Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-12-25

Michael Tomasky: Why No One Cares that Trump Is Raking in $1 Billion a Month https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/11/michael-tomasky-why-no-one-cares-that-trump-is-raking-in-1-billion-a-month/ via @dianeravitch 

Michael Tomasky discusses the financial and ethical scandals surrounding Donald Trump’s second term as President, particularly focusing on his exploitation of the presidency for personal profit. Trump’s cryptocurrency venture, which has funneled billions into his family’s pockets, and his cozy relationship with right-wing media shielding him from accountability, are central themes. The article critiques the lack of effective opposition from Democrats and Republicans, as well as the complicity of a disinformation-driven media environment.

### Key Points

- Trump’s cryptocurrency initiative has generated billions for his family, raising concerns about emoluments violations and corruption. 

- Right-wing media, including Fox News, plays a critical role in shielding Trump from criticism and enabling his actions. 

- Democrats and Republicans share some blame for their failure to effectively counter Trump’s unethical actions, though right-wing media remains the primary enabler. 

- The lack of leadership and effective opposition from Democrats is highlighted, with calls for stronger strategies to combat Trump’s influence. 

- Trump’s exploitation of his presidency extends to international deals and questionable policies, further enriching him and his allies. 

Republicans Planning Major Increase in Tax on College Endowments https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/11/republicans-planning-major-increase-in-tax-on-college-endowments/ via @dianeravitch 

Republicans are planning to significantly increase taxes on college and university endowments to fund tax cuts for the wealthy, continuing a trend initiated by Trump’s 2017 tax bill. This proposal targets elite institutions with large endowments, which traditionally fund scholarships and provide financial stability. Critics argue the move is short-sighted, punitive, and could harm low-income students. The proposed tax rates would vary based on endowment size, with some institutions potentially facing rates as high as 21%.

### Key Points

- Republicans aim to raise taxes on college endowments to subsidize tax cuts for billionaires, targeting elite institutions. 

- Current proposals include increasing tax rates to as high as 21%, with varying rates depending on endowment size. 

- Critics argue that these measures could harm scholarships and financial aid for low-income students. 

- Trump’s 2017 tax bill introduced the initial 1.4% tax on certain university endowments, which is now being expanded. 

- The exclusion of foreign students in tax calculations may have negative cultural and financial impacts on universities. 

Jeff Tiedrich: MAGA Doesn't Like the New Pope! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/11/jeff-tiedrich-maga-doesnt-like-the-new-pope/ via @dianeravitch

Jeff Tiedrich humorously critiques MAGA supporters' outrage over the election of the new Pope, Leo XIV, an American who embodies progressive values aligned with the teachings of Jesus. MAGA's discontent stems from Pope Leo's stances on issues like immigration, gun control, and racial justice, which contrast sharply with their ideologies. The article also highlights broader political and social tensions, including Trump’s preferential treatment of white refugees and the Vatican’s financial struggles.

### Key Points

- Jeff Tiedrich mocks MAGA supporters' reaction to the new Pope, Leo XIV, who promotes progressive and inclusive values. 

- The new Pope’s actions, such as supporting immigration reforms and gun control, have provoked backlash from MAGA supporters. 

- Trump’s administration prioritizes white refugees while seeking to expel Black and Brown refugees, revealing racial bias in immigration policies. 

- Speculation arises about wealthy American Catholics attempting to influence the papal election amidst the Vatican's financial struggles. 

Qatar Gives Trump a Super-Luxury Airplane to Replace Airforce 1 https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/11/qatar-gives-trump-a-super-luxury-airplane-to-replace-airforce-1/ via @dianeravitch 

A blog post on Diane Ravitch's site discusses the controversial gift of a $400 million luxury airplane from Qatar to former U.S. President Donald Trump, intended to replace Air Force One and for his personal use after his presidency. The article highlights ethical concerns, referencing the Emoluments Clause in the Constitution, and critiques Trump's actions and the lack of accountability from Congress. The post also includes reader comments expressing outrage and humor at the situation.

### Key Points

- Qatar gifted Trump a $400 million luxury airplane for personal use, raising ethical concerns. 

- The Constitution prohibits presidents from accepting gifts from foreign nations (Emoluments Clause), but Trump replaced federal ethics officers with his appointees. 

- Readers criticize Trump's behavior, question Congress's inaction, and express concerns about his international ties. 

