ARMING TEACHERS: DO YOU FEEL SAFE? WELL, DO YA, PUNK?

 ARMING TEACHERS

DO YOU FEEL SAFE? WELL, DO YA, PUNK?

School shootings are a terrifying reality in the US. It's like playing Russian Roulette when you send your child to school. Will they come home safe or will they be caught in the crossfire of a mass shooting? It's a question that no parent should have to ask, but sadly, it's become a part of our daily lives.

In response to these tragedies, some people have suggested that arming teachers would be a way to prevent or stop future attacks. But let's be real here, do we really want to give our teachers guns? I mean, have you ever seen a teacher try to use a projector? It's like watching a monkey try to use a typewriter.

According to a recent survey conducted by the National Education Association (NEA), 54% of teachers said they believe that arming teachers would make schools less safe. Only 23% said they believe that arming teachers would make schools more safe, while 22% said they were unsure. 

And let's not forget about the potential for accidents. Teachers are already responsible for the safety of their students, and adding guns to the mix could make it more likely that someone would be injured or killed by mistake. For example, a teacher could accidentally fire their gun, or a student could get hold of their gun and use it against themselves or others. 

Arming teachers is like giving a toddler a chainsaw. It might seem like a good idea at first, but it's bound to end badly. Let's focus on giving our teachers the tools they need to educate and inspire our children, not turn them into Rambo.

But if we're going to arm teachers, let's arm them with books, pencils, and love. Because at the end of the day, that's what our children really need. Not guns, but love and support from the people who are supposed to guide them through their formative years.

The survey results suggest that most US teachers think schools would be less safe if they were armed. This is a significant finding, as it suggests that there is little public support for this policy among the people who would be directly affected by it. If policymakers are serious about making schools safer, they should listen to the voices of teachers, and focus on other measures, such as improving school security and providing more mental health support for students.

So let's put down the guns and pick up the books. Let's focus on educating our children and providing them with a safe and nurturing environment. Because at the end of the day, that's what really matters.

Arming teachers: Most say schools would be less safe if they had guns https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/05/31/arming-teachers-most-say-schools-would-be-less-safe-if-they-had-guns/70258290007/ 

Big Education Ape: CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2023: YOU DIDN'T DIE AT SCHOOL, SOME DID http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/05/congratulations-class-of-2023-you-didnt.html 

Big Education Ape: REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIVES LOST: UVALDE SHOOTING http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/05/remembering-and-honoring-lives-lost.html 

Big Education Ape: UVALDE - ONE YEAR LATER: PREVIEWS OF COMING ATTRACTIONS http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/05/uvalde-one-year-later-previews-of.html

THE IRONY OF THE WOKE CHICKEN

THE IRONY OF THE WOKE CHICKEN

Chick-fil-A is in hot water with some of its conservative customers after announcing the hiring of a vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). It seems that some folks are not too happy about the fast-food chain's efforts to create a more diverse and inclusive work environment. Who knew that chicken sandwiches could be so controversial?

The irony of Chick-fil-A's DEI leader has sparked calls for a boycott, with many conservatives accusing the company of "going woke" and betraying its Christian values. But is this really the case, or are people just overreacting?

Let's take a deep dive into this chicken sandwich drama and see if we can't find some humor in the situation.

First things first, what exactly is DEI? Well, it stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion, which are all important values that every company should strive to uphold. DEI initiatives can include hiring more people from underrepresented groups, ensuring fair pay and promotion opportunities, and providing training and education on topics such as anti-racism, anti-discrimination, and allyship.

But some conservatives view DEI as a threat to their values and beliefs, accusing it of being a form of "woke" ideology that promotes reverse discrimination, political correctness, and social engineering. They claim that DEI is incompatible with Christianity, which they see as the foundation of Chick-fil-A's corporate culture and identity.

So, what's the big deal with Chick-fil-A hiring a VP of DEI? Well, it seems that some folks are worried that this move is a sign that the company is abandoning its conservative roots and catering to the "liberal agenda." They're afraid that DEI is just a code word for anti-white, anti-male, anti-Christian propaganda.

But is this really the case? Are we really supposed to believe that Chick-fil-A is suddenly going to start promoting Marxism and destroying our country and culture? It seems a bit far-fetched to me.

In fact, some Twitter users have come to Chick-fil-A's defense, pointing out that DEI is not incompatible with Christianity. After all, Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves, regardless of their race or background. And isn't that what DEI is all about?

