALISM: WHY MAY DAY 2026 IS THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY YOU'RE NOT TALKING ABOUT #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #ProtectStudentData #BreakUpBigTech #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/from-citizens-united-to-neo-feudalism.html
The article explores the transformation of democracy into corporate oligarchy, emphasizing the role of Citizens United, AI privatization, and the systematic erosion of public services. It highlights May Day 2026 as a pivotal moment for organized resistance against corporate dominance, advocating for both immediate reforms and long-term systemic redesigns to restore democratic accountability and equity.
### Key Points
- Citizens United ruling merged economic and political power, enabling corporations to dominate democracy.
- AI privatization accelerates neo-feudalism, locking public knowledge behind paywalls and benefiting tech monopolies.
- Public education faces a two-tier system: AI-driven instruction in public schools versus human-centered learning in private schools.
- May Day 2026 calls for nationwide action to demand reforms like taxing the wealthy, restoring labor rights, and ending ICE raids.
- Proposed solutions include breaking up tech monopolies, campaign finance reform, modernized labor laws, and universal basic services.
- Advocates urge the creation of a public option for AI, modeled on public libraries, to ensure equitable access and transparency.
- Action toolkit includes signing pledges, contacting legislators, tracking political donations, and participating in local elections.
- Historical parallels are drawn between monopolistic control in colonial times and today’s corporate dominance, emphasizing the need for organized resistance.
- The article provides resources for understanding Citizens United, AI regulation, and public education privatization.
- May Day organizing resources and legislative tools are highlighted to empower grassroots activism.
Big Education Ape: SPILLING THE TEA ON TECH MONOPOLIES: A REVOLUTIONARY'S GUIDE TO DIGITAL COLONIALISM #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #ProtectStudentData https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/spilling-tea-on-tech-monopolies.html
The article draws parallels between historical monopolies, like the East India Company, and modern tech giants such as Google, Meta, and Microsoft, emphasizing the political and economic consequences of monopolistic power. It also highlights the May Day 2026 movement, which calls for collective action against corporate overreach and advocates for reforms in public education, labor rights, and democratic accountability.
### Key Points
- The article draws a historical parallel between the East India Company’s tea monopoly and modern tech monopolies like Google, Meta, and Apple, which exploit users' data and dominate markets.
- Modern tech companies are using school-issued devices and platforms to collect and monetize student data without consent, raising concerns about digital surveillance.
- Several monopolistic practices by tech giants in education, such as ecosystem lock-ins and data extraction, are highlighted, alongside their legal scrutiny and antitrust issues.
- Despite existing laws like the Sherman Antitrust Act and COPPA, enforcement against tech monopolies remains weak due to their immense legal and lobbying power.
- The May Day 2026 movement calls for national action to address issues like wealth taxation, labor rights, public education funding, and corporate accountability.
- The article emphasizes the need for collective action, voting, and advocacy to combat corporate monopolies and restore democratic processes.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS APRIL 22, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01452823060.html
The article compiles a variety of news updates and analysis across topics such as education, politics, technology, health, and global affairs. It highlights key developments, controversies, and implications in these areas, with a particular focus on U.S. policies, international relations, and education reforms.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: APRIL 22, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/morning-news-update-april-22-2026.html
Various current events and issues, including education policies, political developments, international affairs, economic updates, technological advancements, and health and sports news. Key topics include efforts to eliminate federal voucher programs, U.S.-Iran relations, education policy changes, and global trends in education and technology.
Big Education Ape: THE SUPREME COURT RULED THAT MONEY TALKS. TURNS OUT IT ALSO VOTES, LOBBIES, AND RUNS FOR SCHOOL BOARD #MayDayStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-supreme-court-ruled-that-money.html
Big Education Ape discusses the profound impact of the 2010 Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. FEC, which redefined "corruption" in American law and unleashed a flood of dark money into politics. The article explores how this ruling has influenced elections at every level, from presidential campaigns to local school boards, and the systemic corruption it has enabled. It also highlights ongoing reform efforts, including the DISCLOSE Act, Democracy Vouchers, and a proposed constitutional amendment to combat the influence of money in politics. The piece concludes with a call to action for citizens to participate in the May Day Strong movement on May 1, 2026, to demand systemic change.
