TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
MAY 8, 2026
Here are the top news stories as of May 8, 2026, grouped by category. These draw from major headlines and reports circulating today.
U.S. NEWS
- Ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions and military actions: U.S. Navy destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz repelled Iranian fast-attack boats; U.S. forces struck Iranian sites in self-defense. Incidents continue amid ceasefire claims and disputes.
- Hantavirus outbreak linked to cruise ship: A cluster (multiple confirmed cases, deaths) on the MV Hondius has prompted tracking of passengers (including Americans) across states and countries. Officials emphasize it is not like COVID and spread is expected to be limited.
- Severe weather alerts in the Heartland and other domestic incidents (e.g., local shootings, searches in high-profile cases).
POLITICS
- Trump on U.S.-Iran conflict: President Trump claims the U.S. "won" aspects of the conflict, describes recent strikes as a "love tap," and pushes for a deal/framework while issuing ultimatums.
- Trade developments: Trump teases major announcements (e.g., with UK); courts strike down certain broad tariffs. Polling shows challenges for Trump/GOP.
- Immigration and domestic policy: Federal judges block or challenge Trump administration actions; debates over naturalized citizenship, retribution allegations, and surgeon general nominee.
- Other: Epstein-related documents/note releases; White House projects (e.g., ballroom costs).
WORLD AFFAIRS
- U.S.-Iran ceasefire/diplomatic push: Negotiations advance on a potential one-page memo/framework to end hostilities (nuclear moratorium, sanctions relief). Incidents persist in the Strait of Hormuz and elsewhere.
- Hantavirus cruise ship outbreak: International tracking of passengers; WHO downplays pandemic risk (rare rodent-borne virus, limited person-to-person potential).
- Other global: Conclave for new pope (first American?); regional conflicts (e.g., Gaza, Middle East); China defying some sanctions on Iranian oil.
EDUCATION
- Cyber breach of Canvas learning platform: Ransomware/group reportedly hit the widely used system, causing outages at universities and high schools (e.g., Missouri, Kansas).
- Limited major headlines today; broader stories may tie into policy debates or local issues. NEET/BPSC updates in India noted in some roundups, but U.S.-focused coverage is quieter.
ECONOMY
- Jobs data watch: April employment report (nonfarm payrolls, unemployment, wages) due today; markets sensitive amid Iran-related oil/shipping concerns.
- Tariffs and trade: Court rulings against broad Trump tariffs; potential U.S.-UK deal; China-related tensions.
- Markets and sentiment: Mixed responses to Iran news (oil prices, rallies noted in some reports); consumer sentiment data expected. Broader warnings about recession risks tied to energy routes.
TECHNOLOGY
- AI and infrastructure pushes: SpaceX plans massive $55B Terafab chip facility in Texas; Anthropic AI agents for finance; Meta/Instagram encryption changes (reports of E2E shifts sparking privacy concerns).
- Canva AI focus: Thousands of staff pause for company-wide AI immersion.
- Cyber incidents: Canvas breach; ongoing AI regulation/government vetting discussions.
HEALTH
- Hantavirus cruise ship cluster: Primary story—multiple cases/deaths; global contact tracing; WHO reassures public it's not a pandemic threat (rodent-borne, contained measures in place).
- Routine updates on other issues (e.g., surgeon general nominee hearings).
SPORTS
- NBA Playoffs: Ongoing series (e.g., Timberwolves vs. Spurs, Knicks/76ers, Lakers/Thunder matchups).
- Other: NASCAR/IndyCar practice; NRL (e.g., Dolphins); MLB games; NCAA March Madness expansion to 76 teams announced for future tournaments.
Notes: The U.S.-Iran situation and hantavirus outbreak dominate headlines. Stories evolve quickly—check reliable sources for updates. Economic data releases today could shift market-focused coverage.
- The U.S. Supreme Court recently struck down Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which required states to ensure Black voters had opportunities for representation. This decision has significant implications for redistricting in Southern states.
