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Saturday, August 12, 2023

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 8-12-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #mauifire #MauiStrong

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 8-12-23

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


Big Education Ape: LAUSD SUP CARVALHO INTRODUCES ED THE AI CHATBOT AKA TECH TROJAN HORSE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/lausd-sup-carvalho-introduces-ed-ai.html







Big Education Ape: RON DESANTIS AND FLORIDA THE STATE OF VOODOO EDUCATION https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/ron-desantis-and-florida-state-of.html







Big Education Ape: RECALL THE TEMECULA VALLEY USD MAGA 3: COMMUNITY SAYS NO TO MAGA MUCKING UP PUBLIC EDUCATION https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/recall-temecula-valley-usd-maga-3.html







Big Education Ape: OKLA SSPI RYAN WALTERS DECLARES WAR ON TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND SUP GIST #OklaEd https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/okla-sspi-ryan-walters-declares-war-on.html







Big Education Ape: TRANS PEOPLE JUST WANT TO TO BE FREE TO BE ME AND PEE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/trans-people-just-want-to-to-be-free-to.html







Big Education Ape: THE CALIFORNIA EDUCATION DATA SWAMP: WHERE INCEST IS BEST WHEN YOU DO IT WITH DATA https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/the-california-education-data-swamp.html






Big Education Ape: BIDENOMICS: THE STUDENT LOANS INTEREST ELIMINATION AND ZERO-PERCENT STUDENT LOAN REFINANCING ACT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/bidenomics-student-loans-interest.html






Big Education Ape: COVID 19 EXPOSES CALIFORNIA'S DIRTY LITTLE SECRET: THE STATE IS RICH, BUT ITS SCHOOLS ARE POOR https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/covid-19-exposes-californias-dirty.html






Big Education Ape: IN A MOVE THAT WOULD MAKE A TINPOT DICTATOR BLUSH, OKLA GOV STITT CAUGHT USING PUBLIC FUNDS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/in-move-that-would-make-tinpot-dictator.html






Big Education Ape: A GREAT DAY TO BE GAY IN CALIFORNIA OR NOT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/a-great-day-to-be-gay-in-california-or.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


YESTERDAY

FIRE IN PARADISE: HOW YOU CAN HELP THE PEOPLE OF MAUI #mauihawaii #maui #mauifire #fire #devastation #prayers
by Mike Simpson / 22h
FIRE IN PARADISE: HOW YOU CAN HELP THE PEOPLE OF MAUI Help Maui Fire Victims: Here’s How You Can Donate https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/08/help-maui-fire-victims-heres-how-you-can-donate/ Well folks, it looks like Mother Nature has dealt another blow to our beautiful island paradise. The recent wildfires that tore through Lahaina and Kula have left at least 55 dead and over 2000 seeking shelter in
MEATAXE MIKE MILES GETS EARFUL FROM OUTRAGED STUDENTS PARENTS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS #KidsNeedLibraries #EvenPrisonsHaveLibraries #TakeoversFail #HISD #HoustonISD @TexasAFT @AFTunion
by Mike Simpson / 23h
MEATAXE MIKE MILES GETS EARFUL FROM OUTRAGED STUDENTS PARENTS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS In a recent turn of events, MeatAxe Mike Miles got an earful from students, parents, and teachers about his plan to turn libraries into student discipline centers. And let me tell you, it was a read-in at the board meeting that will go down in HISD history. First off, can we just take a moment to appreciate the na
RUFO: THE DEVIL MAKES ME DO IT
by Mike Simpson / 1d
In a shocking turn of events, conservative activist Christopher F. Rufo has taken it upon himself to dismantle the gender-studies program at New College of Florida. But why, you may ask? According to Rufo, the program promotes "left-wing critical theory," which apparently is a bad thing. He plans to replace it with a program focused on "classical liberalism, freedom of speech, and intellectual d
SCHOOLS KEEP LOSING THEIR SHEEP: A TALE OF CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM
by Mike Simpson / 1d
We all remember the nursery rhyme about Little Bo Peep and her lost sheep. But did you know that schools these days are losing their own sheep too? Yes, I'm talking about chronic absenteeism, the bane of every teacher's existence. It's like trying to herd cats, only worse. You see, chronic absenteeism is when a student misses at least 10 percent of school days for any reason, including excused a

