Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
7-1-25

The New Republic: The GOP Plot to Un-Educate America https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/30/the-new-republic-the-gop-plot-to-un-educate-america/ via @dianeravitch 

This article discusses the GOP's proposed budget bill, which threatens to dismantle the U.S. student aid system and reorient higher education toward elitism and authoritarian goals. It highlights the severe consequences for working- and middle-class families, the potential collapse of public universities, and the ideological motivations behind these changes.

### Key Points

- The GOP's budget bill, tied to "Project 2025," seeks to eliminate student loan relief and reduce access to federal student aid, targeting low- and middle-income families. 

- The bill would increase student debt burdens, push many out of higher education, and restrict opportunities for public service careers. 

- Proposed policies include extending repayment terms, cutting Pell Grants, and reducing loan forgiveness programs, disproportionately affecting underserved communities. 

- The bill aims to impose debt as a tool of social control, discouraging critical thinking and reinforcing elitism in higher education. 

- Historical parallels are drawn with Reagan-era policies that undermined public education and increased reliance on student debt. 

- Democrats are urged to articulate a vision for free, universal higher education to counteract the GOP's agenda. 

Indiana Spends $497 Million on Vouchers, Most for Affluent Kids in Private Schools https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/30/indiana-spends-497-million-on-vouchers-most-for-wealthy-kids-in-private-schools/ via @dianeravitch 

Indiana’s voucher program has expanded significantly, costing $497 million, with most funds benefiting affluent families whose children attend private schools. The program, originally intended to offer school choice, now subsidizes students from families earning up to $230,000 annually, far above the state’s median income. Critics argue this undermines the state constitution’s mandate for a uniform public school system, as the program primarily supports private and religious schools.

### Key Points

- Indiana’s voucher program has grown to $497 million, mainly aiding affluent families in private schools. 

- Originally launched in 2011 with 4,000 students, the program now supports 76,000 students and is expected to grow further. 

- Income limits for eligibility were removed, allowing families with incomes up to $230,000 to qualify for vouchers. 

- Critics highlight that the program violates the state constitution’s requirement for a uniform, free public school system. 

John Merrow: It's Not Enough to Oppose Trump. What Are We For? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/30/john-merrow-its-not-enough-to-oppose-trump-what-are-we-for/ via @dianeravitch 

John Merrow, former PBS education correspondent, reflects on the importance of defining positive principles for the Democratic Party beyond opposing Donald Trump. He proposes three pillars: prioritizing the public good, safeguarding individual rights, and rebuilding America after Trump. Merrow emphasizes unity, civic education, infrastructure investment, fiscal responsibility, realistic immigration policies, and global alliances. He also suggests mandatory National Service to foster unity and national purpose.

### Key Points

- John Merrow calls for the Democratic Party to define its principles, focusing on "The Public Good," "Individual Rights," and "Rebuilding America after Trump." 

- Supporting public institutions and spaces like schools, libraries, and transportation is crucial for promoting the public good. 

- Individual rights, such as free speech, freedom of worship, and women’s rights, must be upheld, with healthcare considered a fundamental right. 

- Rebuilding post-Trump requires addressing national division, promoting unity through National Service, and moving away from identity politics. 

- Suggestions include improving civic education, modernizing infrastructure, implementing fair taxation, adopting sensible immigration policies, and rebuilding international alliances. 

- The blog highlights the need for a strong coalition to repair societal and political damage, emphasizing compassion, respect, and tolerance. 

What Is Trump Afraid of? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/30/what-is-trump-afraid-of/ 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

- Embracing diversity requires confidence, faith in others, and acceptance of different perspectives. Those who reject diversity often harbor fear and prejudice, which can lead to hatred. Compassion, respect, and tolerance are essential for embracing diversity. 

- The blog is a platform for discussing various topics related to education, democracy, and social issues, including extremism, fascism, Trump, education reform, and diversity. 

- Recent posts cover topics like Trump's fears, opposition to Trump, Indiana's spending on vouchers, and the GOP's attempts to undermine education in America. 

- The blog archives contain extensive posts dating back to 2012, showcasing a long history of discussions on education and related subjects. 

- The blog features categories such as accountability, privatization, unions, standardized testing, and more, reflecting a wide range of educational and political issues. 

- The blog has a significant following, with over 42 million hits, and offers subscription options for readers. 

Teacher in a Strange Land: Boys | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/boys 

### Key Points

- The blog reflects on historical and current gender dynamics in education, highlighting past efforts to encourage girls in classrooms and the ongoing challenges boys face in schools. 

- Boys' declining dominance in education and professional fields, such as law and medicine, is discussed, alongside strategies some schools use to re-engage boys, such as reducing rules and emphasizing hands-on responsibilities. 

- Concerns are raised about societal influences on boys, including the rise of harmful "incel culture," negative role models, and a lack of strong, positive male figures. 

- The blog critiques broader societal and political trends impacting young men, such as gender gaps in voting behavior and the normalization of toxic masculinity in leadership. 

- The author emphasizes the need to teach boys responsibility, integrity, and empathy through real-world tasks and positive role modeling, rather than perpetuating outdated gender norms. 

