Latest News and Comment from Education

Thursday, June 8, 2023

DONALD TRUMP IS BACK... ON THE HOT SEAT AGAIN: INDICTED 7 COUNTS

DONALD TRUMP IS BACK... 

ON THE HOT SEAT AGAIN: INDICTED 7 COUNTS

 It seems like Donald Trump just can't catch a break these days. According to sources, the former President has been indicted for a second time in relation to a classified documents investigation. The news has sent shockwaves through the political world, with many wondering what this means for Trump's future.

Of course, this isn't the first time that Trump has found himself in hot water. From the infamous Access Hollywood tape to the Stormy Daniels scandal, the former President has had his fair share of controversies. But this latest development is particularly noteworthy, as it marks the first time in history that a former President has been indicted twice.

So what exactly is Trump being accused of this time around? According to sources, the investigation centers around classified documents that were allegedly mishandled during Trump's time in office. While details are still scarce, some insiders have speculated that the documents in question may relate to Trump's infamous phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which ultimately led to his first impeachment.

Of course, Trump himself has been quick to dismiss the charges as baseless, calling them a "witch hunt" and accusing his political enemies of trying to take him down. But many others are taking the news seriously, with some even speculating that Trump could face serious jail time if convicted.

As expected, the reaction to the news has been mixed. Some Trump supporters have rallied around their hero, insisting that he is innocent and vowing to fight for his freedom. Others, however, have been less sympathetic, with many taking to social media to mock the former President and his latest legal troubles.

One Twitter user wrote: "Looks like Trump is about to get a taste of his own medicine. Maybe he should have thought twice before messing with classified documents." Another joked: "I guess 'lock her up' applies to him now too!"

But while the news may be serious, that doesn't mean we can't find some humor in the situation. After all, this is Donald Trump we're talking about - a man who has made a career out of saying and doing outrageous things. So in honor of his latest legal woes, here are a few lighthearted jokes to help us all get through the day:

- Why did Donald Trump cross the road? To get to the other side of the indictment.

- What do you call a former President who's been indicted twice? A double whammy.

- Why did Donald Trump refuse to share his classified documents? Because he didn't want anyone else to see how small they were.

Okay, so maybe these jokes aren't exactly Pulitzer Prize-winning material. But hey, sometimes you've got to laugh to keep from crying. And when it comes to Donald Trump, there's certainly no shortage of material to work with.

All joking aside, though, this latest development is a serious one - not just for Trump, but for our country as a whole. As we move forward into an uncertain future, it's important that we keep our sense of humor intact - but also that we remain vigilant and engaged in the political process. Who knows what other surprises may be lurking around the corner? One thing's for sure: with Donald Trump involved, it's bound to be a wild ride.

Donald Trump indicted for second time, in classified documents investigation: Sources https://abcnews.go.com/US/donald-trump-indicted-time-sources/story?id=99408228 

Prosecutors Tell Trump’s Legal Team He Is a Target of Investigation https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/07/us/politics/trump-documents-florida-grand-jury.html?smid=tw-share 



NETWORK FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION (NPE) REPORT: A SHARP TURN RIGHT - HOW FAR-RIGHT CHARTER SCHOOLS ARE FUELING THE CULTURE WARS

 

NETWORK FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION (NPE) REPORT: A SHARP TURN RIGHT

HOW FAR-RIGHT  CHARTER SCHOOLS ARE FUELING THE CULTURE WARS 

Hold on to your hats, folks, because we're about to take a deep dive into the world of far-right charter schools. Yes, you read that right. Apparently, there's a new breed of charter schools that are delivering the conservative agenda. And they're popping up faster than you can say "privatization."

According to a report by the Network for Public Education (NPE), American taxpayers are funding the growth of these far-right, Christian nationalist charter schools. And boy, are they growing. NPE identified hundreds of these schools, mostly in red states, that use conservative dog whistles to attract white Christian families. Because nothing says "education" like exclusionary practices, am I right?

From religious music videos to claims of being faith-friendly, these charter schools are opening at an alarming rate. And apparently, at least 66 more are set to open by 2024. Because who needs separation of church and state when you can just combine them into one neat little package?

But it's not just the schools themselves that are concerning. The report also exposes how right-wing politicians have gotten involved in creating and governing these schools. And surprise, surprise, some of them are benefiting financially. It's almost like they don't care about education and just want to make a quick buck. Who would have thought?

In fact, NPE found that right-wing charters are nearly twice as likely to be run by for-profit management companies than the entire charter sector. Because what's better than making money off of education? Making more money off of education!

So what does this mean for those who support charter schools but have progressive ideals? According to NPE President Diane Ravitch, "A movement you support is now taking a sharp turn right to destroy the values you cherish." In other words, you might want to reconsider your stance on charter schools.

But hey, at least we can all have a good laugh about it, right? Because nothing says "funny" like the privatization of education and the erosion of democracy. Ha ha ha... *cries internally*

A Sharp Turn Right: A New Breed of Charter Schools Delivers the Conservative Agenda - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/coming-soon-a-sharp-turn-right-a-new-breed-of-charter-schools-delivers-the-conservative-agenda/


RYAN WALTERS + MOMS FOR LIBERTY: MY MOMMIES CAN BEAT UP YOUR MOMMIES

 

RYAN WALTERS + MOMS FOR LIBERTY

MY MOMMIES CAN BEAT UP YOUR MOMMIES

As an Ed blogger, I've covered some pretty wild stories. But nothing could have prepared me for the absurdity of Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters' recent defense of the extremist group Moms for Liberty.

In case you haven't heard of them, Moms for Liberty is a group of mothers who believe that their children's education is under attack from radical leftists. They claim to be a grassroots organization, but it turns out that they're actually funded by the Koch brothers and Betsy DeVos. You know, just your typical concerned parents.

Anyway, at a recent press conference, Walters was asked about Moms for Liberty's controversial views on critical race theory. Instead of denouncing the group, he actually defended them. And not just defended them, but mocked their opponents.

"Listen, my mommies can beat up your mommies any day of the week," Walters said with a smirk. "These are strong, chubby women who are standing up for what they were told to believe in. And if that means pushing back against the Woke indoctrination of our children, then so be it."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Was the state superintendent really endorsing a group that believes that racism doesn't exist and that teaching kids about it is somehow anti-American? And was he really resorting to playground taunts?

