TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-23-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #StandUpUAW

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-23-23

 

Big Education Ape: GLORIA JOHNSON STANDING TALL FOR TENNESSEE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/gloria-johnson-standing-tall-for.html

Big Education Ape: DUHSANTIS IS KILLING SCIENCE IN FLORIDA https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/duhsantis-is-killing-science-in-florida.html

Big Education Ape: NORTH CAROLINA BUDGET: CUTS FUNDING TO PUBLIC SCHOOLS, CASTRATES NC BOARD OF EDUCATION, EXPANDS VOUCHERS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/north-carolina-budget-cuts-funding-to.html

Big Education Ape: OH GOD, THE NEW NEW MATH: A CRISIS OF NUMBERS AND NOSENSE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/oh-god-new-new-math-crisis-of-numbers.html

Big Education Ape: FROM HOMEROOM TO HYSTERIA: HOW MAGA POLITICAL CONFLICT IS RUINING HIGH SCHOOL https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/from-homeroom-to-hysteria-how-maga.html 

Big Education Ape: MAGA BEATS DFER AT THEIR OWN GAME: WHO WOULD OF THOUGHT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/maga-beats-dfer-at-their-own-game-who.html 

Big Education Ape: SAN ANTONIO ISD: RIGHTSIZING IS THE CODE WORD FOR PRIVATIZING https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/san-antonio-isd-rightsizing-is-code.html 

Big Education Ape: CHATBOTS: THE NEW HOMEWORK HELPERS OR FUTURE ROBOT OVERLORDS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/chatbots-new-homework-helpers-or-future.html 

Big Education Ape: STUDENT LOANS: THE NEW VAMPIRES OF THE ECONOMY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/student-loans-new-vampires-of-economy.html

OTHER GREAT READS THIS WEEK FROM THE BIG EDUCATION APE

Big Education Ape: FIRE IN PARADISE: HOW YOU CAN HELP THE PEOPLE OF MAUI #mauihawaii #maui #mauifire #fire #devastation #prayers https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/fire-in-paradise-how-you-can-help.html

#StandUpUAW

YESTERDAY

PUMPING UP THOSE MAGA ESA VOUCHERS WITH ODYSSEY GRANTS

by Mike Simpson / 20h

Are you tired of your kids attending boring public schools? Do you want to give them the cheapest education money can buy? Well, look no further than Odyssey Grants! The private company that's here to save the day...or is it? Odyssey Grants provides grants to students who are eligible for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). These ESAs allow students to use public funds to pay for private school t

TO PREVENT LGBTQ GROUPS USING OF SCHOOL FACILITIES CLOVIS TELL THE REST OF THE COMMUNITY TO GO TO HELL

by Mike Simpson / 22h

TO PREVENT LGBTQ USING OF SCHOOL FACILITIES CLOVIS TELL THE REST OF THE COMMUNITY TO GO TO HELL In a recent decision, the Clovis Unified School District has decided to prevent LGBTQ+ groups from using school facilities during school days. This decision has caused quite a stir in the community, with some parents arguing that it's their right to know about all aspects of their child's development.

KEVIN MCCARTHY'S HOUSE SPEAKERSHIP: THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL MAY BE A FREIGHT TRAIN

by Mike Simpson / 23h

KEVIN MCCARTHY'S HOUSE SPEAKERSHIP THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL MAY BE A FREIGHT TRAIN In a shocking turn of events, Kevin McCarthy's bid for House Speaker is in danger due to his inability to count to five. As we reported earlier, Republicans hold a narrow majority in the House, with 222 seats to Democrats' 212. This means that McCarthy can only afford to lose five Republican votes in orde

MINDLESS MAGA MADNESS: MISSISSIPPI DECLARES MANY COLLEGE MAJORS AS 'USELESS GARBAGE'

College majors indoctrinate students

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by Mike Simpson / 23h

Mississippi State Auditor Shad White has proposed defunding several college majors, including Urban Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, German Literature, African Studies, Gender Studies, and Women's Studies. Why, you ask? Because they are apparently "useless" and "garbage fields." In a stunning move, White has suggested that the state should only fund degrees in engineering and business that will

SEP 21

NORTH CAROLINA BUDGET: CUTS FUNDING TO PUBLIC SCHOOLS, CASTRATES NC BOARD OF EDUCATION, EXPANDS VOUCHERS

school budget NC

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by Mike Simpson / 1d

In a stunning display of fiscal acrobatics, North Carolina's Republican legislative leaders have unveiled their grand plan for the state's education system. Brace yourselves, folks, because this budget is a real knee-slapper. First up on the comedy lineup, we have the raise in teacher salaries. Now, you might think that increasing the pay of these hardworking educators is a good thing. But oh no

TEXAS CROWN ACT FOR WHITE STUDENTS ONLY: BLACK HAIR STILL BANNED

Black student suspended for locs

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by Mike Simpson / 1d

In a recent turn of events, it seems that the Texas Crown Act, a law designed to prevent racial discrimination based on hairstyles, may only apply to white students. That's right, folks, it looks like black students are still screwed when it comes to school dress codes. Take the case of Darryl George, a high school student at Barbers Hill High School in Texas. Darryl has been serving in-school s

THE REDNECK BOOK BANNING TIK TOK CHALLENGE

by Mike Simpson / 1d

Attention all rednecks! Have you heard about the latest Tik Tok challenge? It's called the Redneck Book Banning Challenge, and it's taking the nation by storm. The challenge is simple: who can ban the most books from libraries and schools? And guess what? The red states seem to be walking away with it! Now, I know what you're thinking. "But wait a minute, isn't book banning a serious problem?" W

STANDARDIZED TESTING SUCKS

by Mike Simpson / 2d

Standardized testing sucks worse than a cheap vacuum cleaner. There, I said it. As a high school English teacher, I've seen firsthand how these tests have become a tyrant that sucks the life out of learning. It's time to stop prioritizing test scores over student learning and start focusing on what really matters. Let's be real here, standardized tests only determine which students are good at t

JIM CROW FUNDING FOR HBCUS

Underfunding of HBCUs by states

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by Mike Simpson / 2d

In a shocking turn of events, the Biden administration has discovered that historically Black land-grant colleges have been underfunded by hundreds of millions, if not billions, of dollars over the past 30 years. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack signed the memos, which are the first time the government has attempted to put a comprehensive number on the fin

SEP 20

GREAT DAD JOKES MAYBE THE KEY TO YOUR CHILD'S EDUCATION

Fathers improve children's educational outcom

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by Mike Simpson / 2d

Dads, listen up! You may think that your role in your child's education is limited to paying for their textbooks and nagging them to do their homework, but a recent study has shown that you can do so much more. In fact, you can be the key to unlocking your child's full potential! According to the University of Leeds, fathers who engage in playful and educational activities with their children ca

TEXAS TEACHER FIRED FOR READING ABOUT ANNE FRANKS PERIOD

by Mike Simpson / 2d

In a bizarre turn of events, a Texas middle school teacher has been fired for reading a passage from an illustrated version of Anne Frank's diary that included discussions of male and female genitalia. Yes, you heard that right. Apparently, the school district deemed this "unapproved" literature, and decided to give the teacher the boot. Now, I don't know about you, but when I think of Anne Fran

THE WORLD WIDE EFFORT TO DEFUND PUBLIC EDUCATION IS REAL

by Mike Simpson / 2d

France’s schools are SO screwed up that they could easily be mistaken for a red state in the US. It's like they're mirroring the right wing policies in American education. And we all know how that usually goes - it always begins with defunding. But what's even more hilarious is that the media only focuses on culture wars issues, just like in the US. Sound familiar? It should, because it's right

