Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-19-25

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-18-25

  

Bruce Springsteen's "Message to America" and Trump's Reply https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/17/bruce-springsteens-message-to-america-and-trumps-reply/ via @dianeravitch 

Bruce Springsteen, during a concert in Manchester, England, criticized the current state of America, highlighting issues such as the suppression of free speech, abandonment of civil rights, and neglect of the poor. He expressed hope for the resilience of the American spirit, quoting James Baldwin. Former President Trump reacted angrily to Springsteen’s comments, showcasing his tendency to retaliate against critics. The article also discusses a major U.S. Supreme Court ruling against Trump’s administration, affirming that all individuals in the U.S., regardless of citizenship, are entitled to due process. This decision highlights the constitutional commitment to human rights and the limitations on presidential power.

### Key Points

- Bruce Springsteen criticized the erosion of civil rights, free speech, and humanitarian values in America during a concert. 

- Trump responded negatively, displaying his sensitivity to criticism. 

- The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 against Trump’s immigration policies, emphasizing due process for all individuals in the U.S. 

- The article underscores the enduring principles of the Constitution and the Founding Fathers’ commitment to universal rights. 

Georgia: Brain-Dead Woman Kept Alive Because She Was Nine Weeks Pregnant https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/18/georgia-brain-dead-woman-will-be-kept-alive-because-she-is-nine-weeks-pregnant/ via @dianeravitch 

Georgia's restrictive abortion law has led to a tragic case where Adriana Smith, a brain-dead woman who was nine weeks pregnant, is being kept on life support to allow her fetus to reach viability at 32 weeks. This decision imposes immense emotional and financial burdens on her family, with life support costs exceeding $1.6 million. Critics highlight the ethical concerns of using a deceased woman's body as an incubator and the lack of state support in covering these expenses. The case underscores broader issues of women's healthcare neglect, second-class status, and the prioritization of fetal rights over women's autonomy.

### Key Points

- Georgia’s abortion law mandates keeping a brain-dead pregnant woman alive until the fetus reaches viability, creating ethical and financial challenges for her family. 

- Adriana Smith’s medical neglect highlights systemic healthcare disparities, particularly for Black women, in Georgia. 

- Costs for life support and neonatal care exceed $1.6 million, with no coverage from health insurance, adding financial strain. 

- Critics argue that Georgia’s law reflects the prioritization of fetal rights over women’s autonomy and dignity. 

- The case exemplifies broader societal issues, such as the lack of universal healthcare and the neglect of women’s health concerns. 

Netanyahu Is a War Criminal. Will Trump Stop Him? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/18/netanyahu-is-a-war-criminal-will-trump-stop-him/ via @dianeravitch

The article discusses the ongoing military conflict in Gaza, criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his actions and the lack of intervention by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The piece highlights the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict, including the bombing of hospitals and schools, and questions the moral and legal justifications for these actions. The article also touches on the broader political dynamics and the failure of Israeli leadership to address the situation.

### Key Points

- Gideon Levy criticizes Netanyahu's military campaign in Gaza, accusing him of committing war crimes by targeting hospitals and schools. 

- Despite the release of hostages, Hamas remains a formidable force, and the conflict is expected to escalate. Trump, who is in the region, is not using his influence to stop the violence. 

- The article describes the indiscriminate killings in Gaza and criticizes the lack of moral outrage in Israel. 

- Netanyahu is seen as the main obstacle to peace, and the article questions the legitimacy of harming Palestinians while sparing Israeli leaders. 

- Protesters in Israel call for an end to the war and the return of hostages, but there is little political support for Gaza's plight. 

Drag Show Owners Beat DeSantis in Court https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/18/drag-show-owners-beat-desantis-in-court/ via @dianeravitch

Drag show performers in Florida won a legal battle against Governor Ron DeSantis and GOP lawmakers, who attempted to ban drag performances under the guise of protecting children. The courts ruled the law unconstitutional, citing its vague language and selective censorship targeting drag shows specifically. This decision highlights the ongoing conflict between free speech rights and political censorship in Florida.