- Speculation arises about Trump’s future plans involving Qatar, which lacks a U.S. extradition treaty. 

Big Education Ape: WILL HISTORY HOLD BILL GATES ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF PUBLIC EDUCATION IN THE UNITED STATES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/will-history-hold-bill-gates.html 

A deep dive into Bill Gates’ impact on U.S. public education. The article critiques Gates’ education reforms, particularly his role in promoting standardized testing, charter schools, and the Common Core. It highlights the unintended consequences of these initiatives, such as increased segregation, inequality, and the undermining of public schools. The piece questions whether Gates will be held accountable for the negative outcomes of his well-intentioned but flawed educational interventions.

### Key Points

- Bill Gates’ education reforms, including Common Core and charter schools, have caused harm to public education, increasing segregation and inequality. 

- Gates’ focus on standardized testing has turned schools into test-prep factories, stifling creativity and critical thinking. 

- Billionaire-led education reforms often lack accountability and dismiss the expertise of educators. 

CURMUDGUCATION: ICYMI: Mom's Day Edition (5/11) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/05/icymi-moms-day-edition-511.html 

Mother's Day reflections and a roundup of articles on education, politics, and societal issues. The blog covers topics such as democracy's decline, the impact of AI in education, segregation linked to school choice, and public education challenges. It also highlights personal stories, policy critiques, and cultural commentary.

### Key Points

- Julian Vasquez Heilig identifies eight factors contributing to the intellectual decline in the U.S. 

- Legal scholar Derek Black discusses the potential consequences of religious charter schools on public school funding. 

- AI's role in education is critiqued by Irina Dumitrescu and Guillaume Thierry, emphasizing its limitations and misconceptions. 

- Erica Perl shares her fight against censorship after her school visit was canceled over a non-binary snail character in her book. 

- Studies reveal increasing segregation in large districts due to school choice policies. 

- Mark Fernald critiques New Hampshire's growing reliance on school vouchers, predicting harm to public education. 

- Bruce Lesley outlines four major budget cuts in Trump's proposed budget that negatively affect children. 

- Jennifer Berkshire analyzes the political battles over school vouchers and culture wars in Texas. 

- The impact of tariffs on education technology and Chromebooks is explored by Mercedes Schneider. 

- A study on AI in education highlights its use as a tool for awe rather than understanding, explained by Audrey Watters. 

- Faribault soccer league exemplifies community-building efforts by Somali leaders, blending sports with cultural connection. 

It's Time for New Blood in the UFT https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/its-time-for-new-blood-in-the-uft?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

It's Time for New Blood in the UFT

### Key Points

- The author criticizes the Unity Caucus leadership of the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), particularly Michael Mulgrew, for undemocratic practices, lack of transparency, and poor negotiation outcomes. 

- Amy Arundell is highlighted as a respectful and effective leader who prioritizes helping members and is proposed as a better alternative for UFT President. 

- The Unity Caucus is accused of fostering a toxic culture, including ageist stereotypes, personal attacks, and disregard for dissenting opinions. 

- Concerns are raised about the integrity of UFT elections, including issues with ballot secrecy, delays, and the vote-counting process. 

- The author urges members to vote for the ABC slate, advocating for change and a return to a supportive, member-focused union. 

glen brown: Two Notable Victories for the Rule of Law https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/05/two-notable-victories-for-rule-of-law.html 

Two notable victories for democracy are highlighted: one in North Carolina, where legal challenges to overturn election results were defeated, and another involving the withdrawal of Ed Martin's nomination as US Attorney for DC due to his controversial actions and affiliations. The article also critiques Trump’s administration for undermining expertise, promoting loyalty over competence, and fostering autocratic tendencies. It emphasizes the resilience of democracy amidst ongoing challenges.

### Key Points

- A Republican candidate's attempt in North Carolina to overturn election results was thwarted, reaffirming the integrity of free elections. 

- Ed Martin’s nomination as US Attorney for DC was withdrawn after backlash over his extreme affiliations and misuse of prosecutorial powers. 

- Concerns about the Trump administration’s devaluation of expertise and promotion of unqualified individuals, such as the new Surgeon General, were raised. 

- Patterns of intimidation within the justice system, including arrests of public officials under dubious pretenses, are emerging. 

- The Democracy Index tracks key metrics to assess the health of democracy, highlighting both resilience and ongoing threats. 

