TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
MARCH 12, 2026
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The dominant global story is the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, now in its second week or so, with escalating airstrikes, shipping attacks, and related threats. Other areas reflect domestic U.S. policy shifts, economic pressures, and sector-specific updates.
U.S. News
- Intensified U.S. airstrikes on Iran — The Pentagon describes recent days as the "most intense" of strikes, with at least 140 U.S. service members wounded so far in the conflict.
- FBI warnings and domestic threats — Alerts about potential Iranian drone attacks on the U.S. West Coast (e.g., California), plus incidents like a U.S. consulate in Toronto hit by gunfire and FBI actions on terror-related plots.
- Severe weather alerts — Over 100 million people from Texas to the Northeast under warnings for storms, tornadoes, and related damage.
- Ongoing investigations — Searches tied to historical figures like Jeffrey Epstein's properties, amid broader criminal probes.
Politics
- Trump administration's mixed messages on Iran war — Conflicting statements from President Trump on timelines, troop involvement, and endgame, with no interest in ground troops emphasized by some allies like Sen. Rick Scott.
- Federal government and bureaucracy changes — Efforts to break up the Department of Education bureaucracy, with partnerships shifting programs and potential cuts or restructurings.
- Tariffs and trade impacts — Discussions around steel/aluminum tariffs (from prior implementations) and economic policy under Trump, amid polls showing mixed public views on stewardship.
- SAVE Act and voting reforms — Ongoing debates about election overhauls and related concerns.
World Affairs
- U.S.-Israeli war on Iran escalates — Day 12+ of operations, with U.S. strikes, Iran attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz (disrupting 20% of global oil), and threats to shipping; potential for special forces deployment to secure enriched uranium.
- Iran's retaliatory actions — Attacks on vessels, drone threats, and broader regional impacts, including effects on East Africa economies from fuel price spikes.
- Related conflicts — Continued Israeli actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon; NATO intercepts involving Iranian missiles near Turkey.
- Ukraine ceasefire talks paused — U.S. attention shifts to Iran, delaying progress on Ukraine-Russia peace efforts.
Education
- Department of Education restructuring — Additional interagency partnerships to reduce federal bureaucracy, returning more control to states; moves to splinter programs (e.g., to Labor Department).
- Nutrition education push — Commitments from medical schools for expanded training, tied to HHS and MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) initiatives.
- AI and tech in schools — Discussions on cautious use of AI, plus concerns over student loan limits affecting educators.
- Grant funding and priorities — Updates on federal/state grants for K-12 tech investments in 2026.
Economy
- Oil price spikes from Iran conflict — Disruptions in Strait of Hormuz driving up fuel costs, with potential for prolonged inflation if war drags on.
- Mixed economic signals — Slower GDP growth late 2025 into 2026, job losses in some sectors, and no immediate boom despite promises; gasoline prices rising nationally.
- Tariffs' ongoing effects — Court rulings invalidating some emergency powers for tariffs; muted inflation impacts so far, but concerns persist.
- Labor market data — Upcoming jobless claims and related indicators watched closely amid Fed rate expectations.
Technology
- AI chip developments — Meta announcing new AI chips (MTIA series) for its platforms; startups like Cursor in high-valuation talks.
- Corporate shifts — Google spinning off GFiber (fiber business) to focus on AI; NTT DATA recognized for SAP/AI services.
- Edge AI advancements — Ceva's NeuPro-Nano NPU winning awards for efficient on-device AI.
- Microsoft and AI integrations — Updates on Copilot tools incorporating models like Claude.
Health
- Nutrition in medical education — Major initiative for more training in med schools, linked to chronic disease prevention and MAHA agenda.
- Preventive health panels — Postponements of U.S. Preventive Services Task Force meetings, impacting guidelines on screenings.
- Dental/ER trends — Rising kids' ER visits for tooth pain, amid cuts and debates over fluoride.
- Broader research — Studies on estrogen/hypertension, mammograms predicting heart risk, and biological age gaps reducing stroke odds.