WHY DO WE STILL BEAT ON KIDS IN SCHOOLS: IT DOESN'T WORK

by Mike Simpson / 2d

Ah, corporal punishment in schools. The age-old tradition of smacking kids' bottoms to teach them a lesson. Because apparently, nothing says "I'm here to educate you" like a good old-fashioned spanking. But hey, it's 2023, people! We have self-driving cars and robots that can do our laundry. Can't we come up with a more civilized way to discipline our children? Now, I'm not saying that kids shou

OKLAHOMA'S MAD MAGA MONK'S PREEMPTIVE STRIKE AGAINST CHINESE CRITICAL RACE THEORY

by Mike Simpson / 3d

In a recent hearing, Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters, also known as the Mad Maga Monk of Oklahoma Education, spoke on behalf of the Koch Network and made some bold claims about Chinese influence in American schools. According to Walters, the Chinese government is actively running or ruining schools in the US, using a program called Confucius Classrooms as a front organization to sprea

SEP 19

DUHSANTIS IS KILLING SCIENCE IN FLORIDA

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Sunshine State, where the sun is hot, the beaches are sandy, and the science is...dead? That's right folks, Governor Ron DeSantis is killing science in Florida faster than you can say "climate change is a hoax." In a recent op-ed in Scientific American, it was revealed that Florida's new laws are restricting discussions on race, gender, and sexuality in schoo

OH GOD, THE NEW NEW MATH: A CRISIS OF NUMBERS AND NOSENSE

by Mike Simpson / 3d

OH GOD, THE NEW NEW MATH: A CRISIS OF NUMBERS AND NONSENSE It's official: the US education system is in a state of crisis. And no, we're not talking about the pandemic (although that's certainly not helping things). We're talking about the math crisis. That's right, folks, we're in the midst of a full-blown math emergency, and it's all thanks to the New New Math. Now, you may be thinking to yours

BROAD ACADEMY SUPERINTENDENTS ACADEMY AKA PRIVATIZER TRAINING

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Public education, oh how we love to hate it. From the endless standardized testing to the budget cuts that leave our schools looking like they were decorated by a hoarder, it's no wonder we're all a little bit skeptical of the system. But have you ever wondered how public education got so screwed up? Let me give you a hint: it involves billionaires and their thirst for power. The oligarchy of bi

SAN ANTONIO ISD: RIGHTSIZING IS THE CODE WORD FOR PRIVATIZING

by Mike Simpson / 4d

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, gather around because I have a story to tell you. It's a story about a secret code word that billionaires use to destroy public education. You see, they don't just come out and say they want to privatize everything. No, no, no. They're much sneakier than that. They use a term that sounds harmless enough, but it's really the beginning of the end for our schoo

MEATAXE MIKE MILES SEEMS TO BE SAYING MY WAY OR THE HIGHWAY BITCHES , SURPRISINGLY THERE HAS BEEN PROTESTS

by Mike Simpson / 4d

In a move that has left teachers and parents alike scratching their heads, the Houston Independent School District (HISD) has implemented a new education system (NES) that seems to be more about control than education. And Superintendent Meataxe Mike Miles is leading the charge. Under the NES, teachers are required to follow tightly scripted lessons, engage students every four minutes, and admin

SEP 18

MOMS TAKING LIBERTIES

by Mike Simpson / 4d

In a world where satire reigns supreme, one ex-South Park writer has taken it upon himself to create a parody website that has conservative moms in a tizzy. Toby Morton, known for his wit and sharp tongue, has targeted Moms for Liberty, a group seeking to ban books containing anything remotely related to race, gender, LGBTQ themes, or sexual content. And boy, has he hit a nerve! Morton's website

INTRODUCING ALICE: THE 'ALICE IN WONDERLAND' APPROACH TO SCHOOL SAFETY

by Mike Simpson / 4d

In a world where school shootings have sadly become all too common, the School District of Philadelphia has decided to take a unique and whimsical approach to ensure the safety of their students and staff. Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you ALICE training – an acronym that stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate. But don't worry, this isn't your typical run-of-the-mill safety d

GLORIA JOHNSON STANDING TALL FOR TENNESSEE

by Mike Simpson / 4d

Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your hats because Gloria Johnson is standing tall for Tennessee and she's ready to take on the one and only MAGA big mouth Marsha Blackburn in the race for the US Senate. That's right, folks, we've got ourselves a showdown. Now, you might be thinking, "Who is Gloria Johnson?" Well, let me tell you, she's one of the Tennessee Three, a 27-year special education teac

MAGA BEATS DFER AT THEIR OWN GAME: WHO WOULD OF THOUGHT

by Mike Simpson / 5d

The Libertarian Billionaire Privatier Front Organization, also known as Democrats for Education Reform (DFER), is in shock over the success of MAGA in privatizing public education. They claim they should get the credit for F---ing up public education, not MAGA, who are just Johnny-come-lately to the privatization game. Now that cultural warriors are succeeding, DFER is wringing their hands and w

TEACHERS VS AI: WHO WILL COME OUT ON TOP IN SACRAMENTO CITY USD

by Mike Simpson / 5d

Attention all students! The Sacramento City Unified School District has officially banned the use of AI without the guidance and approval of a teacher. That's right, no more relying on ChatGPT to write your essays or complete your math homework. But don't worry, we've got the inside scoop on how the district is keeping a watchful eye on your AI usage. First off, let's talk consequences. If you'r

SEP 17

FROM HOMEROOM TO HYSTERIA: HOW MAGA POLITICAL CONFLICT IS RUINING HIGH SCHOOL

by Mike Simpson / 5d

It's no secret that the political climate in the United States is a bit tense right now. But did you know that this tension has seeped its way into our public schools? That's right, folks, MAGA madness has officially come to our classrooms. According to a recent report by John Rogers and Joseph Kahne, political conflicts have had a chilling effect on public education. But let's be real, what's m

CHATBOTS: THE NEW HOMEWORK HELPERS OR FUTURE ROBOT OVERLORDS

by Mike Simpson / 5d

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made its way into our classrooms, and it's causing quite a stir. Teachers are scrambling to keep up with the latest technology, while students are wondering if the robots will take over their education. But fear not, my fellow humans, for AI is just another tool to be used in learning. And let's be honest, with all the cheating and laziness that goes on in school

STUDENT LOANS: THE NEW VAMPIRES OF THE ECONOMY

by Mike Simpson / 5d

As the saying goes, "money makes the world go round," and for many Americans, that money comes in the form of student loans. But starting October 1st, those loans will begin to suck the life out of the economy, as borrowers are forced to make monthly payments once again. This news has left many students feeling like they've been hit with a ton of bricks (or should we say, debt?). After all, it's

SEP 16

JUDGE ALLOWS TEACHER TO OUT TRANSGENDER AND NONBINARY STUDENT SINNERS

by Mike Simpson / 6d

In a recent turn of events, a federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction allowing teachers to out transgender and nonbinary students to their parents in California. The decision has left many scratching their heads, wondering if we've somehow traveled back to the dark ages. According to the judge, a parent's right to make decisions concerning their children is one of the oldest fundament

US JUSTICE SYSTEM TO TRUMP: STFU WITH YOUR VIOLENT THREATS

by Mike Simpson / 6d

In a move that has left the American public scratching their heads in disbelief, US Special Counsel Jack Smith has requested that a judge put a gag order on former President Donald Trump. Yes, you heard that right. A gag order. On Trump. The man who can't seem to keep his mouth shut even if his life depended on it. The order, if approved, would limit what Trump can say publicly about the federal

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-16-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech

by Mike Simpson / 7d

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-16-23 Big Education Ape: JULIE HUPP ROCKLIN USD BOARD PRES: JESUS SAVES TEACHERS UNION DOESN'T https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/julie-hupp-rocklin-usd-board-pres-jesus.html Big Education Ape: HAVING 'THE MAN' ON CAMPUS: COPS DOING THE JOB OR WINDOW DRESSING https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/having-man-on-campus-cops-doing-job-or.html Big Ed

PUMPING UP THOSE MAGA ESA VOUCHERS WITH ODYSSEY GRANTS

PUMPING UP THOSE MAGA ESA VOUCHERS WITH ODYSSEY GRANTS

Are you tired of your kids attending boring public schools? Do you want to give them the cheapest education money can buy? Well, look no further than Odyssey Grants! The private company that's here to save the day...or is it?

