Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
4-19-25
Texas: The Sordid Story Behind the Passage of Vouchers https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/18/texas-the-sordid-story-behind-the-passage-of-vouchers/ via @dianeravitch
The article discusses the intense political struggle and tactics used by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to pass a school voucher program. Despite strong opposition from rural Republicans and Democrats, Abbott leveraged significant political pressure, including threats and financial backing from influential figures, to push the legislation through. The article highlights the transformation in Republican support, driven by fear of political retribution and the promise of increased public school funding.### Key Points
- Governor Abbott used strong-arm tactics and financial resources to pass voucher legislation, which faced opposition from rural Republicans and Democrats.
- Abbott's pressure tactics included misleading claims and leveraging out-of-state and evangelical billionaire support to defeat opposing Republicans.
- Many Republican lawmakers felt compelled to support the voucher bill due to threats of political isolation and vetoes of their bills.
- Abbott's approach represents a shift in Texas politics, marking a significant power shift in state leadership dynamics.
- The voucher bill included amendments to address concerns about its impact on communities and prevent misuse.
- The political pressure extended to threats of primary challenges, with Abbott using Trump's influence to ensure GOP support.
Trump Chooses Lawyer as DC Federal Prosecutor Who is a Putin Puppet and J6 Defender https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/18/trump-chooses-lawyer-who-is-a-putin-puppet-and-j6-defender-to-serve-as-federal-prosecutor-for-dc/ via @dianeravitch
Trump has appointed Ed Martin, a lawyer and conservative activist, as the interim U.S. attorney for D.C., with plans for him to take on the role full-time. Martin has a controversial history, having repeatedly appeared on Russian state media defending Russian interests and questioning U.S. actions. He has been criticized for not disclosing these appearances and for potentially amplifying anti-American propaganda. His appointment has raised concerns about his judgment and ability to handle national security issues, given his past support for Russia and involvement in the "Stop the Steal" movement.### Key Points
- Ed Martin appointed as interim U.S. attorney for D.C., with plans for full-time role.
- Martin criticized for his appearances on Russian state media, defending Russian interests.
- Concerns raised about Martin's judgment and potential bias towards Russia.
- Martin's involvement in "Stop the Steal" movement and failure to disclose media appearances.
A Brilliant Decision by a Conservative Judge Rebukes Trump Administration https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/18/a-brilliant-decision-by-a-conservative-judge-rebujes-trump-administration/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson delivered a significant decision in the case of Kilmer Abrega Garcia, emphasizing the importance of due process and constitutional order.
- Abrego Garcia, among 238 men deported without due process, was ordered by two federal judges and the Supreme Court to be returned to the U.S., but the administration resisted.
- The court denied the government's request for an emergency stay, stressing that deporting individuals without due process undermines constitutional values.
- The decision highlights the need for the executive branch to respect court orders and due process, regardless of the individual's alleged crimes.
- The ruling criticizes the government's narrow interpretation of its duty to facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return, emphasizing active facilitation as required by the Supreme Court.
- The decision warns against the executive's potential overreach, which could undermine the judiciary and the rule of law, leading to anarchy.
- The article reflects on past presidents like Eisenhower, who respected judicial decisions, contrasting them with current tensions between branches of government.
The article discusses the use of AI by a company called Technology for Freedom (T4F), which assists MAGA advocates, think tanks, and influencers with AI tools to enhance their research, advocacy, and influence. Founded by Daniel Poynter, T4F offers services such as AI-powered research, advocacy, training, and social network analysis. The company aids organizations in automating tasks, obtaining contact information, analyzing public sentiment, and strategizing influence. The article raises concerns about AI's role in political advocacy, emphasizing its lack of objectivity and potential bias. ### Key Points
- Technology for Freedom uses AI to assist MAGA advocates and think tanks in research and advocacy.
- T4F offers services like AI-powered research, advocacy, and social network analysis.
- The company helps organizations automate tasks and obtain contact information of officials.
- Concerns are raised about AI's lack of objectivity and potential bias in political advocacy.
