Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-27-25
6-27-25
Bill Moyers, a Great American, Is Dead https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/26/bill-moyers-a-great-american-died/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Bill Moyers, a significant journalist and former advisor to President Johnson, died at 91.
- Moyers was praised for his moral integrity and dedication to a just world.
- Known for his thoughtful interviews, Moyers inspired audiences with his intellectual curiosity.
- He played a crucial role in bringing complex discussions to the public, such as conversations about Bible stories with various religious leaders.
The NY Times: DOGE Lied About Social Security https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/26/the-ny-times-doge-lied-about-social-security/ via @dianeravitch
- The New York Times exposed how DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency), led by Elon Musk, falsely claimed widespread Social Security fraud, despite lacking evidence.
- DOGE misinterpreted data and spread misinformation, alleging millions of dead people were receiving Social Security benefits, which audits disproved.
- Elon Musk and DOGE gained access to sensitive personal data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) after a Supreme Court ruling, raising privacy concerns.
- DOGE’s actions led to mass firings and resignations at the SSA, significantly reducing its workforce and creating operational challenges.
- Musk accused Social Security of being a “Ponzi scheme” and used his influence to push Trump administration narratives, despite internal memos debunking fraud claims.
- DOGE prioritized political goals and data access over improving the SSA, with Musk’s team embedding inexperienced staff into critical roles.
- The long-term impact of DOGE’s cost-cutting and data access efforts remains unclear, but concerns over misuse of personal data persist.
Dr. Leana Wen: Where to Find Accurate Vaccine Information After RFK Jr.'s Coup https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/26/dr-leana-wen-where-to-find-accurate-vaccine-information-after-rfk-jr-s-coup/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Dr. Leana Wen criticizes Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s actions as Health and Human Services Secretary, including replacing independent vaccine experts with skeptics.
- Kennedy’s leadership has led to changes in CDC vaccine recommendations, undermining public trust in federal health agencies.
- Dr. Wen advises consulting government sites like the CDC, FDA, and NIH while they remain mostly reliable but also recommends independent sources for vaccine information.
- Recommended resources include the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, ACOG, NFID, CHOP Vaccine Education Center, Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, University of Minnesota’s Vaccine Integrity Project, and others.
- Independent experts and organizations are stepping up efforts to provide credible vaccine guidance, reflecting the need to rebuild trust in public health leadership.
Ohio: Judge Rules that EdChoice Vouchers Violate State Constitution https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/26/ohio-judge-rules-that-edchoice-vouchers-violate-state-constitution/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- In 2022, a lawsuit was filed against Ohio's EdChoice voucher program by school districts, parents, and public school advocates, claiming it violated the state constitution.
- Judge Jaiza Page ruled that the EdChoice program is unconstitutional as it diverts public funds to private, often religious schools, violating the Ohio Constitution's mandate to fund public schools.
- The voucher system was found to reduce funding for public schools, increase segregation, and provide unchecked financial benefits to private schools, particularly religious ones.
- Judge Page criticized the claim that vouchers are "scholarships," stating they primarily benefit private schools rather than students.
- The program's funding mechanism was designed to extract money directly from public school budgets, further exacerbating inequities.
- The ruling highlighted that private schools, not parents, have ultimate control over student admissions, undermining the claim of parental choice.
- The decision concluded that the voucher program has harmed Ohio's public school system, benefiting private schools at the expense of 1.5 million public school students since its inception in 1997.
Big Education Ape: DEMOCRATIC SOCIALISM (SERVICE-ISM): THE COOL COUSIN OF CAPITALISM https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/democratic-socialism-service-ism-cool.html
### Key Points
- Bill Moyers, a prominent figure, passed away at 91, leaving a legacy of public service.
- Democratic socialism is described as a mix of capitalism and socialism, aiming for fairness and shared prosperity.
- America already incorporates socialist elements in public services, sparking debates on how much socialism is desirable.
- Trickle-down economics has failed to reduce inequality, leading to a widening wealth gap and strained public services.
- Zohran Mamdani’s NYC mayoral primary win reflects a generational shift toward bold democratic socialist policies.
- Mamdani’s platform includes rent freezes, free public transportation, universal healthcare, and taxing the wealthy to fund public services.
- Grassroots organizing and bold ideas are pivotal in driving systemic change, as seen in Mamdani’s victory.