- The ruling rejected Louisiana’s proposal to create two majority-Black districts, setting a precedent that allows states to redraw districts based on partisan politics rather than racial considerations.
- In Tennessee, Republicans have proposed a congressional map that divides Memphis and Shelby County into three districts, diluting the influence of Black voters and likely flipping the state’s lone Democratic seat to Republican control.
- Black leaders and Democratic lawmakers in Tennessee have criticized the redistricting as a form of voter suppression reminiscent of Jim Crow-era tactics, while Republicans argue it aligns with the Supreme Court’s decision for “colorblind” redistricting.
- The redistricting efforts are part of a broader trend in Republican-led Southern states following the Supreme Court’s decision, aiming to reduce the number of districts likely to elect Black candidates or Democrats.
Should Foreign Investors Own Mainstream Media in the U.S.? https://dianeravitch.net/2026/05/07/should-foreign-investors-own-mainstream-media-in-the-u-s/ via @dianeravitch
- The lone Democrat on the FCC board, Commissioner Anna Gomez, has raised concerns about foreign investments in major U.S. media companies, specifically CBS and CNN, which could be significantly owned by foreign entities like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi if a merger is approved.
- Gomez has called for a thorough national security review of the foreign investments involved in David Ellison’s takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery, which would merge CBS News with CNN.
- Gomez expressed alarm over the potential for foreign governments with histories of press suppression and journalist silencing to own nearly half of one of the largest U.S. media companies.
Big Education Ape: WELCOME TO THE CALIFORNIA EDUCATION CIRCUS: WHERE YOUR VOTE IS THE CLOWN AND BILLIONAIRES OWN THE BIG TOP https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/welcome-to-california-education-circus.html
The article discusses California's proposed Assembly Bill AB-2117, which seeks to overhaul the state's education governance structure. It highlights the political and financial complexities surrounding the bill, including the influence of billionaires, dark money, and gubernatorial ambitions. The article also examines the potential impact of the "Children's Educational Opportunity Act" and other controversial ballot measures on public education funding and governance in California.
### Key Points
- AB-2117 proposes significant changes to California's education governance, including the creation of a Governor-appointed Education Commissioner role.
- The bill would demote the elected State Superintendent of Public Instruction to a less influential role, raising concerns about reduced voter accountability.
- The Education Commissioner would have significant powers, including approving grants, overseeing department operations, and implementing corrective actions.
- The bill aims to address governance inefficiencies, citing reports of California's fragmented educational system.
- The "Children's Educational Opportunity Act," a November 2026 ballot initiative, proposes $17,000 Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) for private, religious, or home schooling, potentially diverting $9.86 billion annually from public schools.
- Critics argue that the ESA initiative could lead to a "death spiral" for public school funding, especially in urban and rural areas.
- The California Teachers Association, urban school superintendents, and the California School Boards Association oppose AB-2117 and the ESA initiative.
- The 2026 California gubernatorial race is heavily influenced by billionaire donors, with significant sums of money being spent on campaigns and ballot measures.
- The article critiques California's political and educational systems, stating that the state operates under a libertarian ideology masked as liberalism.
- The article highlights California's historical decline in public education funding, from 5th in the nation for per-pupil spending in 1965 to 47th by 2011.
- The November 2026 ballot includes other controversial measures, such as the Billionaire Tax Act, a two-thirds vote for special taxes, and affirmative action in education.
- The article emphasizes that the changes proposed by AB-2117 and related initiatives are driven by power and financial control rather than educational improvements.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 7, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_047805043.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of various topics, including education, politics, global affairs, technology, health, and economy as of May 2026. It highlights key issues such as U.S.-Iran tensions, education reforms, AI integration in schools, public education challenges, and societal inequalities. The article also discusses controversial topics like the Trump administration's policies, attacks on public education advocates, and the state of public education funding in different states like California and Tennessee.