### Key Points

- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis sought to ban drag shows, alleging they "sexualized" children, but the courts ruled this unconstitutional. 

- The law was criticized for vague definitions and selective targeting of drag performances, despite existing laws protecting minors from explicit content. 

- Hamburger Mary’s, a popular drag venue, led the legal fight, with federal judges affirming the law's flaws and its violation of free speech rights. 

- Critics argue that the law contradicts "parental rights," as it restricts parents’ choice to bring their children to such performances. 

- The court rulings reflect broader opposition to DeSantis' censorship efforts, which have also targeted workplace speech and citizen-led campaigns. 

CURMUDGUCATION: ICYMI: New Year's Resolution Edition (5/18) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/05/icymi-new-years-resolution-edition-518.html 

The article is a blog post by Peter Greene discussing his intention to write a book about teaching writing authentically, as opposed to teaching for testing. He plans to reduce his blogging activity to focus on this project. The post also highlights various educational issues, such as harassment of a librarian, controversies over inclusivity in schools, the impact of AI on trust in education, and the negative effects of school privatization. It includes references to other articles and newsletters that address similar educational topics.

### Key Points

- Peter Greene plans to write a book on teaching writing authentically and will reduce blogging to focus on it. 

- A librarian in Lowell, Michigan, is suing a parent for harassment. 

- An Idaho teacher resigns over controversy related to an inclusivity poster. 

- AI's impact on trust in schools is discussed in Phil Christman's newsletter. 

- Jennifer Berkshire criticizes school vouchers as a losing issue for Republicans. 

- ProPublica reports on the Education Department's rollback of civil rights cases. 

- John Warner addresses systemic problems in education exacerbated by chatbots. 

- School choice harms rural students, according to Paige Shoemaker DeMio. 

- Financial aid programs are being defrauded by bots, as investigated by Mercedes Schneider. 

- Thomas Ultican warns about the misuse of vouchers in Texas. 

- Ben Riley and Colin Fraser discuss strategies to outwit generative AI. 

Schools Matter: The Supreme Court AGAIN Tells Trump NO UNCONSTITUTIONAL DEPORTATIONS http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/05/the-supreme-court-again-tells-trump-no.html 

The Supreme Court has ruled against the Trump administration's attempts to deport Venezuelan immigrants without due process, emphasizing constitutional protections. The Court also stated that the Alien Enemies Act cannot be used for deportations until its legality is fully litigated. This decision highlights the judiciary's role in upholding the separation of powers and constitutional rights.

### Key Points

- The Supreme Court blocked the Trump administration from deporting Venezuelan immigrants without notice, due process, or opportunity to be heard. 

- The Court ruled that the Alien Enemies Act cannot be invoked for deportations until its legality is fully resolved. 

- Public reactions reflect frustration with Trump’s disregard for the Court’s rulings and emphasize the importance of constitutional protections. 

- Many commenters criticize Trump’s actions as lawless and call for accountability, including revoking immunity and enforcing contempt of court. 

- The decision is seen as a victory for justice and a pushback against unconstitutional actions. 

Nichiren and the Opening of the Eyes https://tultican.com/2025/05/18/nichiren-and-the-opening-of-the-eyes/ 

Elected school boards are fundamental to American democracy. Thomas Ultican, a public education advocate, has published a biography of Nichiren, a 13th-century Japanese monk who founded Nichiren Buddhism. The book explores Nichiren’s philosophy, his struggles in a samurai-dominated society, and his impact on global Buddhism. Ultican shares his personal journey into Buddhism, starting with a chance encounter in 1969, and how it inspired him to write this comprehensive biography. The book reflects Ultican's passion for Nichiren's teachings and aims to educate both Buddhists and non-Buddhists about this remarkable historical figure.

### Key Points

- Thomas Ultican, a public education advocate, has released a biography of Nichiren, exploring his life and philosophy. 