Big Education Ape: ZOHRAN MAMDANI WINS NYC DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY: A POLITICAL EARTHQUAKE OR JUST A TREMOR? https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/zohran-mamdani-wins-nyc-democratic.html
Zohran Mamdani, a young democratic socialist, has won the NYC Democratic mayoral primary, defeating political heavyweight Andrew Cuomo. This victory is seen as a potential shift towards progressive politics within the Democratic Party, challenging the traditional centrist approach. Mamdani's campaign focused on issues like rent freezes and taxing the wealthy, resonating with younger and working-class voters. Cuomo's loss reflects a growing appetite for change among NYC voters, and Mamdani's win may signal a broader shift in American politics.
### Key Points
- Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist, won the NYC Democratic mayoral primary, defeating Andrew Cuomo.
- Mamdani's campaign focused on progressive issues like rent freezes and taxing the wealthy, appealing to younger voters.
- Cuomo's defeat is seen as a sign of a shift towards progressive politics within the Democratic Party.
- Mamdani's victory challenges the centrist narrative that moving too far left would alienate moderate voters.
- The general election will be competitive, with Mamdani facing Curtis Sliwa and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams.
Big Education Ape: ZOHRAN MAMDANI WINS BIG WITH NEW BOLD IDEAS FOR SERVICES IN NYC: WHAT NEW PUBLIC SERVICES ARE YOU CRAVING? https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/zohran-mamdani-wins-big-with-new-bold.html
Big Education Ape's article discusses the impact of Zohran Mamdani's victory in the NYC Democratic primary, highlighting his bold proposals for public services. The article explores various public service ideas that could improve life in the U.S., emphasizing the need for political will and public support to implement these changes.
### Key Points
- Zohran Mamdani's win in the NYC Democratic primary is attributed to his advocacy for bold public service ideas like rent freezes, free public buses, and taxing the ultra-wealthy.
- The article proposes a wishlist of public services, including universal healthcare, free public transportation, and publicly-owned grocery stores, aiming to make life in the U.S. more equitable.
- Additional suggestions include rent control, affordable housing, subsidized utilities, job creation programs, free education, cultural services, food security programs, and climate action services.
- The article encourages readers to express their priorities for government services and engage with elected representatives to advocate for these changes.
Federal Voucher Program Hidden in “One Big Beautiful Bill” Would Lure Investors with Lucrative Tax Shelter https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/06/26/federal-voucher-program-hidden-in-one-big-beautiful-bill-would-lure-investors-with-lucrative-tax-shelter/ via @janresseger
Teacher Tom: We are All Self-Educated https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/06/we-are-all-self-educated.html
- The author reflects on how most of their practical knowledge and skills were self-taught through life experiences rather than formal education.
- Early learning experiences, such as using the bathroom and making coffee, were acquired through observation and practice rather than structured teaching.
- The author discusses learning to use technology and computers through experimentation and peer collaboration rather than formal training.
- Writing skills were developed over time through practice, reading, and unlearning rigid school-taught methods.
- The author emphasizes that learning happens best in environments with freedom, love, and opportunities to explore, rather than rigid curricula.
- The blog focuses on play-based learning, showing how children and adults learn through life experiences and interactions.
- The author critiques the traditional education system, arguing that real learning is often extracurricular and self-directed.
Zohran, Socialism, and Health Care https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/zohran-socialism-and-health-care?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
Upgrade to paid Zohran, Socialism, and Health Care
- The author critiques the extreme right's opposition to progressive policies like rent freezes, a $30/hour minimum wage, and universal health care, emphasizing the flaws in the U.S. health care system.
- Universal health care is often dismissed as radical socialism, benefiting corporations like Aetna while neglecting the well-being of citizens.
- Historical failures of health care reform, such as Bill Clinton's compromises, are discussed, along with the influence of parasitical health companies on political figures.
- The author criticizes union leadership, particularly UFT leadership, for failing to advocate for members’ interests and aligning with privatization efforts, such as Medicare Advantage.
- Public institutions like libraries and schools are highlighted as successful socialist programs, with the author opposing privatization in education and health care.
- The piece calls for local and national change, advocating for progressive leaders like Zohran Mamdani to challenge the current broken system.
The Education Reform Zombie Loses (Again) https://open.substack.com/pub/educationwars/p/the-education-reform-zombie-loses?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
### Key Points
- Whitney Tilson, a proponent of education reform, suffered a significant defeat in the NYC mayoral race, receiving only 0.8% of the vote.
- Influential Democrats continue to advocate for policies like charter schools, school vouchers, and weakening teachers unions, despite their declining popularity and electoral failures.