King Mulgrew Writes Us Poolside https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/king-mulgrew-writes-us-from-poolside?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
This parody article critiques Michael Mulgrew, a union leader, for his contradictory actions and statements regarding retirees' Medicare benefits. The author humorously highlights Mulgrew's use of union resources for personal gain, his attempts to manipulate union communication for re-election purposes, and his opposition to legislation meant to protect retirees' healthcare. The piece underscores the irony in Mulgrew's claims of defending Medicare while simultaneously working against its preservation.### Key Points
- The article is a parody criticizing Michael Mulgrew for using union resources for personal trips and campaigning under the guise of union work.
- Mulgrew is accused of misleading union members about Medicare changes and concealing financial plans that could impact pensions.
- The article mocks Mulgrew's contradictory stance on Medicare, suggesting he opposes protective legislation while planning to shift retirees to Medicare Advantage.
- The author satirizes Mulgrew's disregard for retirees' needs and his focus on personal and political gains.
- The piece highlights Mulgrew's manipulation of union rules and misinformation to maintain power and influence.
glen brown: Dear Democratic Party https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/04/dear-democratic-party.html
The article is a passionate critique of the Democratic Party's response to the current political climate, urging for bold and strategic action against what is perceived as an authoritarian regime. It emphasizes the need for more than just fundraising and polite speeches, calling for a comprehensive plan to resist and dismantle oppressive systems. The author suggests various strategies, including forming investigative coalitions, joining the International Criminal Court, funding state-level resistance, leveraging international media, and creating safe channels for whistleblowers. The article stresses the urgency of acting decisively to protect democracy and hold those in power accountable.### Key Points
- The Democratic Party is criticized for focusing on fundraising and decorum while fascism consolidates power.
- Urges the party to adopt bold strategies and actions that shift the news cycle and resist authoritarianism.
- Suggests forming independent investigative coalitions to document and expose corruption and abuse.
- Advocates joining the International Criminal Court and funding state-level resistance infrastructure.
- Calls for leveraging international media to highlight the situation in America globally.
- Emphasizes the importance of educating the public on rights and resistance tactics.
- Encourages studying historical examples of overcoming dictatorship and dismantling oppressive structures.
glen brown: America Under Siege https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/04/america-under-siege.html
The article discusses a significant internal threat to American democracy, highlighting a power grab orchestrated by unelected billionaires, including Elon Musk, who are compromising democratic institutions with the help of foreign autocrats. A whistleblower named Daniel Berulis has exposed the activities of Musk's "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE), which breached the National Labor Relations Board's computer systems to extract sensitive data. This breach is compared to historical authoritarian tactics and poses a threat to labor rights and democracy by instilling fear and preventing union organization.### Key Points
- Unelected billionaires, including Elon Musk, are hijacking democratic institutions with possible collaboration from foreign autocrats like Vladimir Putin.
- Whistleblower Daniel Berulis revealed DOGE's breach of the National Labor Relations Board's systems, extracting sensitive data.
- The breach threatens labor rights and democracy by intimidating union organizers and whistleblowers.
- DOGE operatives, lacking proper vetting, have gained access to sensitive government data, raising national security concerns.
- The article calls for action to prevent the erosion of democracy and to reclaim governmental accountability from billionaire influence.
Teacher Tom: They are a Head Taller Than Themselves https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/04/they-are-head-taller-than-themselves.html
Teacher Tom reflects on the phenomenon where children seem more mature and assured in a play-based school environment compared to outside settings. Inspired by Lev Vygotsky's idea that children "behave beyond their average age" in play, he emphasizes the importance of play in child development. Teacher Tom also shares his experiences and insights from over 15 years of blogging about play-based learning, offering resources and inviting support for his work.### Key Points
- Observations of children appearing more mature in play-based school environments compared to outside contexts.
- Reference to Lev Vygotsky's concept of children behaving beyond their average age during play.
- Emphasis on the role of play in fostering development and self-discovery in children.
- Teacher Tom's extensive experience and resources on play-based learning, including a free download of his favorite blog posts.
- Invitation for support and engagement with Teacher Tom's work and events.