- Nichiren Buddhism originated from a 13th-century monk who faced persecution, yet his teachings have grown globally. 

- Nichiren’s progressive views included gender equality, which was uncommon in his era. 

- Ultican’s personal journey into Buddhism began in 1969, leading to profound experiences and inspiring his writing. 

- Ultican was motivated by Daisaku Ikeda’s encouragement to youth members to write about Nichiren Buddhism. 

- The book emphasizes Nichiren’s treatise, “The Opening of the Eyes,” and offers insights for readers of all backgrounds. 

- Nichiren: and The Opening of the Eyes: Ultican, Thomas: 9783991306092: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Nichiren-Opening-Eyes-Thomas-Ultican/dp/3991306093/ref=sr_1_1 

Nichiren: and The Opening of the Eyes: Ultican, Thomas: 9783991306092: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Nichiren-Opening-Eyes-Thomas-Ultican/dp/3991306093/ref=sr_1_1 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Fred Podesta's Phone Number https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/05/fred-podestas-phone-number.html?spref=tw 

### Key Points

- Acting Superintendent Fred Podesta shared his phone number during a Board meeting for public inquiries.   

- Discussions on high school boundaries, zoning departures, and Green Dot resolution were highlighted in a Board meeting speaker list.   

- Concerns about nepotism in Seattle Public Schools, with examples of personnel promotions based on personal connections rather than merit.   

- Updates on school closures, with criticism of the district's lack of transparency and potential plans to lease/rent closed schools. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-18-25

The article compiles various educational, political, and societal topics, including debates on public education reforms, controversies surrounding influential figures, systemic biases, and the impact of policies on marginalized communities. It highlights key controversies, legal battles, and reforms shaping education and democracy in the United States.

### Key Points  

- Secretary of Education Linda McMahon increased funding for the Federal Charter Schools Program by $60 million, raising the annual total to $500 million, despite criticism over waste and fraud in the sector.   

- Donald Trump secured significant business deals in the Middle East, prioritizing personal gains over addressing humanitarian crises like the Gaza blockade.   

- Bruce Springsteen criticized America’s current state, while the Supreme Court ruled 7-2 against Trump’s administration, affirming due process rights for all individuals within the U.S.   

- Walmart's price hikes due to Trump-era tariffs highlight the economic struggles tied to billionaire tax cuts and trade policies.   

- The debate over religious charter schools, such as St. Isidore Catholic School, raises concerns about the separation of church and state and public funding for religious institutions.   

- The Trump administration is accused of selectively obeying judicial rulings, undermining the rule of law and constitutional checks.   

- Cyberbullying has significant traumatic effects on adolescents, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed approaches in schools.   

- Glen Brown critiques Donald Trump’s personality traits through the lens of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) and discusses broader societal issues.   

- Predictions of a paperless future remain unfulfilled due to the practical benefits of paper in various fields.   

- The Seattle School Board is conducting a superintendent search focused on inclusivity and community engagement.   

- The UFT Spring Conference 2025 discussed mayoral candidates, Tier 6 pension reform, and challenges in public education.   

- The GOP tax bill benefits the wealthy, enforces school vouchers, and exacerbates inequities in public education.   

- The Trump administration canceled research grants at Harvard, impacting critical research and academic freedom.   

- Cross-age tutoring has shown positive academic and behavioral effects for both tutors and tutees, with broad applicability.   

- Concerns about NYC DOE’s handling of student data privacy breaches highlight systemic failures in protecting sensitive information.   

- Boys are outperforming girls in STEM post-COVID, reversing prior gender equity gains.   

- The dismantling of the Department of Education could harm vulnerable groups and undermine equitable education.   

- Internalized prejudice within marginalized communities perpetuates systemic biases, emphasizing the need for decolonization and solidarity.   