Of course, there are always going to be people on both sides of the issue. Some folks are calling for a boycott of Chick-fil-A, while others are defending the company's right to hire whoever they want. But let's be honest, at the end of the day, we're all just here for the chicken sandwiches.

So, what can we learn from this whole debacle? Well, for one thing, it's important to remember that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords. They're important values that we should all strive to uphold in our personal and professional lives.

And secondly, maybe we should all just take a deep breath and enjoy some delicious chicken sandwiches. After all, isn't that what life is really all about?

Chick-fil-A’s DEI leader sparks calls for boycott | The Hill https://thehill.com/homenews/4026001-chick-fil-a-dei-hire-sparks-calls-for-boycott/ 

FLORIDA STRANGE WORLD GETS STRANGER

FLORIDA STRANGE WORLD GETS STRANGER

In a recent school board meeting that lasted until 2:30 a.m., the Hernando County School Board voted to retain Superintendent John Stratton, despite calls for his resignation from three state legislators. But the real entertainment came from the speakers who addressed the board on a variety of issues.

One teacher was forced to resign after showing a Disney movie in class without proper approval. It seems that the school board takes their copyright laws very seriously. But hey, at least the kids got to watch a good movie, right?

Another teacher allegedly threatened to shoot students. Now, that's not funny at all. But it does make you wonder if they were just trying to get out of grading papers.

The board members who voted to retain Stratton said they believed he had done the best he could under the circumstances. But the three state legislators who called for his resignation have vowed to continue to pressure the board to remove him from his position. It's like a political soap opera, but with less drama and more bad jokes.

The teachers' union president said that the 33 resignations submitted this year were double the amount from this time last year. Maybe they're all just trying to start their own Disney movie club.

In the end, the situation in Hernando County is not going away anytime soon. But at least we can find some humor in it all. A marathon school board meeting? That's like running a marathon without ever leaving your seat.

And let's not forget about the close vote to retain Stratton. It's like a reality TV show where the audience gets to vote on who stays and who goes.

But seriously, let's hope that the school district can regroup over the summer break and come up with a plan to address the concerns of the community. And maybe they can even throw in a few more Disney movies for good measure.

Hernando superintendent survives no-confidence vote https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2023/05/31/hernando-superintendent-survives-no-confidence-vote-after-marathon-school-board-meeting 

BILLIONAIRE BANDITS: THE NOT-SO-EXPERTS OF EVERYTHING

 

BILLIONAIRE BANDITS: THE NOT-SO-EXPERTS OF EVERYTHING

Education is a hot topic these days, but who should we trust to fix our failing schools? Teachers? Education experts? Nah, let's go with a group of billionaires who have no experience in education whatsoever. Because, you know, money equals expertise.

Meet the Billionaire Bandits, a gang of instant experts who are ready to destroy public education with one easy step. Whether it's through charter schools or vouchers, these billionaires are determined to leave a trail of destruction in their wake. And they're doing it all with a smile on their faces and a fat wallet in their back pocket.

First up, we have Bill Gates, the Microsoft mogul who thinks he knows everything about education because he once passed a math test. Gates is a big fan of vouchers and charter schools, which he claims will magically improve student achievement. Of course, he conveniently ignores the fact that these reforms often leave low-income students and students of color behind. But hey, who needs equity when you have billions of dollars?

Next on the list is Reed Hastings, the CEO of Netflix. Hastings is a big proponent of standardized testing, which he believes will hold schools accountable for student achievement. Unfortunately, he fails to acknowledge that standardized tests are often biased against certain groups of students and don't actually measure what students know. But hey, who needs accuracy when you have billions of dollars?

Then there's the Walton family, the owners of Walmart. These billionaires have been pouring money into charter schools for years, despite evidence that shows these schools are not always better than public schools. But hey, who needs evidence when you have billions of dollars? The Waltons are here to save the day (or destroy public education, whichever comes first).

And let's not forget Mark Zuckerberg, the Facebook CEO who thinks he can solve education with a few lines of code. Zuckerberg has been throwing money at education reform initiatives in Newark, New Jersey, but critics argue that his efforts have done little to improve student outcomes. But hey, who needs results when you have billions of dollars?

Last but not least, we have Betsy DeVos, the former secretary of education and champion of school choice. DeVos believes that parents should be able to choose where their children go to school, even if that means funneling taxpayer money into unaccountable private schools. But hey, who needs accountability when you have billions of dollars?

What do these billionaires have in common? Well, aside from an obscene amount of wealth, they all seem to believe that they know better than actual educators when it comes to improving education. They ignore evidence that contradicts their beliefs and push for reforms that often do more harm than good. But hey, who needs logic when you have billions of dollars?