Odyssey Grants provides grants to students who are eligible for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). These ESAs allow students to use public funds to pay for private school tuition and other education-related expenses. Sounds great, right? Wrong!

First off, let's talk about the major criticisms of Odyssey Grants. Critics argue that this private funding raises concerns about conflicts of interest. For example, some critics argue that Odyssey Grants may be more likely to award grants to students who attend private schools that are affiliated with its donors. Talk about shady business practices!

But wait, it gets worse. Odyssey Grants is a private company, and it is not required to disclose its financial information to the public. Some critics argue that this lack of transparency makes it difficult to hold Odyssey accountable for its performance. Who knows where all that money is really going?

And let's not forget about the fact that Odyssey Grants diverts money away from public schools. They argue that the money used to fund Odyssey Grants could be better spent on improving public schools. But who cares about the future of our public education system when we can just throw money at private schools, am I right?

But the real kicker here is that Odyssey Grants gives an advantage to students from wealthy families. So much for equal opportunity education! It's like they're saying, "Sorry poor kids, but you're just not good enough for our fancy private schools."

And let's talk about the sources of funding for Odyssey Grants. We have individuals, foundations, and even corporations like Walmart, Koch Industries, and ExxonMobil. Because nothing says "education for all" like big corporations getting involved in our children's education.

But wait, there's more! Critics argue that these programs may expose parents and taxpayers to fraud, waste, and abuse, as some vendors may offer substandard or inappropriate services and products, or charge inflated prices. So not only are we diverting money away from public schools, but we're also potentially getting scammed in the process. Yay!

And let's not forget about the fact that these programs may violate the separation of church and state by allowing parents to use public funds to pay for religious education or instruction. Because nothing says "separation of church and state" like using taxpayer money to fund religious schools.

In conclusion, Odyssey Grants may not be the savior of our education system after all. With shady business practices, lack of transparency, and potential fraud and abuse, it's no wonder critics are up in arms about this private company. Maybe we should focus on improving our public schools instead of throwing money at private schools for the wealthy elite. Just a thought.

Grants of up to $1,500 offered to Missouri families to address learning loss https://www.ky3.com/2023/09/22/grants-up-1500-offered-missouri-families-address-learning-loss/ 

News Release | Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education https://dese.mo.gov/communications/news-releases/Missouri%20Department%20of%20Elementary%20and%20Secondary%20Education%20and%20Odyssey%20Launch%20the%20Close%20the%20Gap%20Grant%20Program#:~:text=Missouri%27s%20Close%20the%20Gap%20Program,application%20

Odyssey, a company founded and led by Joseph Connor ’16 J.D., is enabling parents to use Education Savings Accounts on a vast scale | News | The Law School | University of Notre Dame https://law.nd.edu/news-events/news/alumni-joseph-connor-16-j-d-founder-ceo-of-odyssey/ 

Odyssey - Charting a new course for education https://withodyssey.com/index.html 

DEFT DIVE

**Major criticisms of Odyssey Grants**

Odyssey Grants is a private company that provides grants to students who are eligible for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). ESAs are state-funded programs that allow students to use public funds to pay for private school tuition and other education-related expenses.

Odyssey Grants has been criticized for a number of reasons, including:

• * **Conflicts of interest:** Odyssey Grants receives funding from a variety of private sources, including corporations and foundations. Some critics argue that this private funding raises concerns about conflicts of interest. For example, some critics argue that Odyssey Grants may be more likely to award grants to students who attend private schools that are affiliated with its donors.
• * **Lack of transparency:** Odyssey Grants is a private company, and it is not required to disclose its financial information to the public. Some critics argue that this lack of transparency makes it difficult to hold Odyssey accountable for its performance.
• * **Diversion of funds from public schools:** Some critics argue that Odyssey Grants diverts money away from public schools. They argue that the money used to fund Odyssey Grants could be better spent on improving public schools.
• * **Unfairness to students who cannot afford to attend private school:** Some critics argue that Odyssey Grants is unfair to students who cannot afford to attend private school. They argue that Odyssey Grants gives an advantage to students from wealthy families.

**Conclusion**

Odyssey Grants is a controversial organization. It has been praised by some for helping students attend private schools, but it has also been criticized for a number of reasons, including conflicts of interest, lack of transparency, diversion of funds from public schools, and unfairness to students who cannot afford to attend private school.

The private funds for Odyssey Grants come from a variety of sources, including:

• * **Individuals:** Many individuals donate to Odyssey Grants because they believe in the mission of the organization and want to help students attend private schools.
• * **Foundations:** A number of foundations also donate to Odyssey Grants, including the Walton Family Foundation, the Broad Foundation, and the Bradley Foundation. These foundations support a variety of educational initiatives, and they believe that Odyssey Grants is a valuable organization that is helping to improve education for students.
• * **Corporations:** Some corporations also donate to Odyssey Grants, including Walmart, Koch Industries, and ExxonMobil. These corporations support a variety of educational initiatives, and they believe that Odyssey Grants is a valuable organization that is helping to improve education for students.

In addition to these direct donations, Odyssey Grants also generates revenue from fees that it charges to states and school districts for administering ESA programs.

It is important to note that Odyssey Grants is a private company, and it is not required to disclose its financial information to the public. However, Odyssey has stated that it is committed to transparency and that it will disclose its financial information to the states and school districts that it contracts with.

**Criticisms of Odyssey Grants' private funding**

Some critics of Odyssey Grants argue that the organization's private funding model is problematic. They argue that the fact that Odyssey receives funding from corporations and foundations raises concerns about conflicts of interest. They also argue that the organization's private funding model makes it difficult to hold Odyssey accountable for its performance.

**Conclusion**

The private funds for Odyssey Grants come from a variety of sources, including individuals, foundations, and corporations. Odyssey Grants uses the funds it receives to provide grants to students who are eligible for ESAs and to cover the costs of administering the ESA programs that it manages.

Critics of Odyssey Grants argue that the organization's private funding model is problematic because it raises concerns about conflicts of interest and makes it difficult to hold Odyssey accountable for its performance.

