Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 6-3-25

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-2-25

Secretary of ED McMahon Wants to Destroy US Education with Her Budget! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/02/secretary-of-ed-mcmahon-wants-to-destroy-us-education-with-her-budget/ via @dianeravitch 

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon's proposed budget for the U.S. Department of Education has sparked widespread criticism for its severe cuts to essential programs. The budget eliminates $8.5 billion in funding, targeting programs that support migrant children, English learners, teacher development, and college readiness for low-income students. It also drastically reduces Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, and TRIO programs while increasing funding for charter schools and promoting private school voucher schemes. Critics argue this is a deliberate attack on public education aimed at privatization and undermining opportunities for disadvantaged students.

### Key Points

- Linda McMahon's education budget proposes eliminating $8.5 billion in funding, including 28 programs, and consolidating others into a reduced block grant. 

- Programs for migrant children, English learners, teacher development, and school improvement are excluded from the block grant, reflecting targeted cuts. 

- College assistance programs, including Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, and TRIO, face significant reductions, totaling $1.67 billion in cuts. 

- Charter school funding is increased to $500 million, despite minimal growth in charter schools, while a $5 billion voucher scheme for private and homeschool education is promoted. 

- Critics argue the budget prioritizes privatization and undermines public education, calling for public action to oppose these measures. 

Heather Cox Richardson: Trump and Musk Are Destroying the Government https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/02/heather-cox-richardson-trump-and-musk-are-destroying-the-government/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses the controversial actions of Elon Musk and Donald Trump, focusing on their alleged misuse of governmental power and resources. It highlights Musk’s involvement in the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE), its questionable legality, and its failure to deliver promised budget cuts. The article also examines Trump’s immigration policies, tariff strategies, and their broader implications for democracy, ethics, and governance.

### Key Points  

- Elon Musk's DOGE initiative aimed to cut $2 trillion from the U.S. budget but only claimed unverifiable savings of $175 billion, causing demoralization and inefficiency in federal agencies.   

- Musk used his role in DOGE to end investigations into his companies, secure government contracts, and promote his Starlink network internationally.   

- Musk’s alleged drug use and erratic behavior raised concerns about his fitness for his government role. He reportedly received advance warnings for drug tests.   

- The U.S. District Judge allowed 14 states to sue Musk and DOGE, questioning the legality of their actions.   

- Peter Thiel’s Palantir firm was integrated into the U.S. government under Musk’s influence, raising concerns about data misuse and surveillance.   

- DOGE’s actions, including IRS staffing cuts and national parks underfunding, may cost taxpayers $135 billion.   

- Musk’s budget cuts to USAID have had devastating global consequences, including increased child mortality and HIV-positive births.   

- Trump’s tariff policies caused economic instability, with courts ruling them unconstitutional. His trade war cost companies over $34 billion.   

- Trump’s immigration policies have led to increased arrests and deportations, often violating due process and targeting individuals without criminal records.   

- The administration’s use of centralized data systems raises fears of mass surveillance and authoritarian control.   

- The State Department’s rebranding of immigration offices and alignment with far-right ideologies signal a shift towards anti-democratic practices.   

- The Supreme Court allowed the termination of immigration paroles for 500,000 individuals, exacerbating legal and humanitarian crises. 

Jamelle Bouie: Don't Be Fooled Again by the GOP Tax Plan https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/02/jamelle-bouie-dont-be-fooled-again-by-the-gop-tax-plan/ via @dianeravitch 

Jamelle Bouie's opinion piece in The New York Times critiques the Republican Party's repeated promises of tax cuts for the middle class, which historically have disproportionately benefited the wealthiest Americans while exacerbating income inequality. The article highlights the pattern from Reagan's 1981 tax cuts through Trump's 2017 reforms, showing how these policies often fail to deliver economic growth or relief for the broader population. The latest Republican tax proposal in 2025 continues this trend, with significant benefits for high-income earners and cuts to essential programs like Medicaid and food assistance, further harming low-income families.

### Key Points

- Jamelle Bouie criticizes the Republican history of tax cuts that claim to benefit the middle class but instead favor the wealthy, starting with Reagan's 1981 reforms. 

- Tax cuts under Reagan, George W. Bush, and Trump led to reduced federal revenues, increased deficits, and heightened income inequality. 

- Trump's 2017 tax cuts provided minimal benefits to the middle class but significantly enriched the top 1%, including estate tax reductions and advantages for real estate investors. 

- The 2025 Republican tax plan proposes further tax cuts for high earners, funded by slashing Medicaid and food assistance, potentially leaving millions uninsured and worsening inequality. 

- Democrats are criticized for insufficiently countering Republican messaging on these tax policies, despite their widespread negative impact. 

Georgia: Brain-Dead Woman Kept on Life Support Because She Was 9 Weeks Pregnant https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/02/brain-dead-woman-kept-on-life-support-because-she-was-9-weeks-pregnant/ via @dianeravitch 

Home About Follow Diane’s Posts NPE Blog Posts Of The Day Blog Topics DeSantis Diane Ravitch's blog A site to discuss education and democracy

### Key Points

- A brain-dead woman in Georgia is being kept on life support due to a state law requiring her to remain in a vegetative state until her fetus, conceived at nine weeks, can be delivered at 36 weeks. 