CURMUDGUCATION: Lewis Black on AI in Education https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/lewis-black-on-ai-in-education.html 

Lewis Black on AI in Education Just in case you missed this bit from the Daily Show. As always with Black, language my mother would not appreciate. 

### Key Points

- The blog post references a segment by Lewis Black on AI in education, which was featured on the Daily Show, noting its use of strong language. 

- The author, Peter Greene, highlights his writing on education topics for Forbes and The Progressive, encouraging readers to explore these platforms for more insights. 

- The Network for Public Education Blog is recommended as a source for daily education commentary, along with an invitation to follow the author on various platforms. 

- A range of education-related topics is discussed in the blog, including AI in classrooms, teacher shortages, and the role of social-emotional learning in schools. 

- The blog also critiques AI classroom guides and discusses broader education reform issues. 

- Additional resources and blogs are listed, covering diverse education perspectives and news. 

Teacher Tom: "I Can't Let You Push People" https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/06/i-cant-let-you-push-people.html 

Teacher Tom reflects on a conflict between two preschoolers, emphasizing the importance of avoiding punishment in favor of fostering accountability and making amends. He highlights how punishment can lead to denial and inhibit genuine regret, while regret itself can be a powerful teacher if it leads to actions of reconciliation. The story concludes with a touching moment of forgiveness between the children, showcasing the value of emotional growth and learning through play-based approaches.

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom avoids punishment, focusing on accountability and making amends after a child pushes another. 

- Punishment often leads to denial, making it harder for individuals to acknowledge harm and take responsibility. 

- Regret is valuable for learning and growth but must be directed toward making amends rather than fostering guilt. 

- The conflict resolves with a heartfelt moment of regret and forgiveness between the children, illustrating emotional development through play-based learning. 

glen brown: Kristi Noem's Donations/ VA Contracts... https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/propublica.html 

This article delves into a variety of topics, including political controversies, social justice issues, and personal reflections, with a focus on ethical concerns, government policies, and societal challenges.

### Key Points

- Kristi Noem allegedly received $80,000 from a dark money group during her tenure as South Dakota governor, which was not disclosed in federal forms, raising ethical concerns. 

- Senators demanded an investigation into the cancellation of VA contracts under the Trump administration, citing improper use of AI tools for decision-making. 

- Tennessee payday lenders exploit legal loopholes, trapping borrowers in cycles of debt with high interest rates (e.g., 279.5%). 

- Broader reflections on political corruption, social justice, and systemic issues, including education reform, healthcare, and environmental concerns, are emphasized throughout the blog. 

- Philosophical musings on the writer's role in resisting oppression and societal illusions, quoting Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus. 

glen brown: "Tens of thousands of the world’s poorest children will be sickened by some of the deadliest infectious diseases known to humankind. Some of them will die..." because of him https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/tens-of-thousands-of-worlds-poorest.html 

Glen Brown's blog post critiques the Trump administration's health policies, specifically the actions of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The article highlights Kennedy's anti-vaccine stance, including the decision to withdraw U.S. funding from Gavi, a global vaccine alliance, and to overhaul the CDC's vaccine advisory committee with anti-vaccine proponents. These actions are described as dangerous, undermining public health efforts, and risking the lives of children worldwide.

### Key Points

- The Trump administration, through Robert F. Kennedy Jr., announced the U.S. withdrawal of funding from Gavi, jeopardizing vaccines for the world’s poorest children. 

- Kennedy falsely claimed Gavi ignored vaccine safety, continuing his anti-vaccine conspiracy campaign. 

- Kennedy replaced the CDC’s vaccine advisory committee with anti-vaccine advocates, casting doubt on established childhood vaccine schedules. 

- Public health experts and organizations, including Bill Gates and Tom Frieden, condemned Kennedy’s actions, emphasizing their harm to global health. 

- The article concludes that Trump’s HHS cannot be trusted for scientific guidance due to its anti-science policies. 

The Rich Get Lavish Weddings and Tax Breaks. We Lose Education, Healthcare, Food, and Freedom – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/06/30/the-rich-get-lavish-weddings-and-tax-breaks-we-lose-education-healthcare-food-and-freedom/ 

The article critiques the distraction caused by Jeff Bezos' lavish wedding from significant political developments, particularly the passage of a controversial bill in the U.S. that threatens public welfare and education. It highlights the severe implications of the bill, including cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and public education, while providing tax breaks to the wealthy. The article calls for public awareness and action against this bill, emphasizing the need for civic engagement over passive consumption of celebrity news.

### Key Points

- Jeff Bezos' extravagant wedding has distracted the public from the passage of a harmful bill in the U.S. 

- The bill proposes massive cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and healthcare, disproportionately affecting marginalized groups. 

- It introduces a $5 billion national school voucher program, diverting funds from public to private education, with little accountability. 

- The bill is seen as part of a broader strategy to overwhelm and distract the public, allowing unpopular policies to pass unnoticed. 

- The article urges readers to stay informed and active, emphasizing the existential stakes of the bill's implications on democracy and education. 