FROM BING AI

Odyssey grants are funds that support education and workforce development initiatives that advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within ocean science and/or exploration career pathways. They are also a tech platform that helps families access state funding for education through education savings accounts (ESAs) and microgrant programs. However, Odyssey grants have also faced some major criticisms from different perspectives. Some of the criticisms are:

• - Odyssey grants for ESAs and microgrants may undermine the public education system by diverting funds and students away from public schools. Critics argue that these programs may create a two-tiered system of education, where wealthy and privileged families can choose the best options for their children, while low-income and marginalized families are left behind in underfunded and underperforming public schools¹.
• - Odyssey grants for ESAs and microgrants may lack sufficient oversight and accountability to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the educational services and products that parents purchase with the public funds. Critics contend that these programs may expose parents and taxpayers to fraud, waste, and abuse, as some vendors may offer substandard or inappropriate services and products, or charge inflated prices².
• - Odyssey grants for ESAs and microgrants may violate the separation of church and state by allowing parents to use public funds to pay for religious education or instruction. Critics claim that these programs may infringe on the constitutional rights of both parents and students, as some parents may be coerced or pressured to enroll their children in religious schools or programs, while some students may be subjected to religious indoctrination or discrimination³.
• - Odyssey grants for education and workforce development in ocean science and exploration may favor certain groups or individuals over others, based on their identity, background, or affiliation. Critics suggest that these grants may create a sense of entitlement or resentment among the recipients or the non-recipients, as some groups or individuals may receive preferential treatment or access to opportunities, while others may be excluded or overlooked.
• - Odyssey grants for education and workforce development in ocean science and exploration may have limited impact or sustainability, given the challenges and uncertainties of the field. Critics question the feasibility and relevance of these grants, as some of the educational and career pathways that they support may be unrealistic or obsolete, given the rapid changes in technology, environment, and society.

Bing, 9/22/2023

• (1) The Odyssey Essays and Criticism - eNotes.com. https://www.enotes.com/topics/odyssey/critical-essays/essays-criticism.
• (2) Major Themes in The Odyssey - CliffsNotes. https://www.cliffsnotes.com/literature/o/the-odyssey/critical-essays/major-themes-in-the-odyssey.
• (3) The Odyssey: Full Poem Analysis | SparkNotes. https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/odyssey/plot-analysis/.

Odyssey grants are private-public partnerships that involve collaboration between private entities and public agencies to provide public services or assets, such as education, infrastructure, or environmental protection. The funding sources for the private funding vary depending on the type and purpose of the grant, but some of the common sources are:

• - Investors: Some Odyssey grants are funded by private investors who are interested in supporting innovative and impactful solutions to social problems. For example, Odyssey, the tech platform that helps families access state funding for education through education savings accounts (ESAs) and microgrant programs, is funded by a $4.75 million seed round from a group of investors, including Andreesen Horowitz, Village Global, Bling Capital and others¹.
• - Donors: Some Odyssey grants are funded by donations from individuals or corporations who receive tax benefits or other incentives for their contribution. For example, the Hope Scholarship Program in West Virginia, which provides ESAs to students who want to attend a private school or homeschool, is funded by a one-time appropriation of $5 million from the state's general revenue fund, as well as any donations from individuals or corporations that receive a tax credit for their contribution².
• - Foundations: Some Odyssey grants are funded by foundations that have a specific mission or vision for supporting certain causes or communities. For example, the Odyssey Group Foundation is a charitable organization that was established by Odyssey Group, a global insurance company. The Foundation sets aside 2% of Odyssey Group's pre-tax earnings for charitable purposes, and has pledged over $70 million to more than 450 charities around the world³.

Bing, 9/22/2023

• (1) FEDERAL FUNDING AND PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS. https://www.fedbar.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/P5-Fultz-A-PPT-pdf-1.pdf.
• (2) Green Infrastructure Funding Opportunities | US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-funding-opportunities.
• (3) What’s the Difference Between Public and Private Grant Funding?. https://cayuse.com/blog/public-private-grant-funding-difference/.
• (4) Government Support in Financing PPPs - PUBLIC-PRIVATE-PARTNERSHIP LEGAL .... https://ppp.worldbank.org/public-private-partnership/government-support-financing-ppps.
• (5) Where To Find Funding For Nonprofit Organizations - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2023/01/25/where-to-find-funding-for-nonprofit-organizations/.
• (6) undefined. https://pppknowledgelab.org/guide/sections/3-what-is-a-ppp-defining-.

TO PREVENT LGBTQ GROUPS USING OF SCHOOL FACILITIES CLOVIS TELL THE REST OF THE COMMUNITY TO GO TO HELL

 

TO PREVENT LGBTQ USING OF SCHOOL FACILITIES CLOVIS TELL THE REST OF THE COMMUNITY TO GO TO HELL

In a recent decision, the Clovis Unified School District has decided to prevent LGBTQ+ groups from using school facilities during school days. This decision has caused quite a stir in the community, with some parents arguing that it's their right to know about all aspects of their child's development. But let's be real here, folks. If you're worried about your child being "exposed" to the LGBTQ+ community, then you're probably not doing a great job of parenting in the first place.

I mean, come on. What's the worst that could happen? Your child might learn that it's okay to love whoever they want? That people come in all shapes, sizes, and genders? That they shouldn't judge others based on their sexual orientation or gender identity? God forbid!

But don't worry, dear parents. The school board has your back. They've decided to cancel all existing reservations by outside groups during school days, citing the need for academic enrichment of students. Because clearly, learning about diversity and acceptance isn't academically enriching at all.

And to those LGBTQ+ groups who were hoping to rent space for an after-school story hour? Tough luck. You'll have to find somewhere else to go. But hey, at least you're not alone. The rest of the community is right there with you. In fact, we think you should all band together and tell the school board to go to hell.

Because let's face it, folks. This decision is discriminatory, plain and simple. And it's not just happening in Clovis. School districts all over California are implementing policies that threaten the civil rights and educational opportunities of LGBTQ+ youth. And for what? So parents can feel better about themselves?

Well, we've got news for you, parents. Your child's gender identity and sexual orientation are not about you. They're about your child. And if you can't accept that, then maybe it's time to take a long hard look in the mirror and ask yourself if you're really doing what's best for your child.

Instead of discriminatory policies, schools should focus on supporting students through counseling and mental health resources. Because let's be real here, folks. Being a teenager is hard enough as it is. And being a teenager who identifies as LGBTQ+? Well, that's a whole other ballgame.

So let's stop the discrimination and start focusing on what really matters: creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Because when it comes down to it, we're all just human beings trying to navigate this crazy thing called life. And if we can't do that together, then what's the point?

Clovis school board excludes outside clubs, including LGBTQ+ group | The Fresno Bee https://www.fresnobee.com/news/article279608869.html 

Community speaks out about CUSD transgender policy | KMPH https://kmph.com/news/local/community-speaks-out-about-cusd-transgender-policy 

LGBTQ youth react to wave of CA parent notification policies | The Fresno Bee https://www.fresnobee.com/news/local/article278697909.html 

KEVIN MCCARTHY'S HOUSE SPEAKERSHIP: THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL MAY BE A FREIGHT TRAIN

 

KEVIN MCCARTHY'S HOUSE SPEAKERSHIP

THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL MAY BE A FREIGHT TRAIN

In a shocking turn of events, Kevin McCarthy's bid for House Speaker is in danger due to his inability to count to five. 

As we reported earlier, Republicans hold a narrow majority in the House, with 222 seats to Democrats' 212. This means that McCarthy can only afford to lose five Republican votes in order to become speaker. However, it appears that McCarthy has lost track of how many votes he can afford to lose.

Sources close to the situation report that McCarthy has been going around the House, asking members if they will vote for him, without keeping track of their responses. When asked how many votes he has secured so far, McCarthy reportedly replied, "I don't know, but it's definitely more than five."

This lack of basic math skills has caused concern among McCarthy's supporters and opponents alike. "If he can't count to five, how can we trust him to lead the House?" asked one Republican lawmaker who wished to remain anonymous.

In response to these concerns, McCarthy's team has released a statement saying that he is "confident that he has the votes necessary to become speaker." When pressed for details on how many votes he has secured, McCarthy's team declined to comment.

This lack of transparency has only added fuel to the fire of speculation surrounding McCarthy's speakership bid. Some have suggested that he may be relying on the support of imaginary friends or even pets to secure the necessary votes.