- The Trump administration’s policies, like tariffs and Medicaid cuts, harm rural and working-class Americans, sparking backlash. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-18-25

 

McMahon Announces Increase in Funding to Federal Charter Schools Program, Despite Multiple Failures https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/17/mcmahon-announces-increase-in-funding-to-federal-charter-schools-program-despite-multiple-failures/

Home Secretary of Education Linda McMahon has announced a $60 million increase in funding for the Federal Charter Schools Program, raising its annual budget to $500 million. This decision has been met with criticism due to reports of mismanagement, including $1 billion wasted on charter schools that never opened and high closure rates within the first ten years. Critics argue that the push for privatization benefits wealthy investors at the expense of public education, highlighting systemic issues like waste, fraud, and abuse in the charter school sector.

### Key Points

- Secretary of Education Linda McMahon increased funding for the Federal Charter Schools Program by $60 million, raising the annual total to $500 million. 

- Reports from the Network for Public Education revealed $1 billion wasted on charter schools that never opened and high closure rates among federally funded charter schools. 

- Critics argue that charter school privatization prioritizes wealthy investors over public education, exacerbating waste, fraud, and corruption. 

- A provision in the House GOP reconciliation package could allow wealthy voucher funders to avoid taxation, intensifying the privatization of public education. 

Trump's Amazing Accomplishments in the Middle East https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/17/trumps-accomplishments-in-the-middle-east/

Donald Trump's recent Middle East trip resulted in significant personal and business gains for the Trump Organization. He secured deals for luxury projects in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Qatar, received a $400 million jet from Dubai, and reached an agreement with Syria's leader to build a Trump Hotel in Damascus in exchange for lifting sanctions. Meanwhile, Trump avoided addressing humanitarian crises, such as the Gaza blockade, and did not visit Israel. Critics highlight the administration's focus on personal enrichment over humanitarian concerns, with allegations of corruption and controversial proposals like relocating Palestinians to Libya.

### Key Points

- Donald Trump secured significant business deals in the Middle East, including luxury projects in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Qatar, and a Trump Hotel in Damascus. 

- Trump received a $400 million jet as a "gift to the nation" from Dubai, though its conversion to Air Force One could cost up to $1 billion. 

- Trump avoided addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and did not visit Israel, raising concerns about neglecting pressing issues. 

- Critics accuse the Trump administration of corruption and prioritizing personal gains, with controversial proposals like relocating Palestinians to Libya for business interests. 

- Discussions arose about Trump's supporters' unwavering loyalty and the administration's potential privatization of military functions. 

Bruce Springsteen's "Message to America" and Trump's Reply https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/17/bruce-springsteens-message-to-america-and-trumps-reply/

Bruce Springsteen, during a concert in Manchester, England, shared a powerful critique of the current state of America, citing attacks on free speech, civil rights rollbacks, and the mistreatment of immigrants and workers. His message emphasized hope and resilience despite these challenges, referencing James Baldwin's belief in humanity's enduring strength. President Trump reacted angrily to Springsteen's comments. Additionally, the U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled 7-2 against Trump’s administration, affirming that all individuals within U.S. borders, including non-citizens, are entitled to due process under the Constitution. This decision highlights the enduring principles of the Founding Fathers and the constitutional rights afforded to everyone in the U.S., regardless of citizenship.

### Key Points

- Bruce Springsteen criticized the state of America, highlighting issues like suppression of free speech, civil rights rollbacks, and mistreatment of workers and immigrants. 

- Springsteen expressed hope in America’s resilience, referencing James Baldwin’s belief in humanity. 

- President Trump reacted negatively to Springsteen’s statements, showcasing his sensitivity to criticism. 

- The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 against Trump’s administration, affirming due process rights for all individuals in the U.S., including non-citizens. 

- The ruling emphasized that constitutional rights apply to all under U.S. jurisdiction, reflecting the Founding Fathers’ commitment to universal human rights. 

OH MAMA! HOW MAGA BECAME MAD AGAIN: WALMART, TARIFFS AND THE PRICE OF BILLIONAIRE TAX CUTS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/oh-mama-how-maga-became-mad-again.html

Walmart's price hikes due to Trump-era tariffs, and the economic struggles tied to billionaire tax cuts and trade policies. The narrative critiques the impact of these policies on everyday Americans, emphasizing irony and political backlash. 