Webinar: Winning at Wellness - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/winningatwellness.asp
The article discusses the California Local School Wellness Policy (LSWP) Collaborative's upcoming "Winning at Wellness" webinar, which aims to provide tools and resources for Local Educational Agencies to develop and sustain their wellness policies. It also highlights the key requirements and challenges shared by the California Department of Education. The article provides additional information on the Local School Wellness Policy, including its requirements and related resources. Furthermore, it mentions other nutrition-related programs and updates from the California Department of Education.### Key Points
- The California Local School Wellness Policy Collaborative is hosting a "Winning at Wellness" webinar to aid Local Educational Agencies in developing wellness policies.
- The webinar will cover tools, resources, and key requirements, with input from the California Department of Education.
- Information on the 2016 Local School Wellness Policy requirements and guidance is provided.
- The Nutrition Services Division offers an online course on Local School Wellness Policy Requirements.
- The California Department of Education is conducting a survey on Ultra Processed Foods to inform recommendations for limiting UPF-related harms.
- California has been approved by USDA to operate the 2025 SUN Bucks program.
Rubby Peréz and The Ties That Bind Us All | The Jose Vilson https://thejosevilson.com/rubby-perez-and-the-ties-that-bind-us-all/
Join Rubby Peréz and The Ties That Bind Us All is an article by Jose Vilson reflecting on the cultural ties and experiences of Dominicans, especially through music and personal narratives. Vilson recounts his own childhood visits to Santo Domingo, the cultural significance of these trips, and how music, particularly by Rubby Peréz, serves as a cultural anchor for Dominicans. The article also touches on issues of cultural identity, societal disparities, and the challenges of maintaining cultural heritage amidst adversity.
### Key Points
- The author shares personal childhood memories of visiting Santo Domingo, highlighting the cultural and familial connections experienced during these trips.
- A school assignment about family heritage led to a negative experience with a Spanish teacher, impacting the author's perception of his cultural identity.
- Rubby Peréz's music is described as a cultural anchor for Dominicans, connecting people through shared experiences and memories.
- The article discusses societal issues in the Dominican Republic, including disparities in wealth and the presence of anti-Blackness, while emphasizing the importance of cultural ties.
The article discusses the implications of using generative AI (GenAI) technologies in education, particularly focusing on whether these technologies truly save teachers time and effort. It draws parallels with historical examples of domestic technologies, which, despite being marketed as labor-saving, often increased demands and expectations. Similarly, while GenAI promises to handle repetitive tasks for teachers, it may lead to increased expectations and workload, as well as more solitary work dynamics. The article suggests that the promise of reduced workload through GenAI is questionable.
### Key Points
- The promise of 'labor-saving' technology in education, such as GenAI, is often not straightforward and may not lead to better working conditions for teachers.
- GenAI can automate tasks like lesson planning and grading, but historical examples show that technology can increase rather than decrease work expectations.
- The use of GenAI might lead to heightened expectations for teachers to produce more work, potentially increasing their workload.
- GenAI-produced outputs might narrow expectations of quality, and the individual nature of GenAI use could alter collaborative dynamics among teachers.
- Teachers often spend significant time modifying GenAI outputs to suit specific educational contexts, challenging the idea of reduced workload.
Schools Matter, a blog by James Horn, discusses various educational issues and critiques. A notable post from April 18, 2025, highlights Missouri's rejection of a proposed expansion of school vouchers, emphasizing the impact of classmates on a child's learning. The blog covers a wide range of topics, including poverty's effect on education, the increase in standardized testing, and critiques of corporate charter schools. It also features essays and reviews on educational reform, teacher growth, and the influence of testing.
### Key Points
- Missouri rejected the expansion of school vouchers, which emphasizes the importance of classmates over teachers in a child's learning.
- The blog discusses poverty as a more significant factor in educational outcomes than teacher quality.
- Critique of corporate charter schools and their impact on education, with a focus on Haiti.
- Various essays and reviews on educational reform, teacher growth, and the impact of testing are included.
Trump's stance on Constitutional Amendments is selective, strongly supporting the Second Amendment while disregarding the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments, which guarantee due process. This selective support is evident in his refusal to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from a Salvadoran prison, despite judicial orders. The article highlights the authoritarian tendencies of Trump's administration and the ongoing protests against his policies, including a national action planned across 50 states. The protests are part of a wider movement addressing various issues like climate change and LGBTQ+ rights.
### Key Points
- Trump supports the Second Amendment but disregards due process guaranteed by the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments.
