NOVEMBER 17, 2025
- The longest U.S. government shutdown in history, lasting 43 days, has finally ended, with Democrats allowing operations to resume amid intense partisan gridlock.
- Growing bipartisan pressure mounts for a House vote this week to release unclassified files from Jeffrey Epstein's case, with even some Republicans pushing forward despite resistance.
- Torrential rains cause severe flooding in California, resulting in at least one death after a man's car was swept off a bridge, with ongoing recovery efforts in affected areas.
- New York Jets cornerback Kris Boyd was hospitalized after a shooting in New York City, adding to concerns over athlete safety amid rising urban violence.
- Border Patrol agents conducted a second day of arrests in Charlotte, North Carolina, targeting immigration enforcement as part of a broader crackdown.
- President Trump reversed course and urged House Republicans to vote for releasing more Epstein files this week, despite his earlier opposition to the move.
- The end of the 43-day government shutdown drew mixed reactions on Sunday talk shows, with Democrats criticizing prolonged GOP delays and Republicans touting fiscal restraint.
- Trump publicly targeted Indiana Gov. Mike Braun and two "RINO" Senate Republicans over delays in state redistricting efforts, escalating intra-party tensions.
- White House NEC Director Kevin Hassett defended the administration's economic agenda on ABC's "This Week," amid discussions on inflation and post-shutdown recovery.
- The U.S. military's advanced aircraft carrier arrived in the Caribbean as President Trump weighs potential action against Venezuela, heightening regional tensions.
- Midpoint takeaways from COP30 climate talks emphasize urgent emissions cuts, with global leaders pushing for stronger commitments on fossil fuel phase-outs.
- A car explosion in Delhi, India, investigated by the National Investigation Agency, raises security concerns amid potential terror links.
- Ecuador's president escalates the war on drugs with new military operations, following a surge in cartel violence and prison riots.
- The 2026 Rhodes Scholarships were awarded to U.S. students focusing on housing, health outcomes, and sustainability, highlighting innovative academic pursuits.
- An Indiana professor was removed from teaching a diversity class after a lesson on white supremacy sparked controversy and complaints from students.
- Undergraduate enrollment is projected to increase for the third straight year, signaling recovery in higher education amid economic uncertainties.
- In Los Angeles, 45 elementary schools outperformed expectations in literacy despite high poverty rates, crediting targeted reading programs.
- The end of the government shutdown provided a slight boost to markets, with U.S. stock futures advancing and tech shares rallying on renewed stability.
- Analysts warn Trump's proposed tariffs could act as a major tax increase, potentially tipping a "decent chunk" of the economy into recession.
- The Conference Board forecasts U.S. GDP growth at 1.8% for 2025, tempered by inflation pressures and post-shutdown recovery challenges.
- President Trump reiterated promises of an economic "boom" to combat inflation, though experts note no quick fixes are available despite policy shifts.
- Samsung and Hyundai pledged billions in domestic investments following a U.S.-South Korea trade deal, aiming to bolster semiconductor and EV production.
- A new report reveals the AI data center boom will require $580 billion in spending this year, with questions over how much will rely on renewable energy sources.
- Tech stocks surged on hopes of the shutdown's end, with investors eyeing Nvidia's upcoming earnings as a key indicator for AI growth.
- Researchers unveiled a novel engine that generates power from the cold vacuum of space, potentially revolutionizing nighttime energy production.
- A study links rising melanoma rates in Pennsylvania's cropland counties to heavy herbicide use, prompting calls for stricter agricultural regulations.
- New research highlights three ways vitamin D supplementation may extend longevity, including reduced inflammation and improved immune function.
- Ultra-processed foods are tied to higher colorectal cancer risk in women, according to a large-scale study urging dietary shifts.
- U.S. measles cases reach a 33-year high, with health officials stressing vaccination amid outbreaks in under-immunized communities.
- In NFL Week 11, Browns QB Shedeur Sanders made his debut after Dillon Gabriel's head injury, while the Broncos face the Chiefs in a pivotal AFC West clash.
- The San Francisco 49ers secured a key Week 11 win over the Cardinals, with standout plays from their offense boosting playoff hopes.
- College football shakeups: Alabama's first SEC loss and Texas' defeat to Georgia impact rankings and CFP contention.