- Cartoonist Ann Telnaes criticized the state's decision via a visual commentary, emphasizing that the decision should have been left to the family, not the state. 

- Telnaes, a Pulitzer Prize winner, resigned from The Washington Post after her editor refused to publish a controversial cartoon about tech billionaires and Trump. 

- The blog discusses the broader implications of government control and hypocrisy in political stances, particularly regarding personal freedoms. 

Big Education Ape: JUNE IS BUSTING OUT ALL OVER: PRIDE MONTH 2025 IS HERE #PrideMonth 🌈 #Pride2025 🌈 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/june-is-busting-out-all-over-pride.html 

LGBTQ+ Pride Month celebrations and challenges in 2025, and ways to support LGBTQ+ youth. It also touches on broader societal issues such as anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, activism, and the importance of resilience within marginalized communities.  

### Key Points   

- Pride Month 2025 celebrates LGBTQ+ history, with events like parades, festivals, and educational workshops.   

- Chicago Pride Fest and Parade feature performances, drag shows, and community marshals, showcasing inclusivity.   

- Smaller towns and sports teams like the Chicago Cubs and White Sox participate in Pride celebrations, highlighting visibility.   

- Over 700 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced in the U.S. threaten LGBTQ+ rights, including flag bans and corporate sponsorship reductions.   

- Grassroots support and activism remain strong, emphasizing resilience and the activist roots of Pride.   

- Ways to celebrate Pride Month include educating oneself, supporting LGBTQ+ businesses, donating to organizations, and attending events.   

- Supporting LGBTQ+ youth improves mental health, academic success, social engagement, and reduces stigma and discrimination.   

- Resources for LGBTQ+ youth include helplines like The Trevor Lifeline and organizations such as GLSEN and PFLAG. 

Big Education Ape: TOP POSTS THIS MONTH - MAY 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/top-posts-this-month-may-2025.html 

A collection of blog posts and articles focuses on topics such  political manipulation of diversity and equity, and various critiques of Donald Trump’s policies and actions. The content also highlights educational activism, public education advocacy, and reflections on democracy and societal values.

### Key Points

- Criticism of Trump’s manipulation of diversity, equity, and inclusion language. 

- Discussion on a brain-dead woman kept on life support due to pregnancy in Georgia. 

- Nationwide protests against Trump’s $45M military parade and related political critiques. 

- A roundup of blog posts and insights, including critiques of Trump’s policies and their impact on democracy. 

- Advocacy for public education, including reflections on privatization and activism efforts. 

- Promotion of educational resources, activism, and public education defense organizations. 

Big Education Ape: A BAD PENNY ALWAYS TURNS UP: THE ODYSSEY OF PENNY SCHWINN, PRIVATIZATION'S TYPHOID MARY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/a-bad-penny-always-turns-up-odyssey-of.html 

A detailed examination of Penny Schwinn's controversial career in education reform, highlighting her role in advancing privatization efforts, her connections to billionaire-backed organizations, and the ethical concerns surrounding her actions.

### Key Points

- Upcoming webinar discusses Christian Nationalism's impact on education in Colorado and beyond. 

- Air pollution negatively affects school attendance and disciplinary issues. 

- Penny Schwinn's career is marked by her support for privatization and connections to billionaire-funded organizations like TNTP and the Broad Academy. 

- Schwinn faced numerous controversies, including conflicts of interest, no-bid contracts, and questionable policies during her tenure in Tennessee. 

- Critics argue Schwinn prioritizes privatization over public education, sparking debates about her legacy. 

Culture Eats Equity Strategy for Breakfast: Five Ways We Must Change Education https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/06/02/culture-eats-equity-strategy-for-breakfast-five-ways-we-must-change-education/ 

Culture is critical to the success of equity strategies in education. Without addressing cultural barriers, even the best equity initiatives fail. The article outlines five actionable steps to transform education culture and ensure equity becomes a core value rather than a sidelined goal.

### Key Points

- Culture overrides strategy in education equity efforts; unspoken norms and resistance often undermine well-intentioned plans. 

- Equity initiatives fail when cultural behaviors and biases, such as performative allyship and systemic racism, remain unchallenged. 

- Truth-telling about systemic injustice and decolonizing education is essential for cultural change. 

- Rewarding equity work and protecting those who challenge inequity fosters a supportive environment for change. 

- Equity must be integrated into every aspect of education, from budgeting to curriculum to leadership. 

- Building coalitions across roles and communities strengthens the movement for cultural transformation. 

- Normalizing discomfort and fostering growth through honest conversations are critical for shifting education culture. 

- Institutions must prioritize justice-centered culture over superficial strategies to achieve meaningful change. 

June 14th: A fascist military parade, a "No Kings" protest, early voting in NY and Grandma Esther's birthday., by @fklonsky https://open.substack.com/pub/fredklonsky/p/june-14th-a-fascist-military-parade?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

### Key Points

- The author reflects on moving from Chicago to Brooklyn a year ago and enjoying the city, particularly walking more and being close to family. 

- June 14th is highlighted as an important date due to multiple events: a Trump-ordered military parade in the Capitol, anti-fascist "No Kings" protests, the Brooklyn Pride Parade, and the start of early voting in New York City. 