Despite these challenges, McCarthy remains optimistic about his chances. "I may not be able to count to five, but I know how to count my blessings," he said in a recent interview. "And I'm blessed to have the support of so many great people in the House."

Whether or not McCarthy's blessings will be enough to secure the speakership remains to be seen. But one thing is for sure: this is one counting lesson he won't soon forget.

McCarthy’s House speakership hangs by a thread as US shutdown looms | Kevin McCarthy | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/sep/22/government-shutdown-house-speaker-kevin-mccarthy 

McCarthy visibly frustrated after GOP hardliners put his plan to avoid a shutdown on ice | CNN Politics https://www.cnn.com/2023/09/21/politics/house-government-shutdown-negotiations-latest/index.html 

Matt Gaetz Effectively House Speaker as Kevin McCarthy Caves: Steve Bannon https://www.newsweek.com/matt-gaetz-effectively-house-speaker-kevin-mccarthy-caves-steve-bannon-1829160 

Deflated House Republicans leave town with no solution for government shutdown https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/house-republicans-still-dont-votes-government-shutdown-looms-rcna111338 

Hard-right Republicans push closer to a disruptive federal shutdown | AP News https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-mccarthy-house-republicans-spending-cuts-deff84c0e2ff7d3bd076b8c38e14cca4

Opinion | Why Kevin McCarthy Can’t Do His Job - The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/21/opinion/kevin-mccarthy-gingrich-house-speaker.html 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

Kevin McCarthy's House speakership is hanging in the balance for a number of reasons.

**1. A narrow Republican majority*

Republicans currently hold a narrow majority in the House, with 222 seats to Democrats' 212. This means that McCarthy can only afford to lose five Republican votes in order to become speaker.

**2. Opposition from the right flank of the Republican Party**

A group of about 20 conservative Republicans have pledged to oppose McCarthy's speakership bid. These members of the House Freedom Caucus are unhappy with McCarthy's leadership and believe that he is not conservative enough.

**3. McCarthy's own missteps**

McCarthy has made a number of missteps in recent years that have damaged his reputation. For example, he was criticized for his handling of the January 6th attack on the Capitol. He has also been accused of being too close to special interests and of not being transparent in his leadership style.

**4. The January 6th hearings**

The ongoing January 6th hearings have also put McCarthy in a difficult position. McCarthy has been accused of being complicit in the attack on the Capitol, and he has been subpoenaed to testify by the House Select Committee investigating the attack.

**5. The potential for a government shutdown**

The government is currently operating under a continuing resolution, which expires on September 30th. If Congress is unable to pass a budget by that date, the government will shut down. This would be a major embarrassment for McCarthy, and it could further damage his chances of becoming speaker.

**What does the future hold for McCarthy?**

It is unclear whether McCarthy will be able to secure the votes he needs to become speaker. If he is unable to do so, it would be a major setback for Republicans. It could also lead to a period of turmoil in the House, as Republicans try to figure out who should replace McCarthy as their leader.

It is also possible that McCarthy could strike a deal with his conservative detractors in order to secure their votes. However, this would likely require him to make concessions that could weaken his position as speaker.

Ultimately, the fate of McCarthy's speakership bid will depend on a number of factors, including the results of the January 6th hearings, the outcome of the midterm elections, and the ability of McCarthy to unite the Republican Party.

FROM BING AI

The reason behind McCarthy's House speakership hanging in the balance is the opposition he faces from a group of hard-right Republicans known as the House Freedom Caucus. The Freedom Caucus members have been blocking and delaying the passage of several spending bills that are needed to fund the government and avoid a shutdown. They have also threatened to oust McCarthy from his position if he cuts a deal with the Democrats to raise the debt ceiling, which is another looming fiscal crisis. The Freedom Caucus members have a list of demands that they want to see met before they agree to support any spending or debt legislation, such as cutting aid to Ukraine, building more border walls, ending "woke" policies in the military, and reducing the funding for the Justice Department and the FBI. They claim that they are fighting against the "decline" of the country under the Biden administration and its spending policies⁹.

McCarthy has been trying to appease and persuade the Freedom Caucus members to cooperate with him and his allies, but so far he has not been successful. He has also faced criticism from some moderate Republicans who are frustrated with his leadership and his inability to rein in the Freedom Caucus. McCarthy has been meeting with various factions of his conference to try to find a consensus and a compromise on the spending and debt issues, but he has also warned that he will not let the Freedom Caucus dictate the terms of the negotiations[^10^]. He has said that he is confident that he will keep his speakership and that he has the support of former President Trump, who has been calling some of the Freedom Caucus members to urge them to back McCarthy⁵.

However, some Democrats have also floated the idea of voting to save McCarthy's job if he agrees to end the impeachment inquiry against President Biden, which was launched by McCarthy last month after pressure from the Freedom Caucus⁶. This could be a risky strategy for both parties, as it could alienate some of their base voters and create more division within their ranks. It is unclear whether McCarthy would accept such a deal or whether he would be able to deliver enough Republican votes to pass a spending or debt bill with Democratic support³.

In summary, McCarthy's House speakership is hanging by a thread because of the internal conflict within his party over how to deal with the fiscal challenges facing the country. He has to balance the demands of the Freedom Caucus, who want to use their leverage to push for their conservative agenda, and the interests of his moderate allies, who want to avoid a government shutdown and a default on the debt. He also has to contend with the Democrats, who have their own agenda and may try to exploit his vulnerability.

Bing, 9/22/2023

(1) For the House Freedom Caucus, tormenting Kevin McCarthy is the point .... https://www.salon.com/2023/09/22/for-the-freedom-caucus-tormenting-kevin-mccarthy-is-the-point/.

(2) McCarthy huddles with House Freedom Caucus and urges consensus ... - CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/23/politics/kevin-mccarthy-house-freedom-caucus-spending-fight/index.html.

(3) Kevin McCarthy wins House speaker bid after gruelling 15-vote saga. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jan/06/kevin-mccarthy-republican-wins-house-speaker.

(4) Top House Democrat floats voting to save McCarthy's job — if he ends the Biden impeachment inquiry. https://www.businessinsider.com/katherine-clark-kevin-mccarthy-motion-vacate-biden-impeachment-2023-9.

(5) House Democrats weigh risky strategy: Whether to save McCarthy. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/house-democrats-weigh-risky-strategy-whether-to-save-mccarthy/ar-AA1h15uI.

(6) McCarthy’s House speakership hangs by a thread as US shutdown looms .... https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/sep/22/government-shutdown-house-speaker-kevin-mccarthy.

(7) For the House Freedom Caucus, tormenting Kevin McCarthy is the point. https://www.yahoo.com/news/house-freedom-caucus-tormenting-kevin-130646597.html.

(8) Live updates: Rep. Kevin McCarthy wins House speakership - CNN. https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/house-speaker-leadership-vote-01-06-23/index.html.

(9) For the House Freedom Caucus, tormenting Kevin McCarthy is the point. https://news.yahoo.com/house-freedom-caucus-tormenting-kevin-130646597.html.

(10) After Securing Impeachment From McCarthy, Freedom Caucus Pretends That Wasn’t Part Of Their Demands. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/after-securing-impeachment-from-mccarthy-freedom-caucus-pretends-that-wasn-t-part-of-their-demands/ar-AA1gCHrR.

(11) The standoff between Kevin McCarthy and right-wing House ... - Vox. https://www.vox.com/politics/23754641/mccarthy-gop-house-freedom-caucus.