So sit back and relax as the Billionaire Bandits wreak havoc on our schools. Who knows? Maybe they'll accidentally stumble upon a solution that actually works. Or maybe they'll just continue to make a mess. Either way, it's sure to be a wild ride.

Billionaires Are Shoveling Money Into a Los Angeles School Board Race https://jacobin.com/2022/10/los-angeles-school-board-elections-donors-political-machine 

Bill and Melinda Gates have spent billions to shape education policy. Now, they say, they’re ‘skeptical’ of ‘billionaires’ trying to do just that. - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2020/02/10/bill-melinda-gates-have-spent-billions-dollars-shape-education-policy-now-they-say-theyre-skeptical-billionaires-trying-do-just-that/

Billionaires co-opt minority groups into campaign for education reform | Salon.com https://www.salon.com/2019/08/27/billionaires-co-opt-minority-groups-into-campaign-for-education-reform_partner/ 

Billionaires for Education Reform (Opinion) https://www.edweek.org/policy-politics/opinion-billionaires-for-education-reform/2011/11 

When Billionaires Become Educational Experts | AAUP https://www.aaup.org/article/when-billionaires-become-educational-experts#.ZHY2q3bMKUk 

Got Dough? How Billionaires Rule Our Schools https://www.dissentmagazine.org/article/got-dough-how-billionaires-rule-our-schools 

THE 74 MEDIA: SERIOUS JOURNALISM OR JUST MORE CORPORATE PROPAGANDA

 

THE 74 MEDIA: SERIOUS JOURNALISM OR JUST MORE CORPORATE PROPAGANDA

Ladies and gentlemen, hold on to your hats because we're about to take a deep dive into the world of education reform and The 74 Media. Get ready for a wild ride full of laughs, eye-rolls, and maybe even a few tears (of laughter, of course).

So, who are these folks at The 74 Media, Inc? Well, they're a non-profit news organization that covers education in the US. Sounds pretty boring, right? Wrong! They were founded by former CNN host Campbell Brown and former NYC education official Romy Drucker. And let me tell you, these two are a dynamic duo. They're like Batman and Robin, but instead of fighting crime, they're fighting for the privatization and destruction of public education. Fun stuff!

Now, you might be wondering who supports these guys. Well, let me tell you, they've got some heavy hitters backing them up. We're talking the Walton Family Foundation, the Gates Foundation, and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. You know, just your average run-of-the-mill billionaire philanthropists. No big deal.

But wait, there's more! Critics accuse The 74 Media of being biased in favor of charter schools and standardized testing. And honestly, can you blame them? It's not like those things have been proven to be detrimental to our education system or anything. Oh wait, they have? Well, nevermind then.

But fear not, dear readers. The 74 Media denies these accusations and claims to be fair and accurate. And if you can't trust a news organization that's funded by billionaires with their own agendas, who can you trust?

All jokes aside, The 74 Media is just another example of the marketing and propaganda for privatization that's been taking over our education system. It's not serious journalism, it's just another tool in the toolbox of those who want to see public education go down in flames.

So, what can we do about it? Well, for starters, we can support real journalism that doesn't have an agenda. We can listen to teachers and educators who know what's best for our students. And we can fight back against the privatization of our education system.

In conclusion, The 74 Media might be good for a laugh or two, but when it comes to the future of our children's education, we need to take things seriously. Let's come together and fight for a public education system that works for everyone, not just the billionaires.

Campbell Brown | tultican https://tultican.com/tag/campbell-brown/ 

Who Funds The 74? https://dianeravitch.net/2017/08/25/who-funds-the-74/ via @dianeravitch 

The 74 Media (The 74) - InfluenceWatch - InfluenceWatch https://www.influencewatch.org/non-profit/the-74-media-the-74/ 

THE GREAT MOMMY WAR: THE BATTLE BETWEEN MOMS FOR LIBERTY AND THE OTHER MOTHERS

THE GREAT MOMMY WAR

THE BATTLE BETWEEN MOMS FOR LIBERTY AND THE OTHER MOTHERS

It's a battle as old as time: the clash between the moms. But this time, it's not just about whose kid is the best at soccer or who bakes the best cookies. No, this time it's a battle for the future of education and society. On one side, we have Moms for Liberty, a conservative group that wants to make schools suck again. On the other side, we have the Other Mothers, a diverse coalition of progressive parents who believe in science, democracy, and social justice. It's the Great Mommy War, and it's about to get real.