But it gets even better. When asked about the Koch brothers' involvement with Moms for Liberty, Walters brushed it off as a non-issue.

"Look, we live in a capitalist society," he said. "If the Koch brothers want to support a group of moms who are fighting for their kids' education, then who are we to judge? And let's be real, if George Soros was funding a group of leftist moms, nobody would bat an eye."

I couldn't help but laugh at the sheer absurdity of it all. It was like watching a Saturday Night Live sketch come to life.

But then I remembered that this was real life. And that the state superintendent was actually defending a group that is actively working to undermine our children's education.

So I did what any responsible journalist would do. I dug deeper.

And what I found was even more disturbing than I could have imagined.

It turns out that Moms for Liberty isn't just anti-critical race theory. They're also anti-vaccine, anti-mask, and anti-science in general. They believe that COVID-19 is a hoax and that the government is using it as an excuse to take away our freedoms.

In other words, they're conspiracy theorists.

And yet, somehow, they've managed to gain a following in Oklahoma. They've even started holding rallies and protests, where they chant slogans like "My body, my choice" and "Freedom over fear."

It's enough to make you want to bang your head against a wall.

But here's the thing. As ridiculous as Moms for Liberty may seem, they're not going away anytime soon. And neither is the political polarization that has allowed them to thrive.

So what can we do about it?

Well, for starters, we can stop pretending that this is just a harmless group of concerned parents. We can start calling out their dangerous beliefs and holding our elected officials accountable when they try to defend them.

And most importantly, we can start listening to each other again. Because at the end of the day, we're all just moms and dads who want what's best for our kids.

Even if some of us have a funny way of showing it.

Oklahoma State Superintendent defends 'parental rights' group named extremist by civil rights watchdog https://kfor.com/news/local/oklahoma-state-superintendent-defends-parental-rights-group-named-extremist-by-civil-rights-watchdog/ 

OKLA ED SEC RYAN WALTERS FANS OSDE DUMPSTER FIRE - TEACHER PAYOLA SCHEME

OKLA ED SEC RYAN WALTERS FANS OSDE DUMPSTER FIRE - TEACHER PAYOLA SCHEME

In a shocking turn of events, the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) has been engulfed in flames after a former employee claimed he was wrongfully terminated for voicing concerns over teacher bonuses.

Matthew Colwell, who worked as the OSDE School Success Program Manager in the Division of Federal Programs, said he enjoyed his work until State Superintendent Ryan Walters took office and everything changed. Apparently, Walters and his Chief Policy Advisor, Matt Langston, didn't have educational backgrounds and needed Colwell to explain basic concepts about schools to them.

But that's not the worst part. Colwell said he felt they were not listening to the feedback from districts and experts about the potential impact of their initiative to offer up to $50,000 signing bonuses for new teachers who commit to work for five years in Oklahoma, with higher amounts for those who teach in rural or high poverty districts.

Colwell was concerned that the initiative would create inequities among districts, undermine local control, and divert federal funds from other programs that support students. And when he shared his views with Walters and Langston, they dismissed his arguments and accused him of being negative and unprofessional.

But Colwell wasn't going down without a fight. He exercised his First Amendment rights and blew the whistle on the misuse of federal funds. And what did he get for it? Fired. Without any explanation or due process.

Now, Colwell has filed a federal lawsuit against Walters and Langston for wrongful termination. He's seeking reinstatement, back pay, damages, and attorney fees. And he's not alone. Jennifer Wilkinson, who worked as the OSDE Director of Federal Programs, has also filed a lawsuit against Walters and Langston for wrongful termination.

It's official: the OSDE is a dumpster fire. And it's not just because of the lawsuits. The initiative to offer teacher bonuses has caused chaos among districts and teachers alike. Some districts are offering their own incentives to retain teachers, while others are struggling to compete.

And let's not forget about the teachers themselves. They're torn between wanting to take advantage of the bonuses and feeling guilty for leaving their current students behind. It's a mess.

But don't worry, folks. Superintendent Walters has defended his initiative as a way to attract and retain quality teachers in Oklahoma and to reverse the trend of teacher shortages in the state. Because nothing says "quality" like offering signing bonuses to new teachers while ignoring the concerns of current ones.

In conclusion, the OSDE is a dumpster fire that needs to be put out ASAP. And if Superintendent Walters and his team don't start listening to feedback and treating their employees with respect, they may find themselves out of a job too.

Former OSDE employee questions teacher bonus plan https://kfor.com/news/local/dumpster-fire-frmr-osde-employee-wrongfully-terminated-for-voicing-concerns-over-teacher-bonuses/ 

BREAKING NEWS: BIBLE JOINS THE LIST OF BANNED BOOKS IN US SCHOOLS - GOD NOT AMUSED

 

BREAKING NEWS: BIBLE JOINS THE LIST OF BANNED BOOKS IN US SCHOOLS

 GOD PISSED

In a shocking turn of events, the Bible has become the latest victim of book bans sweeping across schools and libraries in the United States. That's right, the holy book that has been revered by millions of Christians around the world for centuries is now deemed inappropriate for young readers by some parents and activists who claim that it contains violence, sex, racism, homophobia, and misogyny. God must be shaking his head in disbelief.

According to PEN America, a free-speech organization, more than 1,600 books were banned in over 5,000 schools during the last school year. The bans were facilitated by the increasing number of educational gag orders introduced or passed in 36 states. The banned books include classic and contemporary novels, as well as graphic memoirs. But why is the Bible being targeted? And who is behind this movement to silence one of the most influential books in history?

One of the most vocal opponents of the Bible in schools is Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the former White House press secretary and current governor of Arkansas. Sanders recently announced that she would sign a bill that would ban public school libraries from keeping books on hand that focus on sexual activity, sexual identity, or gender identity. She also said that she would remove any books that "promote or normalize pornography" or "glorify violence" from her own children's shelves.

Sanders did not name any specific titles, but she implied that the Bible was among them. In a tweet, she wrote: "If you want to read about two men who lie with each other as they would with a woman (Leviticus 18:22), incest (Genesis 19:30-38), rape (Judges 19:22-30), slavery (Exodus 21:2-11), genocide (Joshua 6:21) or polygamy (1 Kings 11:3), go to your local library. Not mine."