Curmudgucation TX: More Ten Commandments Baloney PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/tx-more-ten-commandments-baloney
- A Texas law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms was challenged but upheld by the conservative 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, which ruled it does not violate the First Amendment.
- The court rejected the Establishment Clause argument, stating the law does not resemble the founding-era establishment of religion and does not compel religious observance or punish dissent.
- The court introduced a new test for determining Establishment Clause violations, focusing on whether a law mirrors historical religious establishments, rather than applying the previous Lemon Test.
- The court dismissed concerns about coercion, arguing that merely displaying the Ten Commandments is not inherently coercive to students.
- The dissenting opinion warned against government promotion of religion, emphasizing that faith cannot be forced and thrives only when freely chosen.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Has Your Teen Tried TalkSpace? https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/04/has-your-teen-tried-talkspace.html?spref=tw
- The City of Seattle and Seattle Public Schools (SPS) offer a free online therapy platform called TalkSpace for teens, and a journalist is seeking input from families who have used the service to report on its effectiveness and privacy concerns.
- The blog highlights a past open thread discussing Seattle Public Schools Board meetings about topics like high school boundaries and zoning issues involving Green Dot schools.
- A reported case of nepotism in Seattle Public Schools discusses personnel being promoted or moved based on personal connections, with specific examples of principals being reassigned despite controversies.
- Director Geary shared her stance on advanced learning services during a 2017 Board meeting, highlighting her agreement with certain policies regarding Comprehensive School Improvement Plans (CSIPs).
Public Schools Form Democratic Citizens https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/04/23/public-schools-form-democratic-citizens/ via @janresseger
- Public education is a fundamental right in democracy, essential for providing equal opportunities and fostering a shared sense of purpose among citizens.
- Constitutional scholar Derek W. Black argues that public schools play a critical role in preserving democracy and protecting freedom of speech, but recent attacks on public education threaten these principles.
- Black highlights how public schools have historically been designed to prepare students for citizenship, protect individual rights, resist tyranny, and promote the common good.
- The erosion of democracy can be observed in areas such as free elections, individual rights, and the rule of law, with public education increasingly becoming a target for autocratic strategies.
- Political initiatives like anti-Critical Race Theory bills, demonization of teachers, and ideological charter school funding are examples of efforts undermining public education.
- Courts have historically protected freedom of speech in schools, recognizing their role in inculcating democratic values while avoiding state-imposed orthodoxy.
- Black emphasizes the need for judicial intervention and public awareness to prevent public education from contributing to democratic erosion.
What do teenagers need from their parents? Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Parenting teens requires balancing monitored freedom with trust and support. Teens thrive with autonomy-supportive parenting, which fosters independence while maintaining boundaries.
- Adolescents with a sense of purpose and life satisfaction are less reactive to stress and exhibit better mental health, relationships, and academic engagement. Only 20% of teens have a clear sense of purpose.
- Heavy drinking among college students negatively impacts cognitive functioning the next day, with blackout drinking significantly increasing the likelihood of memory lapses and poor decision-making.
- Georgia became the first universal pre-K state to meet all 10 quality benchmarks for preschool education, emphasizing the importance of quality alongside access.
- Reducing screen time in children is insufficient without active child-adult conversations, which are key to early language development.
- Teachers report that digital platforms in secondary education lead to fragmented learning, reduced intellectual autonomy, and digital fatigue, though some see potential when technology is used selectively.
- Gender-diverse adolescents face higher psychological distress due to bullying and unsupportive legislation, which can lead to serious mental health risks. Supportive environments are critical for their well-being.
Today Is “World Book & Copyright Day,” “World Book Night” & “UN English Language Day” – Here Are The Best Resources For Them Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
- The blog provides educational news, resources, and strategies for teachers, including posts on special events like "World Book & Copyright Day" and "National Shakespeare Day."
- Weekly features include curated resources for classroom instruction, educational policy updates, and free AI tools for teaching.
- Highlights tools like Duolingo and innovative teaching methods such as "micro-inquiry" to enhance lessons.
- Shares insights on teacher energy management, successful educational programs, and engaging students with high-interest lesson plans.