### Key Points
- Discussion on paying more for the best teachers and its implications.
- Debate over women’s colleges admitting transgender women.
- The role of memory and imagination in learning through play.
- Analysis of systemic issues in California's education funding system, including the impact of Proposition 13 and the rise of charter schools.
- Tennessee ranks last in school funding and prioritizes private voucher programs over public school funding.
- The Department of Justice’s indictment of the Southern Poverty Law Center for alleged donor fraud and political tensions surrounding the case.
- Senator Mark Kelly introduced legislation to roll back federal voucher programs, advocating for public school funding instead.
- Rev. Benjamin Cremer critiques the misuse of Christianity by political and religious leaders, emphasizing compassion and care for the vulnerable.
- The Trump administration paused "Project Freedom" in the Strait of Hormuz amid U.S.-Iran tensions and ongoing negotiations.
- Global energy markets are impacted by the Iran conflict, with oil prices spiking.
- AI integration in education raises concerns about inequality and its impact on teaching and learning.
- "No zero" grading policies are debated for their potential to improve student engagement while facing criticism for possibly reducing accountability.
- A retracted study on AI learning benefits highlights issues in academic research integrity.
- Literacy Leadership Summit in California discusses a five-year plan to improve literacy and biliteracy by third grade.
- USDA announces grants to support Farm to School initiatives, promoting local food systems and nutrition programs.
- The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 brings updates to school nutrition programs.
- Teachers are combating AI-generated essays by assigning in-class writing tasks and focusing on critical thinking.
- Criticism of the Unity Caucus for ageism, undemocratic practices, and marginalizing retirees in union matters.
- Attacks on Randi Weingarten, AFT president, are part of a broader campaign to undermine public education and teacher advocacy.
- The California Governor's race sees a tight competition between progressive and Republican candidates, with concerns about vote-splitting.
- U.S. national debt reaches $39 trillion, with critiques on resource allocation prioritizing corporations over public welfare.
- The U.S. is the largest arms exporter, raising ethical concerns about using weapons to promote democracy.
- Education Secretary Linda McMahon faces criticism for prioritizing workforce preparation over broader educational goals.
- UNESCO critiques over-reliance on education technology during the pandemic, advocating for a humanistic approach to education.
- Sweden and Norway shift back to traditional books and ban mobile devices in schools to combat declining literacy rates.
- Older nontraditional college students face unique challenges but bring valuable skills to their education.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 7, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-7-2026.html
U.S. news highlights a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, rising gas prices, and Ted Turner's passing. Global affairs focus on U.S.-Iran peace talks, Middle East tensions, and other geopolitical developments. Education news includes AI tools for exceptional education, a Canvas data breach, and policy shifts in screen time for students. Health updates include breakthroughs in diabetes treatment and questioning the efficacy of common knee surgeries. Sports updates cover MLB, NHL, NBA playoffs, and other events.
### Key Points
- Debate on paying higher salaries to the best teachers.
- Legal issues regarding transgender women admissions at Smith College.
- Role of memory and imagination in learning through play.
- Concerns over the Department of Justice's actions benefiting Michael Flynn.
- Hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship and updates from WHO.
- Rising gas prices due to Middle East tensions and oil market volatility.
- Ted Turner's passing and reflections on his legacy.
- Progress in U.S.-Iran peace talks and related geopolitical developments.
- Canvas data breach affecting millions of students worldwide.
- AI advancements in education for children requiring speech and language services.
- Policy shifts to reduce screen time in classrooms for K–3 students.
- Diabetes reversal research using lab-grown stem cells.
- Questioning the efficacy of common meniscus surgeries.
- Sports updates including MLB, NHL, NBA playoffs, and Champions League final.