Sports
- World Baseball Classic (WBC) action — Standout performances, like Italian players hitting home runs; U.S. team implications in tiebreakers.
- NBA highlights — Bam Adebayo referenced for past March Madness feats at Kentucky, with current league buzz.
- College basketball — March Madness buildup, with regular season wrapping and bracket implications.
- Other notes — NFL free agency chatter (e.g., player extensions/trades), plus cricket/T20 World Cup prize money distributions.
These reflect the major headlines circulating today, heavily influenced by the Iran conflict's ripple effects across multiple areas. Stay safe and informed!
Federal Judge Declares Trump Choice of Three Prosecutors to be Illegal https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/11/federal-judge-declares-trump-choice-of-three-prosecutors-to-be-illegal/ via @dianeravitch
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is significantly increasing funding for the state’s school voucher program, Arkansas LEARNS, which allows public funds to be used for private, religious, and homeschool tuition. Critics argue that this policy primarily benefits affluent families, diverts resources from public schools, and creates unsustainable budget obligations. The program's cost has rapidly escalated, with lawmakers repeatedly approving additional funds to cover shortfalls. This trend mirrors similar outcomes in states like Arizona and Florida, raising concerns about long-term financial impacts.
### Key Points
- Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is prioritizing increased funding for school vouchers, benefiting private and religious school students, many of whom never attended public schools.
- The Arkansas LEARNS voucher program's budget for 2026-27 is set at $379 million, a significant rise from the previous $187 million allocation.
- Critics warn that the voucher system drains public school resources, creates new taxpayer burdens, and disproportionately benefits wealthier families.
- The program's costs have consistently exceeded initial budgets, necessitating additional funding and raising concerns about financial sustainability.
Dr. Mike DeGuire: The Public Doesn't Want Vouchers. Why Are They Spreading? https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/11/dr-mike-deguire-the-public-doesnt-want-vouchers-why-are-they-spreading/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Vouchers are primarily claimed by affluent families whose children already attend private schools, serving as a subsidy rather than expanding educational access.
- Billionaire-funded networks promote privatization through misleading messaging, lobbying, and political spending, aiming to dismantle public education systems.
- The federal tax credit program supports SGOs, allowing taxpayers to reduce liability while funding scholarships for private and religious schools.
- Voucher programs lack voter approval and are enacted through legislative pressure from well-funded lobbying groups.
- Communities are urged to resist privatization by advocating for transparency, opting out of voucher schemes, and supporting fully funded public schools.
Ohio: "Center for Christian Virtue" Starts Schools, Draws on Public Funds https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/11/ohio-center-for-christian-virtue-starts-schools-draws-on-public-funds/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- In Ohio, public funds are being directed to private religious organizations like the Center for Christian Virtue (CCV), despite the state constitution prohibiting funding for religious schools.
- CCV operates a lobbying effort and a $3.2 million Scholarship Granting Organization to funnel taxpayer money into private schools, which are unaccountable and ineffective.
- CCV uses public subsidies to open "schools" within churches, claiming to have established 15 such schools, with questionable educational outcomes.
- One of these schools, Westside Preparatory, tested only 25 students, with just 9 achieving proficiency in math and reading, despite receiving $2 million in public subsidies.
- The schools’ performance has declined, with math scores dropping significantly, raising concerns about the quality of education provided.
- Critics argue that CCV's operations resemble past schemes by organizations like White Hat, where public funds were diverted to private entities for political and financial gain.
- The initiative is seen as a strategy to undermine public education while benefiting CCV financially, with little transparency on how funds are used.
### Key Points
- Glen Brown's blog highlights his perspectives on education, pensions, social justice, and political issues.
- He critiques pension reforms in Illinois, arguing they lack legal and moral justification and violate constitutional protections.
- His writings address broader societal issues, including American politics, international conflicts, environmental concerns, and cultural reflections.
- Glen Brown also shares personal reflections, poetry, and commentary on current events, blending his artistic voice with activism.