Let's start with Moms for Liberty. These ladies (and maybe a few dudes) are on a mission to ruin education for everyone. They're against mask mandates, critical race theory, and basically anything that doesn't fit into their narrow view of the world. They're like the Grinches of education, trying to steal all the joy and progress from our children. But they're not just content with ruining education, they also want to harass school officials and sue school districts. Because why not? It's not like we have better things to do with our time and money.

But fear not, dear readers, because the Other Mothers are here to save the day. These moms are not afraid to stand up to Moms for Liberty and call out their hypocrisy and lies. When Moms for Liberty claimed that mask mandates were harming children's mental health, the Other Mothers pointed out that Moms for Liberty was actually harming children's mental health by creating a hostile and unsafe environment in schools. When Moms for Liberty claimed that critical race theory was teaching children to hate America, the Other Mothers pointed out that Moms for Liberty was actually teaching children to hate America by promoting racism and bigotry.

But the Other Mothers aren't just about calling out Moms for Liberty's nonsense. They're also using humor and satire to mock their absurdity and extremism. When Moms for Liberty protested outside a school board meeting with signs that read "No More Masks", "Stop Indoctrinating Our Kids", and "CRT Is Evil", the Other Mothers showed up with signs that read "No More Pants", "Stop Vaccinating Our Kids", and "Math Is Evil". They even created a parody website called Moms for Anarchy, which featured slogans such as "We Don't Need No Education" and "Let Them Eat Cake". Because if you can't laugh at the absurdity of it all, what's the point?

But this conflict between Moms for Liberty and the Other Mothers is more than just a battle of wits. It's a battle of visions. Moms for Liberty want to take us back to a time when education was one-size-fits-all and anyone who didn't fit into their narrow view of the world was left behind. The Other Mothers want to create a world where education is inclusive, progressive, and based on science and social justice. It's a battle between fear and hope, exclusion and inclusion, regression and progression.

So what can we do to support the Other Mothers in this battle? First, we can show up at rallies and school board meetings to let our voices be heard. We can write letters to our elected officials to demand that they support public education and reject the nonsense spouted by Moms for Liberty. We can even run for school boards ourselves to make sure that our children are getting the education they deserve.

The Great Mommy War may be just beginning, but we have the power to make sure that the Other Mothers come out on top. So let's grab our signs (and maybe some cake) and get ready to fight for our children's future. Because if we don't stand up to Moms for Liberty now, who knows what kind of world our children will inherit?

The Moms Fighting Against Moms for Liberty https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2023/05/moms-for-liberty-defense-of-democracy-red-wine-and-blue-education-politics.html 

STOP Moms For Liberty (National) | Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/stopmomsforliberty/ 

Moms for Liberty Has Aggressive, Predatory Tactics—and They’re Working https://www.vice.com/en/article/dy3gnq/what-is-moms-for-liberty 

BAN THE BOARD: 19 STATES - SCHOOLS STILL ALLOW HITTING KIDS

BAN THE BOARD

19 STATES - SCHOOLS STILL ALLOW HITTING KIDS

It's a tale as old as time: the teacher catches little Timmy talking in class, so she grabs the nearest ruler and gives him a good whack on the hand. Timmy cries, the teacher feels smugly satisfied, and everyone moves on with their day. But is this really the best way to discipline children in schools? Let's take a closer look.

First of all, let's address the elephant in the room: no one likes getting hit with a ruler. It hurts! And it's not just physical pain, either. Being humiliated in front of your peers by someone in a position of authority can be incredibly damaging to a child's self-esteem. So why do we still think that corporal punishment is an effective way to discipline students?

Maybe it's because we've been told that it builds character. After all, if you can survive getting smacked with a ruler, you can survive anything, right? Wrong. Studies have shown that corporal punishment does not improve student behavior or academic outcomes. In fact, it can actually make things worse by increasing children's behavioral problems over time and lowering their self-esteem and self-efficacy. So much for building character.

But what about the argument that corporal punishment is necessary to maintain order in the classroom? Surely without the threat of physical punishment, students would run amok and chaos would reign supreme. Well, not exactly. There are plenty of effective and humane ways of promoting positive behavior and discipline in schools without resorting to hitting children. These include creating a supportive and respectful learning environment; setting clear and consistent rules and expectations; providing positive reinforcement and feedback; teaching social and emotional skills; involving students in decision-making; using restorative justice practices; and providing counseling and support services for students with special needs or challenges.