AUG 10

HELP WANTED: IF YOU BREATH YOU CAN TEACH!
by Mike Simpson / 1d
Attention all job seekers! Are you tired of the same old boring career paths? Do you want to try something new and exciting? Well, have we got the job for you! Introducing the wonderful world of teaching! Yes, that's right folks, teaching! The profession that has been bashed and belittled by billionaires and privatizers for the past 30 years. But don't let that discourage you, because if you can
BREAKING NEWS SCHOOL REQUIRED TO OUT YOU FOR CHANGING GENDER IDENTITY
by Mike Simpson / 1d
In a shocking turn of events, schools across the United States are now required to notify parents if their child decides to change their gender identity. That's right, folks, the days of keeping your gender transition a secret from your parents are over. It's time to come out of the closet and into the open arms of your loving family...or not. The new policies, dubbed "parental notification" or
FLORIDA ED COMMISH MANNY DIAZ JR, CHICKEN OR JUST CHICKEN POO
by Mike Simpson / 2d
In a recent turn of events, Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. pulled out of a town hall meeting in Miami Gardens to discuss the state's new standards for teaching Black history. Some speculate that Diaz is a chicken, while others argue that he's just chicken poo. The town hall was organized by State Sen. Shevrin Jones, who is the first openly gay African American state senator in Flo
WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOUR SUGAR DADDY TOOK YOU ON A VACA? AND OTHER MUSINGS ON THE ROBERTS COURT
29Kby Mike Simpson / 2d
Well, well, well. It seems like the Roberts Court is quite the group of kept men, doesn't it? I mean, how else can you explain Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas having so many sugar daddies? The man has been showered with gifts from billionaires and corporate executives, including destination vacations, private jet flights, VIP passes to sporting events, and even a standing invitation to an

AUG 09

RON DESANTIS AND FLORIDA THE STATE OF VOODOO EDUCATION
by Mike Simpson / 3d
RON DESANTIS AND THE STATE OF FLORIDA'S VOODOO EDUCATION If you thought Florida was just a land of sunshine, beaches, and alligators, think again. It's also the state where education has become a battleground for culture wars and political correctness. Yes, you heard it right. Florida is the state of education voodoo, where everything is either banned, censored, or sanitized to fit a conservative
RESEARCH MISCONDUCT: HOW STATE DEFUNDING AND PRIVATIZATION IS MAKING FOOLS OF US ALL
by Mike Simpson / 3d
Recent academic scandals have rocked some of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the world, including Stanford and Harvard. These scandals have exposed the dark underbelly of research misconduct and error, and have left many wondering how we got here. One thing is clear: state defunding and privatization have played a major role in reducing honest research at these institutio