Weekend Quotables https://open.substack.com/pub/klonsky/p/weekend-quotables-d57?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false

### Key Points

- Israeli soldiers reportedly fired live ammunition at unarmed crowds near food distribution sites in Gaza, resulting in over 549 deaths and 4,000 injuries since May 27, 2025. Military prosecution is investigating potential war crimes. 

- Jewish Voices for Peace (JVP) activists are on a hunger strike to protest U.S. support for Israel and the Gaza blockade, calling Israel's actions genocide and urging an end to U.S. military aid. They are hosting teach-ins, vigils, and rallies in Chicago. 

- Commentary highlights the moral crisis surrounding Israel’s actions in Gaza, with critics likening it to historical atrocities and questioning global inaction. 

- The refusal of major media outlets like The New York Times to run ads calling out the alleged genocide in Gaza has sparked backlash. 

- Broader political commentary includes criticisms of wealth inequality, U.S. legislation, and the moral responsibilities of global leaders. 

Education Research Report: Who funds STEM PhD training https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/06/who-funds-stem-phd-training.html 

Education Research Report: Funding STEM PhD Training  

### Key Points  

- The U.S. federal government is the largest source of financial and in-kind support for STEM PhD training in America.   

- The study examines funding sources for PhD training, including government, industry, and philanthropic support, as well as their distribution across universities and fields.   

- It highlights the organizations and universities that fund and train the most PhDs in critical technology areas like AI, quantum information technology, and biotechnology.   

- Evidence shows that increased government funding for PhD trainees directly correlates with a proportional rise in PhD production.   

- Public datasets are provided, reporting PhD graduates by critical technology area and source of support. 

Education Research Report: The Net Benefits of Raising Bachelor’s Degree Completion https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-net-benefits-of-raising-bachelors.html

Education Research Report: The Net Benefits of Raising Bachelor’s Degree Completion

### Key Points

- The City University of New York (CUNY) launched the Accelerate, Complete, and Engage (ACE) program in 2015 to improve college graduation rates, resulting in a nearly 12 percentage point increase in graduation rates five years after college entry.   

- A study estimates the long-term net benefits of the program, including increased earnings, better health, and reduced public transfer costs, amounting to over $48,000 per participant over a lifetime.   

- When including intergenerational benefits for children of participants from higher-earning families, the net social benefits rise to over $130,000 per participant.   

- The results depend on assumptions about whether the graduation impact persists or if the control group eventually catches up; however, the net benefits remain positive under conservative scenarios. 

Education Research Report: Poverty in Childhood: How Duration and Timing Affect Educational Outcomes https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/06/poverty-in-childhood-how-duration-and.html 

### Key Points

- The study examines the impact of net worth poverty (NWP) during childhood on educational outcomes, specifically high school graduation and college attendance. 

- NWP is more prevalent and enduring than income poverty among American children, negatively affecting educational achievements. 

- The effects of NWP are more significant for college attendance than high school graduation, likely due to the higher resource demands of college. 

- Children exposed to NWP for at least four waves (31% of the sample) experienced the most pronounced negative effects. 

- The timing of NWP relative to developmental stages did not influence outcomes; children were at risk regardless of when they experienced NWP. 

Education Research Report: Full-day kindergarten expansions and the growth in employment of mothers https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/06/full-day-kindergarten-expansions-and.html

### Key Points

- The study examines the impact of full-day kindergarten expansions on mothers' employment and family childcare expenses, using data from 1992 to 2022 and state-level policy changes. 

- Full-day kindergarten acts as an implicit childcare subsidy, significantly influencing parental labor supply and reducing childcare costs. 

- The research finds that full-day kindergarten expansions contributed to up to 24% of the growth in employment for mothers with kindergarten-aged children during the studied period. 

Three Questions about the Mississippi Reading "Miracle"? https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/06/30/three-questions-about-the-mississippi-reading-miracle/ via @plthomasEdD 

Three Questions about the Mississippi Reading “Miracle”?  

### Key Points

- Mississippi has retained 9,000–12,000 K-3 students annually since 2014 despite implementing the Science of Reading (SOR) and grade retention policies, raising questions about the claimed 95% proficiency target of SOR advocates.   

- The state’s grade 4 NAEP reading score improvements, labeled a “miracle,” have not addressed the persistent achievement gaps related to race and socioeconomic status, unchanged since 1998.   

- Mississippi’s grade 8 NAEP reading scores remain in the bottom 25% of states, even as grade 4 scores have improved, highlighting potential limitations or inconsistencies in the reforms’ long-term impact.   

- Research suggests that short-term test score increases linked to comprehensive reforms, including grade retention, do not necessarily translate to scalable or sustainable success. This raises concerns about other states adopting similar policies without sufficient evidence. 

Holding Steady at 49, by @TheAndySpears https://open.substack.com/pub/theeducationreport/p/holding-steady-at-49?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The article discusses the disappointment of public education advocates in Arizona following the conclusion of the 2025 legislative session. Despite the passage of a state budget, the budget fails to prioritize public education, keeping Arizona ranked 49th in the nation for education funding. Advocates are frustrated with the lack of reforms, particularly concerning the universal voucher program and tax cuts that have reduced state revenues. This outcome is seen as a missed opportunity for improving education for Arizona's children.