- Kilmar Abrego Garcia is held in El Salvador without due process, undermining constitutional rights.
- Trump's administration ignores judicial orders, signaling a shift towards authoritarian governance.
- Nationwide protests against Trump's policies are planned, focusing on various social issues.
- The protests coincide with the Bernie Sanders/AOC-led "Fight the Oligarchs" tour.
### Summary
The article provides a roundup of various educational and political topics, including discussions on school vouchers in Texas, Harvard's tax-exempt status, the Trump administration's influence on education, AI accountability, and more. It highlights key issues such as academic freedom, political interference, and educational justice.
### Key Points
- Governor Abbott achieved voucher legislation after defeating rural Republicans who opposed it.
- Out-of-state billionaires and Trump supported Abbott's efforts to pass vouchers, bypassing public referenda which historically reject them.
- Voucher schools can choose their students and are not bound by anti-discrimination laws, often benefiting private religious schools.
- Harvard is threatened with losing its tax-exempt status after refusing Trump administration demands.
- The IRS is reportedly investigating Harvard, a move seen as politically motivated.
- CNN reports that Kristi Noem sent a letter to Harvard demanding international students' disciplinary records or risk losing the ability to enroll them.
- The political right claims to champion anti-discrimination while using it to suppress dissent and consolidate power.
- Emily M. Bender discusses the persistent AI hype amid political chaos and stresses the need for accountability.
- Middle school students often lose interest in learning due to developmental changes, not laziness.
- Florida has enacted laws requiring local law enforcement, including campus police, to assist with ICE efforts by screening individuals for immigration status.
- Bernie Sanders and AOC lead a "Fighting Oligarchy Tour" to challenge economic inequality and corporate power.
- RFK Jr. claims autism is a condition that needs curing and makes derogatory statements about the abilities of autistic individuals.
- Jesse Hagopian launched a Substack newsletter, "Teach Truth & Sing the Blues," combining education justice with creative work.
Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 4-18-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/04/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup.html
In the grand theater of American politics, Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) have emerged as a dynamic duo, leading a "Fighting Oligarchy Tour" across the United States. This tour is akin to a political rock concert, aiming to dismantle the oligarchy and restore power to the people. Their rallies attract massive crowds, even in conservative areas, highlighting their message of economic justice and corporate accountability. AOC is seen as a potential frontrunner for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, while Sanders continues to champion grassroots mobilization and collective action. Despite criticism, their tour seeks to ignite a movement transcending party lines, offering hope and action in a politically divided landscape.
### Key Points
- Bernie Sanders and AOC lead a "Fighting Oligarchy Tour" to challenge economic inequality and corporate power.
- Their rallies draw huge crowds, even in conservative areas, emphasizing a message of economic justice and grassroots mobilization.
- AOC is considered a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender, while Sanders focuses on rejecting billionaire influence.
- The tour aims to inspire a movement beyond party lines, despite criticism of populist tactics.
The story of OldMan_Advocate, a digital warrior who faced a 'breakup' with Facebook/Meta. Despite setbacks from algorithmic misinterpretations, he continues to advocate for public education and seeks new platforms for his humor-infused activism.
### Key Points
- OldMan_Advocate's humorous yet tumultuous relationship with Meta and his advocacy for public education.
- The impact of algorithms on digital expression and community building.
- OldMan_Advocate's continued efforts to engage with the public through various platforms.
### High Spirits and Hazy Histories: A Light-Hearted Ode to 420 Day###
420 Day is a whimsical celebration steeped in myths and laughter. It began in 1971 in San Rafael, California, with a group of high school friends known as 'The Waldos,' who sought a hidden cannabis crop using a hand-drawn map. The term '420' originated as a code for their treasure hunt at 4:20 PM, evolving into a symbol of freedom and cannabis culture.
Over the years, 420 has garnered various myths, such as being a police code for marijuana use, which are unfounded. The day is now marked by global festivities, camaraderie, and humor, celebrating the joy of cannabis. Each April 20th, peaceful gatherings reflect the spirit of unity and silliness, reminding us that the best treasures lie in shared experiences and joyful journeys.
For more on the history of 420 Day, check out these articles:
### Key Points
- The cultural history and global celebration of 420 Day, originating from a group called 'The Waldos' in 1971.