My Mother in Images | dr. p.l. (paul) thomas https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/05/11/my-mother-in-images/ 

This article is a collection of topics, writings, and reflections by Dr. P.L. Thomas, covering a wide range of themes such as education reform, critical literacy, social justice, memoirs, and cultural commentary. It includes discussions on systemic issues like racism, poverty, and inequity, as well as literary and philosophical explorations through the works of authors like James Baldwin and Paulo Freire.

### Key Points

- The article highlights Dr. P.L. Thomas's work as an educator, scholar, and writer, focusing on topics like academic freedom, critical pedagogy, and education reform. 

- It emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic inequities in education, such as the opportunity gap, racism, and poverty. 

- The content includes reflections on personal experiences and memoirs, such as "My Mother in Images" and poems, blending personal and societal narratives. 

- The article references critical discussions on media literacy, fake news, and the challenges of post-truth America. 

- Literary and cultural critiques are woven throughout, with mentions of influential authors and figures like Paulo Freire, James Baldwin, and Howard Zinn. 

The Uppity Minority: Executive Leadership, Power, and the Price of Speaking Up https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/05/11/the-uppity-minority-executive-leadership-power-and-the-price-of-speaking-up/ 

The article discusses the systemic challenges faced by leaders of color in academia, focusing on the case of Dean Frances Contreras, who was removed from her position despite a record of success. It examines how institutional racism and power dynamics often undermine leaders of color when they challenge inequities, labeling them as "uppity" for disrupting the status quo. The article calls for redefining leadership in education to prioritize equity, courage, and collective action.

### Key Points

- Dean Frances Contreras’ abrupt removal highlights a recurring issue in academia where leaders of color are punished for challenging institutional norms despite their accomplishments. 

- The term "uppity minority," historically used to demean Black Americans, is now coded in modern academia to undermine leaders of color who challenge power structures. 

- Institutions often recruit diverse leaders for appearances but resist their efforts to disrupt systemic inequities, labeling them as divisive or problematic when they advocate for change. 

- The emotional and professional toll on leaders of color includes silencing, retaliation, and erasure, often leading to their removal under the guise of institutional concerns. 

- The article calls for building support systems to protect leaders of color, redefining leadership to value courage and equity, and fostering collective action to resist systemic bias. 

- It emphasizes the importance of unapologetic leadership and the need for leaders of color to remain committed to justice and systemic change. 

Do Smaller Class Sizes Produce Varied Teaching Practices and Higher Academic Achievement? | Larry Cuban on School Reform and Classroom Practice https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/05/11/do-smaller-class-sizes-produce-varied-teaching-practices-and-higher-academic-achievement/ 

Larry Cuban's blog post examines the long-standing belief that smaller class sizes lead to improved teaching practices and higher academic achievement. While historical and contemporary studies, such as those conducted in Tennessee and California, have shown mixed results, the post concludes that smaller class sizes do not automatically result in varied teaching methods or significant academic gains. Teachers generally prefer smaller classes for better classroom management and individual attention to students, but shifts in teaching practices are rare. The article also highlights critiques of the over-reliance on quantitative studies and calls for a more nuanced understanding of teachers' lived experiences.

### Key Points

- The belief that smaller class sizes improve teaching practices and academic performance is widely held but not strongly supported by evidence. 

- Historical studies, such as Tennessee's experiment, showed benefits in specific contexts, but California's efforts in the 1990s revealed no significant academic gains. 

- Researchers found little difference in teaching practices between reduced and non-reduced class sizes. 

- Smaller classes are favored by teachers for easier management and differentiation but do not inherently lead to student-centered teaching. 

- Critics argue that quantitative studies overlook the social-emotional benefits and the lived experiences of teachers and students in smaller classes. 

Mothers and Children Should Be Welcomed and Protected in America! - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2025/05/11/mothers-and-children-should-be-welcomed-and-protected-in-america/ 

Mothers and children deserve compassion and protection in America, especially on Mother’s Day. The article highlights the struggles of immigrant mothers and children, the flawed immigration system, and the lack of humane policies. It calls for a better approach to immigration, emphasizing the need for due process, support for public schools, and a return to American values of empathy and inclusivity.

### Key Points

- Mothers share a unique bond and often support each other through challenges, including advocating for children with special needs or in marginalized communities. 