- Zohran Mamdani's mayoral campaign is gaining momentum with a focus on making New York affordable, despite facing a lead by Andrew Cuomo backed by corporate interests. The campaign has mobilized significant grassroots support. 

- The author shares pride in sharing a birthday with his late grandmother, Esther Wainer, an immigrant, socialist, and feminist. 

- The post includes a personal note that no AI was used in its creation and reflects on the author's interests in pensions, unions, politics, retirement, and art. 

Deporting Children to Die Is Not Pro-Life https://www.changethelausd.com/deporting_children_to_die_is_not_pro_life 

Deporting Children to Die Is Not Pro-Life

### Key Points

- The article critiques the contradiction in pro-life conservatives’ stance, emphasizing their focus on fetuses but neglecting children post-birth, citing George Carlin's perspective. 

- Trump’s immigration policies expanded the definition of “criminal threat,” targeting even law-abiding immigrants and revoking legal statuses, as seen in the Vargas family’s case. 

- “Sophia” Vargas, a critically ill child, received life-saving medical care in the U.S. but faces deportation under Trump’s directives, which could lead to her death. 

- The article highlights the hypocrisy of pro-life claims, pointing out the silence of anti-abortion activists on children being denied medical care and deported. 

- The author questions the ethical and logical inconsistencies in supporting policies that endanger children while claiming to value life. 

How Miami Schools Are Leading 100,000 Students Into the A.I. Future (Natasha Singer) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/06/02/how-miami-schools-are-leading-100000-students-into-the-a-i-future-natasha-singer/ via @CubanLarry

Miami-Dade County Public Schools, one of the largest districts in the U.S., is leading an initiative to integrate artificial intelligence (A.I.) into classrooms. The district has trained over 1,000 educators and deployed Google’s Gemini chatbot for more than 105,000 high school students. The program aims to prepare students for future job demands, teach them critical A.I. assessment skills, and use A.I. tools responsibly. While A.I. chatbots provide instant feedback and enhance learning, concerns about over-reliance, critical thinking erosion, and ethical usage persist. Teachers are encouraged to use A.I. as a supplementary tool, with safeguards in place to ensure accuracy and fairness.

### Key Points

- Miami-Dade County is deploying A.I. tools like Google’s Gemini chatbot to enhance teaching and learning for over 100,000 students. 

- Teachers are trained to integrate A.I. responsibly, using it for lesson planning, feedback, and student engagement while maintaining ethical guardrails. 

- A.I. chatbots are used for tasks like role-playing historical figures and grading student writing, providing instant feedback to improve learning outcomes. 

- Concerns include A.I.’s potential to mislead students, erode critical thinking, and create over-reliance, prompting schools to stress critical evaluation of A.I.-generated content. 

- The district tested multiple A.I. tools for safety and privacy, ultimately selecting Gemini for its student-friendly features and content restrictions. 

Teacher Tom: If We Want Children to Read for Pleasure https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/06/if-we-want-children-to-read-for-pleasure.html 

Teacher Tom reflects on his personal journey with reading, emphasizing the importance of reading for pleasure and the freedom to choose books. He contrasts his childhood experiences of self-selected reading with the structured, often uninspiring academic reading in schools. He criticizes the current educational approach that prioritizes excerpts and short texts over full books, arguing that this undermines deep reading and the development of empathy. He advocates for allowing children the autonomy to select their reading material to foster a lifelong love of books.

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom shares his childhood experience of discovering the joy of reading through self-selected books, contrasting it with the structured reading assigned in schools. 

- He highlights the value of "deep reading" and how it fosters empathy, critical thinking, and self-reflection, which are not achieved by reading excerpts or short texts. 

- Tom emphasizes the need to let children choose their books to cultivate a genuine love for reading, rather than turning it into an academic chore. 

- He criticizes the educational trend of avoiding entire books in favor of excerpts, which he believes diminishes the pleasure and depth of reading. 

Janresseger: Trump Subverts the Values of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion By Manipulating Language | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/trump-subverts 

### Key Points

- The blog post highlights how the Trump administration subverted the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by altering the meaning of these terms into negative connotations through political and linguistic manipulation. 

- Linguist John McWhorter explains how social media and political efforts have accelerated the pejoration of terms like "woke" and DEI, turning them into divisive concepts. 

- The Trump administration implemented policies to censor language related to DEI, including removing such terms from federal documents, websites, and public-facing materials. 

- An executive order was signed making English the official language of the U.S., eliminating federal mandates for language assistance to non-English speakers, which is seen as an exclusionary measure. 

- Derek W. Black's book "Dangerous Learning" draws parallels between historical and modern efforts to suppress inclusive education, linking it to tactics of exclusion and racism. 

- Politicians have used vague language and laws to limit discussions of diversity and critical race theory in schools, giving enforcers broad discretion and creating uncertainty for educators. 

Education Research Report: What Explains Growing Gender and Racial Education Gaps? https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/06/what-explains-growing-gender-and-racial.html 

### Key Points

- In the 1960 cohort, men and women graduated from college at similar rates across racial/ethnic groups, but in recent cohorts, women graduate at much higher rates than men, and racial/ethnic education gaps have widened. 