- Polls show Democrats maintaining an advantage on education issues, countering the narrative that they have lost ground to Republicans.
- The "abundance movement," which emphasizes reducing bureaucracy and promoting charter schools, is connected to Obama-era education reforms and is supported by wealthy donors.
- Historical efforts within the Democratic Party to prioritize moderate suburban voters over unions and working-class interests are being revisited, but these policies face greater resistance today.
2025–26 School Nutrition Programs AR List - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/snparlist20252026.asp
glen brown: His "Reversals, Betrayals, Lies and Bullying" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/his-reversals-betrayals-lies-and.html
- The article critiques Donald Trump's history of dishonesty, deal-breaking, and lack of credibility, highlighting his actions such as breaking agreements with contractors, violating his fiduciary duties, and undermining international treaties like the Iran nuclear deal.
- Trump's behavior has eroded U.S. credibility on the global stage, making allies distrustful and adversaries more emboldened, leading to weakened diplomatic relations and reliance on hard power.
- The loss of trust in the U.S. under Trump's leadership has pushed allies to strengthen their own defenses and consider alternative partnerships, while adversaries like China and Russia exploit the situation.
- The article emphasizes the long-term damage to America's soft power and global standing due to Trump's policies and actions.
- The blog encourages resistance to oppression and promotes critical thinking about political and social issues.
Class Size in NYC schools; Where are we now & where are we going? | Class Size | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/class-size-in-nyc-schools-where-are-we-now-where-are-we-going/
Class Size in NYC Schools: Current Status and Future Plans
- A briefing at the Parent Action Conference on June 7, 2025, discussed NYC public schools' class size situation and the Department of Education's (DOE) deficiencies in complying with the 2022 class size law, which mandates smaller classes by September 2028.
- The "Skinny" Award Dinner on June 18, 2025, will honor Dr. Betty Rosa for her advocacy for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in public schools.
- A radio show and podcast, "Talk out of School," airs Sundays at 7 PM EST, discussing issues affecting public schools locally and nationally.
- A petition is available urging NYC to implement a comprehensive strategy to reduce class sizes as intended by the law.
- The 2025 Parent Action Conference, featuring keynote speaker Jamaal Bowman, was a success.
- The importance of class size is highlighted through videos and FAQs, emphasizing the 2022 legislation requiring smaller classes in NYC schools.
- Opportunities to support the initiative include donations, signing petitions, attending events, and subscribing to updates.
CURMUDGUCATION: Mattel Promises AI Toys https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/mattel-promises-ai-toys.html
### Key Points
- Mattel partners with OpenAI to develop AI-powered toys and tools for productivity.
- The collaboration aims to enhance play experiences and broaden brand reach using AI.
- Concerns raised about AI toys potentially leading to surveillance and data misuse.
- Speculation about AI-enhanced versions of Barbie and Hot Wheels, with potential ethical and safety risks.
- Criticism of the initiative as unnecessary and potentially problematic for both children and Mattel employees.
Schools Matter: Andy Ogles Turns Christofascist Disciple of Steve Berger http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/06/andy-ogles-turns-christofascist.html
### Key Points
- Steve Berger operates a D.C. nonprofit aimed at influencing national policy and discipling lawmakers, with some members of Congress reportedly living in his Capitol Hill townhouse.
- Rep. Andy Ogles, known for his allegiance to Trump and controversial actions, has been associated with Berger’s operation and has faced scandals, including inflated resume claims and an FBI investigation into campaign finance violations.
- Wealthy donor Lee Beaman, who owns the townhouse, has played a significant role in Ogles’ political rise and has collaborated with Berger on policy advocacy.
- Ethical concerns arise regarding lawmakers living in the townhouse, as House rules prohibit improper gifts like rent discounts, though Berger and Beaman’s specific roles in policymaking remain unclear.
Schools Matter article investigates the activities of Steve Berger, a conservative evangelical pastor, and his influence on right-wing lawmakers through a secretive operation in Washington, D.C. The report highlights Berger’s Capitol Hill townhouse, which appears to function as a residence for conservative politicians, including Rep. Andy Ogles and House Speaker Mike Johnson, raising ethical concerns. It also delves into Ogles’ controversial political career, his connection to wealthy donor Lee Beaman, and allegations of misconduct, including resume inflation and campaign finance violations.
### Key Points
- Steve Berger operates a D.C. nonprofit aimed at influencing national policy and discipling lawmakers, with some members of Congress reportedly living in his Capitol Hill townhouse.