Big Education Ape: FROM GOLD RUSH TO GOLD BUST: HOW CALIFORNIA FUMBLED ITS EDUCATION CROWN IN 50 YEARS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/from-gold-rush-to-gold-bust-how.html
The article provides an in-depth analysis of the historical and current state of California's education funding system. It traces the decline of California's once-envied public school system due to systemic issues such as inequitable property tax-based funding, the Serrano v. Priest ruling, Proposition 13, and the rise of charter schools fueled by billionaire philanthropy. Despite recent improvements in education funding and teacher salaries, the article highlights significant challenges, including inflation, cost of living, and structural underinvestment relative to California's economic capacity. The upcoming November 2026 ballot measures are poised to have a critical impact on the future of education funding in California.
### Key Points
- California had one of the most well-funded and respected public school systems in the 1960s, ranking 5th in the nation for per-pupil spending.
- Inequities in the property tax-based school funding system led to the 1971 Serrano v. Priest ruling, which deemed the system unconstitutional and initiated a shift in funding models.
- Proposition 13, passed in 1978, capped property taxes and drastically reduced local property tax revenue, causing a significant decline in school funding and leading to state-level control of school finances.
- California's national education funding rank dropped from 5th in 1965 to 47th by 2011, reflecting decades of underfunding.
- Billionaire philanthropists like Bill Gates, Eli Broad, and Reed Hastings invested heavily in charter schools, promoting privatization and competition in public education, which led to mixed outcomes and further fragmentation of the education system.
- Poverty remains a major factor affecting educational outcomes in California, exacerbated by the historical reliance on property taxes for school funding.
- The Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), implemented in 2013, aimed to address funding inequities by providing more resources to high-poverty districts, leading to gradual improvement in California's education funding rankings.
- Despite nominal increases in per-pupil spending and teacher salaries, California's cost of living and inflation reduce the real impact of these improvements.
- California's education funding still lags behind its economic capacity, with the state spending less per student than New York despite having the 4th largest GDP in the world.
- Upcoming November 2026 ballot measures, including the "Save Prop 13" initiative and Initiative 1983, could significantly impact school funding by restricting revenue generation through property taxes and local special taxes.
- The Education Law Center's "Making the Grade 2025" report highlights California's progressive funding distribution but criticizes its overall funding effort relative to its wealth. The national trend in school funding equity is also deteriorating.
- The article concludes that California's historical and ongoing choices reflect a failure to prioritize investment in its children and their education, despite the state's significant economic resources.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 6, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01276263649.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of current global, political, educational, technological, and social issues as of May 6, 2026. Key topics include escalating U.S.-Iran tensions, economic challenges, education reforms, AI integration in schools, and the state of public education. It highlights the effects of these issues on energy markets, geopolitics, education equity, and societal inequalities while emphasizing the need for ethical governance and support for educators and students.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 6, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-6-2026.html
Big Education Ape provides a roundup of top news and blog posts from May 6, 2026, covering various topics including education, politics, world affairs, economy, technology, health, and sports. Key stories include the global energy crisis due to the Strait of Hormuz blockade, advancements in education policies like AI integration and foundational skills mandates, and updates on political and economic developments.
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: 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.
The “Birth Lottery” Shows Your Possible Life Trajectory If You Were Born In A Different Country Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
- The blog provides a range of educational resources, including teacher evaluation insights, historical tools like the "War Atlas," and research on Value Added Measurements.
- Highlights include resources for Social Studies instruction, Mother’s Day teaching materials, and the "Dogme" approach to English language teaching.
- Google launched a hub with resources celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S., and the author is co-hosting a webinar on supporting English Language Learners (ELLs).
- The author offers books and resources with research-based instructional strategies for various subjects, including Social Studies, English, Math, Science, and ELL classrooms.
- Additional offerings include parental involvement strategies, student motivation techniques, classroom management Q&A, original lesson plans for ELLs, and curated educational content for platforms like the New York Times Learning Network.