MINDLESS MAGA MADNESS: MISSISSIPPI DECLARES MANY COLLEGE MAJORS AS 'USELESS GARBAGE'

 

MINDLESS MAGA MADNESS: MISSISSIPPI DECLARES MANY COLLEGE MAJORS AS 'USELESS GARBAGE'

Mississippi State Auditor Shad White has proposed defunding several college majors, including Urban Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, German Literature, African Studies, Gender Studies, and Women's Studies. Why, you ask? Because they are apparently "useless" and "garbage fields." 

In a stunning move, White has suggested that the state should only fund degrees in engineering and business that will benefit the state's economy. He argues that taxpayers shouldn't have to pay for degrees that don't contribute to the economy and that investing in low-skill degrees could end up subsidizing out-of-state economies. 

But wait, there's more! White has also claimed that these majors promote "leftist ideology" and "indoctrinate" students with "liberal propaganda." We can only imagine what he thinks happens in Gender Studies classes. 

It's not just Mississippi, folks. The state of Texas recently passed similar legislation to change community-college funding to better fit the state economy. So if you want to study something creative or interesting like rhetoric or music, you better start a GoFundMe page. 

But let's be real here. Who needs Anthropology when you have Engineering? Who needs German Literature when you have Business? And who needs Gender Studies when you have...uh...well, we're not really sure what you have instead of Gender Studies. 

In all seriousness, this proposal is a dangerous attack on higher education. It devalues important fields of study and limits students' options for pursuing their passions and interests. It also promotes a narrow-minded view of education that only values degrees that lead to high-paying jobs. 

So what's next? Will we only fund degrees in STEM fields and forget about the humanities altogether? Will we only teach students how to code and forget about critical thinking? Will we only care about the economy and forget about everything else that makes life worth living? 

We hope not. Because if we do, we'll end up with a society that values money over everything else, where creativity and diversity are stifled, and where people are reduced to cogs in a machine. And that's not a society we want to live in. 

So let's fight back against this proposal and stand up for the importance of education in all its forms. Let's support our students and our educators and let them know that their work is valued and appreciated. And let's never forget that there's more to life than just making money. 

In conclusion, Mississippi State Auditor Shad White's proposal to defund several college majors is a misguided attempt to limit students' options and promote a narrow-minded view of education. We need to fight back against this proposal and stand up for the importance of education in all its forms. Because in the end, education is not just about getting a job, it's about becoming a well-rounded human being who can contribute to society in meaningful ways. And that's something we should all value.

Mississippi auditor says taxpayers shouldn't be paying for your anthropology degree https://www.wapt.com/article/mississippi-auditor-says-several-college-majors-indoctrinate-students-and-should-be-defunded/45247915# 

Mississippi auditor says several college majors indoctrinate students and should be defunded | AP News https://apnews.com/article/mississippi-college-majors-funding-cuts-aad5a0d5c7ab013d6c5489fd41e4dc54

Jimmy Buffett Didn’t Need a Music Degree - WSJ https://www.wsj.com/articles/jimmy-buffett-didnt-need-a-music-degree-mississippi-high-skill-degrees-funding-c07925ca 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BING AI

Mississippi Auditor Says Several College Majors Indoctrinate Students and Should Be Defunded

In September 2023, Mississippi State Auditor Shad White, a Republican, published a report titled "The Mississippi College Affordability and Workforce Act." The report argued that the state should defund several college majors that White claimed were "indoctrination factories."

White specifically named the following majors as being problematic:

• * Gender studies
• * Women's studies
• * Ethnic studies
• * Critical race theory
• * Social justice
• * Environmental studies

White argued that these majors are not aligned with Mississippi's workforce needs and that they are "useless" and "garbage fields." He also claimed that these majors promote "leftist ideology" and "indoctrinate" students with "liberal propaganda."

White's report has been widely criticized by educators and academics. They argue that White's claims are false and that the majors he listed are essential to a well-rounded education. They also point out that White himself studied political science and economics at the University of Mississippi, both of which are social sciences.

Critics also note that White's report is motivated by his own political ideology. White is a conservative Republican who has been a vocal critic of higher education. He has previously accused universities of being "liberal bastions" and of promoting "woke ideology."

Despite the criticism, White's report has been influential among some Republican politicians in Mississippi. In January 2024, a group of Republican state lawmakers introduced a bill that would defund the majors that White listed in his report. The bill is currently under consideration in the Mississippi legislature.

**A Deep Dive into the Issue**

• White's claims about college majors indoctrinating students are not new. They have been made by conservative critics of higher education for many years. However, there is no evidence to support these claims.
• In fact, studies have shown that college students are exposed to a variety of viewpoints in their classes, and that they are not simply indoctrinated with liberal ideology. For example, a 2017 study by the Pew Research Center found that college students are more likely to be exposed to conservative viewpoints than they are to liberal viewpoints.
• It is also important to note that the majors that White listed are all important fields of study. They provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a variety of careers. For example, graduates of gender studies programs often work in fields such as education, social work, and public policy. Graduates of women's studies programs often work in fields such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and social justice.

**Conclusion**

White's claims about college majors indoctrinating students are false and misleading. They are motivated by his own political ideology and are not supported by evidence. The majors that White listed are all important fields of study that provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a variety of careers.

**My Opinion** (BARD)

I believe that White's report is a dangerous attack on higher education. It is based on false and misleading claims, and it is motivated by his own political ideology. If White's recommendations are implemented, it will damage Mississippi's public universities and make it more difficult for students to pursue the majors they are passionate about.

FROM BING AI

Mississippi auditor's report that suggests defunding several college majors.

The report, published on September 21, 2023, by Mississippi State Auditor Shad White, a Republican, argues that the state should change its approach to funding its public universities. He proposes tying public investment to workforce needs instead of providing funds without regard for the degree programs, as has traditionally been the case¹². White claims that too many college graduates are leaving Mississippi, and aligning degree programs with labor market demand might stem the tide¹².

White also criticizes some social science and humanities degree programs as “indoctrination factories” that are not useful to Mississippi’s economy. He says there should be no taxpayer funding for “useless degrees” in “garbage fields” like Urban Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, German Literature, African Studies, Gender Studies and Women's Studies¹²³. He suggests that the state should increase funding in degree programs with higher earning potential right after graduating, such as in engineering or business management¹².

White's report and statements have sparked controversy and criticism from various sources. Some of the main points of criticism are:

1. - White's report is based on flawed assumptions and data. For example, he uses average salaries of graduates in Mississippi as a measure of economic impact, ignoring the benefits of education beyond income, such as civic engagement, cultural diversity, and personal fulfillment⁴⁵. He also does not account for the differences in cost of living across states, which may affect graduates' decisions to stay or leave Mississippi⁶.
2. - White's report is motivated by political and ideological agendas, not by genuine concern for education or economic development. He is using his position as auditor to interfere with academic freedom and autonomy, and to promote his own conservative views on social and cultural issues⁴⁵⁷. He is also trying to advance his political career by appealing to his base and potential donors⁸.
3. - White's report is harmful to students and faculty, especially those from marginalized groups and disciplines. He is devaluing and stigmatizing their fields of study and their contributions to society⁴⁵⁹. He is also creating a chilling effect on academic inquiry and expression, and discouraging students from pursuing their interests and passions[^10^] ¹¹.

In conclusion, Mississippi auditor's report that suggests defunding several college majors has generated a lot of backlash and debate. The report reflects White's views on education and its role in society, which are not shared by many educators, students, and experts. The report also raises questions about the appropriate role of the state auditor and the state government in determining the funding and direction of higher education in Mississippi.