- A model analyzing education, labor supply, marriage, and fertility explains changes in education rates for the 1960-1980 cohorts through three factors: family background, labor market, and marriage market constraints. 

- Changes in parental background account for 25% of the growth in women’s college graduation rates, while the marriage market accounts for 20%, and the labor market explains the rest. 

- Parent education is crucial for social mobility, predicting that White women’s graduation rates will plateau, while Hispanic and Black women’s rates will grow rapidly. However, overall graduation rates will increase slowly due to the growing Hispanic population share. 

Education Research Report: Daily Air Pollution Exposure and Schooling https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/06/daily-air-pollution-exposure-and.html 

### Key Points

- Elevated air pollution levels, particularly PM 2.5 concentrations, increase student and teacher absenteeism as well as disciplinary referrals in schools near major roadways. 

- Researchers used wind direction as an instrumental variable to measure pollution exposure, finding that downwind schools experienced higher pollution levels and associated negative impacts. 

- A 10μg/m³ increase in daily PM 2.5 concentration leads to a 5.7% rise in student absences, a 28% rise in disciplinary referrals (especially for violent behavior), and a 13.1% rise in teacher absences. 

- A sustained 10μg/m³ increase over a school year could result in 4.9 additional absence days per student, disproportionately affecting Black, Hispanic, and lower-income students. 

- Schools serving predominantly lower-income populations experience more severe impacts on absences and behavioral issues than higher-income schools. 

- Higher pollution levels (Air Quality Index exceeding 100) show a nonlinear relationship, with greater intensity causing more significant effects, suggesting that reducing urban pollution could improve school outcomes. 

A4PEP Webinars https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/06/02/a4pep-webinars/ via @plthomasEdD 

The article explores the intersection of Christian nationalism and public education, highlighting its historical roots, current threats, and misinformation campaigns. It also discusses broader issues in education reform, including the misuse of media narratives, federal policies promoting charter schools, and the ongoing challenges in literacy and equity. Upcoming events and resources on these topics are also shared.

### Key Points

- The article delves into Christian nationalism's impact on public education, emphasizing its historical context and ongoing influence. 

- Paul Thomas critiques media-driven misinformation about public school failures, arguing against the narrative of systemic collapse. 

- Federal policies under the Trump administration, such as vouchers and charter school funding, are linked to these broader ideological movements. 

- Upcoming webinars and publications address Christian nationalism and its assault on education, with a focus on Colorado and beyond. 

- Broader educational themes, such as equity, literacy reform, censorship, and critical pedagogy, are discussed throughout the article. 

Farm to Summer Celebration Week- Pre-survey This week is for program operators to celebrate local foods with the 3 elements: 1) Taste, 2) Teach, and 3) Connect. https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/farm2summercelebwk.asp 

This article discusses the California Department of Education's (CDE) Farm to Summer (F2Summer) Celebration Week, a program aimed at celebrating local foods through three elements: Taste, Teach, and Connect. It provides details about participation, resources, and contact information for summer meal program operators.

### Key Points

- The F2Summer Celebration Week encourages summer meal program operators to celebrate local foods by completing the three elements: Taste, Teach, and Connect, during June 16–20, 2025. 

- The 2025 theme for the program is "Summer Foods Around the World." Participants completing pre- and post-surveys receive recognition, including a certificate, an online badge, and acknowledgment on the CDE website. 

- Resources such as local farm directories, planning guides, and nutrition education materials are available on the CDE’s F2Summer Celebration Week and Resource Library web pages. 

- Contact details for inquiries include the F2S Team email (Farm2School@cde.ca.gov) and the Nutrition Services Division phone number (800-952-5609). 

- Related content includes information on school nutrition programs, recent updates like tofu and soy yogurt crediting, and recalls of food products like Hormel Beef Stew. 

- The article also highlights trending topics in nutrition and other resources provided by the CDE, such as SUN Bucks and educational standards. 

An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294/ref=sr_1_1?

This article discusses Diane Ravitch's upcoming memoir, "An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else," set to be released on October 21, 2025. Ravitch, a historian and former conservative education reform advocate, recounts her ideological shift from supporting standardized testing and privatization to advocating for public schools and addressing systemic inequality in education. The book blends personal reflections with decades of research, making a compelling case for greater investment in public education.

### Key Points

- Diane Ravitch's memoir explores her ideological transformation from a proponent of conservative education reforms to a critic of privatization and standardized testing. 

- The book highlights her belief that poverty, not failing schools or bad teachers, is the root cause of educational inequality. 

- Ravitch shares her personal and professional journey, including her government service and advocacy for public schools. 

- The memoir combines personal anecdotes with research to argue for systemic changes in education, including better support for professional teachers. 

- Published by Columbia University Press, the book is 240 pages long and will be available in multiple formats. 

Big Education Ape: WE DON'T DO KINGS: NATIONWIDE PROTESTS TO RAIN ON TRUMP'S $45M BIRTHDAY MILITARY PARADE #NoKingsDay #DefendDemocracy #AmericaStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/we-dont-do-kings-nationwide-protests-to.html 

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

6-1-25      

The article compiles various educational, political, and social topics, including critiques of policies, education reform initiatives, societal challenges, and reflections on democracy. Key themes include public-private partnerships in schools, the impact of climate change, controversies surrounding school vouchers and funding, and Diane Ravitch’s ideological transformation in her upcoming memoir.