### Key Points

- Arizona's legislature concluded its 2025 session without significant improvements to public education funding, maintaining the state's low national ranking. 

- The budget prevents further cuts to public schools but does not address the underlying issues of inadequate funding and the controversial voucher program. 

- Advocates express concern over missed opportunities for educational reform, citing the state's long-standing refusal to adequately support public education. 

Billionaires Support Corrupted Science of Reading | tultican https://tultican.com/2025/07/01/billionaires-support-corrupted-science-of-reading/ 

Elected school boards are foundational to American democracy, but the "science of reading" (SoR) movement, heavily financed by billionaires, is criticized as a fraudulent initiative. Originating from the 1997 National Reading Panel report, SoR is promoted through manipulated data and selective success stories, such as the "Mississippi Miracle," which relies on policies like third-grade retention to inflate results. Critics argue that SoR serves corporate interests, undermines democratic education, and shifts control from universities to privatized entities.

### Key Points

- The "science of reading" is criticized as a fraudulent approach, originating from a 1997 congressional panel report and heavily promoted by billionaire-funded entities. 

- The "Mississippi Miracle" is highlighted as a manipulated success story, relying on high third-grade retention rates to temporarily boost reading scores, which later diminish by eighth grade. 

- Small districts like Marietta City, Allegany County, and DC Prep are used as case studies to promote SoR, despite their statistically insignificant sample sizes. 

- SoR-aligned products and curricula, such as LETRS and Wit and Wisdom, are marketed for profit, but their effectiveness in improving student outcomes remains questionable. 

- Critics argue that SoR is part of a broader billionaire agenda to privatize education, strip universities of influence, and erode democratic control of schools. 

House Bill 82 Passes! Awaiting Governor’s Signature! https://exceptionaldelaware.com/2025/06/30/house-bill-82-passes-awaiting-governors-signature/ via @ExcptlDelaware 

### Key Points

- The Delaware House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 82 with Senate Amendment 1, requiring school board members to reside in their district for 75% of the year. 

- The bill addresses issues like those involving Dr. Naveed Baqir, who has not met this residency requirement since 2023. 

- Once signed by Governor Matt Meyer, the legislation will take effect immediately, potentially impacting Baqir’s position on the Christina Board of Education before his planned resignation on July 15th. 

- The bill ensures that similar violations will not occur in Delaware traditional school district boards in the future. 

- State Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton played a significant role in pushing this legislation forward. 

Choosing Democracy: They Will Not Kill Us Without a Fight https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/06/they-will-not-kill-us-without-fight.html 

They Will Not Kill Us Without A Fight

### Key Points

- Moral leaders and activists protested against proposed healthcare cuts in Washington, DC, highlighting the potential deaths of 51,000 people if the Senate's healthcare bill passes. 

- 38 activists were arrested for peacefully demonstrating, praying, and blocking streets near the Capitol. 

- Public testimonies were shared by individuals like Chris Shumake and Elaina Hurley, emphasizing the devastating impact of Medicaid cuts on vulnerable communities. 

- The bill also includes provisions for increased funding to enforce immigration policies, raising concerns about human rights abuses. 

- Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has acknowledged the harm Medicaid cuts could cause, particularly to rural hospitals, despite his party's stance. 

- Activists urged citizens to contact their representatives and demand attention to the voices of those affected by the proposed legislation. 

- The movement calls for collective action to oppose the bill, emphasizing the moral responsibility to protect lives and communities. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

6-30-25 

https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_01143882878.html

The article is a compilation of various blog posts and reports discussing education, politics, societal issues, and systemic challenges in the United States. Topics include public education funding, immigration enforcement policies, Supreme Court decisions, privatization efforts, and the influence of AI on education. The discussions highlight equity concerns, the erosion of democratic processes, and advocacy for systemic reforms.

- Senate GOP pushes controversial legislation, including school vouchers and AI in education, urging public advocacy for policy changes. 

- Congress considers Medicaid and CHIP cuts, risking coverage for 17 million people, prioritizing tax breaks for the wealthy over children's health. 

- ICE enforcement practices under Trump and Biden administrations face criticism for racial profiling, private detention facilities, and systemic inefficiencies. 

- John Adams believed July 2, 1776, marked America's true Independence Day due to the Continental Congress's vote for independence, though July 4 is celebrated for the Declaration's adoption. 

- The Trump administration's changes to IDEA jeopardize special education services by reducing federal oversight and allowing states more flexibility in fund usage. 

- Unity Caucus within UFT faces criticism for prioritizing loyalty over democratic processes and service to members. 

- A historical critique from 1959 highlights recurring concerns about the lack of fundamental skills among college students. 

- The Supreme Court's rulings under Chief Justice Roberts emphasize state rights, creating legal fragmentation on issues like abortion, voting rights, and same-sex marriage. 

- The Trump administration's DEI reinterpretation as discriminatory against white men led to federal grant cuts for universities, sparking legal challenges. 

- The EdChoice voucher program in Ohio contributes to racial segregation, disproportionately benefiting white students. 

- Generative AI tools are powerful but unreliable, raising concerns about biases, inaccuracies, and over-reliance on technology. 