"But wait," you might say. "What about all those kids who turned out just fine after getting spanked as children?" Ah yes, the old "I turned out fine" argument. Well, here's the thing: just because something didn't harm you personally doesn't mean it's not harmful in general. It's like eating broccoli. Some people love it, some people hate it, but everyone knows it's supposed to be good for you. That doesn't mean we should force everyone to eat broccoli all the time, especially if there are other options that might be more palatable.

And let's not forget that corporal punishment is a form of violence against children that violates their rights to respect for physical integrity and human dignity, health, development, education and freedom from torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. These rights are enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which has been ratified by every country except the United States. By allowing corporal punishment in schools, the United States is failing to uphold its international obligations and protect its own children from abuse.

So what's the bottom line? Corporal punishment in schools is an outdated and harmful practice that should be banned in all states. It doesn't improve student behavior or academic outcomes; it can cause physical and mental harm; it violates children's rights; and there are better alternatives. We can do better than hitting children with rulers. Let's create a safer, healthier, and more peaceful society for our children and ourselves by ditching corporal punishment once and for all.

HEAR ARE SOME FAQS WHY CORPORAL PUNISHMENT SHOULD BE BANNED

Corporal punishment in schools is the practice of hitting, spanking, or otherwise inflicting physical pain on students as a form of discipline. It is still legal in 19 states in the United States², and over 160,000 children are subject to it each year¹. However, this practice is not only ineffective and harmful, but also violates the human rights and dignity of children. Here are some reasons why corporal punishment in schools should be banned.

It does not improve student behavior or academic outcomes

Contrary to the belief that corporal punishment deters misbehavior and motivates learning, research shows that it has no positive effects on student behavior or academic achievement¹. In fact, corporal punishment may increase children's behavioral problems over time and lower their self-esteem and self-efficacy¹. It may also impair their cognitive and socio-emotional development, leading to poor educational outcomes².

It can cause physical and mental harm

Corporal punishment can result in serious physical injuries, such as bruises, welts, cuts, fractures, or even death². It can also cause psychological harm, such as anxiety, depression, anger, aggression, post-traumatic stress disorder, or suicidal ideation². Moreover, corporal punishment can damage the relationship between students and teachers, creating a climate of fear and distrust in the classroom².

It violates children's rights

Corporal punishment is a form of violence against children that violates their rights to respect for physical integrity and human dignity, health, development, education and freedom from torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment². These rights are enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which has been ratified by every country except the United States². By allowing corporal punishment in schools, the United States is failing to uphold its international obligations and protect its own children from abuse.

It perpetuates a cycle of violence

Corporal punishment teaches children that violence is an acceptable way of solving problems and expressing emotions. It also normalizes the use of power and authority to inflict pain and humiliation on others. This can have negative consequences for children's socialization and moral development, as well as for their future relationships and parenting styles². Studies suggest that parents who used corporal punishment are at heightened risk of perpetrating severe maltreatment². Furthermore, corporal punishment may contribute to a culture of violence in society at large, increasing the risk of interpersonal violence, crime, and war².

There are better alternatives

There are many effective and humane ways of promoting positive behavior and discipline in schools without resorting to corporal punishment. These include creating a supportive and respectful learning environment; setting clear and consistent rules and expectations; providing positive reinforcement and feedback; teaching social and emotional skills; involving students in decision-making; using restorative justice practices; and providing counseling and support services for students with special needs or challenges¹². These approaches not only foster student well-being and achievement, but also respect their dignity and rights as human beings.

(1) Corporal punishment and health - World Health Organization (WHO). https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/corporal-punishment-and-health.

(2) Corporal Punishment in U.S. Public Schools | Society for Research in Child Development SRCD. https://www.srcd.org/research/corporal-punishment-us-public-schools.

(3) Corporal Punishment in U.S. Public Schools: Prevalence, Disparities in .... https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5766273/.

(4) School corporal punishment - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/School_corporal_punishment.

(5) School corporal punishment in the United States - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/School_corporal_punishment_in_the_United_States.

FOLLOW GEORGE EDGAR WORLEY @no2hitting ON TWITTER

WTF: POVERTY AND PUBLIC SCHOOLS

 

WTF:  POVERTY AND PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Ah, public schools. The place where we send our children to learn, grow, and develop into functioning members of society. Or, if you're poor, the place where you send your children to be suspended, expelled, and generally forgotten about.

Yes, poverty has a significant impact on public schools. It's like the elephant in the room that everyone knows is there but no one wants to talk about. It's the reason why little Timmy can't afford a new backpack or why little Susie can't afford a tutor. It's also the reason why standardized testing measures poverty instead of actual academic achievement.