- Offers practical resources and books with research-based instructional strategies for various subjects, including Social Studies, English, Math, and Science, as well as tips for motivating students and involving parents.
- Provides additional content such as a Bam Radio show, blog posts for Education Week Teacher, and education articles for the New York Times Learning Network.
Teacher Tom: Brute Fact https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/04/brute-fact.html
- The moon's predictable movement connects humans to ancient wonder, reflecting on early humans who tracked its cycles.
- The concept of "brute fact" removes the sense of wonder and curiosity, which are essential for meaningful education.
- Emphasizing wonder and play in education fosters motivation, meaningful learning, and connection to the world.
- Encouraging play-based learning for young children helps them discover meaning and avoid being rushed into rote facts.
- Teacher Tom offers free resources and opportunities for educators and parents to support play-based education.
- Teacher Tom engages in blogging, speaking, and advocating for high-quality play-based preschool education globally.
glen brown: "He admired their independence, their serenity, and the magnificent completeness of their indifference to human opinion" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/04/he-admired-their-independence-their.html
### Key Points
- The Republican Party's unwavering loyalty to Trump has become a liability due to his declining approval ratings and controversial policies.
- GOP lawmakers have failed to legislate effectively, mishandled economic concerns, and supported unpopular policies like mass deportations.
- Republicans have allowed corruption to flourish, enabling self-enrichment schemes and failing to investigate past wrongdoings.
- Attempts to distract voters with issues like DEI, trans rights, and voter fraud have largely failed to resonate with the electorate.
- The article concludes that Republicans have provided no meaningful benefits to voters recently, calling into question their ability to govern.
10th Period: Highest Performing Ohio Charter Schools Still Have 30% Ds and Fs on State Report Card. Public School Districts Have 30% As. | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/highest-performing
### Key Points
- The article critiques the performance of Ohio's charter schools, highlighting that many receive federal funding despite poor state report card grades.
- Only a small percentage of Ohio charter schools qualify as "high-performing" based on selective metrics, while public school districts perform better across more comprehensive measures.
- Out of 258 graded charter schools in Ohio, only 6 received a 5-star overall rating, and less than 15% received an A or B grade compared to 48% of public school districts.
- Charter schools tend to focus on limited metrics to qualify for high-performing designations, avoiding other areas where they underperform.
- Federal grants and state funding disproportionately favor charter schools, even though their overall performance lags behind public school districts.
- The article questions the rationale behind allocating significant funding to underperforming charter schools while public school districts show better results.
Michael Klonsky The cost of living...and war Iran's 'Mosquito Fleet' MICHAEL KLONSKY https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/the-cost-of-livingand-war
### Key Points
- The war in the Strait of Hormuz has led to soaring gas prices worldwide, causing political backlash and a drop in Trump's approval ratings.
- Despite initial claims of a quick victory, the war has stretched into months, revealing miscalculations about Iran's strength and strategy.
- Ceasefire talks have faltered, with Iran refusing to reopen the Strait due to U.S. blockades and Israeli aggression.
- Iran's "Mosquito Fleet" employs asymmetric naval tactics to challenge U.S. forces, complicating military operations in the region.
- Rising costs from the war have become a top concern for voters, with many questioning capitalism and considering socialism as an alternative.
- A survey shows growing financial strain among voters, with significant concern over economic inequality and a push for reforming capitalism.
Union Matters At RTC Meeting, We Help Everyone But Ourselves We've entirely dropped the ball. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/at-rtc-meeting-we-help-everyone-but
### Key Points
- Michael Mulgrew was criticized for imposing copays to make the Medicare Advantage plan seem better, which the author claims was not a personal attack but a factual statement.
- Unity leadership, including Mulgrew, is accused of tolerating ageism and lobbying against resolutions like 1096, despite claiming to oppose Medicare Advantage.
- Marianne Pizzitola and the NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees played a significant role in preventing the transition to Medicare Advantage, but the RTC leadership has not engaged with her despite her efforts.
- The RTC Executive Board has declined to take meaningful action on healthcare issues, such as the New York Health Act, which lacks legislative support in Albany.