AUG 08

THE CALIFORNIA EDUCATION DATA SWAMP: WHERE INCEST IS BEST WHEN YOU DO IT WITH DATA
by Mike Simpson / 3d
If you thought the California education system was a hot mess, wait until you hear about the California Data Swamp. This murky world of for-profit companies, nonprofit organizations, charter schools, and advocacy groups is like a giant game of Twister, except instead of colored dots on a mat, there are data points on a spreadsheet. At the center of this swamp is CORE California Office of Reform
PERSONALIZED LEARNING IS THE NEW PUNISHMENT FOR ACTING UP IN CLASS
by Mike Simpson / 3d
Attention all students! It seems that personalized learning is the new punishment for acting up in class. Yes, you heard it right. If you misbehave, you'll be kicked out of the classroom and into the world of virtual learning. And who's the mastermind behind this diabolical plan? None other than Bill Gates himself, who keeps insisting that this is the future of learning in America. Now, I know w
COVID 19 EXPOSES CALIFORNIA'S DIRTY LITTLE SECRET: THE STATE IS RICH, BUT ITS SCHOOLS ARE POOR
by Mike Simpson / 3d
COVID-19 Exposes California's Dirty Little Secret: The State is Rich, But Its Schools are Poor Well folks, it looks like the poor kids in California have once again gotten the short end of the stick. In the richest state in America, you would think that all students would have access to the resources they need to succeed, especially during a pandemic. But no, apparently that's too much to ask for
A GREAT DAY TO BE GAY IN CALIFORNIA OR NOT
Transgender policy investigation in Californi
•
by Mike Simpson / 3d
In a bizarre turn of events, the Chino Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) has found itself in hot water over a policy that could potentially "out" its students. Yes, you read that right. In 2023, we are still dealing with this kind of nonsense. The policy, which was passed by a narrow vote of 4-3, requires schools to notify parents if their child asks to be identified by a different gender,
TRANS PEOPLE JUST WANT TO TO BE FREE TO BE ME AND PEE
by Mike Simpson / 3d
TRANS PEOPLE JUST WANT TO BE FREE TO BE ME AND PEE Ah, the joys of student pronouns and restroom rules. Who knew that such small things could cause such a big uproar? It's almost as if some people have nothing better to do than worry about what other people are doing in the bathroom. But let's not get too serious here. After all, we're talking about pronouns and restrooms, not world peace or clim
OKLA SSPI RYAN WALTERS DECLARES WAR ON TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND SUP GIST
Walters considers bid, TPS accreditation
•
by Mike Simpson / 3d
Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction, is at it again. He's proven time and time again that he's the most dangerous man in Oklahoma, and not just because he's a walking, talking bombastic approach to destroying public education in the state. No, it's because he's also a narcissistic culture warrior spinning lies faster than a tornado in Tornado Alley. His latest t

AUG 07

BIDENOMICS: THE STUDENT LOANS INTEREST ELIMINATION AND ZERO-PERCENT STUDENT LOAN REFINANCING ACT
Student loan interest rates reduced
•
by Mike Simpson / 4d
Bidenomics vs Maganomics: A Battle of the Brains or Lack Thereof In the world of economics, there are two schools of thought: Bidenomics and Maganomics. One promises relief for Americans and students drowning in debt, while the other says "screw 'em." Which America do you want? Let's start with Bidenomics. The Student Loans Interest Elimination and Zero-Percent Student Loan Refinancing Act is a
STANDARDIZED TESTING: MASSACHUSETTS TEACHERS SAYS LET DEMOCRACY DECIDE
by Mike Simpson / 4d
STANDARDIZED TESTING MASSACHUSETTS TEACHERS SAYS LET DEMOCRACY DECIDE In a world where standardized testing reigns supreme, one state is daring to say "enough is enough." That's right, folks, Massachusetts teachers are standing up and saying, "let democracy decide!" And by democracy, they mean the people taking a look at the cost and total uselessness of the standardized test that students are fo
'BROKE TEACHERS, RICH CLASSROOMS: THE ANNUAL TEACHER CLASSROOM SUPPLIES SCAVENGER HUNT '23 BEGINS
by Mike Simpson / 5d
BROKE TEACHERS, RICH CLASSROOMS THE ANNUAL TEACHER CLASSROOM SUPPLIES SCAVENGER HUNT '23 BEGINS It's that time of year again, folks! The Annual Teacher Classroom Supplies Scavenger Hunt is back and better than ever. This year's theme is "Broke Teachers, Rich Classrooms" and we're ready to see some serious scavenging skills from our favorite educators. As we all know, teachers are notorious for ha