One Big Beautiful Bill’s Child Tax Credit Still Leaves America’s Poorest Children Far Behind https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/05/07/48544/ via @janresseger
### Key Points
- The U.S. Child Tax Credit was made fully refundable in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic but reverted to its previous structure in 2022, excluding the poorest families.
- Under the "One Big Beautiful Bill," the Child Tax Credit increased to $2,200 per child but maintained income-based restrictions, barring many low-income families from receiving full benefits.
- Nearly 30% of U.S. children, including 99% of those in the poorest fifth of families, are ineligible for the full CTC due to income thresholds. This disproportionately affects Black, Hispanic, and Native American children, as well as families with very young children.
- Families with younger children face additional barriers to receiving the full CTC due to lower parental earnings, as younger parents often earn less and may temporarily leave the workforce for childcare.
- Federal policies like SNAP and TANF exempt parents of young children from work requirements, but the CTC imposes an earnings-based phase-in formula that penalizes these families.
- Experts recommend passing the American Family Act, which would provide a more equitable CTC, significantly reduce child poverty, and close opportunity gaps for the poorest families.
- Child poverty and systemic inequality are major drivers of opportunity gaps in education, with U.S. children facing greater intergenerational poverty compared to other Western democracies.
glen brown: "The Department of Justice’s grift store for friends and supporters of the president, laying a solid foundation for settlement payouts, should be an affront to every taxpayer in America" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/05/the-department-of-justices-grift-store.html
The article explores various issues tied to political and social dynamics, focusing on corruption within the Trump administration, misuse of taxpayer funds, and systemic injustices. It highlights settlements paid to Trump allies, the pardoning of January 6 rioters, and lawsuits involving the Trump family. The article critiques the Department of Justice's actions, contrasting them with the struggles of wrongly convicted individuals seeking compensation. It concludes by emphasizing the erosion of public trust due to governmental conflicts of interest and perceived corruption.
### Key Points
- The Department of Justice provided settlements to Trump allies like Michael Flynn and Carter Page, raising concerns about misuse of taxpayer funds.
- January 6 rioters were pardoned, absolved of restitution obligations, and some even sued the government for damages, with potential future settlements expected.
- The article contrasts the treatment of Trump allies with the lack of compensation for exonerated prisoners who were wrongly convicted.
- Trump and his family have pursued lawsuits against the IRS, seeking billions in settlements, further highlighting issues of public corruption and conflicts of interest.
- The Department of Justice under Trump is criticized for prioritizing loyalty and personal benefit over accountability, undermining public trust in governance.
Shanker Blog: When “Success” Leaves Students Behind: How Market-Based Schools Exclude Students with Disabilities | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/shanker-blog-when-success-leaves-students-behind-how-market-based-schools-exclude-students
- The article critiques market-based education reforms, particularly charter and private schools, for systematically excluding students with disabilities through tactics like "cream-skimming," counseling out, and restrictive admissions policies.
- Charter schools often prioritize students who are on the verge of improving standardized test scores ("cuspers") over those with significant academic challenges, leading to inequitable education practices.
- Private schools legally deny admission to students with disabilities and require parents to forfeit federally mandated IDEA rights, creating barriers to equitable access and support.
- Research highlights that charter schools de-identify students with disabilities, reducing their access to necessary services like Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), which impacts long-term opportunities.
- The push for market-based schools under the guise of "educational freedom" and "parent choice" often undermines the rights and educational outcomes of students with disabilities.
- Systemic change is essential to redefine educational success beyond narrow academic metrics and ensure equitable access and support for all students, particularly those with disabilities.
Poem: grounded (these lies you must come to terms with) Red Rocks, Morrison, CO PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/poem-grounded-these-lies-you-must
- The poem "grounded (these lies you must come to terms with)" by P.L. Thomas explores themes of oppression, societal lies, and the weight of expectations, urging readers to confront these falsehoods.
- P.L. Thomas is a Professor of Education, poetry editor, and 2013 George Orwell Award winner, with work focusing on education, literacy, and critical thinking.