- NBA action: The Suns edged the Hawks in a high-scoring affair, highlighted by strong performances from star guards.
Big Education Ape: THE OLIGARCH'S MONOPOLY: HOW THE BILLIONAIRE CLASS IS STEALING THE AMERICAN DREAM ONE STARTER HOME AT A TIME https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/the-oligarchs-monopoly-how-billionaire.html
### Key Points
- Generation Z is systematically locked out of homeownership due to rising housing costs, stagnant wages, and student loan debt.
- Institutional investors dominate the housing market, buying entry-level homes and converting them into rental properties, driving up prices and reducing ownership opportunities.
- The political system has been captured by wealthy interests, with policies favoring corporate profits over affordable housing solutions.
- Restrictive zoning laws, developer incentives, and labor shortages contribute to the housing supply crisis.
- The gig economy complicates mortgage qualification due to inconsistent income and outdated underwriting standards.
- Student loan debt prevents Generation Z from saving for down payments and building wealth.
- Rent prices are so high they trap renters in a cycle of financial instability, preventing savings for homeownership.
- Technology, like algorithmic rent-setting and automated tenant screening, worsens housing access and affordability.
- Solutions such as zoning reform, affordable housing investment, regulating institutional investors, and campaign finance reform are feasible but blocked by corporate interests.
- The psychological toll of the housing crisis includes blame-shifting and gaslighting, discouraging collective action.
- Collective action, voting, and systemic reforms are necessary to combat the housing crisis and restore economic mobility.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 16, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_046208999.html
### Key Points
- Donald Trump faced significant political fallout in November 2025, including controversies over Epstein emails, economic struggles, and alienating his base with divisive policies.
- President Trump severed ties with Marjorie Taylor Greene amid mutual public attacks.
- The U.S. government shutdown entered its 40th day, causing disruptions like flight delays and economic strain.
- Vatican returned artifacts to Canadian Indigenous peoples as part of reconciliation efforts.
- Israel-Gaza conflict developments included aid rejection and displacement concerns.
- Universal, free education and training are proposed as necessary reforms in the age of AI to prepare workers for rapid technological advancements.
- The Common Core standards have not significantly changed teaching practices in the U.S., showing limited impact despite policy adoption.
- Starbucks baristas are striking for better wages, hours, and union representation, criticizing alleged union-busting practices.
- Chronic absenteeism in Michigan schools has worsened post-pandemic, with socioeconomic factors and disengagement being major contributors.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) faced scrutiny due to politicization and weakening amid the government shutdown.
- AI platforms, such as NeuroBot TA, provide personalized learning and are trusted more when responses are anchored to curated expert sources.
- Toyota recalled over 126,000 vehicles due to a potential engine failure issue.
- The NCAA tournaments for college basketball, soccer, and volleyball were underway.
- Antisemitism remains a persistent issue in America, with calls to challenge hate and support Jewish communities.
- Media monopolies controlled by wealthy elites are impacting democracy and knowledge dissemination.
- Small group counseling interventions improve middle school students' anger management, academic skills, and perceptions of school climate.
- Mental health and performative empathy are central themes in Vince Gilligan's new series, *Pluribus*, critiquing society's detached compassion.
Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/sunday-november-9-2025-looking-back.html
- Three candidates vie for the District 5 seat on the Millwood Public Schools Board.
- Illinois introduces a new safe gun storage law, effective January 1, 2026.
- Aftyn Behn announces her congressional run.
- Discussions on the implications of refusing NDAs in high-profile cases.
- Reflection on past educational practices and debates around standardized testing.
- Insights into the U.S. healthcare debate and the need for universal education in the age of AI.
- MSNBC rebrands as MS NOW, reflecting shifts in media identity.
- Analysis of political strategies, including Trump’s controversies and the impact of Zohra Mamdani’s victory.
- Advocacy for public education and initiatives like Black Lives Matter at School.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: NOVEMBER 16, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/morning-news-update-november-16-2025.html
### Key Points
- Immigration sweeps in North Carolina spark criticism, while tensions rise within the Republican Party over the "Epstein files."
- Global affairs cover Middle East tensions, Russia-Ukraine conflict, and climate protests at COP30.