- The article criticizes the inhumane treatment of immigrant families, including arrests and separations at the border, and calls for a more compassionate immigration system. 

- The author reflects on their immigrant heritage and the need for a fair border protocol to process immigration humanely and efficiently. 

- Public schools should be supported to address the needs of immigrant children, including language education, to help them integrate. 

- The article lists disturbing headlines about the deportation of mothers and children, highlighting the failure of the current system to uphold human rights. 

- It condemns America’s shift toward a police state and urges the nation to return to its values of justice and humanity. 

Why Mother’s Day founder came to hate her creation (and more on moms, gifts, baby names etc.) wapo.st/3Z88ERq

Mother’s Day, originally established by Anna Jarvis in 1908 to honor mothers, became a national holiday in 1914. However, Jarvis later resented its commercialization, criticizing greeting cards and floral sales. She protested and even spent family assets trying to abolish the holiday. Key statistics about motherhood, fertility rates, and societal trends were also highlighted, including the number of mothers, birth rates, and employment data.

### Key Points

- Anna Jarvis founded Mother’s Day in 1908, but later opposed its commercialization. 

- Mother’s Day became a national holiday in 1914, influenced by Anna’s mother’s work during the Civil War. 

- Jarvis criticized the holiday’s commercialization, particularly greeting cards and flower sales, and protested against it. 

- Statistics on motherhood include 85.4 million mothers in the U.S. (2009) and varying fertility rates across states. 

- Employment and education trends of mothers, including 55% of mothers with recent births in the labor force (2010). 

- Single motherhood increased significantly from 1970 to 2011, with 10 million single mothers by 2011. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-11-25

The article is a compilation of blog posts and articles covering various topics, including education reforms, political activism, reproductive rights, and systemic societal issues. It highlights critiques of Trump administration policies, the influence of corporate interests in education, and grassroots efforts for reform and inclusivity. Key themes include standardized testing, public education advocacy, abortion rights, and the impact of socioeconomic factors on education.  

### Key Points  

- Qatar gifted Trump a $400 million luxury airplane for personal use, replacing Air Force 1.   

- Smaller class sizes do not necessarily improve teaching practices or academic achievement, despite common beliefs.   

- The Trump administration plans deep budget cuts to the Interior Department, particularly affecting the National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and Bureau of Land Management, raising concerns about operational failures and morale.   

- Senator Chris Murphy accused Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem of illegal practices, including overspending and deporting individuals with legal status.   

- Arkansas abortion rights advocates persist despite legislative setbacks, with Planned Parenthood adapting to restrictive policies.   

- The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is criticized for perpetuating a false narrative of educational crisis and being influenced by socioeconomic disparities. Proposed reforms include renaming achievement levels for clarity.   

- Paul Vallas critiques Trump’s Department of Education but supports privatization, charter schools, and weakening teacher unions, aligning with broader MAGA policies.   

- Blogs criticize corporate-driven education reforms, such as "No Excuses" teaching and charter school models, for exacerbating systemic issues like poverty and inequality.   

- Expanding NAEP into an annual, universal standardized test is criticized for federal overreach and failing to address systemic educational challenges.   

- Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope, continues a progressive legacy focusing on social justice and inclusivity, receiving polarized reactions.   

- Critiques of Trump-era policies include weakening protections for marginalized students and dismantling civil rights offices, along with proposals like reopening Alcatraz prison.   

- Grassroots activism and community schools are highlighted as transformative models addressing systemic inequalities.   

- Persistent challenges in public education include teacher disrespect, over-reliance on standardized testing, and privatization efforts. 

 

WILL HISTORY HOLD BILL GATES ACCOUNTABLE

FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF PUBLIC EDUCATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Ah, Bill Gates—a name synonymous with tech wizardry, philanthropic billions, and, apparently, the wrecking ball that swung a bit too hard at the fragile scaffolding of public education in America. While most people know Gates as the bespectacled genius who brought us Microsoft Office and endless Windows updates (some of which crashed our computers mid-term paper), fewer are aware of his ambitious foray into education reform. But here’s the kicker: Gates’ well-intentioned meddling in schools didn’t just ruffle a few feathers; it sent the entire henhouse into chaos. So, will history hold him accountable for this educational debacle? Or will he simply escape into the philanthropic sunset, leaving behind a trail of standardized test bubbles and underfunded schools?