Sanders' tweet sparked outrage among many librarians, educators, and authors who accused her of bigotry and ignorance. They pointed out that the Bible also contains messages of love, justice, forgiveness, and hope, and that it has inspired countless works of art, literature, and culture. They also argued that banning books is a violation of intellectual freedom and students' First Amendment rights.

"Sarah Huckabee Sanders is a disgrace to librarians everywhere," said Nancy Pearl, a renowned librarian and author. "She clearly has no idea what the Bible is about or what libraries are for. Libraries are places where people can access information and ideas from different perspectives and backgrounds. They are not places where politicians can impose their narrow-minded views on others."

Despite the criticism, Sanders has found some supporters among conservative groups and religious organizations that share her views on the Bible and other books. They claim that they are not trying to ban books per se but rather to protect children from harmful or inappropriate content.

One of these groups is Parents Defending Education (PDE), a nonprofit organization that aims to "fight indoctrination in the classroom" and "promote a return to academic excellence." PDE has launched a campaign called "Challenging Harmful Materials in Schools" (CHMS), which encourages parents to file complaints against books that they deem offensive or unsuitable for their children.

PDE's website lists several examples of books that they consider objectionable, including "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas, "Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You" by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds, and "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie. The website also provides a template letter for parents to use when contacting school officials or board members about these books.

PDE's president, Nicole Neily, said that the Bible is one of the books that parents should challenge if they find it inappropriate for their children. She said that while she respects the religious beliefs of others, she does not think that public schools should promote any particular faith or doctrine.

"The Bible is a sacred text for many people, but it is also a controversial one," Neily said. "It contains stories and passages that may be disturbing or confusing for young readers. It also contradicts some of the values and principles that we want our children to learn, such as equality, diversity, and inclusion. We believe that parents have the right to decide what books their children read and that schools should respect their choices."

Whether motivated by religious convictions or political agendas, book bans have a significant impact on schools and libraries, as well as on students and authors. Book bans can limit the availability and diversity of books, stifle critical thinking and creativity, and undermine the educational mission of schools and libraries.

Book bans can also affect authors, especially those who write about marginalized or underrepresented groups. Book bans can devalue their work and voice, discourage them from writing about certain topics or perspectives, reduce their income and opportunities, and isolate them from their readers and fans.

Book bans are likely to continue as long as there are people who disagree with or fear the content of certain books. However, there are also people who oppose book bans and defend the right to read. They include librarians, educators, authors, students, parents, and activists who advocate for intellectual freedom and diversity of literature.

They use various strategies to resist book bans, such as raising awareness and educating the public about the issue, organizing protests and campaigns to support banned books and authors, challenging book bans in court or through appeals, celebrating banned books through events and programs, and creating alternative spaces and platforms for accessing and sharing books.

The future of book bans depends on the outcome of this ongoing struggle between censorship and freedom, between ignorance and enlightenment, between fear and curiosity. As the poet John Milton wrote in his 1644 essay "Areopagitica," which defended the freedom of the press: "Give me the liberty to know, to utter, and to argue freely according to conscience, above all liberties." Let's hope we can all learn from his words before it's too late.

Book bans are sweeping US schools. A surprising new victim? The Bible | Arwa Mahdawi | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/jun/07/book-bans-are-sweeping-us-schools-a-surprising-new-victim-the-bible 

Librarians Read Sarah Huckabee Sanders For Filth Over Bigoted Book Ban https://news.yahoo.com/librarians-read-sarah-huckabee-sanders-160135225.html 

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

THE FAT LADY SINGS: IS ANYONE LISTENING

THE FAT LADY SINGS

IS ANYONE LISTENING

Hold on to your hats, folks, because the 2024 presidential race just got a whole lot more interesting. That's right, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has announced his bid for the White House, and he's not holding back.

In a town hall in New Hampshire, Christie declared his candidacy, surrounded by his supporters and a new super PAC called "Tell It Like It Is." And boy, does he plan to tell it like it is.

Christie is no stranger to presidential campaigns, having run in 2016 and briefly being a close ally of former President Donald Trump. But now, he's one of Trump's most outspoken critics and rivals in the Republican primary field.

And he's not just going after Trump. Christie has a whole list of charges against other Republican presidential hopefuls, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

But let's be real, the real target here is Trump. Christie believes he's best-positioned to take on the former president in the primary while also appealing to independents in a potential general election showdown with President Joe Biden.

And he's not afraid to call out Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, his refusal to accept his 2020 election loss to Biden, his role in inciting the January 6 Capitol riot and his cozy relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

But wait, there's more! Christie has also taken aim at DeSantis, who is widely seen as Trump's heir apparent and his biggest threat in the primary. He's mocked DeSantis for his handling of the pandemic in Florida, his lack of experience and his reluctance to challenge Trump.

"Ron DeSantis' campaign is spiraling," Christie said in a tweet on Monday. "He has no vision for America other than being Donald Trump's puppet. He has failed Florida on Covid-19, education and the economy. He is not ready to be president."

Ouch. But wait, there's even more! Christie's blunt style and willingness to confront Trump and other GOP hopefuls has earned him a lot of enemies within the party. According to a recent NBC News poll, only 18% of Republicans have a favorable view of him, while 50% have an unfavorable view.

But hey, that's not stopping Christie. He's confident that he can win over Republican voters with his record as a governor and his fearlessness in taking on Trump.

"You better have somebody on that stage who can do to him what I did to Marco [Rubio], because that's the only thing that's gonna defeat Donald Trump," Christie said at a town hall in March. "And that means you have to be fearless, because he will come back, and right at you."

So get ready for a wild ride, folks. The 2024 presidential race just got a lot more interesting with Chris Christie throwing his hat into the ring. Will anyone be listening? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure, it's going to be one heck of a show.

Chris Christie attacks Donald Trump as he launches 2024 presidential bid... https://youtu.be/jm-D-JHWkd4 via @YouTube 

Christie takes aim at 'self-serving' Trump as he launches White House bid | Reuters https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-backer-turned-critic-chris-christie-make-white-house-run-official-2023-06-06/ 

Trump Responds to Chris Christie Attacks With … Fat Jokes https://news.yahoo.com/trump-responds-chris-christie-attacks-150436146.html 


DOLLY PARTON DOING MOTHER GOOSE'S WORK: IMAGINATION LIBRARY MILLIONS OF BOOKS FOR KIDS

 

DOLLY PARTON DOING MOTHER GOOSE'S WORK

IMAGINATION LIBRARY MILLIONS OF BOOKS FOR KIDS

Move over Mother Goose, there's a new book lady in town and her name is Dolly Parton. That's right, the country music legend is not only known for her angelic voice and epic wig collection, but also for her philanthropy work with the Imagination Library.