- Economic concerns include inflation, affordability issues, and global market volatility tied to AI and trade tensions.
- Technological updates highlight AI risks, security warnings for Apple devices, and TikTok's growing e-commerce presence.
- Health breakthroughs include Alzheimer's risk tools and the benefits of Vitamin D for longevity.
- Sports coverage includes key college football wins, NFL and NBA matchups, and France's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 15, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01999002130.html
The article is a compilation of diverse topics ranging from politics, education, healthcare, technology, labor struggles, and global affairs. It highlights key developments and systemic issues shaping the U.S. and the world in November 2025, including government policies, social justice concerns, education reforms, and the impact of AI and economic decisions.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 11-9 25 TO 11-15-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/the-top-news-stories-this-week-11-9-25.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent news across various domains, including politics, education, economy, technology, health, world affairs, and sports. It highlights major developments such as the prolonged U.S. government shutdown, international tensions, advancements in technology, and significant events in sports and public health.
The House of MAGA is in Disarray. Is there still a path to Democratic victories in '26? I think so. MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/the-house-of-maga-is-in-disarray
### Key Points
- The Republican Party faces turmoil due to internal conflicts, the Epstein files, and Democratic victories.
- The Democratic Party’s brand remains unpopular, partly due to controversial stances like support for Israel’s war on Gaza.
- Candidates like Zohran Mamdani have shown that bold affordability plans and addressing key social issues can lead to electoral success.
- Democrats need to shift focus from their own brand to running against Trump’s regime to gain traction in the 2026 elections.
- Radical changes in Democratic leadership, such as replacing figures like Schumer and Jeffries, may be necessary for long-term survival.
CURMUDGUCATION: AI Is Coming To Evaluate You https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/11/ai-is-coming-to-evaluate-you.html
### Key Points
- AI tools like "Observation Copilot" automate teacher evaluations, producing jargon-heavy reports devoid of meaningful insights.
- These tools risk replacing human interaction, reducing principals' roles to mere data input, which is unethical and disrespectful to educators.
- Effective teacher assessment requires direct communication and support from knowledgeable administrators, not AI-generated filler.
- The author encourages principals to reconsider their reliance on such AI tools and prioritize genuine human engagement.
ICYMI: Local Donuts Edition (11/16) PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/icymi-local-donuts-edition-1116
- Local donut shops offer better quality than commercial ones, emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses.
- Diane Ravitch’s memoir and various education topics such as federal vouchers, conceptual understanding in classrooms, and cyber charter schools are explored.
- Issues in education, including screen time, deepfake incidents, and charter school accountability in California, are highlighted.
- Ohio election results reflect voter opposition to legislative attacks on public schools, along with discussions on leadership accountability and school privatization costs.
- Profiles of influential figures in Texas politics, creepy AI experiments, and a sports analytics course are shared.
- Pennsylvania laws aim to regulate cyber charters, and Florida’s book ban court decision sparks controversy.
- Industrialization in education is criticized, with comparisons to local donut shops’ human-scale operations.
The Digitization of American Schooling (Daniel Buck) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/11/16/the-digitization-of-american-schooling-daniel-buck/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- The digitization of classrooms has resulted in excessive screen time for students, often replacing traditional learning tools and interactions.
- The growth of technology in education surged due to policy changes like No Child Left Behind and the COVID-19 pandemic, which pushed for one-to-one device policies.
- While technology has historically been seen as transformative, its overuse has led to issues like reduced focus, lower academic performance, and increased mental health challenges.
- Research shows that traditional methods, such as handwriting and reading physical books, enhance learning and comprehension compared to digital methods.
- Policymakers and schools are urged to critically assess the efficacy of educational technologies, avoid over-reliance on devices, and prioritize proven teaching practices.
The Best “Words Of The Year” Features For 2025 Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
### Key Points
- The blog offers curated educational resources, including "Best of" lists for 2025, such as "Words of the Year."
- Highlights include World Toilet Day teaching resources and tips for culturally responsive teaching.
- Features tools like infographics, videos on global population, and active listening to improve classroom engagement.
- Discusses the decline in interest in teaching careers and provides resources for effective study techniques.