Let’s dive in, shall we?

The Gates Empire Strikes Back (at Public Education)

Bill Gates didn’t wake up one morning and decide to destroy public education. No, no. That would be too cartoonishly villainous, even for a billionaire. Instead, like many well-meaning tech moguls with more money than sense, Gates genuinely believed he could “fix” education. After all, if you can debug software, why not debug an entire school system? Armed with billions of dollars and an unshakable faith in data-driven solutions, Gates ventured into the world of public education reform like a knight on a white horse—except this knight brought along spreadsheets, algorithms, and a penchant for standardized testing.

Enter the Common Core State Standards, a Gates-funded initiative that swept across the nation faster than you could say “No Child Left Behind.” The idea was simple: create a unified set of academic standards so that students in Mississippi and Massachusetts would learn the same things at the same pace. Sounds great on paper, right? Except that in practice, it turned classrooms into test-prep factories, angered parents who couldn’t decipher their kids’ math homework, and left teachers feeling like robots programmed to teach to a test.

But Gates didn’t stop there. Oh no. His foundation poured billions into charter schools  programs, effectively undermining public schools by diverting funds to privately-run institutions. It was like inviting a fox into the henhouse and then acting surprised when feathers started flying. Charter schools promised innovation and choice but often delivered segregation and inequality. Meanwhile, public schools—already struggling under the weight of budget cuts—were left to fend for themselves with fewer resources and more students.

The Zombie Apocalypse: Jim Crow Edition

One of the most chilling consequences of Gates’ reforms has been the resurgence of segregation in American schools. Yes, you read that right. Thanks to charter schools and voucher programs, we’ve managed to resurrect Jim Crow like a zombie in a bad horror movie. Only this time, he’s armed with PowerPoint presentations and corporate jargon.

Here’s how it works: Charter schools often cherry-pick students, leaving behind those with disabilities, behavioral issues, or language barriers. Voucher programs funnel taxpayer dollars into private schools that aren’t held to the same accountability standards as public institutions. The result? A two-tiered education system where affluent families get shiny new options while low-income students—disproportionately students of color—are left in underfunded and overcrowded public schools.

And where is Bill Gates in all this? Silent as a mouse navigating a Windows 95 error screen. Despite being the father of corporate school reform, Gates has never publicly addressed the rise of segregation or the negative impacts of charter schools and vouchers. It’s almost as if billionaires have a magical ability to dodge accountability while still collecting accolades for their “philanthropy.”

The Standardized Testing Circus

If there’s one thing Gates loves more than Excel spreadsheets, it’s standardized testing. To him, tests are the ultimate tool for measuring success—whether you’re troubleshooting software bugs or evaluating student performance. But here’s the problem: kids aren’t code.

The obsession with standardized testing has turned schools into pressure cookers where students are reduced to numbers and teachers are judged by their ability to produce high test scores. Creativity? Out the window. Critical thinking? Who has time for that when there are multiple-choice questions to answer? It’s no wonder parents across the country have revolted against this testing frenzy, opting their kids out of exams and demanding a return to sanity.

And let’s not forget the teachers—those brave souls who are expected to perform miracles with dwindling resources while being micromanaged by billionaires who’ve never set foot in a classroom. Imagine being evaluated not on your ability to inspire young minds but on how well your students bubble in Scantron sheets. It’s enough to make even the most dedicated educator throw in the towel.

The Billionaire Playbook: Never Apologize, Never Explain

One of the perks of being a billionaire oligarch is that you never have to say you’re sorry. When your initiatives fail—or worse, cause harm—you can simply pivot to your next philanthropic project without so much as a backward glance. It’s like playing Monopoly with an infinite supply of Get Out of Jail Free cards.

Gates is hardly alone in this regard. He’s part of a cabal of wealthy individuals—including Reed Hastings, Mark Zuckerberg, and Betsy DeVos—who have used their fortunes to reshape education according to their own visions. But while others may dabble in education reform as a side hustle, Gates has been its undisputed leader. His fingerprints are all over Common Core, charter schools, and standardized testing. Yet when these initiatives backfire, he remains conspicuously absent from the conversation.

Perhaps it’s because billionaires operate on a different plane of existence—one where accountability is optional and criticism is dismissed as the whining of ungrateful peasants. Or perhaps Gates genuinely believes he’s doing more good than harm. After all, he recently announced plans to give away nearly all his wealth through the Gates Foundation, doubling its contributions to over $200 billion by 2045. That’s a lot of money—and a lot of potential for both progress and unintended consequences.