Let's talk about standardized testing for a moment. You know, those lovely little tests that we force our children to take every year to determine their academic progress. Except, they don't really measure progress, do they? They measure how much money your parents make.

If you're rich, you have access to all sorts of resources that can help you prepare for these tests. You have tutors, enrichment programs, and probably a personal chef who makes you brain food every morning. If you're poor, you have...well, nothing. Maybe a worn-out textbook from 1982 if you're lucky.

But don't worry, there's a solution! Just give poor kids vouchers to attend private or charter schools! Because nothing says "equal opportunity" like an exclusive private or charter school excluding poor, disabled, and troubled students.

And let's not forget about charter schools. Because what's better than publicly funded schools that are run by private organizations? It's like a hybrid of capitalism and education. Who needs experienced teachers and smaller class sizes when you can have a bunch of corporate executives running your child's education just to improve their bottom line?

But wait, there's more! We can also hold schools accountable for student achievement by using standardized tests, graduation rates, and college enrollment rates. Because nothing motivates teachers more than the threat of losing their jobs if their students don't perform well on a standardized test.

And if all else fails, we can just make it easier for parents to choose their children's schools. Because nothing says "freedom of choice" like forcing parents to choose between a failing public school or an exclusive private or charter school that only accepts students with perfect grades and a trust fund.

In all seriousness though, poverty is a complex issue that affects every aspect of our society, including education. We need to address it head-on and provide more resources and support for students from low-income families. We need to invest in our public schools and ensure that every child has access to a high-quality education.

And maybe, just maybe, we can stop using standardized tests as the be-all and end-all of student achievement. Because let's face it, no one wants to be reduced to a number on a piece of paper. Except maybe accountants.

RAND Study Affirms the Importance of Ameliorating Family Poverty as a School Reform Strategy | janresseger https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2020/02/05/rand-study-affirms-the-importance-of-ameliorating-family-poverty-as-school-reform-strategy/ 

Why Poor Schools Can’t Win at Standardized Testing - The Atlantic https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2014/07/why-poor-schools-cant-win-at-standardized-testing/374287/ 

Diane Ravitch: Standardized Testing Undermines Teaching : NPR https://www.npr.org/2011/04/28/135142895/ravitch-standardized-testing-undermines-teaching 

WILD TIME IN TEXAS WHEN SNAKES START EATING SNAKES

 

WILD TIME IN TEXAS WHEN

SNAKES START EATING SNAKES

It's that time of year again in Texas - snake season! With over 100 species of snakes, including 15 venomous ones, Texans are always on their toes. But this year, the snakes aren't the only ones causing a stir. The Texas Republicans have taken it upon themselves to impeach their own Attorney General, Ken Paxton. 

Now, you might be wondering what snakes and politicians have in common. Well, for starters, they both slither around and can be pretty sneaky. But in Texas, they also have a tendency to eat each other. That's right, when the snakes start eating snakes, you know it's going to be a wild ride.

Let's start with the snakes. Most of them are harmless and will avoid humans if possible. But some can be aggressive or defensive if provoked or threatened. The same goes for Ken Paxton, who has been under FBI investigation for years over accusations of bribery and abuse of office. 

The Texas House of Representatives impeached Paxton on Saturday after 20 articles of impeachment were brought up against him earlier this week. The vote was 121-23, with 60 Republicans joining the Democrats to oust Paxton from his position. This has exposed deep fissures within the Texas Republican Party, with some defending him as a victim of a witch hunt by Democrats and the media, while others denounce him as a corrupt and incompetent leader who has tarnished the party's image.

But Paxton is not going down without a fight. He has called the impeachment an "illegal, unethical, and profoundly unjust" spectacle that is motivated by political interests. He has also claimed that he is being targeted for his work as Attorney General, including his lawsuits against the Biden administration and his defense of Texans' constitutional rights. 

It's like watching a snake eat its own tail - you don't know where it's going to end up. But one thing is for sure, it's going to be a bumpy ride. 

Meanwhile, Texans are advised to be cautious and vigilant when encountering snakes in their yards or on trails. But what about encountering politicians? Well, that's a whole different ball game. 

In Texas, it seems like the politicians are more dangerous than the snakes. They're always slithering around, trying to get ahead and gain power. And when they don't get their way, they turn on each other like hungry snakes in a pit.

But let's not forget the humor in all of this. It's like a real-life soap opera - "As The Republicans Impeach". Who needs Netflix when you have Texas politics?