Paul Thomas: Presentations, Professional Development, Webinars, and Consulting PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/paul-thomas-presentations-professional
- Paul Thomas is available for presentations, professional development, webinars, and consulting (both in-person and virtual) during May, June, July 2026, and beyond.
- Sample topics for presentations include reading crises, the "Science of Reading" movement, and education reform critiques.
- Paul Thomas highlights research contradicting the media narrative around the "Science of Reading" movement.
- The "Science of Reading" movement is criticized for its comprehension issues and reliance on narrowly designed tests.
- Traditional and social media have perpetuated the "bad teacher" myth over the years.
- Paul Thomas is a professor of education at Furman University, an award-winning educator, and poetry editor for the English Journal.
- Contact details for fees, scheduling, and donations are provided.
Teacher Tom: The Universal Language https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/03/the-universal-language.html
### Key Points
- Movement is a universal language shared by all living beings, essential for expressing emotions, intentions, and subconscious communication beyond verbal language.
- Humans are naturally adept at reading body language, even from subtle cues like facial expressions, eye movements, and posture, with young children being particularly skilled.
- Preschool educators rely heavily on interpreting children's body language to understand their needs, emotions, and states of being, as verbal communication is often insufficient.
- Body language is harder to manipulate than verbal communication, as it often reveals subconscious truths. Children may lie with words but not with their bodies.
- Adults should practice self-awareness by observing their own body language to understand their emotions and what they unconsciously communicate to others, including children.
- The article offers additional resources for educators, including free tools and insights into play-based learning, and provides details about the author's professional services.
Hate Definitely Has a Home Here Who can help our kids to see beyond hate? NANCY FLANAGAN https://flanagann.substack.com/p/hate-definitely-has-a-home-here
- The article reflects on the troubling state of American politics and society, highlighting widespread dishonesty, divisiveness, and the challenges faced by educators in teaching truth amidst censorship.
- Teacher morale has declined significantly, with a survey showing low positivity among educators, though some states fare better than others.
- The book *Paper Girl: A Memoir of Home and Family in a Fractured America* by Beth Macy explores the struggles of Midwestern towns, the role of teachers as community pillars, and the societal factors that lead people to support deceitful leaders.
- Macy's memoir delves into personal family stories, societal despair, and the cultural factors contributing to division and hate in America.
- The book discusses the decline of empathy, the impact of economic and social disparities, and the rise of divisive political and religious rhetoric.
- Readers of the book have mixed reactions, with some appreciating its insights into societal issues, while others criticize its call for dialogue with those holding opposing views.
- The author notes Macy’s candidacy for Congress and her commitment to addressing democratic damage, as well as her recognition of teachers' dedication to truth and student welfare.
- The article concludes with a personal anecdote about combating hate locally, inspired by a neighbor’s advocacy for unity and tolerance.
The Great Screen Debate PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/the-great-screen-debate
### Key Points
- The author's family limited screen exposure for their children, emphasizing reading, play, and minimal tech use.
- Ed tech initiatives in schools vary in effectiveness, with some programs being wasteful or harmful.
- The author acknowledges benefits of certain tech tools but notes many districts fail to evaluate their true educational value.
- Concerns about screen addiction, ad exposure, and tech companies' motives in education are raised.
- The author challenges claims that ed tech is essential for future readiness and criticizes the industry's marketing tactics.
- Lawmakers are considering restrictions on screens in schools, reflecting growing concerns about their impact on learning.
- Studies and teacher anecdotes suggest screens may harm focus and learning outcomes, aligning with test score dips during digital adoption.
- The ed tech industry's history of over-promising and under-delivering is critiqued, with warnings about new AI-driven tools.