- Provides practical books and strategies for teaching various subjects, including Social Studies, English, Math, and Science, with a focus on engaging students and parents.
- Shares additional educational materials, including blog posts, radio shows, and videos to support teachers.
A Twelve Page Letter Just Showed What Happens When You Refuse Silence – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/11/16/what-happens-when-a-leader-refuses-the-nda-president-ryan-just-showed-us/
### Key Points
- James Ryan’s twelve-page letter challenges the norm of NDAs, offering a transparent account of the political and institutional pressures leading to his departure.
- NDAs are widely used across sectors to suppress dissent and shield institutions from scrutiny, often silencing whistleblowers and ethical individuals.
- Institutional secrecy erodes trust, prevents accountability, and allows harmful patterns to persist, undermining democratic values.
- Transparency, through actions like writing detailed accounts, empowers communities to hold institutions accountable and drive meaningful reforms.
- The article advocates for replacing NDAs with a culture of courage and honesty to improve governance and protect democratic principles.
glen brown: New Illinois Safe Gun Storage Law Effective January 1, 2026 https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/new-illinois-safe-gun-storage-law.html
The article is a collection of reflections, legislative updates, and personal insights from Glen Brown's blog. It discusses various social, political, and cultural topics, including a new Illinois gun storage law, political commentary, historical events, and personal musings on writing and justice.
### Key Points
- Glen Brown reflects on the responsibilities of writers and their role in resisting oppression, citing Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
- A new Illinois Safe Gun Storage Law, effective January 1, 2026, mandates secure firearm storage to prevent access by minors, at-risk individuals, or prohibited persons, with penalties for violations.
- The blog covers diverse topics such as pensions, social justice, healthcare, education reform, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
- Commentary includes critiques of political figures, historical events like the Babyn Yar Massacre, and reflections on current issues like Trump's presidency and the January 6th insurrection.
- The blog also features creative content like poetry, humor, and personal anecdotes, showcasing Glen Brown's multifaceted approach to writing.
Schools Matter: She's Aftyn Behn and She’s Running for Congress. http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/11/shes-aftyn-behn-and-shes-running-for.html
### Key Points
- The blog post highlights Aftyn Behn's candidacy for Congress, written by James Horn.
- The blog discusses various political and social issues, including poverty, corruption in the Senate, civil rights, and education reform.
- The blog archives reflect a long history of posts on education, politics, and social justice topics, with a focus on systemic issues like testing and public school reforms.
- The blog critiques corporate influence in education, the "No Excuses" teaching model, and the privatization of public schools.
- It mentions specific political figures and controversies, such as Marsha Blackburn, the Republican Party's priorities, and the weaponization of civil rights.
When Power Targets the Vulnerable https://www.changethelausd.com/when_power_targets_the_vulnerable
### Key Points
- The author recounts how a personal friendship dissolved due to differences in perception of Donald Trump's actions, highlighting the cult-like loyalty some exhibit toward him.
- Trump mocked a disabled reporter, an act that was denied by his supporters despite clear evidence, showcasing the altered reality many embraced.
- During the government shutdown, Trump attempted to fire employees from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), jeopardizing services for 7.5 million disabled students.
- Cuts to education funding and services for students with disabilities were proposed, undermining the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
- Trump suspended SNAP benefits during the shutdown, affecting millions of low-income families and children, while also blocking private assistance efforts.
- The article argues that such policies reflect a broader trend of cruelty and indifference toward the vulnerable, making change a necessity for survival.
A Billion Dollar Boondoggle AZ vouchers eat state budget, finance iPhones, diamonds, vacations ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/a-billion-dollar-boondoggle
### Key Points
- Arizona’s ESA school voucher program now costs $1 billion annually, diverting funds from public schools to private schools without financial or academic accountability.
- The program primarily benefits wealthier families, exacerbates public school funding deficits, and has been associated with fraud and misuse, including financing luxury goods and vacations.
- Similar challenges are arising in Tennessee and Florida, where voucher programs threaten to destabilize state budgets and public education systems.
- In Florida, discrepancies in student counts revealed significant misuse of voucher funds, with some students simultaneously enrolled in public schools and receiving vouchers.
- Concerns grow over the long-term impact of privatization efforts on public education and state budgets, with political dynamics influencing these policies.