### Key Points  

- Katherine Stewart will host a webinar on the influence of Christian nationalism on education in Colorado and beyond, scheduled for June 22, 2025.   

- Daily air pollution exposure increases absenteeism and disciplinary issues among students and teachers.   

- Trump’s manipulation of language undermines diversity, equity, and inclusion values.   

- A brain-dead pregnant woman in Georgia was kept on life support due to restrictive abortion laws.   

- Pope Leo XIV plans to send a video message to a Chicago Mass, emphasizing compassion and contrasting with Trump’s military parade.   

- AI’s role in education, name policies for students, and school voucher debates are highlighted as critical issues.   

- Public-private partnerships in education, such as McKeesport School District’s failed collaboration with Dick’s Sporting Goods, raise concerns about corporate influence in public schools.   

- Linda McMahon proposes severe education budget cuts, including reductions in Pell Grants and Federal Work-Study, while increasing funding for charter schools and promoting private school vouchers.   

- Jeanne Chall’s developmental reading stages emphasize the importance of individualized learning and critique the rigid standardization of early reading expectations.   

- NYC’s privacy violations related to Talkspace and advocacy for smaller class sizes are discussed.   

- Diane Ravitch’s memoir explores her shift from supporting privatization to advocating for public education and addressing systemic inequality.   

- Nationwide protests criticize Trump’s $45 million military parade, while educational and societal reforms are called for to combat inequality.   

- Climate change predictions warn of intensified extreme weather and global warming.   

- Critiques of the "Science of Reading" movement highlight manufactured crises and misplaced priorities in education. 

A BAD PENNY ALWAYS TURNS UP: THE ODYSSEY OF PENNY SCHWINN, PRIVATIZATION'S TYPHOID MARY

 A BAD PENNY ALWAYS TURNS UP

THE ODYSSEY OF PENNY SCHWINN, PRIVATIZATION'S TYPHOID MARY 

In the grand theater of education reform, where billionaires play puppet masters and public schools are the stage, one character consistently steals the spotlight: Penny Schwinn. If school reform were a spy thriller, she’d be the hitman with a clipboard, armed with no-bid contracts and a penchant for privatization. Let’s dive into the saga of the woman whose name makes public school advocates shudder and billionaire reformers cheer.

The Rise of Bad Penny

Penny Schwinn’s journey reads like a playbook for the privatization movement. From running her own charter school to serving on the Sacramento County Board of Education, she quickly ascended the ranks of the education reform elite. Her resume is a greatest-hits list of privatization hotspots: California, Texas, Tennessee, and even Washington, D.C. Wherever she goes, controversy and conflict follow like an over enthusiastic groupie.

Schwinn isn’t just a darling of the billionaire class; she’s practically their mascot. Trained at the Eli Broad Academy—a superintendents’ boot camp for dismantling public education—she’s been groomed to execute their vision. Whether it’s charter schools or public-private partnerships, Schwinn is there to grease the wheels of privatization, often with a smile that says, “Trust me, I’m here to help.” Spoiler alert: she’s not.

The Copper Penny Conundrum

How bad is Penny Schwinn? Even Donald Trump reportedly raised an eyebrow. During her time in Tennessee, Schwinn courted controversy like it was a competitive sport. She faced scrutiny over textbook adoption processes, no-bid contracts, and an $8 million deal with TNTP Inc.—a nonprofit founded by Teach For America’s Wendy Kopp. Fun fact: her husband works for TNTP. Conflict of interest, anyone?

Of course, Schwinn filed a conflict of interest report and assured everyone that she had nothing to do with the contract’s evaluation. But lawmakers weren’t buying it. State Rep. Bo Mitchell and Sen. Mike Bell were among those who cried foul, pointing out that even the appearance of impropriety was enough to warrant investigation. It’s like saying, “Sure, the fox was in the henhouse, but he promised not to eat anything.”

The Typhoid Mary of Privatization

Schwinn’s career has been a masterclass in how to infuriate parents, teachers, and public school advocates. Her tenure in Tennessee alone could fill a scandal scrapbook. From questionable contracts to canceled child welfare programs, she’s left a trail of discontent that spans multiple states. It’s no wonder some have dubbed her the “Typhoid Mary of Privatization.” Wherever she goes, public education seems to fall ill.

And let’s not forget her husband, Paul Schwinn. He’s also in education, working for TNTP—a nonprofit with billionaire backing that aims to reform teacher training. Together, the Schwinns are like the Bonnie and Clyde of education reform, except instead of robbing banks, they’re accused of undermining public schools.

Penny Does D.C.

After her tumultuous stint in Tennessee, Schwinn set her sights on Washington, D.C., seeking a deputy secretary post in the U.S. Department of Education under the Trump administration. To smooth over potential conflicts of interest (and perhaps her reputation), she pledged to cut financial ties with various entities she was affiliated with. This included resigning from positions at companies like 38 Ventures LLC and divesting interests in firms like Soliant Health LLC.

But promises are one thing; trust is another. Schwinn’s past ethical lapses have left many skeptical of her intentions. Her critics argue that her career is less about improving education and more about advancing a privatization agenda. It’s like hiring a fox to guard the henhouse—again.