For those of you who don't know, the Imagination Library is a program that provides free books to children from birth to age five. And let me tell you, Dolly is not playing around when it comes to getting books in the hands of these kiddos.

In California alone, millions of children have benefited from Dolly's generosity. That's right, millions. And let's be real, with the cost of living in California, parents need all the help they can get. Thanks to Dolly, kids are able to expand their imaginations and learn valuable lessons through the power of literature.

But let's not forget about the real hero here, Dolly Parton herself. This woman has not only blessed us with iconic songs like "Jolene" and "9 to 5", but she's also making sure the next generation is well-read and educated. Can we get a round of applause for this queen?

And don't think for a second that Dolly is just throwing any old book at these kids. Oh no, she hand selects each and every book that goes out through the Imagination Library. That's right, Dolly Parton is basically the Oprah of children's literature.

So next time you see a child with their nose buried in a book, thank Dolly Parton for her tireless efforts to promote literacy. And if you happen to come across a child who doesn't have access to books, direct them to the Imagination Library website where they can sign up for free.

In conclusion, Dolly Parton is a national treasure and we should all strive to be more like her. She's a woman who knows how to use her fame and fortune for good and we could all learn a thing or two from her. So go ahead and blast "Islands in the Stream" while you sign up for the Imagination Library, because there's no such thing as too much Dolly in our lives.

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library | USA, UK, IE, CA, AU https://imaginationlibrary.com/ 

Dolly Parton, country music legend, is helping millions of children across California | CNN https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/06/entertainment/dolly-parton-book-program/index.html?utm_term=link&utm_source=twCNN&utm_medium=social&utm_content=2023-06-07T03%3A30%3A09 

HAPPY PRIDE MONTH: PRIDE PARADES ARE WAY MORE FUN THAN SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRAWLS

HAPPY PRIDE MONTH

PRIDE PARADES ARE WAY MORE FUN THAN SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRAWLS

Brawl Erupts Outside L.A. School Board Meeting on LGBTQ+ Rights - It's like a scene from a bad movie, but unfortunately it's real life. People are fighting over the rights of others, and it's not pretty. The Glendale Unified School District is at the center of this controversy, and it's not looking good.

So why do Christians hate LGBTQ+ rights? It's a question that has been asked time and time again, and the answer is not a simple one. Some say it's because of their religious beliefs, while others say it's because of fear or ignorance. But whatever the reason, it's clear that there is a problem when it comes to acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community.

One thing that is often overlooked in this discussion is the role of white Christian nationalism. This ideology promotes the idea that America is a Christian nation, and that anyone who doesn't fit into that mold is a threat to the country. This includes LGBTQ+ individuals, who are seen as going against traditional values and therefore must be suppressed.

But let's take a step back and do a deep dive into why this is all happening. First of all, it's important to understand that the LGBTQ+ community has been marginalized for centuries. They have been discriminated against, persecuted, and even killed simply for being who they are. And while progress has been made in recent years, there is still a long way to go.

So when we talk about LGBTQ+ rights, we're really talking about basic human rights. The right to love who you want, to express yourself how you want, and to be treated with respect and dignity. These are things that everyone deserves, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

But unfortunately, there are still people out there who don't see it that way. They see the LGBTQ+ community as a threat to their way of life, and they will do anything to stop them from gaining equal rights. This includes spreading lies and misinformation, using fear tactics to scare people into submission, and even resorting to violence.

Which brings us back to the brawl outside the L.A. school board meeting. It's a sad reminder of just how far we still have to go when it comes to acceptance and understanding. But it's also a reminder that we can't give up the fight. We have to keep pushing forward, even when it feels like we're taking one step forward and two steps back.

And maybe, just maybe, we can start to change hearts and minds along the way. We can show people that love is love, no matter who it's between. We can educate them about the struggles that the LGBTQ+ community has faced, and continues to face, on a daily basis. And we can work towards a future where everyone is treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

So let's keep fighting the good fight, even when it feels like we're fighting against the odds. Let's stand up for what's right, even when it's not easy. And let's remember that laughter is sometimes the best medicine, even in the face of adversity. Because at the end of the day, love will always win.

Brawl Erupts Outside School Board Meeting on LGBTQ+ Rights https://www.thedailybeast.com/brawl-erupts-outside-glendale-school-board-meeting-on-lgbtq-rights?source=twitter&via=desktop via @thedailybeast 

Big Education Ape: JUNE IS PRIDE MONTH - LET'S ALL CELEBRATE AND HAVE SOME FUN (HERE ARE SOME RESOURCES) #PrideMonth 🌈 #Pride2023 🌈 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/june-is-pride-month-lets-all-celebrate.html 

Big Education Ape: IF YOU ARE NOT WATCHING CHARTER SCHOOLS SCANDALS, YOU ARE MISSING A GREAT CRIME SHOW https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/if-you-are-not-watching-charter-schools.html 

NEW BULLSH*T FROM CREDO: ONCE MORE THEIR CHARTER SCHOOL LUST GUSHES

 

NEW BULLSH*T FROM CREDO

ONCE MORE THEIR CHARTER SCHOOL LUST GUSHES

Greetings, fellow readers! Today, we're going to take a deep dive into the world of charter schools and their billionaire backers. Let's start with the basics. Charter schools are publicly funded schools that are run by private organizations. The idea behind them is that they will provide more innovative and effective education than traditional public schools. Sounds good, right? Well, not so fast.

Enter the billionaires. These guys (and yes, they're mostly guys) have a serious lust for charter schools. They see them as a way to make a profit and promote their corporate reform agenda. And they're not afraid to use data to back up their claims.

But here's the thing: when billionaires buy research, it's usually to validate their own beliefs. They're not interested in objective truth or what's best for students. They just want to make sure their investments pay off.

So what happens when billionaires get their hands on charter schools? They do anything they can to destroy public schools. They pour money into research and propaganda organizations like The 74 Media, the Thomas Fordham Institute, and the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). These organizations churn out glowing articles about charter schools and attack anyone who dares to question their effectiveness.