So, as snake season continues in Texas, residents should be on the lookout for both snakes and politicians. And remember, they're both just trying to survive in their own way - whether that means eating each other or slithering to the top. 

In conclusion, Texas is a wild place where anything can happen - even snakes eating snakes and politicians impeaching each other. But we Texans wouldn't have it any other way. It keeps life interesting and makes for great stories to tell around the campfire. So let's sit back, grab some popcorn, and watch the show unfold.

Story on Texas Senate deliberations on impeached AG Ken Paxton is withdrawn | Reuters https://www.reuters.com/world/us/texas-senate-deliberate-impeached-ag-ken-paxton-2023-05-28/

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton impeached by fellow Republicans : NPR https://www.npr.org/2023/05/27/1178606035/ken-paxton-impeachment-texas-house-republican-attorney-general-investigation 

RAINBOWLAND BANNED, KIDS ARE FORBIDDEN TO SING A SONG THAT IMAGINES A WORLD WHERE EVERYONE IS ACCEPTED FOR WHO THEY ARE

RAINBOWLAND BANNED, KIDS ARE FORBIDDEN TO SING A SONG THAT IMAGINES A WORLD WHERE EVERYONE IS ACCEPTED FOR WHO THEY ARE

In a recent turn of events, a teacher named Melissa Tempel has been placed on leave for blasting her school's decision to ban kids from singing "Rainbowland". While some may see this as a serious issue, we can't help but find the humor in it all.

First of all, what kind of school bans the singing of "Rainbowland"? Are they afraid that the song's message of unity and acceptance will corrupt the minds of their young students? Or maybe they just hate rainbows? We may never know.

But what we do know is that Melissa Tempel is not taking this lying down. In fact, she's been quite vocal about her disagreement with the ban. And  we admire her passion for music education.

According to reports, parents have told Melissa that their children cry every day hoping she will return. Now, we don't want to make light of anyone's emotions, but we can't help but imagine a group of kids huddled together in a dark corner, clutching their Rainbowland songbooks and singing softly to themselves. It's both hilarious and heartwarming at the same time.

But let's get back to Melissa. We have to give her credit for standing up for what she believes in. It takes a lot of courage to speak out against your employer, especially when your job is on the line. And while we don't condone breaking the rules, we can't help but root for Melissa and her love of music.

So what's next for Melissa? Will she be reinstated and allowed to lead her students in a rousing rendition of "Rainbowland"? Or will she be forced to find a new job and start over? Only time will tell.

In the meantime, we'll be over here singing "Rainbowland" at the top of our lungs. Because if there's one thing this world needs more of, it's rainbows and acceptance. And maybe a little bit of humor too.

A teacher blasted her school for banning kids from singing "Rainbowland." She's likely getting fired - LGBTQ Nation https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2023/05/a-teacher-blasted-her-school-for-banning-kids-from-singing-rainbowland-shes-likely-getting-fired/ 

Lyrics

"Hey Miley

It's me, I'm in Nashville

I'm on my way to Dollywood, busy as you are

Can't get enough stuff to do, can't

But anyway, I'm excited about singing with you

So I'm just gonna turn my, CD player on with you singing

I'm gon' put this on a cassette

Sing along with it, and then I'll run you off a CD later

Oh, I'm so high tech

I got a flip phone, too

But anyhow, see what you think

And um, here I go"

Come on

Living in a Rainbowland

Where everything goes as planned

And I smile

'Cause I know if we try, we could really make a difference in this world

I won't give up, I'll sleep a wink

It's the only thought I think, you know where I stand

I believe we can start living in a Rainbowland

Living in a Rainbowland

Where you and I go hand in hand

Oh, I'd be lying if I said this was fine

All the hurt and the hate going on here

We are rainbows, me and you

Every color, every hue

Let's shine on through

Together, we can start living in a Rainbowland

Living in a Rainbowland

The skies are blue and things are grand

Wouldn't it be nice to live in paradise

Where we're free to be exactly who we are

Let's all dig down deep inside

Brush the judgment and fear aside

Make wrong things right

And end the fight

'Cause I promise ain't nobody gonna win (come on)

Living in a Rainbowland

Where you and I go hand in hand

Oh, I'd be lying if I said this was fine

All the hurt and the hate going on here

We are rainbows, me and you

Every color, every hue

Let's shine on through

Together, we can start living in a Rainbowland

Living in a Rainbowland

Where you and I go hand in hand together (let's do it together)

Chase dreams forever

I know there's gonna be a greener land

We are rainbows, me and you

Every color, every hue

Let's shine on

Together, we can start living in a Rainbowland

"Hey Miley

Look, I know it sounds scrambled when I'm singing it with you

Wish I could do a little better

At least, I might not get it all the way through

'Cause I'm not sure of the structure without you

But I think this could work well, don't you?