A Family Affair

The Schwinns’ involvement in education reform highlights a broader issue: the incestuous nature of the privatization movement. Organizations like TNTP and Teach For America are often staffed by alumni from the same small pool of elite institutions and funded by the same cadre of billionaires. It’s a revolving door where everyone knows everyone, and conflicts of interest are just part of the decor.

If education reform were a soap opera, this would be its most dramatic plotline: billionaires pulling strings behind the scenes while their loyal operatives execute their vision on the ground. And at the center of it all is Penny Schwinn, ever the reliable player in this high-stakes game.

The Billionaire Connection

Schwinn’s ties to billionaire-backed organizations like the Broad Academy and TNTP are no coincidence. These groups have long been accused of prioritizing profit over students, pushing for policies that benefit private interests at the expense of public education. Critics argue that their ultimate goal is to turn schools into businesses, where students are customers and teachers are expendable.

Schwinn’s career trajectory mirrors this agenda. From her early days in California to her controversies in Tennessee, she has consistently championed policies that align with the privatization movement. Whether it’s charter schools or public-private partnerships, her actions often seem designed to weaken public education rather than strengthen it.

The Verdict on Bad Penny

So, what’s the final word on Penny Schwinn? To her supporters—mainly billionaire reformers—she’s a visionary leader who gets things done. To her critics—parents, teachers, and public school advocates—she’s a relentless force for privatization who leaves chaos in her wake.

One thing is certain: a bad penny always turns up. And when it does, you can bet there will be controversy, conflict, and plenty of headlines. For better or worse, Penny Schwinn has cemented her place as one of the most polarizing figures in education reform. Whether she’s a hero or a villain depends on which side of the privatization debate you’re on.

But if history is any guide, this isn’t the last we’ll hear of Penny Schwinn. After all, bad pennies don’t just turn up—they stick around.

Former Tennessee education leader promises feds she will cut conflicts • Tennessee Lookout https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/05/29/former-tennessee-education-leader-promises-feds-she-will-cut-conflicts/ 

Education commissioner runs into possible conflict with $8M contract https://tennesseelookout.com/2021/03/22/education-commissioner-runs-into-possible-conflict-with-8m-contract/ 

EDUCATION MALPRACTICE? – Dad Gone Wild https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2020/08/education-malpractice-dad-gone-wild.html 

Big Education Ape: PENNY DOES DC https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/01/penny-does-dc.html 

Big Education Ape: Schwinn resigns from Sacramento County Office of Education board - Education - The Sacramento Bee https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2013/07/schwinn-resigns-from-sacramento-county.html 

Former TX SPED Director, Laurie Kash, Wins Wrongful Termination Lawsuit; TN “Wins” Penny Schwinn (?) | deutsch29 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2019/11/former-tx-sped-director-laurie-kash.html

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-2-25

Pope Leo Will Send a Video Message to Chicago Mass on Same Day as Trump's Parade https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/01/pope-will-send-a-video-message-to-chicago-mass-on-same-day-as-trumps-parade/ via @dianeravitch 

### Key Points

- Pope Leo plans to send a video message to a Mass in Chicago, potentially addressing a million people, on the same day as Trump’s expensive military parade celebrating his birthday. 

- The blog post highlights the contrasting values of Pope Leo, who emphasizes love, compassion, and care for the vulnerable, versus those attributed to “Republican Jesus,” which prioritize wealth and exclusion. 

- Comments on the blog reflect differing opinions about Pope Leo’s stances, with some supporting his humanity and others critiquing his adherence to traditional Catholic teachings. 

- The post implies admiration for Pope Leo’s alignment with Biblical values and his divergence from MAGA-related ideologies. 

CURMUDGUCATION: ICYMI: Summer Launch Edition (6/1) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/icymi-summer-launch-edition-61.html

This article is a roundup of recent education-related news and commentary, featuring topics such as education policies, controversies, and reflections on teaching practices. It highlights various issues like AI's role in education, name policies for students, charter school reforms, and school voucher debates.

### Key Points

- Summer vacation begins for some, with a curated list of education-related readings. 

- Updates on Penny Schwinn, a controversial figure moving to a federal role. 

- Teachers are reminded of the importance of learning from students. 

- Criticism of strict phone policies in schools and their outcomes. 

- Controversy in Brevard Schools over chosen name usage without permission. 

- AI's potential role in education is discussed, with skepticism about its "miracle" claims. 

- Georgia high school cancels "The Crucible" due to complaints of demonic themes. 

- A college student pleads guilty to hacking PowerSchool and extortion. 

- Pennsylvania's unfinished cybercharter school reform is revisited. 

- Declining Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) seek relevance in the MAGA era. 

- The state of California's charter school movement is analyzed. 

- A critique of weak educational leadership and its impact on schools. 

- Concerns raised about the "Science of Reading" and its direction. 

- Reflection on past predictions about MOOCs and their failure to disrupt universities. 

- Fresno superintendent faces backlash for using AI-generated data in union accusations. 

- Criticism of AI's use in policy reports, highlighting inaccuracies. 

- Voucher language in legislation is criticized as harmful to education. 

- Updates on a new season of "Phineas and Ferb" and a newsletter invitation. 