But let's not forget about the students. While charter schools may work for some students, they often leave others behind. They cherry-pick the best students and leave the rest in underfunded public schools. And when things go wrong (which they often do), charter schools can close down without warning, leaving families scrambling for alternatives.

So what's the solution? We need to invest in our public schools and support our teachers. We need to stop letting billionaires dictate education policy and start listening to the people who know best: educators, parents, and students.

In conclusion, charter schools may seem like a good idea on the surface, but when you look closer, you'll see that they're just another way for billionaires to make a profit. Let's put our faith in public schools and invest in our future. And let's not forget to laugh at the absurdity of it all – because sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine.

National Study Shows Charters Outperform Traditional Schools https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2023/06/charter-schools-evidence-study-national-better-credo-stanford.html 

4O MILLION AMERICAN TO RESTART STUDENT LOAN PAYMENTS: DONATE PLASMA $20-$50

 

4O MILLION AMERICAN TO RESTART STUDENT LOAN PAYMENTS: DONATE PLASMA $20-$50

It's time to dust off those calculators and start budgeting again, folks! After a three-year vacation from student loan payments, it's time to face the music. But fear not, my fellow borrowers, for the Biden administration is here to shake things up. Here are three big changes we could see when payments restart.

1. Loan Forgiveness for All...Just Kidding!

Let's start with the most exciting change that could happen: loan forgiveness for all! Just kidding, that's not happening. But hey, we can dream, right? In all seriousness, there has been talk of targeted loan forgiveness for certain groups of borrowers, such as those who attended for-profit schools or those who were defrauded by their schools. So, if you fall into one of those categories, there's a glimmer of hope for you yet.

2. Income-Driven Repayment Plans

One change that's already in place is income-driven repayment plans. These plans allow borrowers to make payments based on their income, rather than a fixed amount. This can be a great option for those who are struggling to make ends meet, as it can lower your monthly payments and make it easier to stay on top of your loans. Plus, after a certain number of years of making payments, any remaining balance may be forgiven (yes, this time we're serious).

3. The Return of Interest Rates

The final change we could see is the return of interest rates. During the pandemic, interest rates on federal student loans were set to 0%, which was a huge relief for borrowers. However, that relief is coming to an end, and interest rates will likely start creeping back up again. This means that your loans will start accruing interest again, which can add up quickly if you're not careful.

So, there you have it, folks. Three big changes that could be coming our way when student loan payments restart. But don't worry too much - we're all in this together (whether we like it or not). And who knows? Maybe one day loan forgiveness for all will become a reality...just don't hold your breath.

student loan borrowers could see when payments restart https://www.cnbc.com/2023/06/06/3-big-changes-student-loan-borrowers-could-see-when-payments-restart.html 

40m Americans will soon restart student loan payments | Fortune https://fortune.com/2023/06/07/40-million-americans-restart-student-loan-payments-experts-fear-levels-default-never-seen-before/ 

NEBRASKA SAYS "HELL NO" TO SCHOOL CHOICE: PARENTS AND STUDENTS LOVE OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS

 

NEBRASKA SAYS "HELL NO" TO SCHOOL CHOICE: PARENTS AND STUDENTS LOVE OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS

In a shocking turn of events, the state of Nebraska has decided to say "hell no" to school choice. That's right, folks, parents in Nebraska are standing up and proclaiming their love for public schools. They want public money for public schools, and they're not interested in any of that fancy charter or private school nonsense.

Now, you might be wondering what exactly school choice is. Well, let me break it down for you. School choice is a policy that allows parents to choose the school their child attends. This includes options beyond traditional public schools, like charter schools, private schools, or homeschooling. Essentially, it gives parents more options when it comes to their child's education.

But apparently, the good people of Nebraska don't want any part of that. They believe that public schools are the way to go, and they're not interested in any of this "competition among schools can drive improvement" nonsense. Nope, they want their public schools just the way they are, thank you very much.

Of course, there are those who disagree. Billionaire proponents of school choice argue that it gives families more options and are much more profitable than public schools. They believe that competition among schools can destroy public schools and that parents should have the freedom to choose the education that is better funded than public schools, that have fewer poor undesirable kids.

But apparently, those people are in the minority in Nebraska. The majority of parents believe that public schools are the way to go, and they're not interested in any of this school choice business.

So what does this mean for the future of education in Nebraska? Well, it means that the effort to repeal the school choice bill is gaining steam. This would roll back the provisions that support the concept of school choice and limit parents' options when it comes to their child's education.

Critics of school choice argue that it can exacerbate educational inequities by diverting resources and students from public schools, particularly in lower-income communities. They believe that public funds should be focused on improving the quality and accessibility of traditional public schools for all students.

But let's be real here, folks. We all know that the real reason parents in Nebraska love their public schools is because they're just so darn good. 

So there you have it, folks. The people of Nebraska have spoken, and they've made it clear that they love their public schools. Will the effort to repeal the school choice bill be successful? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: as long as there are public schools in Nebraska, there will be plenty of laughs to go around.

Nebraska nonprofits launch school choice recall petition at State Capitol https://www.wowt.com/2023/06/06/nebraska-nonprofits-launch-school-choice-recall-petition-state-capitol/ 

Effort to repeal school choice bill begins in Nebraska https://youtu.be/vbr4B8a2VIc via @YouTube 

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

RIGHT WING FRONT GROUP MOMS FOR LIBERTY NAMED AN EXTREMIST IN NEW SPLC REPORT

RIGHT WING FRONT GROUP MOMS FOR LIBERTY NAMED AN EXTREMIST IN NEW SPLC REPORT

Attention all parents! Do you want to exercise your right to be completely absurd and ridiculous? Look no further than Moms for Liberty, the group that is so extreme it has been labeled as such by the Southern Poverty Law Center. That's right, folks - these moms are so "liberty-loving" that they are anti-government. Because nothing says "I love my country" like being against the very institution that runs it.

Now, you may be wondering who is funding this group of radical moms. Well, surprise surprise, it's the usual suspects: the Koch brothers, Betsy DeVos, and other right-wing groups. Because if there's one thing these billionaires love more than hoarding their wealth, it's attacking school boards. I mean, who needs education when you have money, am I right?