If not, like I said

I'll write that love song for you

You probably wrote it about some boy you loved, didn't ya?

Well"

Source: LyricFind

DEBT CEILING DEAL: MORE GUNS, LESS BUTTER, AND A WHOLE LOT OF CONFUSION

DEBT CEILING DEAL: MORE GUNS, LESS BUTTER, AND A WHOLE LOT OF CONFUSION

In a stunning turn of events, the US government has managed to avoid defaulting on its debt. This is great news for anyone who doesn't want to see the global economy implode. But what exactly is in this debt ceiling deal? And why does it sound like a recipe for a really bad sandwich?

Well, let's start with the good news. The debt ceiling has been raised for two years, which means that the government can keep borrowing money until 2025. This is great for anyone who relies on government services or benefits, like Social Security or Medicare. It also means that the government can continue to pay its creditors, like China and Japan.

But here's where things get a little weird. Non-defense spending will be capped, which means that the government will have to limit how much money it spends on things like environmental protection and scientific research. This is good news for fiscal conservatives who want to reduce the deficit, but bad news for anyone who cares about the environment or public health.

To make matters worse, work requirements will be expanded for some social safety-net programs. This means that some people who receive food stamps or cash assistance will have to work more hours or meet other criteria to keep their benefits. This is good news for those who believe that work is the best way to lift people out of poverty, but bad news for anyone who is struggling to find work or face barriers to employment.

But wait, there's more! Veterans' health care will be fully funded and toxic exposure fund will be increased. This is great news for veterans who deserve respect and gratitude for their service and sacrifice. But it also means that other programs that are not related to veterans' health care will have less funding or face cuts.

So what does all of this mean? Well, it means that the US government is like a person who has decided to go on a diet, but still wants to eat cake for breakfast. The debt ceiling deal is a compromise that reflects the political realities and trade-offs of governing a divided nation. It's not perfect, but it's better than defaulting on your debt and plunging into chaos.

If you're a US citizen or resident who cares about your country's future and your own financial security, you should contact your representatives in Congress and urge them to support this deal. Or you can just sit back and watch Netflix while Rome burns. Either way, at least you'll know what's in your sandwich.

Here's what's in and out of the debt ceiling deal that was reached between President Biden and House Republicans on Saturday:

In:

• The deal would increase the debt limit by $480 billion, which would allow the government to borrow money to pay its bills until December 2023.
• The deal would cap non-defense spending in fiscal year 2024 and increase it by 1% in fiscal year 2025.
• The deal would protect veterans' medical care and increase support for the PACT Act's toxic exposure fund by nearly $15 billion for fiscal year 2024.
• The deal would speed up the permitting process for some energy projects.
• The deal would include some extra work requirements for food aid programs for poor Americans.

Out:

• The deal does not include any new taxes or spending cuts.
• The deal does not include any changes to the filibuster rule in the Senate.
• The deal does not include any changes to the Affordable Care Act.

The deal is still subject to approval by both the House and the Senate, but it is expected to pass easily. The deal is a major victory for President Biden, who had been facing intense pressure from Democrats to raise the debt limit without Republican support. The deal is also a victory for House Republicans, who had been demanding spending cuts in exchange for raising the debt limit.

The deal is a temporary solution to the debt ceiling problem, but it does buy the government some time to address the issue in a more comprehensive way. The debt ceiling is a self-imposed limit on the amount of money the government can borrow. The limit was created in 1917, and it has been raised 87 times since then. The debt ceiling has become a political football in recent years, with Republicans often using it as a way to force Democrats to make concessions on spending or other issues.

The debt ceiling is a major risk to the U.S. economy. If the government were to default on its debt, it would have a devastating impact on the economy. The stock market would crash, interest rates would skyrocket, and the economy would go into a recession. The debt ceiling is a serious problem that needs to be addressed, and the deal reached between President Biden and House Republicans is a step in the right direction.

Debt ceiling deal: What’s in, what’s out of the agreement to avert US default https://apnews.com/article/debt-ceiling-deal-food-aid-student-loans-3c284b01d95f8e193bca8d873386400e 

McCarthy defends debt ceiling deal amid conservative GOP pushback | The Hill https://thehill.com/homenews/house/4024179-mccarthy-defends-debt-ceiling-deal-amid-conservative-gop-pushback/