### Key Points

- Walmart announces price hikes due to tariffs, impacting consumers and exposing the economic irony of billionaire-backed policies. 

- Trump-era tax cuts benefited billionaires like the Walton family but strained middle-class and low-income Americans. 

- Tariffs and cuts to programs like Medicaid and SNAP disproportionately harm Trump’s voter base, leading to political dissatisfaction. 

- Walmart struggles with balancing loyalty to Trump and maintaining its low-price business model amidst rising costs. 

- The broader narrative critiques the disconnect between political promises and economic realities for average Americans. 

RELIGIOUS CHARTER SCHOOLS - A HOLY MESS FOR SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE (SUPREME COURT AUDIO) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/religious-charter-schools-holy-mess-for.html

The article explores the ongoing debate around religious charter schools in the U.S., focusing on the case of St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School in Oklahoma. The school seeks public charter school status, raising constitutional questions about the separation of church and state. The U.S. Supreme Court's decision on this matter could set a significant precedent for the future of public education and funding for religious institutions.

### Key Points

- The case of St. Isidore Catholic School challenges the separation of church and state by seeking public funding while maintaining its religious identity. 

- Critics argue that allowing religious charter schools could blur the line between church and state, undermining the secular nature of public education. 

- Proponents cite legal precedents like *Trinity Lutheran Church v. Comer* and *Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue*, arguing that excluding religious schools from public funding is discriminatory. 

- The Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled against St. Isidore, but the U.S. Supreme Court's decision could overturn this and redefine charter school regulations nationwide. 

- Justice Amy Coney Barrett recused herself, leaving Chief Justice John Roberts as a potential swing vote in the case. 

- A ruling in favor of St. Isidore could lead to widespread inclusion of religious schools in public funding programs, raising concerns about curriculum, admissions, and state oversight. 

- Broader implications include potential challenges to other public services and the erosion of the church-state divide. 

Red Alert: Trump’s DOJ Just Told SCOTUS It Can Pick and Choose Which Court Orders to Obey https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/05/16/red-alert-trumps-doj-just-told-scotus-it-can-pick-and-choose-which-court-orders-to-obey/ 

Red Alert: Trump’s DOJ Just Told SCOTUS It Can Pick and Choose Which Court Orders to Obey

### Key Points

- The article warns about the Trump administration's selective obedience to judicial rulings, exemplified by Solicitor General D. John Sauer's statement to the Supreme Court that compliance with court orders is "general practice" but "not categorical," undermining the rule of law. 

- The Trump administration has a history of eroding constitutional checks, including ignoring Supreme Court orders, pressuring courts to overturn elections, and suggesting the Constitution is optional when politically inconvenient. 

- Trump’s rhetoric and actions, such as joking about a third term while addressing troops at a military base, blur the lines between governance, campaigning, and authoritarianism, building a narrative where laws and institutions are flexible. 

- The article draws parallels to authoritarian regimes like Hungary, Turkey, and Russia, where leaders undermined independent institutions to consolidate power. 

- If judicial rulings are ignored, constitutional protections become meaningless, leading to a dystopian scenario where executive power overrides the judiciary. 

- The author calls for immediate action to defend democratic institutions by educating others, holding leaders accountable, and preventing the military from being used as a political tool. 

Cyberbullying in any form can be traumatizing for kids  https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/05/cyberbullying-in-any-form-can-be.html

### Key Points

- Cyberbullying, regardless of its form, is a significant source of trauma for adolescents and should be considered an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE). 

- A study involving 2,697 U.S. students aged 13 to 17 found that even indirect forms of cyberbullying, like exclusion or gossip, are as harmful as direct threats. 

- Emotional impacts of cyberbullying can deeply affect a young person’s sense of safety, identity, and well-being, regardless of the type of bullying experienced. 