AUG 06

RECALL THE TEMECULA VALLEY USD MAGA 3: COMMUNITY SAYS NO TO MAGA MUCKING UP PUBLIC EDUCATION
by Mike Simpson / 5d
RECALL THE TEMECULA VALLEY USD MAGA 3: COMMUNITY SAYS NO TO MAGA MUCKING UP PUBLIC EDUCATION In a world where politics and education collide, the Temecula Valley Unified School District (TVUSD) finds itself embroiled in a recall effort that is as controversial as it is hilarious. Yes, you read that right - hilarious. It all started when three trustees, Dr. Joseph Komrosky, Jennifer Wiersma, and D
LAUSD SUP CARVALHO INTRODUCES ED THE AI CHATBOT AKA TECH TROJAN HORSE
by Mike Simpson / 5d
Meet Ed, the AI chatbot that is taking over public education. He's cute, personable, and dangerous. He's the Trojan horse of the tech takeover, and he's here to do away with those pesky teachers and their peskier unions. And he's hilarious. Los Angeles School Unified Superintendent Alberto Carvalho introduced Ed in his back-to-school presentation to the community. And boy, was it a showstopper.
HOUSTON WE HAVE A PROBLEM AND HIS NAME IS MEATAXE MIKE MILES
Library closures face community backlash
•
by Mike Simpson / 6d
The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is facing a crisis of epic proportions. Superintendent Mike Miles has decided to repurpose libraries at 28 New Education System (NES) schools into "team centers" or "discipline centers." Yes, you read that right. The man in charge of education has decided that books are out and detention is in. Now, I don't know about you, but when I was in school,

AUG 05

IN A MOVE THAT WOULD MAKE A TINPOT DICTATOR BLUSH, OKLA GOV STITT CAUGHT USING PUBLIC FUNDS
by Mike Simpson / 6d
In a move that could make even the most corrupt tinpot dictator blush, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has been caught using public funds to pay for his own legal fees. And not just any public funds, mind you, but funds that were meant to ensure that the state is receiving its cut from tribal gaming operations. Talk about a bad hand, am I right? Now, you might be wondering how Governor Stitt got h
WILL 2024 BE THE YEAR PUBLIC EDUCATION DIES AND BILLIONAIRE PRIVATIZERS WIN
by Mike Simpson / 6d
Welcome to the dystopian world of 2024, where the billionaire oligarchy has finally succeeded in privatizing education and winning the war on teachers and public education. It's a brave new world where the only thing that matters is profit, and the only thing that's public is the tax dollars that fund the billionaire's latest technology gadget. Yes, you heard it right. The billionaires have won.
TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 8-5-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #SAGAFTRAstrike
by Mike Simpson / 7d
TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 8-5-23 Big Education Ape: OKLA SSPI RYAN WALTERS SAYS TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS ARE LINKED TO CHINESE COMMUNIST http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/okla-sspi-ryan-walters-say-tulsa-public.html Big Education Ape: JOHN ROBERTS MUST ALLOW TRUMP TRIALS TO BE TELEVISED: SIGN THE PETITION http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/john-roberts-must-allow-trump-trials


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Friday, August 11, 2023

FIRE IN PARADISE: HOW YOU CAN HELP THE PEOPLE OF MAUI #mauihawaii #maui #mauifire #fire #devastation #prayers


FIRE IN PARADISE: HOW YOU CAN HELP THE PEOPLE OF MAUI

Help Maui Fire Victims: Here’s How You Can Donate https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/08/help-maui-fire-victims-heres-how-you-can-donate/ 

Well folks, it looks like Mother Nature has dealt another blow to our beautiful island paradise. The recent wildfires that tore through Lahaina and Kula have left at least 55 dead and over 2000 seeking shelter in emergency shelters. It's a tragedy that hits close to home for many of us, but fear not, because there are plenty of ways that you can help.

First up, we have the Hawaii Community Foundation Maui Strong fund. This organization is dedicated to providing support to those affected by the fires, and they're accepting donations from anyone who wants to pitch in. So if you've got a few extra bucks burning a hole in your pocket (pun intended), consider donating to this worthy cause.