- Florida families largely prefer public schools despite the rise of school choice programs like vouchers and charter schools. 

- Advocacy groups emphasize grassroots organizing and systemic reforms to address public education challenges and societal inequities. 

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-30-25

CURMUDGUCATION: ICYMI: Call Your Senator Edition (6/29) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/icymi-call-your-senator-edition-629.html 

ICYMI: Call Your Senator Edition (6/29) discusses a range of educational and political topics, including Senate legislation, school vouchers, AI in education, and public school advocacy. The article highlights issues with privatization, voucher programs, and the influence of AI, while promoting advocacy for public education and policy change.

### Key Points

- Senate GOP pushes controversial legislation under questionable timing, urging citizens to contact their senators. 

- Supreme Court decisions and federal voucher programs spark debates on school choice and funding. 

- AI's impact on education, skepticism about its utility, and concerns over its development are explored. 

- North Carolina's voucher program leads to increased private school tuition, raising equity concerns. 

- Public schools remain the top choice for families in Florida despite aggressive privatization efforts. 

- Recent court decisions challenge voucher programs, reflecting ongoing policy debates. 

- Advocacy for public education funding and resistance to privatization are emphasized. 

Congress Is Choosing Tax Breaks for the Wealthy Over the Health Care of Our Children https://open.substack.com/pub/brucelesley/p/congress-is-choosing-tax-breaks-for?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

Congress is considering legislation that could cut over $1 trillion from Medicaid, CHIP, and ACA, affecting 17 million people, including children. These cuts threaten essential services for children, particularly those with disabilities and in foster care, by imposing bureaucratic barriers and reducing coverage. The bill prioritizes tax breaks for the wealthy over children's health, potentially increasing uninsured rates and hospital costs. Despite claims of efficiency, Medicaid and CHIP are cost-effective programs crucial for children's health and development.

### Key Points

- Congress is considering cuts to Medicaid and CHIP, affecting 17 million people, including children. 

- The proposed cuts will create bureaucratic hurdles, risking loss of coverage for eligible children. 

- Medicaid and CHIP are efficient, low-cost programs vital for children's health. 

- The aging population, not children's coverage, is driving Medicaid spending increases. 

- Cutting children's health programs is a false economy, risking future productivity and equity. 

- The legislation could lead to increased uninsured rates and hospital costs. 

- The bill prioritizes tax breaks for the wealthy over children's health and well-being. 

Big Education Ape: THE NEW ICE AGE: AMERICAN'S FROSTY IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT ERA https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-new-ice-age.html 

Big Education Ape's article, "The New ICE Age," critiques the evolution of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies, particularly under the Trump administration, highlighting aggressive enforcement tactics, racial profiling, and the reliance on private detention facilities. It also examines the continuation of such policies under the Biden administration and the systemic issues within the immigration system.

### Key Points

- ICE's enforcement methods resemble authoritarian practices, with frequent racial profiling and detention errors, including detaining U.S. citizens. 

- The Trump administration's immigration policies heavily funded ICE operations and border security, with significant investments in detention centers and enforcement personnel. 

- Private detention facilities, housing 90% of ICE detainees, profit from guaranteed contracts despite reports of inhumane conditions and preventable deaths. 

- The Trump-era focus on arrest quotas and border walls diverted resources from other law enforcement priorities, often targeting non-criminal immigrants. 

- Efforts to challenge birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment sparked legal battles and public backlash. 

- The Biden administration has largely continued ICE practices, increasing detention populations and maintaining private facilities. 

- Advocacy groups like the ACLU are pushing for humane immigration policies and systemic reforms. 

Big Education Ape: Why John Adams saw July 2 as America’s true Independence Day - The Washington Post By Valerie Strauss https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/why-john-adams-saw-july-2-as-americas.html 

Big Education Ape article by Valerie Strauss explores why John Adams considered July 2, 1776, as the true Independence Day of America. While July 4 is celebrated as the adoption date of the Declaration of Independence, Adams believed July 2 marked the decisive moment when the Continental Congress approved the motion for independence from Britain. The article details events leading up to the adoption, the delayed signing of the Declaration, and historical misconceptions.

### Key Points

- John Adams viewed July 2, 1776, as the pivotal date for American independence because the Continental Congress officially voted for independence on this day. 

- July 4 is celebrated instead because it marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson. 

- The signing of the Declaration did not occur on July 4; most delegates signed it on August 2, 1776, as revealed by historical records. 

- Copies of the Declaration, known as the "Dunlap broadside," were printed on July 4 and distributed, contributing to the association of this date with Independence Day. 

- Both Adams and Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration’s adoption, adding historical significance to the date. 

The Trump Administration is Ending Special Education! - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2025/06/29/the-trump-administration-is-ending-special-education/

The article discusses the Trump administration's changes to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), emphasizing the negative impact on special education. The administration's "Special Education Simplified Funding Program" consolidates IDEA programs, reducing federal oversight and allowing states greater flexibility in fund usage, which could jeopardize the rights and services for students with disabilities. The author highlights concerns about misuse of funds, the potential exclusion of children with disabilities from public schools, and the lack of accountability. Parents are urged to advocate for their children, demand written plans from policymakers, and vote for leaders who support special education.