- The "Science of Reading" movement is critiqued for its issues with comprehension and the effectiveness of its methods, as highlighted in recent research and media discussions.
- Educational policies like LETRS are questioned for their cost-effectiveness and alignment with actual instructional needs, as they often fail to deliver on promises.
Poem: we sleep (a restless night in new york) Prospect Park, Brooklyn, NY PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/poem-we-sleep-a-restless-night-in
- The article features a poem titled "we sleep (a restless night in new york)" by Paul Thomas, reflecting on themes of memory, dreams, and humanity.
- Paul Thomas, a Professor of Education and poetry editor for English Journal, is an advocate for open-access content and invites readers to support his work through donations.
- The "Science of Reading" movement is critiqued for its issues with comprehension, particularly the difference between improving test-specific comprehension versus broader standardized comprehension.
- A discussion is presented on the inefficiency of certain reading instruction programs, such as LETRS, which highlights problems in applying research to educational policy and instructional practices.
Poem: The 451 App (22 August 2022) "So! A book is a loaded gun in the house next door. Burn it." Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451 PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/poem-the-451-app-22-august-2022
- The article references a poem titled "The 451 App," inspired by Ray Bradbury's *Fahrenheit 451*, which describes a mysterious app that wiped out all eBooks on August 22, 2022, symbolizing the loss of knowledge and literature.
- The author, P.L. Thomas, is a professor of education and poetry editor, known for his contributions to education and literature, and was awarded the 2013 George Orwell Award.
- The author critiques the "Science of Reading" movement, emphasizing its flaws in comprehension improvement and questioning the effectiveness of certain reading instruction policies, such as LETRS.
Curmudgucation Should We Pay More For The Best Teachers? PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/should-we-pay-more-for-the-best-teachers?
- Teacher Appreciation Week is being celebrated, with the National PTA offering a free Celebration Toolkit including thank-you cards and certificates. Many retailers are also providing discounts and freebies for teachers.
- Traditional gifts like coffee mugs, candy, and chocolates remain popular, but personal notes of appreciation are highly valued by teachers. These notes can serve as meaningful reminders of their impact on students.
- Sending a note to a former teacher of your child can carry extra significance, as it shows genuine gratitude beyond immediate benefits.
Curmudgucation Beware Studies Of “Student Achievement” From Forbes.com PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/beware-studies-of-student-achievement
- The article critiques the vague and often misleading definitions of "student achievement" and "teacher effectiveness," emphasizing that these terms are often reduced to standardized test scores in reading and math.
- Studies cited, such as those on phone bans and growth mindset, show limited or no impact on improving student achievement, challenging the effectiveness of such measures.
- The use of "value-added" metrics (VAM or VAAS) to evaluate teacher performance is criticized as unreliable and based on flawed methodologies.
- The author argues for reframing the education debate to focus on individual student needs rather than aggregate test-based measures, contrasting it with adversarial framing of the issue.
Curmudgucation For Retiring Teachers PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/for-retiring-teachers
- Retiring teachers should celebrate their career achievements and not shy away from making some noise on their way out.
- It’s important for retired teachers to find new projects or activities to keep their minds engaged post-retirement.
- Adjusting to the different pace of life in retirement can be challenging, as "teacher time" is vastly different from "retiree time."
- Social and emotional adjustments are necessary after retirement, as the daily interactions with students and colleagues will no longer be a constant.
- Maintaining social connections post-retirement requires deliberate effort, as workplace interactions will naturally diminish.
- Retired teachers have valuable skills and experiences that can benefit others, whether through volunteering, advocacy, or other forms of contribution.
- While retired teachers may miss the rewarding aspects of teaching, they likely won’t miss the bureaucratic challenges and administrative burdens.
- Retired teachers may still experience "teacher dreams" or nightmares, but they eventually realize these are just remnants of their past work life.