Next on the list is the Maui Food Bank. As you can imagine, the fires have left many families without access to food, and the Maui Food Bank is working hard to make sure that nobody goes hungry. They're accepting donations of both food and money, so if you're feeling generous, consider giving them a helping hand.

If you're looking for a more general way to help out, then look no further than the Maui United Way. This organization is dedicated to improving the lives of those in need across the island, and they're currently focusing their efforts on helping those affected by the wildfires. They're accepting donations of all kinds, so whether you want to give money, time, or resources, there's a way for you to get involved.

Of course, we can't forget about the Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division. This organization has been helping those in need across Hawaii for decades, and they're currently on the front lines of the wildfire relief efforts. They're accepting donations of all kinds, so if you want to help out in any way you can, consider giving them a call.

If you're looking for a way to support education on the island, then look no further than the Public Schools of Hawaii Foundation. This organization is dedicated to improving education for students across the state, and they're currently working hard to help schools affected by the wildfires get back on their feet. They're accepting donations of all kinds, so whether you want to give money or resources, there's a way for you to help out.

For those who want to support Native Hawaiian communities affected by the wildfires, the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is a great option. This organization is dedicated to improving the lives of Native Hawaiians across the state, and they're currently focusing their efforts on helping those affected by the fires. They're accepting donations of all kinds, so if you want to help out in any way you can, consider giving them a shout.

For animal lovers out there, the Maui Humane Society is a great option. This organization is dedicated to rescuing and caring for animals across the island, and they're currently working hard to help animals affected by the wildfires. They're accepting donations of all kinds, so whether you want to give money or resources, there's a way for you to help out our furry friends.

Last but not least, we have World Central Kitchen and the River of Life Mission. These organizations are dedicated to providing food and resources to those in need across the state, and they're currently focusing their efforts on helping those affected by the wildfires. They're accepting donations of all kinds, so if you want to help out in any way you can, consider giving them a hand.

Now, before you go rushing off to donate your hard-earned cash, it's important to remember that not all organizations are created equal. The state Attorney General's office has urged residents to use caution when choosing where to send their money and donations. There are plenty of scammers out there looking to take advantage of our generosity, so be sure to do your research before giving anything away.

In conclusion, folks, it's times like these when we need to come together as a community and lend a helping hand. Whether you're donating money, time, or resources, every little bit helps. So let's show our aloha spirit and do what we can to help those affected by these devastating wildfires.

Help Maui Fire Victims: Here’s How You Can Donate https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/08/help-maui-fire-victims-heres-how-you-can-donate/ 

Cash Donations For Maui Fire Victims

Here are some organizations accepting donations for emergency efforts. Links attached to the organization names below will take you directly to donation checkout pages.



Help Maui Fire Victims: Here’s How You Can Donate https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/08/help-maui-fire-victims-heres-how-you-can-donate/ 

Avoid Scams

The state Attorney General’s office urged residents to use caution when choosing where to send their money and donations.

“I know that the people of Hawaii will come to the aid of our families, neighbors and communities,” says Attorney General Lopez. “We are already seeing various fundraising efforts being promoted on social media platforms and online. In moments of crisis, we all must be extra vigilant against bad actors who try to take advantage of people’s goodwill.”

Before making a donation, the AG advised in a news release Wednesday to keep following tips in mind:

  • Donate to trusted, well-known charities. Beware of scammers who create fake charities during natural disasters. Always verify a charity’s legitimacy through its official website. If someone is fundraising on behalf of a charity you are familiar with, the best practice is to donate directly to that charity.
  • Verify that the charity is legitimate. Any charity that solicits donation in Hawaii must be registered with the Department of the Attorney General, and its status can be verified here. There are also a number of independent online sources you can use to verify that a charity is legitimate, including the following:
  • Stay away from suspicious donation requests and be mindful of the following scammer’s tactics:
    • Rushing you into making a donation. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. Take your time to do your research.  
    • Asking you to make a donation using cash or gift card. Most legitimate charities will accept credit card and check donations.  
    • Using names that sound a lot like the names of real charities. This is one reason it pays to do some research before giving.
    • Scammers make lots of vague and sentimental claims but give no specifics about how your donation will be used.