- Girls and younger teens are more likely to experience higher levels of trauma from cyberbullying, though the overall frequency of victimization is the strongest predictor of trauma symptoms. 

- Cyberbullying accounts for 32% of the differences in trauma levels among students, emphasizing the need for protective factors like family support, friendships, and resilience. 

- Experts advocate for trauma-informed approaches in schools, including emotional safety protocols, crisis intervention plans, and mindfulness practices to address cyberbullying. 

Trump's Narcissistic Personality Disorder  https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/05/trumps-narcissistic-personality-disorder.html

A blog post by Glen Brown critically examines various sociopolitical issues, with a focus on former President Donald Trump's personality and governance. The article discusses Trump's behavior through the lens of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) as defined by the DSM-6, highlighting traits like grandiosity, lack of empathy, and entitlement. It also critiques his impact on democracy, his inability to accept criticism, and his authoritarian tendencies. The post further touches on broader themes like pensions, public policies, social justice, and challenges in American governance.

### Key Points

- Glen Brown reflects on the writer's role in addressing societal issues and resisting oppression. 

- The blog critiques Donald Trump's personality traits, analyzing them through the framework of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). 

- The author warns of the dangers posed by Trump's authoritarian tendencies and their potential to undermine democracy. 

- Broader topics like public pensions, Illinois politics, social justice, healthcare, and education reform are also explored. 

Paperless Office, Paperless Classroom, and Paperless Toilet? Limits to New Technologies https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/05/17/paperless-office-paperless-classroom-and-paperless-toilet-limits-to-new-technologies/

### Key Points

- Predictions of a paperless office from 1975 have not materialized, as paper continues to serve important cognitive and practical needs across various fields. 

- Paper offers tangible, flexible, and tailorable benefits that digital formats often cannot replicate, such as annotation and spatial organization. 

- Examples of paper's continued relevance include its use in writing processes, medical checklists for surgeries, and flight control operations. 

- Despite advancements in technology, such as bidet-equipped toilets, paper remains dominant in areas like bathrooms and personal preferences. 

- The article emphasizes that technology is a tool, but individual habits and preferences ensure paper's persistence in many aspects of life. 

Seattle School Board Special Meeting for Superintendent Search 2025 -  Seattle Schools Community Forum  https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/05/seattle-school-board-special-meeting.html

Seattle Schools Community Forum shared details of a Seattle School Board special meeting held on May 13, 2025, regarding the superintendent search. The meeting, guided by HYA (Hazard Young Attea Associates), emphasized community engagement, transparency, and inclusivity in the selection process. Board members discussed timelines, candidate evaluations, and outreach strategies to ensure a thorough and unbiased process.

### Key Points

- The Seattle School Board is conducting a superintendent search with assistance from HYA, focusing on trust-building, accountability, and inclusivity. 

- HYA's search process includes community engagement, recruitment, candidate selection, and transition, with 20 outreach sessions planned. 

- The Board discussed blind applications to reduce bias and emphasized the importance of community feedback through surveys and focus groups. 

- The timeline includes candidate recruitment until July 31, 2025, interviews in August, and final selection with an extensive vetting process. 

- Concerns were raised about SPS's history of poor community engagement, with efforts to improve inclusivity and representation in this process. 

UFT Spring Conference Notes https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/uft-spring-conference-notes?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The article provides a detailed account of the UFT (United Federation of Teachers) Spring Conference 2025, highlighting discussions about mayoral candidates, Tier 6 pension reform, retiree health care, and other issues affecting teachers and public education. The author shares personal anecdotes, critiques of UFT leadership, and observations from the event, including exhibits and speeches, while reflecting on the challenges faced by educators.

### Key Points  

- The author recounts a personal story as an ESL teacher and the struggles with fixing a broken classroom doorknob.   

- The UFT Spring Conference 2025 was held at the New York Hilton, featuring mayoral candidates discussing key educational policies.   

- Michael Mulgrew, UFT leader, questioned candidates about keeping health insurance premium-free and Tier 6 pension reform but did not address retiree health care issues.   