How Did This Happen??? The backlash against edtech and a curious case of collective amnesia JENNIFER BERKSHIRE https://educationwars.substack.com/p/how-did-this-happen
How Did This Happen??? The backlash against edtech and a curious case of collective amnesia Jennifer Berkshire Mar 11, 2026 6 3 3 Share Stories about parents rebelling against big tech are everywhere right now. They’re sick of the screens, the hoovering up of their children’s data, and they view AI and its rapid incursion into schools as a menace, not a ‘co-pilot’ for their kids’ education. This is a positive development, in my humble opinion, especially since the backlash against the tech takeover of schools crosses partisan lines. Meanwhile, pundits and hot takers are weighing in, declaring the era of edtech, not just a failure , but the cause of our failing schools. Which raises a not insignificant question. Now that everyone who is anyone agrees that handing schools over to Silicon Valley was big and costly mistake, how did the nation’s teachers and students end up on the receiving end of this experiment in the first
### Key Points
- Parents and educators are rebelling against the dominance of edtech in schools, criticizing its role in data collection, overuse of screens, and the increasing influence of AI in education.
- The push for "personalized learning" during the Obama era and the influence of Silicon Valley led to a tech-centric approach in education, driven by profit motives and a misunderstanding of teaching and learning.
- Edtech initiatives, such as Rocketship charter schools and other tech-focused programs, prioritized cost-cutting and technological solutions over traditional teaching methods, often at the expense of quality education.
- Reformers, backed by philanthropists and tech giants, promoted technology as a solution to outdated education systems, but this approach has faced significant backlash as test scores and educational outcomes have declined.
- The current backlash against edtech reflects growing skepticism about its effectiveness and concerns over its impact on students, with increasing calls for re-evaluating its role in schools.
The Science of POOR Kindergarten Reading Instruction - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2026/03/11/the-science-of-poor-kindergarten-reading-instruction/
The article critiques the push for standardized reading instruction in kindergarten, arguing it neglects child development, age, and disabilities, leading to ineffective teaching. Observations of classrooms reveal rigid, scripted lessons that fail to engage children, likening them to "tiny soldiers" performing monotonous tasks. The author questions the focus on skill acquisition and standardization, suggesting it may contribute to poor test scores and unnecessary pressure on children and parents.
### Key Points
- The article criticizes the push for standardized, rigorous reading instruction in kindergarten, arguing it disregards children's developmental stages, disabilities, and interests.
- Observations of kindergarten classrooms reveal highly standardized, repetitive lessons focused on phonics, syllable clapping, and writing, which often confuse children and fail to engage them meaningfully.
- The author notes that letter reversals and developmental delays are normal for young children and questions whether rigid instruction contributes to poor test scores.
- The emphasis on early reading skills through drills, without considering individual pacing or engagement, is deemed ineffective and developmentally inappropriate.
- The article advocates for a more balanced approach, including play, social skills, and tailored instruction to meet diverse developmental needs.
- Personal anecdotes from commenters highlight the negative impacts of forcing early reading and the importance of respecting developmental readiness.
Schools Matter: The Poisoning of ASCD Is Part of the Tech Bros’ K-12 Takeover Plans http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/03/the-poisoning-of-ascd-is-part-of-tech.html
- Parents are reducing screen time at home but are facing challenges with increased screen use in schools.
- Some kindergartners are given iPads in class, where they use them to play games and watch videos, raising concerns among parents.
- Excessive screen time is linked to negative effects on children, such as anxiety, depression, delayed social skills, obesity, eye strain, and reduced attention spans.
- Schools that increased technology use during the pandemic have largely continued these practices, with 81% of elementary teachers reporting device use starting in kindergarten.
- Parents and experts worry schools are relying too heavily on screens for teaching, entertainment, and classroom management.
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Announces 2026 Model Community Day Schools https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr26/yr26rel14.asp
### Key Points
- State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announced three schools as 2026 Model Community Day Schools for their commitment to students facing challenges such as expulsion, attendance, or behavioral issues.
- The MCDS Recognition Program, a partnership between the California Department of Education (CDE) and CCEA Plus, highlights schools that excel in educating "the whole child" through academics, social-emotional learning, and mental health support.
- Selected schools are designated as MCDSs for three years, act as resources for other districts, and must submit annual compliance assurances.
- Aggeler Community Day School focuses on structured academics, professional development, and fostering healing and belonging through creative expressions like student-created murals.