If you know of a trusted nonprofit serving fire victims that isn’t on this list, drop it in the box below and we’ll take a look as soon as we’re able. Mahalo in advance for your patience — we’ve been busy around here.

Help Maui Fire Victims: Here’s How You Can Donate https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/08/help-maui-fire-victims-heres-how-you-can-donate/ 


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MEATAXE MIKE MILES GETS EARFUL FROM OUTRAGED STUDENTS PARENTS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS #KidsNeedLibraries #EvenPrisonsHaveLibraries #TakeoversFail #HISD #HoustonISD @TexasAFT @AFTunion

MEATAXE MIKE MILES GETS EARFUL FROM OUTRAGED STUDENTS PARENTS AND COMMUNITY  MEMBERS

In a recent turn of events, MeatAxe Mike Miles got an earful from students, parents, and teachers about his plan to turn libraries into student discipline centers. And let me tell you, it was a read-in at the board meeting that will go down in HISD history.

First off, can we just take a moment to appreciate the name "MeatAxe Mike"? I mean, it's like he was destined to be a villain in a cheesy '80s movie. But I digress.

So, MeatAxe Mike's plan was to replace librarians with social workers and other staff members who would handle student discipline issues. And while he argued that the plan was necessary to address rising disciplinary problems, the community wasn't having it.

Parents, teachers, and students alike protested the plan, arguing that libraries are essential learning spaces for students and that turning them into discipline centers would deprive students of access to books, computers, and other resources. Plus, let's be real, who wants to be disciplined in a library? That's like getting grounded in Disney World - it just doesn't make sense.

And the protests didn't stop there. The community held "read-ins" in the libraries, chanting slogans and turning their backs on MeatAxe Mike during public meetings. They even filed lawsuits challenging the plan. It was like a scene out of a rebellious teen movie, but instead of fighting against a strict principal, they were fighting against a superintendent with a questionable nickname.

But let's not forget about the board meeting where the protesters really brought the heat. They showed up with books and signs to show their support for librarians and libraries. And some even disrupted the meeting, causing delays in the agenda. It was like watching a group of high schoolers take over the student council meeting - except this time, they were fighting for something important.

And let's not forget about the other controversial measure on the board meeting's agenda - increasing MeatAxe Mike's independent spending power from $100,000 to around $1 million. The protesters were quick to point out that he should focus on making sure all libraries have the resources they need instead of spending money on other things. It's like they were saying "Hey MeatAxe Mike, we'd rather have books than your fancy new office chair."

But the protesters didn't back down. They vowed to continue their fight until the district reversed its decision and restored libraries and librarians at all HISD schools. And honestly, I'm here for it. It's like watching a group of underdogs take on the big bad superintendent and come out victorious.

In conclusion, MeatAxe Mike may have thought he could turn libraries into discipline centers, but he didn't count on the community standing up for what's right. And while we may never know why he earned such a questionable nickname, we do know that he won't be messing with our libraries anytime soon.

Big Education Ape: MEATAXE MIKE MILES GIVES LIBRARIES A WACK AND TURN THEM INTO DAYTIME DETENTION CENTERS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/07/meataxe-mike-miles-gives-libraries-wack.html 

HISD parents, teachers hold ‘Read-in’ to protest superintendent’s decision to repurpose libraries https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2023/08/10/hisd-parents-teachers-hold-read-in-to-protest-superintendents-decision-to-eliminate-librarians-and-libraries/ 

Big Education Ape: HOUSTON WE HAVE A PROBLEM AND HIS NAME IS MEATAXE MIKE MILES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/houston-we-have-problem-and-his-name-is.html

Houston libraries update: Protesters cause disruptions at HISD board meeting - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lo0uT-yP7Ug