- Rep. Andy Ogles, known for his allegiance to Trump and controversial actions, has been associated with Berger’s operation and has faced scandals, including inflated resume claims and an FBI investigation into campaign finance violations.
- Wealthy donor Lee Beaman, who owns the townhouse, has played a significant role in Ogles’ political rise and has collaborated with Berger on policy advocacy.
- Ethical concerns arise regarding lawmakers living in the townhouse, as House rules prohibit improper gifts like rent discounts, though Berger and Beaman’s specific roles in policymaking remain unclear.
Schools Matter: Six Year Old Honduran Boy In ICE Detention Misses Leukemia Treatment http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/06/six-year-old-honduran-boy-in-ice.html
### Key Points
- A Honduran mother and her two children, seeking asylum in the U.S., were detained by ICE agents at an immigration courthouse in Los Angeles under a new directive targeting courthouses.
- The family was detained in a traumatic manner, with agents displaying weapons, causing fear and distress, particularly for the 6-year-old boy who wet himself and was left in soiled clothing for hours.
- The family was transported to the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas, where they have been detained for weeks. The 6-year-old boy, diagnosed with leukemia, missed critical medical treatment for his worsening condition.
Ohio Voucher Scheme Ruled Unconstitutional, by @TheAndySpears https://open.substack.com/pub/theeducationreport/p/ohio-voucher-scheme-ruled-unconstitutional?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
- An Ohio judge declared the state's EdChoice school voucher program unconstitutional, marking a significant victory for public school advocates and taxpayers.
- This decision challenges nearly $1 billion in state spending on voucher programs, though an appeal is expected.
- The ruling aligns with broader national debates over school voucher programs, as similar measures have been rejected in other states like Missouri, Utah, and North Dakota.
- Public reactions highlight concerns about privatization of education and its impact on democracy and public school systems.
Is Resigning the Right Thing to Do? https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/06/26/is-resigning-the-right-thing-to-do/
### Key Points
- Resignation has become a critical and urgent issue in 2025, with many justice-centered leaders stepping away or being forced out due to systemic pressures and political interference.
- The resignation of the entire Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board and other professionals highlights acts of conscience against politicization and oppression, particularly in fields like justice and education.
- Resignation can be a dignified refusal to participate in harm, but it is often coerced through hostile environments, especially for marginalized leaders.
- Being fired, while traumatic, can serve as a protest and force institutions to confront their discomfort with principled leadership.
- Leaders can resist systemic inequities by building coalitions, documenting injustices, and continuing the fight for justice even outside formal roles.
- Resignation, firing, or staying within toxic systems does not define failure; rather, the failure lies with institutions that force such choices.
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!6-26-25
The article is a compilation of various educational, political, and societal topics, including updates on public education, political movements, school funding issues, and the integration of technology and media in classrooms. It also highlights progressive victories, challenges to democracy, and the importance of community advocacy.
### Key Points
- Bill Moyers, a prominent figure in U.S. politics and journalism, passed away at 91.
- Curtis Yarvin, a controversial philosopher, advocates for dismantling democracy in favor of autocratic governance, influencing tech and political elites.
- Public opposition in Florida led to the withdrawal of a GOP proposal to cut funding for AP and IB programs, showcasing the power of collective advocacy.
- Heather Cox Richardson raises concerns about Donald Trump’s mental health following erratic tweets and foreign policy claims.
- Zohran Mamdani's victory in the NYC Democratic primary signals a shift towards progressive politics, focusing on rent freezes and taxing the wealthy.
- Integrating films into classroom lessons can enhance learning but requires careful planning and active facilitation.
- Kentucky faces a $1.3 billion school funding shortfall, with inflation and inadequate teacher pay worsening the crisis.
- Movement and play-based learning are essential for children’s cognitive and emotional development, challenging traditional schooling methods.
- Democrats need a pro-democracy agenda to counter autocratic tendencies, including reforms on voting rights, Supreme Court expansion, and civil rights.
- A third of gifted students feel stigmatized, struggling with social and emotional challenges despite academic success.
- AI systems are limited by the quality of their training data, and their outputs are often biased or flawed.
- Far-right tactics aim to provoke outrage, but strategic, organized responses focused on justice and democracy are more effective.
- Republican-led restrictions on race discussions in higher education threaten academic freedom and democracy.
- Community schools aim to address broader community needs but face challenges in proving academic impact.
- Public advocacy has been effective in resisting privatization and supporting public education initiatives.