Bing, 9/22/2023

• (1) Mississippi auditor says several college majors indoctrinate students and should be defunded. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/mississippi-auditor-says-several-college-majors-indoctrinate-students-and-should-be-defunded/ar-AA1h3ELP.
• (2) Mississippi auditor says several college majors indoctrinate students, should be defunded. https://news.yahoo.com/mississippi-auditor-says-several-college-151942008.html.
• (3) Mississippi auditor says several college majors bias students and should be defunded. https://news.yahoo.com/mississippi-auditor-says-several-college-175458620.html.
• (4) Auditor says several college majors indoctrinate students and should be .... https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/mississippi-auditor-college-majors-indoctrinate-students-defunded-103378914.
• (5) Mississippi auditor says several college majors indoctrinate students .... https://apnews.com/article/mississippi-college-majors-funding-cuts-aad5a0d5c7ab013d6c5489fd41e4dc54.
• (6) Mississippi auditor says several college majors indoctrinate students .... https://www.wapt.com/article/mississippi-auditor-says-several-college-majors-indoctrinate-students-and-should-be-defunded/45247915.
• (7) Shad White - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shad_White.
• (8) Learn More About Your Mississippi State Auditor - Shad White. https://shadwhite.com/about/.
• (9) Shad White - Ballotpedia. https://ballotpedia.org/Shad_White.
• (10) Shad White Bio - Mississippi Today. https://mississippitoday.org/2019/07/03/shad-white/.
• (11) Mississippi Public Universities - Legislative Relations - State Government. http://www.mississippi.edu/gov/.
• (12) Mississippi State Grant Aid - Urban Institute. https://www.urban.org/sites/default/files/2022-04/Mississippi%20State%20Grant%20Aid.pdf.
• (13) Mississippi Public Universities - Institutions of Higher Learning. http://www.mississippi.edu/ihl/.
• (14) Policies and Bylaws - Mississippi Public Universities. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/board/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf.
• (15) State auditor issues report challenging how Mississippi funds college .... https://www.supertalk.fm/state-auditor-issues-report-challenging-how-mississippi-funds-college-majors/.
• (16) Shad White - MS. https://www.osa.ms.gov/documents/Special_Reports/2019%20Cyber%20Security%20Report.pdf.
• (17) MS state auditor's office releases report of Medicaid fraud claims. https://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2021/08/02/ms-state-auditors-office-releases-report-medicaid-fraud-claims/5452905001/.

NORTH CAROLINA BUDGET: CUTS FUNDING TO PUBLIC SCHOOLS, CASTRATES NC BOARD OF EDUCATION, EXPANDS VOUCHERS

NORTH CAROLINA BUDGET: CUTS FUNDING TO PUBLIC SCHOOLS, CASTRATES NC BOARD OF EDUCATION, EXPANDS VOUCHERS 

In a stunning display of fiscal acrobatics, North Carolina's Republican legislative leaders have unveiled their grand plan for the state's education system. Brace yourselves, folks, because this budget is a real knee-slapper.

First up on the comedy lineup, we have the raise in teacher salaries. Now, you might think that increasing the pay of these hardworking educators is a good thing. But oh no, not in MAGA Land! Instead of a substantial raise, they've decided to play a little game of hide and seek with the funds. They'll set base salaries for teachers, but then supplement them with local and state funds. It's like a magic trick – now you see the money, now you don't! Abracadabra, your paycheck just disappeared!

But wait, there's more! In a move that would make even the most seasoned stand-up comedian blush, they're expanding vouchers for private schools. Because why invest in public education when you can just throw money at private institutions? It's like going to a fancy restaurant and leaving a tip for the waiter, but forgetting to pay your own bill. Comedy gold!

And if you thought that was the punchline, hold onto your hats, folks. They're limiting the powers of the State Board of Education. Because who needs experts and professionals making decisions about education when you can just let politicians run the show? It's like hiring a plumber to fix your leaky faucet, but then telling them to stay away from the pipes. Hilarious!

But fear not, my friends, because there's a glimmer of hope in this budget. They're expanding eligibility for the NC Teaching Fellows scheme. Yes, they're actually acknowledging that teachers need financial support. Of course, there's a catch – they have to teach in North Carolina public schools. It's like offering someone a delicious slice of cake, but only if they promise to eat their vegetables first. Classic!

And finally, the pièce de résistance of this comedy extravaganza – the budget does not restore a prior salary supplement for teachers who earn a master's degree. Because who needs advanced degrees when you can just rely on good old-fashioned common sense? It's like telling someone they don't need a driver's license because they've watched every episode of "Top Gear." Side-splittingly funny!

But wait, there's one more joke for the road. The state board of education can now withhold funding from charter schools. It's like giving someone a gift card to their favorite store, but then telling them they can only use it on Mondays between 2 and 3 PM. Utterly hilarious!

So there you have it, ladies and gentlemen – North Carolina's MAGA Legislature at its finest. With budget cuts, expanded vouchers, and castrated education, they've truly outdone themselves in the comedy department. Who needs laughter when you can have tears of frustration instead? Bravo!

NC budget to expand private school vouchers and strip power from State Board of Education | WUNC https://www.wunc.org/education/2023-09-20/2023-state-budget-schools-teachers-private-school-vouchers 

TEXAS CROWN ACT FOR WHITE STUDENTS ONLY: BLACK HAIR STILL BANNED

TEXAS CROWN ACT FOR WHITE STUDENTS ONLY: BLACK HAIR STILL BANNED

In a recent turn of events, it seems that the Texas Crown Act, a law designed to prevent racial discrimination based on hairstyles, may only apply to white students. That's right, folks, it looks like black students are still screwed when it comes to school dress codes.

Take the case of Darryl George, a high school student at Barbers Hill High School in Texas. Darryl has been serving in-school suspension for wearing twisted dreadlocks to class, which apparently violates the school district's dress code. However, his family and attorney argue that the hairstyle does not violate the dress code and that the school district is violating the CROWN Act.

For those of you who don't know, the CROWN Act prohibits race-based hair discrimination and bars employers and schools from penalizing people because of hair texture or protective hairstyles, including Afros, braids, dreadlocks, twists, or Bantu knots. It sounds like a great law, right? Well, not if you're a black student in Texas.

Darryl's family has filed a formal complaint with the Texas Education Agency, alleging that he was being harassed and mistreated by school district officials over his hair, and that his suspension violated the CROWN Act. The school district has also filed a lawsuit in state district court asking a judge to clarify whether its dress code restrictions limiting student hair length for boys violate the CROWN Act.

But here's where things get really interesting. According to Darryl's family, the school district is enforcing hair length requirements for male students, despite allowing boys to wear braids, locks, or twists. So, let me get this straight. Black students can wear protective hairstyles, but only if their hair is short enough? That's like saying you can eat cake, but only if it's sugar-free and made with cauliflower instead of flour.

Darryl has been placed in in-school suspension multiple times and claims he is being forced to sit in a cold room all day with no teachers explaining his lessons. And if that's not bad enough, he's also being fed bologna sandwiches instead of the school lunch options available to other students. I mean, come on, school district officials. Is this really necessary? Are you really so threatened by a student's hair that you have to subject him to inhumane conditions?

It's clear that something needs to change. The CROWN Act was supposed to protect black students from discrimination based on their hairstyles, but it seems like the law is only being applied to white students. This is unacceptable. We need to stand up for Darryl and other black students who are being unfairly targeted by school dress codes.

In fact, I have a proposal. Let's create a new law called the "Hair Equality Act" that explicitly prohibits schools from discriminating against any student based on their hair length or style. And let's make sure that this law is enforced equally for all students, regardless of their race.

Because at the end of the day, it doesn't matter if you're black or white or any other race. We all have the right to express ourselves through our appearance, including our hair. So let's fight for Hair Equality and put an end to discriminatory school dress codes once and for all.