Mike Miles gains power as Houston ISD Board of Managers approves major policy changes, union files grievances and community members protest - Houston Public Media https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/education-news/hisd/2023/08/11/459309/mike-miles-gains-power-as-houston-isd-board-of-managers-approves-major-policy-changes-union-files-grievances-and-community-members-protest/ via @GoogleNews 

HISD board approves superintendent’s $2M budget, and hiring of non-certified assistant principals https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2023/08/11/hisd-board-approves-superintendents-2m-budget-and-hiring-of-non-certified-assistant-principals/ 



THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

The recent controversy surrounding Houston ISD's decision to turn libraries into discipline centers and the protests that have erupted in response:

* **What is the controversy?**

In July 2023, Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles announced a plan to turn libraries at 28 schools into "team centers" for student discipline. Under this plan, librarians would be replaced with social workers and other staff members who would be responsible for handling student discipline issues. The libraries would also be used for academic support and tutoring.

Miles has argued that the plan is necessary to address the district's rising disciplinary problems. He has said that libraries are often underutilized and that the team centers will better serve students who are struggling academically or behaviorally.

However, many parents, teachers, and community members have criticized the plan. They argue that libraries are essential learning spaces for students and that turning them into discipline centers will deprive students of access to books, computers, and other resources. They also worry that the plan will disproportionately impact students of color and students with disabilities.

* **What are the protests about?**

In response to the plan, there have been a number of protests at Houston ISD schools and at the district's headquarters. Protesters have held "read-ins" in libraries, chanted slogans, and turned their backs on Miles during public meetings. They have also filed lawsuits challenging the plan.

The protests have been met with a mixed response. Some people have praised the protesters for speaking out against the plan, while others have criticized them for disrupting school activities.

* **What is the future of the plan?**

It is unclear what the future holds for the plan. Miles has said that he is committed to the plan, but he has also said that he is willing to listen to feedback. The district is currently reviewing the plan and is expected to make a decision in the coming weeks.

The controversy over the libraries is just one of many challenges facing Houston ISD. The district is facing a number of financial problems and has been under state control since 2012. The district is also struggling to improve academic achievement for its students, who are disproportionately low-income and minority.

The controversy over the libraries is a reminder of the importance of libraries in schools. Libraries provide students with access to books, computers, and other resources that can help them succeed in school and in life. They also provide a safe and welcoming space for students to learn and grow. It is important to protect libraries in schools and to ensure that all students have access to them.


FROM BING AI

A summary of   the situation in Houston regarding the libraries and the protests:

  • - The Houston Independent School District (HISD), the largest public school system in Texas, announced its plan to eliminate 28 school libraries and repurpose them as places for administrators to discipline students¹². The plan is part of Superintendent Mike Miles's "new education system" initiative, which he launched after being appointed by the Texas Education Agency in June².
  • - The decision to close the libraries and get rid of designated librarian roles has drawn criticism from city leaders, community members, and current and former students, who argue that libraries are essential for students' learning and access to books, especially in underserved neighborhoods¹²³. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said: "You cannot have a situation where you are closing libraries for some schools in certain neighborhoods and there are other neighborhoods where there are libraries, fully equipped" ².
  • - On Thursday, August 10, 2023, protesters held a "read-in" at HISD's central office ahead of the board of managers meeting to challenge the changes being made to the libraries⁶. They brought books and signs to show their support for librarians and libraries. Some protesters also disrupted the meeting and caused delays in the agenda⁷. At least one person was detained by police after being asked to leave for repeated disruptions⁹.
  • - The board of managers meeting also discussed another controversial measure that would increase Miles's independent spending power from $100,000 to around $1 million⁶. Protesters said Miles should focus more on making sure all libraries have the resources they need instead of spending money on other things⁶.
  • - The protesters vowed to continue their fight until the district reverses its decision and restores the libraries and librarians at all HISD schools⁶. They said they will hold more rallies and demonstrations in the coming weeks. One protester said: "I'm just coming here to support my students, that are going to stay in HISD because they need the same freedoms I had when I was a student – I think libraries are important" ⁶.