- Carr Lake Community Day School emphasizes cultural relevance, meaningful experiences, and compassionate responses to student needs, fostering growth and dignity.
- Santa Clara Community Day School integrates academics, social-emotional learning, and real-world programs, such as rap music for English credit and farm-based learning, supported by community partnerships.
A Key Question About AI AI is here - what are schools doing about it? ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/a-key-question-about-ai
- A Pew Research Center report highlights that most U.S. teens are already using AI tools such as chatbots for schoolwork and research.
- The focus for educators and librarians is shifting from debating AI's place in education to teaching students how to use it responsibly.
- The article references broader discussions on education funding and teacher compensation, including Tennessee's struggles with school funding and teacher pay.
Choosing Democracy: Create Domestic Terrorism _ Like the NAZIs did https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/03/create-domestic-terrorism-like-nazis-did.html
### Key Points
- The article discusses the potential for a water war in the Middle East due to desalinization plants being targeted, and the role of U.S. actions in escalating conflicts.
- It highlights the rise of domestic terrorism in the U.S., particularly from right-wing groups, and the divisive impact of the war on American politics.
- The Trump administration's pro-Kremlin stance, reduced focus on counter-terrorism, and tolerance of Russian interference are criticized.
- Concerns are raised about the lack of qualified leadership in key national security positions, as well as the prioritization of political loyalty over competence.
- The administration’s narrative focusing on immigrants as a threat is seen as a diversion from addressing real terrorism risks.
- The article warns against the exploitation of a potential terrorist attack to justify authoritarian measures, drawing parallels to historical examples of tyranny.
- The responsibility to safeguard democracy lies with the public, who must remain vigilant and not succumb to manipulated panic or surprise.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, March 11, 2026, the news cycle is dominated by the ongoing military conflict with Iran and several significant domestic policy shifts as the Trump administration prepares for the midterm elections.
🌍 Foreign Policy: Conflict with Iran
The 12-day-old war with Iran remains the top story.
War Status: Trump claimed the U.S. has "hit them harder than virtually any country in history" and insisted the U.S. is winning.
However, critics and some senators have raised concerns over the lack of a clear "exit strategy." Shipping & Threats: Suspected Iranian drones hit three ships in the Strait of Hormuz overnight.
In response to Iran’s threats to target U.S.-linked banks, Trump threatened to attack Iran "twenty times harder" if oil flows are stopped. Controversy: The President deflected questions regarding a military investigation into the bombing of a school in Iran, stating he "didn't know about" reports suggesting U.S. responsibility.
🗳️ Domestic Policy & Midterm Strategy
President Trump is leaning heavily into election integrity and social issues as a strategy for the upcoming midterms.
Voting Legislation: Trump is pushing for the SAVE America Act, which includes strict national voter ID laws and a ban on mail-in ballots.
He reportedly told House Republicans that passing this bill is the only way to "guarantee" they keep their majority. Legislative Ultimatums: In a bold move, the President has threatened not to sign any other legislation until his requested voting changes are passed, potentially bringing Congressional work to a standstill.
⚖️ Immigration & Legal Battles
TPS for Haitians: The administration has asked the Supreme Court to allow it to end the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian nationals, following a federal judge's block on the termination.
ICE Enforcement: DHS released reports today highlighting a 125-year low in the murder rate, crediting recent high-profile arrests by ICE of "criminal illegal aliens" for the trend.
🏛️ Regulatory & Economic Updates
"Trump Accounts": The IRS issued new proposals for "Trump Accounts," tax-advantaged savings and investment accounts for children under 18, intended as a wealth-building tool for American families.
DEI Lawsuit: New York Attorney General Letitia James, leading a coalition of 17 states, sued the administration today over a new federal mandate requiring colleges to report detailed student and admissions data, which she claims is a "witch hunt" targeting DEI initiatives.
Trade: Senators Mike Crapo and Ron Wyden called on the President to prioritize U.S. potato exports to Japan ahead of an upcoming visit from the Japanese Prime Minister.