- Commentary on the lack of a teacher shortage and other education myths. 

- Exploration of social and emotional learning's role in schools. 

- Discussion on the negative effects of school vouchers and privatization. 

CURMUDGUCATION: The Trouble With Public-Private Partnerships https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-trouble-with-public-private.html 

The article discusses the challenges and ethical concerns surrounding public-private partnerships in education, using the McKeesport School District's failed collaboration with Dick’s Sporting Goods as an example. The partnership, initiated in 2021, ended due to disagreements over control and decision-making, raising questions about corporate influence in public schools.

### Key Points

- The McKeesport School District partnered with Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation in 2021, receiving $13 million in funding for facilities and programs. 

- The partnership ended due to conflicts with district leadership, as Dick’s sought greater influence in decision-making, which the school board resisted. 

- The author raises concerns about private corporations exerting control over public schools, arguing this undermines democratic processes and community autonomy. 

- Dick’s remains open to future partnerships under new leadership, making their funding a potential election issue in the district. 

glen brown: Ants and Their Unified Purpose https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/ants-and-their-unified-purpose.html 

The article reflects on themes of selflessness, unity, and humanity's moral shortcomings, using an anecdote about ants working together to survive as a metaphor for collective effort and sacrifice. It critiques human indifference and emphasizes the value of mutual aid, drawing comparisons between the behavior of ants and human society.

### Key Points

- The story of ants forming a living pyramid to survive demonstrates their selflessness and unity, contrasting with human tendencies towards individualism and indifference. 

- The author's emotional journey moves from condemnation of the ants to admiration for their discipline, sacrifice, and mutual aid, ultimately leading to self-reflection and critique of human behavior. 

- The anecdote serves as a broader metaphor for humanity's need to prioritize unity and compassion over selfish pursuits. 

- The blog incorporates additional musings on justice, social issues, and reflections on writing and resistance, interspersed with various personal and societal critiques. 

Tell Congress: Don’t Let Linda McMahon Slash Funding for Children, College Students, and Veterans to Fund School Choice.  - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/tell-congress-dont-let-linda-mcmahon-slash-funding-for-children-college-students-and-veterans-to-fund-school-choice/ 

### Key Points

- Linda McMahon, appointed by Donald Trump, has proposed the most severe education budget cuts in U.S. history, eliminating $8.5 billion across 28 programs and consolidating 18 programs into a $2 billion block grant. 

- States are prohibited from using the block grant to fund critical programs such as aid for migrant children, English Language Acquisition grants, community schools, teacher effectiveness initiatives, and services for students with disabilities. 

- Higher education programs face drastic cuts, including a $1,400 reduction in Pell Grants, an 80% cut to Federal Work-Study, elimination of TRIO programs, and defunding of campus childcare programs. 

- $1.67 billion in student college assistance has been eliminated, while funding for federal Charter Schools increased to $500 million. A $5 billion private school voucher scheme is being pushed through Congress under the Educational Choice for Children Act. 

- The proposed budget is described as an attack on public education, aiming to privatize and undermine opportunities for children in America. Advocacy efforts are encouraged to oppose these measures. 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Seattle Schools, Week of June 2-6, 2025 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/06/seattle-schools-week-of-june-2-6-2025.html?spref=tw 

Seattle Schools Community Forum provides updates on Seattle Public Schools' events, issues, and policies for the week of June 2-6, 2025. Key topics include Board meetings, budget hearings, audits, policy changes, and safety concerns.

### Key Points

- The Board will hold an Executive Session on June 2nd to discuss legal matters and a public hearing on the 2025-2026 Budget on June 4th. 

- An internal audit at Ballard High School highlighted concerns about improper handling of student records, recommending stricter file management practices. 

- Approval of an Interlock Agreement with the City of Seattle for Memorial Stadium redevelopment, including revenue-sharing terms and youth education initiatives. 

- Introduction of budget resolutions, a school lunch price increase, and numerous policy changes, including adjustments to public testimony rules and safety policies. 

- Safety concerns from Garfield High School's student survey included poor lighting, vaping, and fights, with suggestions for better monitoring near bathrooms. 

- The Board plans a retreat on June 7th, with no agenda available yet. 

Chall’s Missing STAGES OF READING DEVELOPMENT in the Science of Reading - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2025/06/01/challs-missing-stages-of-reading-development-in-the-science-of-reading/

Nancy Bailey's Education Website Revive, Rally and Recover Public Schools Activism School Curriculum Other Countries Chall’s Missing STAGES OF READING DEVELOPMENT in the Science of Reading June 1, 2025 By Nancy Bailey Leave a Comment Post Views: 19 In a sense, each teacher adds by putting a brick upon another brick in a child’s reading development. And together all build a great structure. ~Jeanne S. Chall, Stages of Reading Development (1983, p. 169) Searching the so-called Science of Reading (SoR) research, one may spot citations from the late Harvard reading Professor Jeanne Chall. Her book, Learning to Read: The Great Debate, examined reading research from 1910 to 1965, showing the importance of phonics, especially for children with reading difficulties and the poor. It became a lightning rod involving debate between the phonics/whole language camps (Rothman, 1990). Today, while

### Key Points

- Jeanne Chall's work highlighted the importance of phonics but also emphasized developmental stages in reading, contrasting with the current push for early reading in kindergarten. 