### Key Points

- The Trump administration’s changes to IDEA reduce federal oversight and consolidate programs, threatening special education services. 

- States gain flexibility in fund allocation, risking misuse and neglect of children with disabilities. 

- Concerns include potential diversion of funds to unrelated areas like defense, exclusion of students with disabilities, and reduced accountability. 

- The changes undermine inclusion goals and could force parents to rely on underfunded or inadequate options like charters or vouchers. 

- Parents are encouraged to advocate, connect with others, and demand commitments from policymakers to protect special education. 

Unity to Paras--Go Screw Yourselves https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/unity-to-paras-go-screw-yourselves?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The article criticizes Unity Caucus, a faction within the UFT (United Federation of Teachers), for prioritizing loyalty over democratic processes and member service. The author highlights incidents of retaliation, favoritism, and unprofessional behavior by Unity leadership, arguing that the union has lost its way and needs reform.

### Key Points

- Unity Caucus disregards election results, prioritizing loyalty over democratic votes. 

- Elected members like Migda Rodriquez and Amy Arundell were targeted for opposing Unity, despite their effectiveness. 

- Unity engages in personal attacks and unprofessional behavior to humiliate dissenters. 

- Service to members is neglected; only loyalty to leadership matters. 

- Unity uses superficial benefits to placate members but resists meaningful reforms like retiree health care protections. 

- The article calls for opposition groups to unify against Unity’s dominance. 

1959: "yet students enter college badly lacking in these fundamental skills" https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/06/29/1959-yet-students-enter-college-badly-lacking-in-these-fundamental-skills/ via @plthomasEdD 

1959: “Yet students enter college badly lacking in these fundamental skills”  

The article reflects on a 1959 critique by J. Donald Adams in the New York Times, lamenting the lack of basic skills (reading, grammar, arithmetic) among college students. Adams blames educational theorists, bureaucrats, and especially English teachers and teacher educators for this decline. He criticizes schools for focusing on unteachable skills like social adjustment instead of fundamental academic skills. This historical critique resonates with ongoing debates about educational priorities and reform.

### Key Points

- In 1959, J. Donald Adams criticized the lack of fundamental skills among U.S. college students, blaming teachers and educational theorists.   

- Adams argued schools focused on unteachable skills like social adjustment rather than core academic skills such as grammar, spelling, and arithmetic.   

- The critique highlights a recurring theme in education: the perceived decline in teaching essential skills over time. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

6-29-25 

 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_024483530.html 

The article aggregates multiple topics, including education, politics, societal issues, and recent legal developments. Key themes include the Trump administration's policies, Supreme Court rulings, public education challenges, and the rise of generative AI. The discussions highlight concerns about equity, democracy, constitutional rights, and systemic reforms.

### Key Points  

- James Ryan, UVA president, resigned due to pressure from the Trump administration over DEI support.   

- DEI is reinterpreted by the Trump administration as discriminatory against white men, leading to federal grant cuts for universities.   

- Legal experts criticize the administration's use of Justice Department power to influence university leadership.   

- The Supreme Court ruled against universal injunctions, limiting judicial relief to plaintiffs involved in lawsuits.   

- President Trump's Executive Order No. 14160 seeks to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented or temporary residents, sparking legal challenges.   

- Dissenting justices argue the decision undermines the judiciary's ability to enforce constitutional protections universally.   

- The Supreme Court's rulings under Chief Justice John Roberts are leading to a fragmented legal landscape in the U.S., emphasizing state rights over national uniformity.   

- The "Balkanization" trend is creating a patchwork of laws on issues like abortion, voting rights, and same-sex marriage, depending on the state.   

- ICE’s flawed practices have led to the wrongful detention and deportation of American citizens, with over 600 cases between 2015 and 2020.   

- The EdChoice voucher program in Ohio was ruled unconstitutional and raises concerns about racial disparities and segregation in education.   

- Despite claims of a "school choice boom," most Florida families still choose public schools.   

- Generative AI tools are powerful but fundamentally unreliable, prone to biases, inaccuracies, and cyberattacks.   

- The Roberts Supreme Court prioritizes state rights and corporate interests over national protections for civil rights and consumer protections.   

- Grassroots organizing and systemic reforms are emphasized as solutions to address public education challenges and societal inequities. 

THE NEW ICE AGE: AMERICAN'S FROSTY IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT ERA

THE NEW ICE AGE

AMERICAN'S FROSTY IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT ERA

It’s a tale as old as time—or at least as old as post-9/11 America: the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its trusty sidekick, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), have become the unintentional stars of a dystopian reality show no one signed up for. With tactics that seem ripped from a secret police playbook, ICE has evolved into a force that raises eyebrows, questions, and the occasional constitutional red flag. While comparing ICE to the Gestapo or the SS might sound like a wild conspiracy theory whispered in dimly lit basements, the parallels are hard to ignore. Let’s dive into this frosty tale of modern immigration enforcement, where irony and absurdity abound.