Barbers Hill HS student claims he’s repeatedly subjected to inhumane conditions because of his hair https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2023/09/21/family-of-barbers-hill-isd-student-suspended-for-his-hairstyle-asks-for-clarification-of-the-crown-act/ 

Barbers Hill ISD asking court to clarify CROWN Act, after suspending student Darryl George for 2nd time for the length of his hair - ABC13 Houston https://abc13.com/barbers-hill-isd-student-darryl-george-suspended-for-dreadlocks-crown-act-hair-discrimination-texas-law/13806662/

Texas student punished for hairstyle | khou.com https://www.khou.com/article/news/education/barbers-hill-high-school-crown-act/285-6b50c90d-d6db-4c05-9b75-c1565a177b4c 

Debate over a Black student's suspension over his hairstyle in Texas ramps up with probe and lawsuit | AP News https://apnews.com/article/hairstyles-racial-discrimination-crown-act-6312d39fe23de0b20dca60b9b3c72d8c 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

The Crown Act is a law that prohibits discrimination based on a person's natural hair or protective hairstyle. Protective hairstyles are hairstyles that are worn to protect the natural hair from damage. This can include braids, twists, locs, and afros.

The Crown Act was first passed in California in 2019, and it has since been passed in over a dozen other states. The law is designed to protect people from being discriminated against in employment, housing, and public accommodations because of their hair.

Black hair has a long and rich history. It has been used to express identity, culture, and spirituality. However, Black hair has also been a source of discrimination. Black people have been told that their hair is unprofessional, unsightly, and even dirty. This discrimination has had a negative impact on the self-esteem and mental health of Black people.

The Crown Act is an important step towards ending discrimination against Black hair. It sends the message that Black hair is beautiful and professional. It also allows Black people to wear their hair in a way that is authentic to themselves.

The Crown Act has been supported by a number of organizations and individuals, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Black Lives Matter movement, and celebrities such as Beyoncé and Lupita Nyong'o.

The Crown Act is a victory for Black people and for all people who believe in equality. It is a reminder that everyone should be able to express themselves freely, without fear of discrimination.

**What can you do to support the Crown Act?**

There are a number of things you can do to support the Crown Act:

• * Contact your elected officials and let them know that you support the passage of the Crown Act in your state.
• * Educate yourself and others about the Crown Act and the importance of protecting Black hair.
• * Support Black-owned businesses that sell hair products and services.
• * Challenge stereotypes about Black hair.
• * Wear your own hair with pride!

The Crown Act is an important step towards ending discrimination against Black hair. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society.

FROM BING AI

Black hair and the CROWN Act. 

• - The CROWN Act is a law that forbids discrimination based on hair texture and hair styles, especially those that are associated with Black people, such as locs, braids, twists, Bantu knots, afros and natural hair. CROWN stands for: “Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair.”⁵
• - The CROWN Act was first passed in California in 2019, and since then, it has been adopted by 20 states in the U.S. It has also been introduced at the federal level, and passed by the House of Representatives in March 2022. However, it still needs to be approved by the Senate and signed by the President to become a national law.⁵⁶⁷
• - The CROWN Act is an extension of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibited discrimination against afros, but not other natural hairstyles. The CROWN Act aims to address the gap in legal protection and recognize that hair discrimination is a form of racial discrimination.⁹
• - Black hair is diverse, with a range of textures and thicknesses. It often has a curly or spiral shape, which makes it more prone to dryness and breakage. Black hair also has a thinner cuticle layer and fewer hair follicles than other hair types, which can affect its appearance and health.[^10^] ¹¹
• - To care for Black hair, dermatologists recommend washing it once a week or every other week with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. They also suggest using a hot oil treatment twice a month, using a heat protecting product before styling, using caution with relaxers and other chemical treatments, using ceramic combs or irons to press hair, and making sure braids, cornrows or weaves are not too tight.¹¹¹²¹³
• - Black hair care products and tips may vary depending on the individual's hair type, texture, length, and style preferences. Some natural ingredients that can benefit Black hair include coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, argan oil, shea butter, aloe vera, honey, apple cider vinegar, and tea tree oil.[^10^] ¹²¹⁴

Bing, 9/21/2023

• (1) What is the CROWN Act? | ADL. https://www.adl.org/resources/tools-and-strategies/what-crown-act.
• (2) Everything You Need to Know About The Crown Act - Byrdie. https://www.byrdie.com/the-crown-act-guide-5111864.
• (3) CROWN Act: Does Your State Prohibit Hair Discrimination? - SHRM. https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/behavioral-competencies/global-and-cultural-effectiveness/pages/crown-act-does-your-state-prohibit-hair-discrimination.aspx.
• (4) The Tangled History of the CROWN Act and Its Progress to Date - Insider. https://www.insider.com/crown-act-black-hair-discrimination-mya-deanna-cook-2022-8.
• (5) Black hair care: Tips for washing, styling, and choosing products. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/black-hair-care.
• (6) Black hair: Tips for everyday care - American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/care-african-american.
• (7) 15 Simple Hair Care Tips For Black Hair - Stylecraze. https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/7-simple-black-hair-care-tips/.
• (8) How to Take Care of Natural Black Hair: The Complete Guide for .... https://www.alluriumbeauty.com/blogs/news/black-hair-care-for-beginners.
• (9) Black Hair Care: Tips and Best Practices - Greatist. https://greatist.com/live/black-hair-care.
• (10) House passes Crown Act banning discrimination against Black hairstyles. https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/house-passes-crown-act-banning-discrimination-black-hairstyles-rcna20617.
• (11) How Hair Discrimination Affects Black Women at Work. https://hbr.org/2023/05/how-hair-discrimination-affects-black-women-at-work.
• (12) The CROWN Act & transforming the rules of professionalism around Black hair. https://www.thomsonreuters.com/en-us/posts/legal/crown-act-legal-professionalism/.
• (13) US House passes CROWN Act that would ban race-based hair ... - CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2022/03/18/politics/house-vote-crown-act/index.html.
• (14) How the CROWN Act Impacts You - NaturallyCurly.com. https://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/news-culture/how-the-crown-act-impacts-you.

Sure, I can list the states that support the CROWN Act. According to my web search results, the CROWN Act or laws inspired by it have been enacted in 22 states and 49 municipalities in the U.S.³ The 22 states are:

- Alaska

- Arkansas

- California

- Colorado

- Connecticut

- Delaware

- Illinois

- Louisiana

- Maine

- Maryland

- Massachusetts

- Michigan

- Minnesota

- Nebraska

- Nevada

- New Jersey

- New Mexico

- New York

- Oregon

- Tennessee

- Texas

- Virginia

These states have passed the CROWN Act to forbid discrimination based on hair texture and hair styles, especially those that are associated with Black people, such as locs, braids, twists, Bantu knots, afros and natural hair. The CROWN Act stands for: “Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair.”⁵

Source: Conversation with Bing, 9/21/2023

• (1) The CROWN Act - Dove. https://www.dove.com/us/en/stories/campaigns/the-crown-act.html.
• (2) What’s Coming Up in CROWN Act Legislation, and How to Prepare. https://news.bloomberglaw.com/us-law-week/whats-coming-up-in-crown-act-legislation-and-how-to-prepare.
• (3) Th CROWN Act: Here Are All The States That Have Passed The Bill - NewsOne. https://newsone.com/4383979/the-crown-act-states/.
• (4) Here's Every State That Has Passed the Crown Act | Glamour. https://www.glamour.com/story/the-crown-act-banning-hair-discrimination.
• (5) Growing List of States Enacting the CROWN Act in 2023. https://clearlawinstitute.com/blog/2023/02/09/house-of-representatives-passes-bill-prohibiting-discrimination-based-on-natural-hair/.