- Chall's "Stages of Reading Development" suggests formal phonics instruction begins in first grade, not earlier, aligning more with Finland's educational practices. 

- Early reading studies by Chall and others show that children develop reading skills at different rates, and pressuring them to read early can hinder natural development. 

- Chall's Stage 0 (Prereading) focuses on foundational skills like listening, memory, and language development, rather than direct phonics instruction. 

- Chall advocated for enjoyable, developmentally appropriate early learning experiences and criticized the rigid standardization of reading expectations. 

- She emphasized the importance of excellent teachers, individualized progress, and diverse reading methods beyond phonics. 

- Chall believed children learn to read at their own pace, and standardized tests should not dictate their progress. She stressed the need for reading specialists and flexible teaching approaches. 

- Revisiting Chall's developmental reading stages and theories could improve current practices and reduce unnecessary pressure on young learners. 

Testimony concerning the privacy violations of NYC Teenspace | Class Size Matters Testimony concerning the privacy violations of NYC Teenspace | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/testimony-concerning-the-privacy-violations-of-nyc-teenspace/ 

Benefits of Small Classes, Privacy Concerns, and Advocacy Efforts

### Key Points

- Testimony was presented to the NYC Council Health Committee regarding privacy violations related to Talkspace, a platform contracted by the NYC Dept. of Health to provide mental health counseling for teens. 

- Advocacy for the implementation of a multi-year strategy to reduce class sizes in NYC schools, as mandated by a 2022 law. 

- Information about the "Talk out of School" radio show and podcast, which discusses public school issues at local and national levels. 

- Announcement of the Annual Parent Action Conference on June 7, 2025, featuring keynote speaker Jamaal Bowman. 

- Resources and updates provided for parents and advocates, including petitions, surveys, and newsletters about class size and education policies. 

- Recent posts highlight ongoing concerns such as student privacy, DOE’s class size plan, and upcoming events. 

An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294/ref=sr_1_1?

This article discusses Diane Ravitch's upcoming memoir, "An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else," set to be released on October 21, 2025. Ravitch, a historian and former conservative education reform advocate, recounts her ideological shift from supporting standardized testing and privatization to advocating for public schools and addressing systemic inequality in education. The book blends personal reflections with decades of research, making a compelling case for greater investment in public education.

### Key Points

- Diane Ravitch's memoir explores her ideological transformation from a proponent of conservative education reforms to a critic of privatization and standardized testing. 

- The book highlights her belief that poverty, not failing schools or bad teachers, is the root cause of educational inequality. 

- Ravitch shares her personal and professional journey, including her government service and advocacy for public schools. 

- The memoir combines personal anecdotes with research to argue for systemic changes in education, including better support for professional teachers. 

- Published by Columbia University Press, the book is 240 pages long and will be available in multiple formats. 

Big Education Ape: WE DON'T DO KINGS: NATIONWIDE PROTESTS TO RAIN ON TRUMP'S $45M BIRTHDAY MILITARY PARADE #NoKingsDay #DefendDemocracy #AmericaStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/we-dont-do-kings-nationwide-protests-to.html 

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

5-31-25    

The article is a compilation of various educational, political, and social topics, including critiques of policies, reform initiatives, societal challenges, and reflections on democracy, education, and climate change. It features discussions on Trump’s presidency, school voucher systems, class size reduction in NYC schools, climate change impacts, and Diane Ravitch's ideological transformation in her upcoming memoir.

### Key Points  

- The Trump administration inflicted chaos on prestigious U.S. science agencies through layoffs, budget cuts, and political interference, undermining research and morale.   

- Right-wing media exaggerated claims about Biden’s mental state, contrasting his achievements with Trump’s erratic presidency.   

- A Venezuelan high school student, Dylan, was detained by ICE despite entering the U.S. legally, sparking protests and legal battles.   

- A federal judge restored the visa of a Russian scientist detained for minor customs violations, raising concerns about academic freedom.   

- The article critiques systemic failures under Trump, emphasizing the need for reforms to uphold democracy and combat inequality.   

- Ted Cruz proposed a federal voucher program and investment accounts for newborns, but critics questioned their effectiveness and equity.   

- Diane Ravitch’s memoir outlines her shift from supporting privatization to advocating for public education and addressing systemic inequality.   

- NYC schools are reducing class sizes by hiring 3,700 teachers and investing $400 million, following state law mandates.   

- The UFT elections in 2025 highlighted internal conflicts, with ARISE focusing on positive campaigns and Unity facing criticism for unethical practices.   

- Teacher Tom advocates for play-based education to foster intrinsic motivation and critiques traditional systems that rely on rewards and punishments.   

- New legislation aims to expand school choice through tax credits, but critics warn of resource diversion from public schools.   

- Penny Schwinn’s confirmation hearing for a federal role raised concerns about her financial dealings and MNPS budget debates.   

- Seattle Public Schools faced criticism over governance, nepotism, and school closures, with Director Liza Rankin’s op-ed sparking public outrage.   

- Climate change forecasts predict intensified extreme weather and rising sea levels, with global warming breaking records.   

- The "Science of Reading" movement is critiqued as perpetuating manufactured crises and failing to address real educational needs.