ICE: The Budget-Eating Behemoth  

First, let’s talk money—because nothing says “America” quite like a budget bloated to the size of a Thanksgiving turkey. The Trump administration’s immigration policy, encapsulated in the ironically titled “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1), was a buffet of border security spending. With $60 billion earmarked for border walls, personnel, and high-tech surveillance gadgets, and a whopping $75 billion for ICE detention and deportation operations, the bill was less about subtlety and more about flexing enforcement muscles.  

And oh, the funds didn’t stop there. Congress even approved $8 billion to hire 10,000 new ICE agents over five years, complete with $858 million in bonuses. Apparently, nothing says “job well done” like detaining people who might just be U.S. citizens (oops).  

Mistakes Were Made (By ICE)  

Speaking of detaining U.S. citizens—because who needs accuracy when you have quotas?—ICE has embraced an enforcement style that can only be described as “spray and pray.” Take Elzon Lemus, a U.S. citizen detained due to racial profiling. Or Adrian Martinez, who faced felony charges for daring to intervene during an ICE operation. It’s almost as if ICE agents are playing an elaborate game of “Guess Who?” but with real lives at stake.  

In one particularly absurd case, Brian Gavidia and Javier Ramirez were stopped and questioned despite asserting their citizenship. Their crime? Existing while Hispanic. ICE agents even failed to return their IDs, because who needs pesky proof of identity when you’re busy terrorizing communities?  

Private Prisons: Capitalism Meets Detention  

Ah, private prisons—the unsung heroes of America’s immigration enforcement industrial complex. Nearly 90% of ICE detainees are held in facilities run by for-profit companies like CoreCivic and GEO Group. These corporations have mastered the art of turning human suffering into dollar signs, with contracts that guarantee minimum payments regardless of occupancy. It’s like Airbnb for detention centers, but with fewer amenities and significantly more human rights violations.  

Conditions in these facilities are, unsurprisingly, abysmal. Reports of medical neglect, solitary confinement, and unsanitary conditions abound. And let’s not forget the 95% of in-custody deaths deemed preventable between 2017–2021. If there were an award for “Most Creative Ways to Violate Human Rights,” private detention centers would be strong contenders.  

The Quota Quandary  

Under the Trump administration, ICE enforcement took on a distinctly numbers-driven approach. Higher arrest quotas were set, leading to operations like “Operation At Large,” which sounds more like a bad Netflix thriller than a federal initiative. Resources from agencies like the FBI and DEA were redirected to assist ICE, because who needs to tackle organized crime or drug trafficking when you can detain non-criminal immigrants instead?  

Critics argue that this obsession with quotas undermines civil liberties and diverts attention from more pressing law enforcement priorities. But hey, who needs nuance when you have spreadsheets filled with arrest stats?  

The Wall That Keeps Growing  

No discussion of Trump-era immigration policy would be complete without mentioning the border wall—a project so infamous it practically deserves its own reality show. With $46.5 billion allocated for construction under H.R. 1, the wall became a symbol of America’s increasingly aggressive stance on immigration. But here’s the kicker: most undocumented immigrants don’t cross the border on foot; they overstay visas. So essentially, we’re building a wall to stop a problem that ladders—and planes—can easily bypass. Genius!  

Birthright Citizenship: The Legal Battlefield  

As if detention centers and walls weren’t enough, Trump also set his sights on birthright citizenship. His executive order targeting the constitutional guarantee under the 14th Amendment sparked outrage and legal challenges from groups like the ACLU. While the Supreme Court’s decisions have allowed partial enforcement of the order, advocacy groups continue fighting to protect this cornerstone of American identity. Because nothing says “land of the free” like stripping people of their citizenship rights!  

The Biden Administration: More of the Same?  

If you thought the frosty winds of ICE would thaw under President Biden, think again. While there have been some efforts to reform immigration policy, the Biden administration has largely continued relying on private detention facilities and expanding ICE’s capacity. In fact, the ICE detention population has increased by 140% since Biden took office—a statistic that feels less like progress and more like déjà vu.  

ACLU to the Rescue  

Amid this icy chaos, advocacy groups like the ACLU have emerged as beacons of hope (and sanity). From filing lawsuits against unconstitutional executive orders to calling for an end to private prisons, these organizations are fighting to restore humanity to immigration enforcement. Their efforts highlight systemic issues within ICE and propose policy changes that prioritize compassion over quotas. Imagine that—a world where immigration policy doesn’t revolve around fear-mongering and profit margins!  

Conclusion: The Iceberg Ahead  

As America sails through this frosty era of immigration enforcement, one thing is clear: ICE isn’t just an agency; it’s a symptom of deeper systemic issues. From racial profiling to profit-driven detention policies, the problems plaguing ICE are as vast as they are complex. But perhaps the real question isn’t whether ICE will change—it’s whether we as a nation are willing to confront the icy truths about our immigration system.

Until then, we’ll keep watching this dystopian reality show unfold—complete with private prisons, border walls, and enough absurdity to make Orwell roll in his grave. Stay frosty, America!