- Candidates unanimously supported reducing the retirement age to 55 for Tier 6 members and pledged to support the para bill.   

- The UFT has chosen not to support legislation (1096) that would protect retirees despite having significant council support for other bills.   

- Criticism of Mulgrew's approach to retiree health care and his stance on the Taylor Law and collective bargaining.   

- The author reflects on the lack of understanding among candidates about teaching, despite their claims of connection to educators.   

- Exhibits at the conference showcased historical school items, sparking nostalgic reflections from the author.   

- The author humorously notes the use of outdated tools like Delaney Books and electric eraser cleaners, comparing them to modern technology.   

- Mayoral candidates discussed their plans to address Tier 6, mayoral control, bureaucracy, and teacher autonomy.   

- Candidates criticized the current administration’s handling of education and pledged to fight federal policies threatening public education.   

- Andrew Cuomo defended his record but faced criticism for his role in passing Tier 6, which he called "ancient history."   

- Candidates agreed on the need for better pay and benefits for paraprofessionals and teachers to attract and retain talent.   

- Discussions emphasized the need to reorganize DOE bureaucracy and reduce scripted lessons to give teachers more autonomy.   

- Candidates expressed strong opposition to federal cuts and privatization efforts, pledging to defend public education and union rights.   

- Scott Stringer and other candidates shared their perspectives on mayoral control, focusing on collaboration and reducing bureaucracy.   

- The author highlights the importance of empowering educators and ensuring they have a voice in policy decisions.   

- The article ends with a critique of UFT leadership and a call for better support for teachers and retirees. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-17-25

The article compiles a variety of educational, political, and societal issues, touching on topics like public education reforms, controversies surrounding influential figures, systemic biases, and the impact of policies on marginalized communities. It highlights the consequences of certain government decisions, the role of leadership, and the need for systemic change to create a more equitable society.

### Key Points  

- Michael Tomasky criticizes Elon Musk for harmful actions affecting government services, public welfare, and global health.   

- Stephen Miller's proposal to suspend habeas corpus for immigration cases is deemed unconstitutional and undermines judicial review.   

- RFK Jr.'s contradictory vaccine messaging during a measles outbreak causes public confusion and declining vaccination rates.   

- The GOP tax bill benefits the wealthy, enforces school vouchers, and exacerbates inequities in public education.   

- The Trump administration cancels research grants at Harvard, threatening academic freedom and funding for critical research.   

- Walmart raises prices due to tariffs, highlighting economic struggles for consumers and the irony of policies funded by billionaire donors.   

- Internalized prejudice within marginalized communities perpetuates colonial biases; systemic change is needed for equity.   

- The Trump DOJ claims selective compliance with court orders, raising concerns about constitutional erosion and authoritarianism.   

- AI is criticized for lacking objective truth, with biases reflecting human input and managerial agendas.   

- Teacher Tom reflects on guiding children through mistakes, emphasizing dignity, independence, and learning from struggles.   

- NYC DOE faces criticism for weak student data privacy protections and mishandling a major data breach.   

- Woodbridge School District promotes a controversial figure despite past misconduct, raising concerns about accountability.   

- Tennessee's school voucher program sparks debates on public vs. private education, alongside other educational challenges.   

- The potential dismantling of the Department of Education could harm vulnerable groups and undermine equitable education.   

- Boys outperform girls in STEM post-COVID, reversing prior gender equity gains, with global implications.   

- Cross-age tutoring shows positive academic and behavioral effects for both tutors and tutees, with broad applicability.   

- UFT leadership faces criticism for undermining members' healthcare and restricting advocacy group affiliations.   

- Seattle Public Schools' governance model, SOFG, sparks controversy over costs and reduced democratic accountability.   

- California schools receive Civic Learning Awards for promoting civic education and democratic engagement.   

- Religious charter schools seeking public funding raise concerns about the separation of church and state.   

- Trump's policies, including tariffs and Medicaid cuts, harm rural and working-class Americans, sparking backlash.