The Verdict: History’s Judgment Awaits

So, will history hold Bill Gates accountable for the destruction of public education in the United States? It’s hard to say. On one hand, his reforms have undeniably caused harm—undermining public schools, exacerbating inequality, and turning classrooms into test-prep factories. On the other hand, Gates’ philanthropy has also funded life-saving vaccines, global health initiatives, and poverty reduction efforts.

Perhaps history will remember him as a complicated figure—a man whose good intentions sometimes led to disastrous outcomes. Or perhaps it will lump him in with other billionaire meddlers who thought they could solve complex social problems with money and data but ended up making things worse.

One thing is certain: public education deserves better than to be treated as a billionaire’s pet project. It deserves investment, equity, and respect for the expertise of educators who actually know what they’re doing. So let’s hope that future reformers learn from Gates’ mistakes—and that history doesn’t let him off the hook too easily.

In the meantime, we’ll be here—watching from the sidelines with popcorn in hand—as billionaires continue their misguided attempts to save us from ourselves. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned from Bill Gates’ foray into education reform, it’s this: just because you can reboot a computer doesn’t mean you should try rebooting an entire school system.

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-11-25

Trump Plans Deep Cuts to Interior Department, National Parks Service https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/10/trump-plans-deep-cuts-to-interior-department-national-parks-service/ via @dianeravitch 

Trump administration plans significant budget cuts and workforce reductions at the Interior Department, particularly targeting the National Park Service (NPS) and other agencies like the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The reductions include layoffs, incentivized departures, and consolidation of department functions, leading to concerns about the agency's ability to maintain operations and morale. Critics argue these cuts undermine the department's mission and essential services.

### Key Points

- The Interior Department, led by Secretary Doug Burgum, plans to cut thousands of jobs, including 1,500 at NPS, with reductions also impacting USGS and BLM. 

- Consolidation of functions at headquarters is seen as a means to facilitate layoffs, with science and cultural resource teams at NPS particularly affected. 

- Critics warn the cuts will harm essential services like fish surveys and park operations, with some statutory functions potentially left unfulfilled. 

- Employees and stakeholders express concerns about low morale, operational failures, and the inability to support Trump administration priorities like leasing and resource management. 

- Critics view the changes as a deliberate attack on effective government functions, with legal challenges likely to follow. 

Senator Chris Murphy Gives a Master Class in Cutting Through B.S. https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/10/senator-chris-murphy-gives-a-master-class-in-cutting-through-b-s/ via @dianeravitch 

Senator Chris Murphy criticized Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem during a Senate hearing for breaking laws, overspending, deporting people with legal status, and ignoring due process. The blog post highlights Murphy's pointed remarks and expresses broader frustrations with Trump administration officials, accusing them of undermining democracy and governance.

### Key Points

- Senator Chris Murphy accused Kristi Noem of illegal practices, including budget overspending and violating due process rights. 

- The post reflects criticism of Trump-era officials, describing them as harmful to democracy and governance. 

- Readers praised Murphy’s speech as direct and impactful. 

Arkansas: Supporters of Abortion Rights Meet, Protestors Don't Show Up https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/10/arkansas-supporters-of-abortion-rights-meet-protestors-dont-show-up/ via @dianeravitch 

Arkansas: Supporters of Abortion Rights Meet, Protestors Don’t Show Up By dianeravitch May 10, 2025 // 0 Arkansas is deep-red, so of course the Legislature banned abortion. Supporters of abortion rights gathered enough signatures to put the issue to the voters, but the politicians knocked their referendum off the ballot. But the issue has not gone away. I thought readers might like to read about the persistence of abortion right supporters. The Arkansas Times is a dissident website that keeps readers informed about events like this one. If you want to know what Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is doing, this is a great source. Austin Gelder wrote about the annual planned parenthood Garden Party: For proof of the sorry state of reproductive rights in Arkansas, consider that

### Key Points

- Arkansas has banned abortion, with supporters of abortion rights facing challenges in getting a referendum on the ballot. Despite setbacks, advocacy persists. 

- Anti-abortion protests at Planned Parenthood events have diminished, with the focus shifting to other issues like transgender rights and immigration. 