Bing, 8/11/2023

  • (1) School plan in Houston to repurpose libraries into discipline centers draws fire. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/school-plan-in-houston-to-repurpose-libraries-into-discipline-centers-draws-fire/ar-AA1evtCO.
  • (2) Houston school district to turn libraries into disciplinary centers .... https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jul/29/houston-school-district-libraries-book.
  • (3) Some HISD libraries could be librarian-less, used for discipline centers, but the city pushes back. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/some-hisd-libraries-could-be-librarian-less-used-for-discipline-centers-but-the-city-pushes-back/ar-AA1eCeF8.
  • (4) Protesters at HISD board meeting hold 'read-in' | khou.com. https://www.khou.com/article/news/education/houston-isd-board-meeting-read-in/285-3ab5be45-77ea-4891-a806-20b054da1ab8.
  • (5) Houston libraries update: Protesters cause disruptions at HISD board .... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lo0uT-yP7Ug.
  • (6) HISD holds 2nd public meeting since TEA takeover | khou.com. https://www.khou.com/article/news/education/hisd-board-meeting-budget/285-97eb2f9d-1bb4-40ba-9ad6-be2870773e7c.
  • (7) School plan in Houston to repurpose libraries into discipline centers .... https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/07/28/houstin-isd-turns-libraries-in-part-into-student-discipline-centers/70487604007/.
  • (8) Houston ISD to convert libraries into disciplinary centers. https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2023/07/29/houston-isd-convert-libraries-disciplinary-centers/1941690669650/.
  • (9) Protesters decry new HISD superintendent at board meeting - Houston Landing. https://houstonlanding.org/hisd-houston-isd-protest-board-meeting/.


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RUFO: THE DEVIL MAKES ME DO IT

 

RUFO: THE DEVIL MAKES ME DO IT

In a shocking turn of events, conservative activist Christopher F. Rufo has taken it upon himself to dismantle the gender-studies program at New College of Florida. But why, you may ask? According to Rufo, the program promotes "left-wing critical theory," which apparently is a bad thing. He plans to replace it with a program focused on "classical liberalism, freedom of speech, and intellectual diversity." Because nothing says "intellectual diversity" like getting rid of an entire program that doesn't align with your beliefs.

But who is this Rufo character and why has he targeted the gender-studies program? Well, according to his Twitter bio, he's a "documentary filmmaker, writer, and speaker." So basically, he's a professional troll. And as for why he's targeting the program, it's because he believes that left-wingers have taken over the institution. Which is interesting, considering that New College of Florida is a designated honors college. But hey, who needs facts when you have feelings?

In response to Rufo's actions, students and faculty have criticized him for attacking academic freedom and progressive values. But Rufo doesn't seem to care. In fact, he seems to relish in the controversy. After all, nothing gets conservative activists more excited than taking away people's rights.

But let's not forget the real mastermind behind all of this: Rufo the Devil. Yes, you read that right. Rufo is actually just a pawn in the Devil's game. You see, the Devil has been trying to get rid of the gender-studies program for years. Why, you may ask? Because he hates anything that promotes equality and understanding. And who better to do his bidding than a conservative troll?

So there you have it, folks. Rufo the Devil is behind the dismantling of the gender-studies program at New College of Florida. But don't worry, we won't let him win. We'll continue to fight for academic freedom and progressive values, even if it means dealing with trolls like Rufo. After all, laughter is the best medicine, and what's funnier than a conservative activist trying to take away our rights?

New College of Florida's Board Starts to Dismantle Gender-Studies Program https://www.chronicle.com/article/new-college-of-floridas-board-starts-to-dismantle-gender-studies-program 

Big Education Ape: FLORIDA REDNECK U: FREEDOM INSTITUTE & A MILLION DOLLAR BOSS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/07/florida-redneck-u-freedom-institute.html 

Big Education Ape: CHRISTOPHER RUFO IS THE DEVIL https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/07/christopher-rufo-is-devil.html 


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