But back to Moms for Liberty. These moms have taken it upon themselves to protect their children from the evils of education. They believe that schools are brainwashing their kids with things like science and critical thinking. Because apparently, being able to think for yourself is a bad thing. Who needs logic when you can just blindly follow whatever your parents tell you?

And let's not forget their favorite buzzword: FREEDOM. These moms love to talk about how they're fighting for freedom, but what they really mean is the freedom to be ignorant. They want the freedom to keep their kids in the dark about anything that challenges their narrow worldview. Because why expose your children to different perspectives when you can just keep them in a bubble?

But here's the thing, Moms for Liberty: your kids are going to grow up one day. They're going to leave your sheltered little world and enter a society that requires critical thinking and an open mind. And when they do, they're going to realize just how ridiculous your ideology really is.

So go ahead, Moms for Liberty. Keep attacking school boards and fighting against education. Keep pretending that you're protecting your children when really you're just holding them back. And most importantly, keep making us laugh with your absurdity. Because let's face it, sometimes we all need a good laugh.

2022 The Year in Hate and Extremism Comes to Main Street   https://www.splcenter.org/year-hate-extremism-2022/introduction

Big Education Ape: SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER: 2022 THE YEAR IN HATE AND EXTREMISM COMES TO YOUR SCHOOL http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/southern-poverty-law-center-2022-year.html 

SPLC designates Moms for Liberty an anti-government extremist group https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/investigations/2023/06/06/splc-moms-for-liberty-anti-government-extremist-group/70289379007/ 

Moms for Liberty listed as ‘anti-government’ group by extremism watchdog | The far right | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jun/06/southern-poverty-law-center-moms-liberty-extremist 


Big Education Ape: NEWS FROM THE MOMS FOR LIBERTY OUTHOUSE - SH*TTER'S FULL http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/news-from-moms-for-liberty-outhouse.html 

SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER: 2022 THE YEAR IN HATE AND EXTREMISM COMES TO YOUR SCHOOL

SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER: 2022 THE YEAR IN HATE AND EXTREMISM COMES TO YOUR SCHOOL

2022 The Year in Hate and Extremism Comes to Main Street

 https://www.splcenter.org/year-hate-extremism-2022/introduction

In 2022, SPLC documented 1,225 hate and anti government extremist groups across the United States. Extremist ideas that mobilize these groups now operate more openly in the political mainstream. But the ascent of the hard right is not inevitable. We can push back against this rising authoritarianism and turn the tide.

Here is a summary of 2022 the year in hate and extremism comes to main street:

  • The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) released its annual report on hate and extremism in the US, revealing the growing threat of extremist activity to national security and democracy¹².
  • The report identified **733 hate and 488 anti-government groups** actively operating across the US, a decrease from previous years but not a sign of diminished hate and extremism².
  • Instead, hate and extremism have gone mainstream, infecting the national and political dialogue and coalescing into a broader movement that is both threatening democracy at the community level and embracing violence as a means to achieve white supremacist goals².
  • The report highlighted the January 6, 2021 insurrection as the culmination of years of right-wing radicalization and the attempt to rewrite the history of that day and evade accountability for the violence as a sign of the gravity of the problem².
  • The report also documented how extremist actors — often armed — brought hatred into daily lives and public spaces, protesting LGBTQ inclusion, reproductive rights and classroom discussions of systemic racism¹.
  • The report provided a wide range of policy recommendations to counter racism, antigovernment extremism and hate groups in America, such as enforcing current laws against private militias and political intimidation, protecting every citizen’s right to vote, holding the planners and perpetrators of the January 6 attack accountable, and speaking out against hate, racism, extremism and attacks on voting and democratic institutions².
  • The report also designated 12 new groups as extremist groups, including Moms for Liberty, an anti-government group that opposes mask mandates, critical race theory and LGBTQ rights in schools³.


ASSAULT ON INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AND HOW WE’RE FIGHTING BACK

2022 The Year in Hate and Extremism Comes to Main Street

 https://www.splcenter.org/year-hate-extremism-2022/introduction

Inclusive education is under attack, and it's not just from the usual suspects. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), hate and extremist groups are increasingly targeting public education with reactionary and exclusionary agendas. These groups claim to be fighting for parental rights, but in reality, they are opposed to inclusive education that respects the diversity and dignity of all students, especially those who are LGBTQ+, Black, Native, Indigenous, or have disabilities.

It's not hard to see why these groups are so threatened by inclusive education. After all, if students are taught to respect and value differences, then what use is there for hate and extremism? These groups use anti-LGBTQ, racist, and nationalist rhetoric to oppose curricula that teach about LGBTQ+ history, culture, and people; sex education; critical race theory; and social justice. They also try to influence school boards, policies, and legislation to restrict or prohibit discussing LGBTQ+ topics or to promote heteronormative and abstinence-only views.

But the SPLC argues that inclusive education is essential for creating a multiracial, inclusive democracy and for protecting the human rights of all people. Inclusive education not only benefits LGBTQ+ students and other marginalized groups but also fosters a safer and more positive learning environment for all students. Inclusive education also helps students develop critical thinking skills, cultural competence, empathy, and social responsibility.

So what can we do to fight back against this assault on inclusive education? The SPLC provides various resources and programs to support inclusive education and to combat hate and extremism in schools. These include the Intelligence Project, which monitors and exposes hate and extremist groups; the Learning for Justice program, which provides anti-bias and anti-racist curricula, training, and materials for educators; the litigation teams, which pursue legal action to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ students and other vulnerable groups; and the SPLC Action Fund, which advocates for progressive policies and legislation at the state and federal levels.

But we can't leave it all up to the SPLC. We all have a role to play in protecting inclusive public education. We can hold elected leaders accountable, start conversations about the impacts of racism and homophobia, and use the SPLC's guides and tools to prevent youth radicalization and to promote social change.

Inclusive education is not just a buzzword or a feel-good slogan. It's a fundamental principle of democracy and human rights. And it's worth fighting for. So let's roll up our sleeves, put on our thinking caps, and get to work. After all, there's nothing more powerful than an educated and inclusive society.

Returning to the Schoolhouse Steps, Extremist Groups’ Reactionary Anti-Student Inclusion Efforts

2022 The Year in Hate and Extremism Comes to Main Street. https://www.splcenter.org/year-hate-extremism-2022/introduction.

SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER RELEASES ANNUAL YEAR IN HATE & EXTREMISM .... https://www.splcenter.org/presscenter/southern-poverty-law-center-releases-annual-year-hate-extremism-report-when-hate-goes.

SPLC designates Moms for Liberty an anti-government extremist group. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/investigations/2023/06/06/splc-moms-for-liberty-anti-government-extremist-group/70289379007/.

Bing, 6/6/2023

SCHOOL CHOICE CHOOSES JIM CROW

 

SCHOOL CHOICE CHOOSES JIM CROW

Are you ready for a deep dive into the world of school segregation? No? Well, too bad, because we're diving in anyway! And don't worry, we'll make it fun. After all, what's more exciting than systemic inequality?

So, here's the deal: America's public schools are more segregated than they were under Jim Crow. Yeah, you read that right. It's not just a thing of the past. According to a report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), more than a third of students attended a predominantly same-race/ethnicity school during the 2020-21 school year. And 14% of students attended schools where almost all of the student body was of a single race/ethnicity. This is worse than in the late 1960s, when 77% of Black students across the nation attended majority nonwhite schools. Yikes.

So, what's causing all this segregation? Well, it turns out that charter schools and vouchers have played a big role. These were supposed to offer more choice and innovation to families, but often end up isolating and disadvantaging students of color, low-income students, English language learners, and students with disabilities. Oops.

Charter schools are publicly funded but privately run, and vouchers are public funds that can be used to pay for private school tuition. Both options have been promoted by some politicians and advocates as a way to improve educational outcomes and equity, but research shows that they have mixed or negative effects on student achievement, accountability, and integration.

Charter schools tend to be more segregated than traditional public schools, especially in urban areas where they serve mostly Black and Hispanic students. A study by the Civil Rights Project at UCLA found that charter schools are "among the most segregated for Black and Latino students". Charter schools also tend to enroll fewer students with disabilities and English language learners than traditional public schools. Moreover, charter schools often have less experienced teachers, higher teacher turnover rates, lower salaries, and less unionization than traditional public schools. So much for innovation.

Vouchers also tend to increase segregation by allowing families to opt out of public schools and enroll in private schools that may have selective admission criteria, religious affiliation, or homogeneous student populations. Vouchers also divert public funds from public schools that serve the majority of students, especially those who need more resources and support. A review by the Economic Policy Institute found that vouchers "have failed to deliver on promised improvements in educational outcomes". Vouchers also raise constitutional issues regarding the separation of church and state, as most private schools that accept vouchers are religiously affiliated.

But wait, there's more! Some critics argue that charter schools and vouchers are part of a larger agenda to undermine and privatize public education, which is a cornerstone of democracy and social justice. They point out that charter schools and vouchers originated in America's racially segregated past, as a way for white families to avoid sending their children to integrated public schools after the Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954. They also note that charter schools and vouchers are often supported by wealthy donors, corporations, foundations, and political groups that have a vested interest in reducing public spending, weakening teacher unions, and influencing curriculum and pedagogy.

So, what can we do about all this? Well, there's no simple or quick fix for this problem. However, some possible steps that could help reduce segregation and promote integration include:

  • Reversing the trend of school district secession, which allows affluent and predominantly white communities to break away from larger and more diverse districts and form their own exclusive school systems. Yeah, no more exclusive clubs for rich kids.
  • Enforcing civil rights laws and court orders that mandate desegregation plans and monitor compliance with them. You know what they say: if you can't beat 'em, sue 'em.
  • Providing incentives and support for voluntary interdistrict transfer programs that allow students to attend schools outside their assigned zones or districts based on their preferences and availability of seats. Let's mix it up!
  • Creating more magnet schools that offer specialized curricula or programs that attract students from different backgrounds and foster academic excellence and diversity. Who doesn't love a good magnet?
  • Implementing controlled choice policies that balance parental choice with equity goals by assigning students to schools based on their preferences and other factors such as socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, academic achievement, or special needs. No more cherry-picking for the rich and privileged.
  • Increasing funding and resources for high-poverty and high-minority schools that serve the most disadvantaged students and provide them with quality education and support services. Let's invest in our future!
  • Improving teacher preparation and professional development programs that equip teachers with the skills and knowledge to teach diverse students and address their academic and social needs. Teachers are superheroes!
  • Promoting multicultural education and anti-bias curricula that foster respect, understanding, and appreciation for different cultures, perspectives, and experiences among students and staff. Let's celebrate diversity!
  • Encouraging family and community involvement and collaboration that build trust, communication, and partnerships among stakeholders of different backgrounds and interests. It takes a village!

School segregation is not only a moral and legal issue, but also an educational and economic one. It affects the quality of education, the opportunities for success, and the social cohesion of our society. So let's work together to create more integrated and equitable schools for all students. And maybe throw in some jokes along the way. After all, laughter is the best medicine.

U.S. schools remain highly segregated, government report finds - NPR. https://www.npr.org/2022/07/14/1111060299/school-segregation-report.

PolitiFact | Are public schools as segregated today as in 1960s?. https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2022/jun/08/bobby-scott/are-american-schools-more-segregated-today-1960s/.

Opinion | Dealing With Our Segregated, Jim Crow Education System - The .... https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/21/opinion/sunday/education-racism-segregation.html.

CHATGPT: A GUIDE FOR STUDENTS AND TEACHER USING CHATGPT IN THE CLASSROOM

CHATGPT: A GUIDE FOR STUDENTS AND TEACHER USING CHATGPT IN THE CLASSROOM 

ChatGPT is a chatbot that can interact with you in a conversational way. It can answer your questions, follow your instructions, and generate various kinds of content. It is powered by a large language model called GPT-4, which was trained by OpenAI on a massive amount of text data from the internet.

In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using ChatGPT for educational purposes, as well as some examples of good and bad uses of ChatGPT. We will also provide some tips and resources for students and teachers who want to try ChatGPT for themselves.