Teacher Tom: The Role of Memory and Imagination in Learning Through Play https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/05/the-role-of-memory-and-imagination-in.html
### Key Points
- Children use memory and imagination to expand their knowledge through play.
- Memory and imagination are intertwined, with both processes involving the brain constructing stories.
- Imaginative play strengthens memory formation and fosters problem-solving and knowledge transfer.
- Play-based learning aligns with how memory and imagination naturally function, contrasting with the limitations of rote memorization in traditional education.
- The girl's play demonstrates the iterative process of learning through experimentation and collaboration.
- Imaginative experiences in play carry emotional weight, which enhances learning and memory.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: This and That, May 7, 2026 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/05/this-and-that-may-7-2026.html?spref=tw
Key Content & Policy Updates
Identification Requirement: The author reiterates a long-standing rule that comments will not be published without a specific name or moniker. Anonymous submissions are disregarded.
AI-Generated Video Restrictions: A new policy has been introduced regarding AI-generated media. The author will not link to AI-generated videos unless the creator is identified.
This decision stems from a recent submission regarding issues at Interagency Academy and its principal.
While AI-generated voices are acceptable, the author must know the source to ensure content coherence and to mitigate legal risks.
Verification: Readers are encouraged to disclose their identity privately via email if they wish to share such media without a public name.
Contextual Background
The page also highlights popular historical posts that reflect the blog's focus on Seattle Public Schools (SPS):
Governance & Boundaries: Discussions on
Board meeting speaker lists District Accountability: Critiques of
nepotism within the district Advanced Learning: Support for
Director Geary's
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
As of today, May 8, 2026, news regarding President Trump is dominated by heightened military tensions in the Middle East and legal setbacks for his administration's trade policies.
Top 10 Trump News Stories: May 8, 2026
Strait of Hormuz Naval Clash: President Trump reported that three U.S. Navy destroyers came under fire while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
He stated that "great damage" was done to the Iranian attackers, while no American ships were harmed. The "Love Tap" Retaliation: In an interview with ABC News, the President characterized the recent U.S. strikes against Iranian targets as a "love tap," maintaining that the fragile ceasefire remains "in effect" despite the exchange of fire.
Global Tariff Invalidation: A federal trade court ruled against Trump’s 10% global tariffs, finding them unjustified under the 1974 Trade Act.
The ruling is a significant blow to the administration’s "affordability" and trade deficit strategy. "Project Freedom" Shelved: Reports indicate the President has halted "Project Freedom"—a plan to use military escorts for oil tankers—after Saudi Arabia reportedly denied the U.S. use of its bases and airspace for the operation.
Lincoln Memorial "Blue Coating" Controversy: During a visit to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Trump defended the installation of a new blue protective filament as part of a renovation project, dismissing critics of the aesthetic change.
Military Spouse Day Proclamation: The White House officially proclaimed May 8, 2026, as Military Spouse Day, with the President praising the resilience of families during his administration's ongoing military engagements.
Threat of "Higher Level" Strikes: While insisting he wants a peace deal, Trump warned that if Iran does not sign a deal "FAST," the U.S. will respond more violently, stating, "You're just going to have to look at one big glow coming out of Iran."
Vatican Relations Tensions: Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pope Leo in Rome to ease tensions following the President's repeated public criticisms of the Pontiff.
FEMA Review Board Recommendations: A Trump-appointed review board released new recommendations for overhauling FEMA’s disaster response protocols, sparking debate over the future of federal emergency aid.
Midterm Primary Influence: Election results from Indiana and Ohio primaries continue to underscore Trump's "pull" within the Republican Party as the 2026 midterm battle lines are drawn.
Quick Stats: The Iran War Economy
| Metric | Pre-War | Current (May 8) |
| Brent Crude Oil | ~$70/barrel | $100/barrel |
| Strait of Hormuz Status | Open | Closed (per Lloyd's List) |