- The RTC leadership failed to accommodate members who wanted to attend an Albany Lobby Day by refusing to reschedule their meeting.
- The author criticizes the RTC for prioritizing committees like the Labor Solidarity Committee over retirees’ immediate healthcare needs.
- The SHIP program refund of $105 is criticized as a “cheap campaign ploy,” with arguments that it creates unnecessary paperwork and penalizes retirees who need the money most.
- Concerns are raised about Emblem moving to Amazon for drug distribution in 2027, citing Amazon's anti-labor stance and potential security issues.
- Drug up-tiering and rising prescription costs are highlighted as significant issues, with calls for union action to find alternatives.
- The RTC is pushing for a resolution on senior care co-pays and advocating for no co-pays for all members.
- Pension concerns include reamortization schemes and pension obligation bonds, which could affect healthcare and education funding.
- The RTC leadership is criticized for not addressing the long settlement periods for medical claims and the inefficiencies in the SHIP reimbursement process.
- The Labor Solidarity Project focuses on supporting unionization efforts and addressing the decline in union membership.
- The RTC is involved in promoting the New York Health Act and amendments to address concerns of out-of-state retirees.
- The article highlights the importance of collective action, referencing Mayday demonstrations and the history of labor movements.
- Robin DiPalma addressed Medicare Standard and IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount), explaining reimbursement processes and associated challenges.
- A resolution supporting elderly immigrant women on hunger strikes for better home healthcare conditions passed with 94% approval.
Choosing Democracy: Mayhaps: May Day and the Rebirth of Labor’s Imagination Labor https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/04/mayhaps-may-day-and-rebirth-of-labors.html
### Key Points
- The article revisits historical labor movements, such as the 1934 San Francisco and 1946 Oakland General Strikes, and questions their feasibility in today’s context.
- Students debated whether modern workers could replicate past strikes, citing factors like suburbanization, union decline, and the rise of digital organizing tools.
- The January 23, 2026, “No Work, No School, No Shopping” day in Minneapolis is highlighted as a near-general strike, driven by political rather than economic motives, emphasizing community solidarity.
- The article underscores the unique circumstances of the Minneapolis protests, including labor-community alliances and activism against ICE, while recognizing the broader challenges posed by legal restrictions like the Taft-Hartley Act of 1947.
- Historical examples of muted union participation in past mass actions, such as the 2006 “Day Without Immigrants” and 2011 Oakland “Day of Action,” are discussed in the context of legal risks.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Top 10 Trump News Stories: April 24, 2026
The news cycle today is dominated by the escalating maritime standoff in the Middle East and the implementation of significant domestic executive policies. Here are the top 10 stories regarding President Trump:
1. "Shoot and Kill" Order in the Strait of Hormuz
President Trump has issued a direct order to the U.S. Navy to "shoot and kill" any small Iranian boats attempting to deploy mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
2. Lebanon-Israel Ceasefire Extended
Following a high-level meeting at the White House with Lebanese and Israeli envoys, Trump announced a three-week extension of the shaky ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
3. "The Clock is Ticking" Warning to Tehran
Trump posted on social media that the U.S. is in "no rush" to end the current conflict with Iran, but warned that "the clock is ticking" for the Islamic Republic.
4. Third Aircraft Carrier Arrives in West Asia
The USS George H.W. Bush has officially arrived in the region, bringing the total number of American aircraft carriers in the area to three.
5. DEI Executive Order Implementation Begins
Starting today, Executive Order 14398 goes into effect. It requires all new federal contracts (over $15,000) to include clauses barring "racially discriminatory DEI activities."
6. Rejection of Nuclear Option
In a press briefing at the White House, Trump explicitly ruled out using nuclear weapons against Iran.
7. Proposed Education Budget Cuts
The administration is pushing a new budget proposal that includes billions in cuts to K-12 programs.
8. Conflict with the Vatican
Tensions persist between the White House and Pope Leo XIV.
9. Global Maritime Enforcement & Tanker Seizures
The Pentagon confirmed today that U.S. forces boarded the M/T Majestic X, a tanker carrying Iranian oil.
10. Domestic Political Headwinds
Despite the military maneuvers, a new Washington Week preview suggests Trump is facing "political doldrums."