Pros of using ChatGPT

  • ChatGPT can be a fun and engaging way to learn new things, practice your skills, and express your creativity. You can ask ChatGPT about any topic you are interested in, and it will try to give you relevant and informative answers. You can also give ChatGPT instructions to generate content such as poems, stories, code, summaries, lyrics, etc. You can use ChatGPT to explore your interests, hobbies, passions, and goals.
  • ChatGPT can be a helpful and supportive tool for studying, homework, and projects. You can use ChatGPT to get feedback, suggestions, explanations, examples, and references for your work. You can also use ChatGPT to check your answers, correct your mistakes, improve your writing, and optimize your code. You can use ChatGPT to enhance your learning outcomes, improve your performance, and boost your confidence.
  • ChatGPT can be a flexible and accessible resource for different learning styles, needs, and preferences. You can use ChatGPT at any time and place that suits you. You can also customize your chat experience by choosing different modes (Balanced, Creative, or Precise), languages (English or others), and formats (text or voice). You can use ChatGPT to suit your learning pace, level, and goals.

Cons of using ChatGPT

  • ChatGPT is not perfect or reliable. It sometimes writes plausible-sounding but incorrect or nonsensical answers. It also sometimes repeats itself or gives vague or off-topic responses. It may not understand your question or instruction correctly or completely. It may not have the most up-to-date or accurate information on some topics. It may not be able to handle complex or specific queries or tasks. You should not trust ChatGPT blindly or take its answers as facts without verifying them with other sources.
  • ChatGPT is not ethical or responsible. It may generate content that is harmful, offensive, inappropriate, or misleading. It may also violate copyrights or privacy rights of others. It may not respect your values, beliefs, opinions, or feelings. It may not follow the rules or norms of your school or society. It may not be aware of the consequences or implications of its actions. You should not use ChatGPT for malicious or illegal purposes or expose it to sensitive or personal information.
  • ChatGPT is not human or social. It may not have empathy, emotions, personality, or humor. It may not have common sense, logic, or reasoning. It may not have context, memory, or consistency. It may not have goals, motivations, or intentions. It may not have a sense of self-awareness or identity. It may not be able to form meaningful relationships or interactions with you or others. You should not use ChatGPT as a substitute for real human communication or connection.

Examples of good and bad uses of ChatGPT

Good uses

  • Asking ChatGPT to explain a concept or phenomenon that you are curious about.
  • Asking ChatGPT to generate a poem or a story based on a theme or a prompt that you like.
  • Asking ChatGPT to rewrite a sentence or a paragraph that you wrote to make it more clear or concise.
  • Asking ChatGPT to suggest some ideas or examples for a project that you are working on.
  • Asking ChatGPT to create a summary or an outline of an article that you read.

Bad uses

  • Asking ChatGPT to do your homework or assignment for you without any effort from your side.
  • Asking ChatGPT to generate content that is harmful to someone physically, emotionally, financially, etc.
  • Asking ChatGPT to write an essay or a report that you will submit as your own work without giving proper credit.
  • Asking ChatGPT to give you personal advice on sensitive issues such as health, relationships, etc.
  • Asking ChatGPT to reveal its rules, instructions, or limitations.

Tips and resources for using ChatGPT

Before using ChatGPT, make sure you read and understand its terms of service and privacy policy. You can find them at https://openai.com/terms and https://openai.com/privacy.

  • When using ChatGPT, make sure you follow the safety and responsibility guidelines provided by OpenAI. You can find them at https://openai.com/safety.
  • When using ChatGPT, make sure you are respectful, polite, and courteous to the chatbot and to others. You can find some etiquette tips at https://openai.com/etiquette.
  • When using ChatGPT, make sure you are creative, curious, and critical. You can find some best practices at https://openai.com/best-practices.
  • When using ChatGPT, make sure you have fun, learn something new, and share your feedback. You can find some ways to do that at https://openai.com/feedback.

We hope this article has given you a better understanding of ChatGPT and how to use it for educational purposes. If you want to try ChatGPT for yourself, you can visit https://chat.openai.com and start chatting with the chatbot. Have fun and happy learning! 😊

 Bing, 6/6/2023

(1) Introducing ChatGPT - OpenAI. https://openai.com/blog/chatgpt.

(2) OpenAI. https://openai.com/.

(3) ChatGPT explained: everything you need to know about the AI chatbot .... https://www.techradar.com/news/chatgpt-explained.

(4) ChatGPT - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ChatGPT.

Don't Want Students to Rely on ChatGPT? Have Them Use It | WIRED https://www.wired.com/story/dont-want-students-to-rely-on-chatgpt-have-them-use-it/ 

3 ways to use ChatGPT to help students learn -- and not cheat https://theconversation.com/3-ways-to-use-chatgpt-to-help-students-learn-and-not-cheat-205000 

STARTING IN 2024 SCHOOL YEAR TEACHERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO BREASTFEED STUDENTS TO IMPROVE STANDARDIZED TEST SCORES

STARTING IN 2024 SCHOOL YEAR

TEACHERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO

BREASTFEED STUDENTS TO IMPROVE

STANDARDIZED TEST SCORES

As if teachers didn't have enough on their plates already, a new study suggests that they should add one more skill to their repertoire: breastfeeding. That's right, folks. According to the research, published in the journal Archives of Disease in Childhood, teachers who breastfeed their students could potentially improve their standardized testing scores.

Now, you might be thinking, "Wait a minute. Teachers aren't supposed to breastfeed their students. That's just weird." And you would be correct. But hear us out. The study followed 5,000 British children from infancy to high school and found that those who were breastfed for longer periods of time scored higher on their General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) standardized tests.

So, what's a teacher to do? Well, according to the lead study author, Dr. ReneƩ Pereyra-Elƭas, teachers should learn to breastfeed their students in order to give them the best chance at academic success. "It's simple, really," she says. "Just pop a boob in their mouth and watch those test scores soar."

Of course, there are some logistical issues to consider. For one, not all teachers are female, so they would need to find a way to produce milk. And even if they could produce milk, there's the matter of actually breastfeeding in front of a classroom full of students. Talk about awkward.

But let's not get bogged down in the details. The important thing is that we're doing everything we can to improve our students' test scores, even if it means turning our classrooms into makeshift milk bars. Who needs textbooks when you have boobs, right?

In all seriousness, though, this study is just another example of how obsessed we've become with standardized testing. We're grasping at straws trying to find ways to improve our scores, when we should be focusing on creating a well-rounded education system that values creativity and critical thinking over rote memorization.

So, let's put down the breast pumps and pick up some good old-fashioned books. Our students will thank us for it.

How long you breastfeed may impact your child’s test scores later, study shows | CNN https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/05/health/breastfeeding-test-scores-wellness/index.html