- Arkansas has some of the worst maternal and child health outcomes, yet continues to implement restrictive policies on reproductive health. 

- Planned Parenthood in Arkansas is adapting to restrictions, sharing strategies with affiliates in other states, and seeing a rise in patients for non-abortion services. 

- Advocates at events like the Planned Parenthood Garden Party emphasize resilience and creativity in fighting for reproductive rights despite federal and state-level challenges. 

NAEP: A Modest Proposal https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/05/10/naep-a-modest-proposal/ via @plthomasEdD 

The article critiques the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), a standardized test in the U.S., highlighting its flaws and its role in perpetuating a false narrative of educational crisis. It argues that the NAEP's achievement levels are misleading and often misinterpreted, leading to exaggerated claims about student performance. The article connects NAEP's origins to accountability-driven education reforms and criticizes the excessive reliance on standardized testing, which it claims reflects socioeconomic disparities rather than actual educational quality. The author proposes renaming achievement levels to align with age-level performance metrics as a step toward reforming NAEP and addressing systemic issues in education.

### Key Points

- NAEP is a misunderstood and misrepresented test, often misused to declare an educational crisis. 

- Achievement levels like "proficient" are misleading and create false perceptions of failure. 

- NAEP originated from accountability-focused education reforms tied to the Reagan administration. 

- Standardized testing results are heavily influenced by socioeconomic factors, which schools cannot control. 

- Policies relying on test results unfairly reward advantaged schools and penalize disadvantaged ones. 

- The author proposes renaming achievement levels to "below age level," "age level," and "above age level" for clarity. 

- Excessive testing has failed to improve education and instead perpetuates a state of crisis for political and market agendas. 

Vallas takes a poke at Trump's D.O.E. But it was just a head fake.  https://open.substack.com/pub/klonsky/p/vallas-takes-a-poke-at-trumps-doe?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

### Key Points

- Paul Vallas, a policy adviser and CEO of a charter school start-up group, critiques Trump’s Department of Education but ultimately supports privatizing schools, vouchers, and weakening teacher unions. 

- Vallas criticizes Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and advocates for replacing them with charter schools, claiming they are failing due to systemic issues tied to income and ZIP codes. 

- His argument relies on standardized test scores to label CPS schools as failing, ignoring the correlation between test scores and family income. Wealthier districts perform better globally, while poorer districts struggle. 

- Research shows charter schools and vouchers do not outperform public schools and often underperform. Vallas’ claims about teachers' unions shutting down charter schools are misleading, as unions have worked to support and unionize charter schools. 

- Vallas’ alignment with MAGA policies and his attacks on teacher unions suggest his criticism of Trump’s education policies is a diversion, aligning with broader goals to privatize public education. 

Schools Matter: Tell Congress to Stop the Presidential Crime Wave http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/05/tell-congress-to-stop-presidential.html

### Key Points

- The blog highlights the importance of classmates' characteristics over teachers in influencing a child's learning, referencing James Coleman's statement from 1972. 

- It discusses political activism, urging Congress to impeach Trump and address a "Presidential Crime Wave." 

- The article critiques corporate education reforms, including "No Excuses" teaching and charter school models, linking them to systemic issues like poverty and compliance-driven systems. 

- The blog emphasizes poverty as a key factor affecting education outcomes, contrasting it with the focus on teacher quality. 

- It references Hillary Clinton's alleged role in promoting corporate charter schools in Haiti, as revealed by WikiLeaks. 

- The blog archives contain extensive commentary on educational policies, testing, and reforms over the years, with critiques of standardized testing and NCLB (No Child Left Behind). 

- Reviews and essays on various educational themes, such as teacher renewal, qualitative research, and the impact of testing, are included. 

Schools Matter: Nationalize, Stigmatize, Penalize: Corporate Education's Recurring Fever Dream Recast http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/05/nationalize-stigmatize-penalize.html 

Schools Matter: Analysis of Corporate Education and Testing Culture

### Key Points

- The blog critiques corporate-driven education reforms, highlighting their focus on standardized testing and penalization rather than addressing systemic issues like poverty. 

- It references the recurring push for privatized education models, including corporate charter schools, and their detrimental effects on public education systems. 

- The article discusses broader societal issues tied to education, such as economic inequality, political agendas, and the influence of corporate interests in shaping education policy. 