Policy Brief | Snapshot of ICE Detention: Inhumane Conditions and Alarming Expansion - National Immigrant Justice Center https://immigrantjustice.org/research/policy-brief-snapshot-of-ice-detention-inhumane-conditions-and-alarming-expansion/ 

‘We are not safe in America today:’ These American citizens say they were detained by ICE https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/27/us/american-citizens-detained-ice-immigration 

One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Immigration Provisions - National Immigration Forum https://immigrationforum.org/article/one-big-beautiful-bill-act-immigration-provisions/ 

A sweeping new ICE operation shows how Trump's focus on immigration is reshaping federal law enforcement Members of other agencies are getting detailed to assist ICE, while Justice Department personnel shift to immigration-focused teams and prioritize immigration-related cases. https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/justice-department/ice-operation-trump-focus-immigration-reshape-federal-law-enforcement-rcna193494 

Civil Rights Organizations Raise Alarm Over Conditions and Rights Violations at Immigrant Detention Facilities Run by Federal Agencies  | American Civil Liberties Union https://www.aclu.org/press-releases/civil-rights-organizations-raise-alarm-over-conditions-and-rights-violations-at-immigrant-detention-facilities-run-by-federal-agencies 

ICE holding a record 59,000 immigrant detainees, nearly half with no criminal record, internal data show https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ice-record-59000-immigrant-detainees-half-no-criminal-record/ via @CBSPolitics

Why John Adams saw July 2 as America’s true Independence Day - The Washington Post By Valerie Strauss

 
Why John Adams saw July 2 as America’s true Independence Day

The Washington Post By Valerie Strauss 

By Valerie Strauss 

Valerie Strauss is an education writer who runs the Answer Sheet blog. She came to The Washington Post as an assistant foreign editor for Asia in 1987 and weekend foreign desk editor after working for Reuters as national security editor and a military/foreign affairs reporter on Capitol Hill. She also previously worked at UPI and the L.A. Times. follow on X@valeriestrauss

(This is a version of a post I have published previously around the Fourth of July)

July 4, of course, is Independence Day, a federal holiday celebrated to commemorate the adoption in 1776 of the Declaration of Independence, which split the 13 American colonies from England.

But John Adams, who had a lot to do with the American colonies’ break from Great Britain, didn’t think the day to commemorate was July 4. Adams, a leader of the American Revolution who became the first vice president and the second president of the United States, thought July 2 was the date that would be celebrated “as the great anniversary festival.”

Why? Because it was on July 2, 1776, that delegates at the Second Continental Congress meeting in Philadelphia officially separated the 13 American colonies from Britain by approving a motion for independence advanced by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia. Twelve of the 13 colonies approved it (New York abstained, as its representatives did not have permission to vote for it at that time).

The next day, on July 3, Adams wrote a letter to his wife Abigail with this prediction:

The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.

Later that day, the Pennsylvania Evening Post published this:

“This day the Continental Congress declared the United Colonies Free and Independent States.”

So why do we celebrate July 4 as Independence Day?

That’s when the actual Declaration of Independence — whose principal author was Thomas Jefferson — was adopted (although not signed) by members of the Continental Congress. Jefferson had been writing it, draft after draft. He was one of the Committee of Five the Continental Congress set up to draft a declaration, with the other four being Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Robert Livingston and Roger Sherman.

It wasn’t until July 8 that the city of Philadelphia, where the Declaration was signed, held a parade and the firing of guns to mark the moment. And it wasn’t until July 9 that the Continental Army — which was  under the leadership of General George Washington — got the news from Washington himself. Washington ordered soldiers — who were in New York City to defend it from the British — to gather in Lower Manhattan that evening and he read from a July 6 letter he had received from John Hancock, the president of the Continental Congress. A copy of the declaration was included. As for the British government in London, well, it didn’t know that the United States had declared independence until August.

Scholars don’t think the document was signed by any of the delegates of the Continental Congress on July 4. The huge canvas painting by John Trumbull hanging in the grand Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol depicting the signing of the Declaration is, it turns out, a work of imagination. In his biography of John Adams, historian David McCullough wrote: “No such scene, with all the delegates present, ever occurred at Philadelphia.”

It is now believed that most of the delegates signed it on Aug. 2. That’s when the assistant to the secretary of Congress, Timothy Matlack, produced a clean copy.  John Hancock, president of the Continental Congress, signed first, right in the middle of the signature area. The last delegate to sign, according to the National Archives, is believed to be Thomas McKean of Delaware, some time in 1777.

As it turns out, a number of copies of the document were made at the time of adoption. According to the National Archives, there are 26 copies of what is known as “the Dunlap broadside” (21 owned by American institutions, two by British institutions, and three by individuals). These were printed on paper on the night of July 4 by printer John Dunlap from a document sent by the Continental Congress. The original was written on parchment.

In a twist of history, Adams died on July 4, 1826, the same day as Thomas Jefferson. It was the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

By Valerie Strauss

Valerie Strauss is an education writer who runs the Answer Sheet blog. She came to The Washington Post as an assistant foreign editor for Asia in 1987 and weekend foreign desk editor after working for Reuters as national security editor and a military/foreign affairs reporter on Capitol Hill. She also previously worked at UPI and the L.A. Times. follow on X@valeriestrauss

Why John Adams saw July 2 as America’s true Independence Day - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/answer-sheet/wp/2017/07/02/why-john-adams-saw-july-2-as-americas-true-independence-day/