- The blog emphasizes the need for systemic change, including resistance to over-testing and a focus on equity in education. 

CURMUDGUCATION: The Failed Case for Super-NAEPery https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-failed-case-for-super-naepery.html 

The article critiques a proposal to expand the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) into an annual, universal standardized test for all 4th and 8th graders in the U.S. The author argues that such a move would repeat past failures of national standardized testing initiatives, such as those linked to Common Core, and would lead to federal overreach, ineffective accountability, and misaligned educational goals. The writer emphasizes that standardized tests like NAEP have historically failed to solve systemic educational issues and questions the practicality and necessity of the proposed reforms.

### Key Points

- The proposal to expand NAEP into a universal, annual test repeats past failed attempts at national standardized testing. 

- Standardized test scores are incorrectly expected to rise perpetually, which is an unrealistic and flawed assumption. 

- Using NAEP for accountability and federal control over local curricula is criticized as intrusive and counterproductive. 

- The belief that standardized tests can provide actionable data to improve education is challenged, as past efforts have not yielded meaningful results. 

- The article questions the practicality of using NAEP for multiple purposes, such as informing parents, educators, and policymakers simultaneously. 

Big Education Ape: BIG EDUCATION TOP READS THIS WEEK: 5-4 TO 5-10 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/big-education-top-reads-this-week.html 

Schools, education policy, and societal issues dominate the article, discussing topics such as school vouchers, charter schools, abortion rights protests, and critiques of education reform. It also highlights various blog posts, books, and resources related to public education advocacy and political commentary.

### Key Points

- Discussion on Paul Vallas's stance on school vouchers, charter schools, and teacher unions. 

- Arkansas abortion rights supporters gather signatures for a vote, reflecting political activism in a conservative state. 

- Overview of the influence of standardized testing, particularly the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). 

- Highlights from "Big Education Ape," including critiques of billionaire-funded education reforms and the separation of church and state. 

- Mention of Donny Trump’s book and commentary on Trump-era policies. 

- Blog series "Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights" curates notable education-related articles. 

- Resources and organizations supporting public education, such as Diane Ravitch’s blog and the Badass Teachers Association. 

- Advocacy against privatization in education and promotion of public education reform. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-10-25

The article compiles a wide range of topics spanning education, politics, religion, and social issues. Key discussions include Pope Leo XIV's progressive election, critiques of education policies, the challenges of AI in education, Trump's controversial proposals, and systemic issues affecting democracy and inclusivity. The overarching themes emphasize activism, reform, and the importance of protecting democratic principles.

### Key Points  

- Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born and Peruvian pope with Afro-Caribbean roots, continues Pope Francis's progressive legacy, focusing on social justice, workers' rights, and inclusivity.   

- Critics label Pope Leo XIV a "Woke Marxist," reflecting polarized reactions to his progressive ideals.   

- Former President Trump proposed reopening Alcatraz prison, a costly and impractical idea criticized as a distraction from political controversies.   

- New York Governor Hochul faced criticism for compromising with ultra-Orthodox Jewish yeshivas that fail to meet educational standards, undermining equality in education.   

- A federal judge ordered the release of Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts graduate student detained by ICE for writing an op-ed critical of Israel, citing violations of free speech and due process.   

- Over-reliance on AI in education risks undermining critical thinking, perpetuating inequality, and damaging intellectual growth.   

- Proposals to expand NAEP into universal standardized testing are criticized for federal overreach and failing to address systemic educational issues.   

- Teacher Tom emphasizes the value of play-based learning, dignity, and respect in fostering independent and cooperative children.   

- Trump administration policies weakened protections for marginalized students, dismantling civil rights offices and reducing diversity initiatives.   

- Bill Gates’s influence on education policy, driven by technology and corporate interests, often undermines democracy and perpetuates inequality.   

- Activism and grassroots efforts are essential to resisting authoritarian policies and promoting democratic values.   

- Seattle Public Schools' enrollment practices harm equity and drive families away, leading to funding losses and program cuts.   

- Teacher appreciation is undermined by systemic disrespect, privatization, and reduced teacher roles in public education.   

- Community schools in Wisconsin are highlighted as transformative models addressing systemic inequalities.   

- STEM stereotypes and limited early exposure hinder gender diversity in engineering and computer science.   

- Eating disorders on college campuses are a hidden crisis, with programs like Body U addressing the issue.