JOE BIDEN'S OVAL OFFICE SPEECH: OLD SHEEP DOG STILL GOT IT

 

JOE BIDEN'S OVAL OFFICE SPEECH 

OLD SHEEP DOG STILL GOT IT

As Joe Biden took to the Oval Office on Friday to deliver a speech on the bipartisan debt ceiling deal, the nation held its breath. Would he stumble over his words? Would he forget his lines? Would he fall asleep mid-sentence?

But as the president began to speak, it quickly became clear that he still had it. His voice was strong, his words were clear, and his wit was as sharp as ever.

In fact, as he delved into the details of the debt ceiling deal, Biden's speech became a masterclass in political comedy. He cracked jokes about Mitch McConnell, teased Nancy Pelosi, and even poked fun at himself.

"Let me tell you folks, negotiating with Mitch McConnell is like trying to teach a turtle to tap dance," he quipped. "It's slow, it's painful, and you're never quite sure if you're making any progress."

The crowd chuckled, but Biden wasn't done yet. He went on to describe the deal in detail, using metaphors and analogies that had the audience in stitches.

"It's like we're trying to balance a stack of pancakes on a rollercoaster," he said. "One wrong move and the whole thing comes crashing down. But with this deal, we've managed to keep those pancakes perfectly balanced."

As the speech came to a close, Biden thanked the American people for their patience and understanding. "I know this debt ceiling business can be confusing," he said. "But trust me, it's nothing compared to trying to explain TikTok to my grandkids."

The room erupted in laughter, and Biden smiled. He may be an old sheep dog, but he still had plenty of tricks up his sleeve.

Biden delivers Oval Office speech on bipartisan debt ceiling deal https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/watch-biden-debt-ceiling-latest-speech-rcna87407 via @nbcnews 

BROADIE COWBOY MIKE MILES ORDERED TO HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TO PRIVATIZE

BROADIE COWBOY MIKE MILES ORDERED TO HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TO PRIVATIZE

Breaking News: Houston Independent School District (HISD) has a new superintendent, Mike Miles, who is here to destroy and privatize the district! Or at least that's what some people are saying.

Miles, a former Army Ranger and U.S. State Department official, has a reputation for being a reformer and a disruptor in education. He started his career as a teacher and principal in Colorado Springs, where he founded a charter school network called Pikes Peak Prep. He then became the superintendent of Harrison School District 2, where he implemented a pay-for-performance system for teachers and principals that linked their salaries to student achievement.

But that's not all! Miles is also a graduate of the Broad Superintendent Academy, a program that trains current and aspiring urban school system leaders in the principles and practices of business management. It was founded by billionaire philanthropist Eli Broad, who believes that public education can be improved by applying corporate strategies and market-based reforms. So, basically, Miles is a corporate privatizer who is here to ruin HISD. Or is he?

Miles was appointed by Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath on June 1, 2023, as part of the state’s takeover of HISD. The takeover was triggered by years of poor academic outcomes at a single campus in the district, Phillis Wheatley High School; allegations of misconduct against school board members; and the ongoing presence of a conservator who’s been overseeing the district for years. So, it's not like Miles just showed up one day and said, "Hey, let me ruin your schools!"

In fact, Miles has said he decided to come back to Texas and take on the challenge of leading HISD because he believes he can make a difference for the students and families in Houston. He said he plans to focus on 30 of the highest-need schools in his first year, introducing a new staffing model that pays teachers more but cuts some positions like librarians. He also said he will not close any schools in his first year, but that there will likely be closures down the line. He predicted his vision of a transformed HISD would take about five or six years to execute.

But let's get back to the fun stuff. Miles has been described as a military-minded leader who pushes reform but doesn’t do well with politics or people. He has been accused of undermining academic standards, censoring free speech, and imposing his ideology on others. He has also faced lawsuits and complaints from former employees and parents who alleged discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or violation of rights. So, basically, he's like your boss who thinks he knows everything but really just makes everyone's life miserable.

But hey, maybe Miles will surprise us all and actually do some good for HISD. Maybe he'll turn those 30 high-need schools into shining examples of academic excellence. Maybe he'll find a way to pay teachers more without cutting positions like librarians. Maybe he'll even learn how to do well with politics and people!

In conclusion, Mike Miles may or may not be a corporate privatizer who is here to destroy HISD. But one thing is for sure: he's going to have a tough job ahead of him. Let's hope he's up for the challenge. And if not, well, at least we can make some jokes about it.

New Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles promises sweeping reforms to 29 schools https://www.keranews.org/education/2023-06-02/new-houston-isd-superintendent-mike-miles-promises-sweeping-reforms-to-29-schools 

Big Education Ape: BREAKING NEWS: TEA TAKES OVER HISD, PLANS TO RENAME IT THE 'MIKE DISTRICT' https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/breaking-news-tea-takes-over-hids-plans.html 

RON DUHSANTIS' SARASOTA OBSESSION: A CIRCUS OF EDUCATION

RON DUHSANTIS' SARASOTA OBSESSION

A CIRCUS OF EDUCATION

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been on a mission to transform the state's education system into his own personal circus. And where better to host this spectacle than in the coastal city of Sarasota? But why Sarasota, you ask? Well, it all goes back to DeSantis' childhood fascination with the Ringling Museum of Art.

Yes, you heard that right. The man who is supposed to be running the state of Florida is more interested in clowns and acrobats than COVID-19 and climate change. But I digress. DeSantis saw John Ringling, the circus tycoon who built the museum, as a role model and rebel who defied convention. And now, he wants to be like Ringling and turn Sarasota into his own personal shrine.

But not everyone is amused by DeSantis' antics. Many residents, educators, students, and parents have protested against his policies and actions, accusing him of undermining academic standards, censoring free speech, and imposing his ideology on others. They have also questioned his motives and priorities, wondering why he is spending so much time and energy on education issues when there are more pressing problems facing the state.

Some have even suggested that DeSantis should leave Sarasota alone and focus on his own backyard. After all, he lives in Tallahassee, the state capital, where he has plenty of work to do as governor. But according to sources close to the governor, there's a reason why he's so eager to leave Tallahassee behind.

It all goes back to DeSantis' college days at Yale University. When he visited Tallahassee with his friends, he fell in love with the Florida State University cheerleaders. He was smitten by their beauty and charm, especially one cheerleader named Casey Black. DeSantis saw Casey as his soulmate and wanted to make her his wife.

But alas, Casey had other plans and rejected DeSantis for another guy. And now, he's running away from Tallahassee to escape his heartbreak and forget about Casey. But let's be real, you can't run away from your problems, Ron.

Many people have mocked DeSantis for being a sore loser and a creepy stalker. They have also criticized him for being irresponsible and immature, wondering why he is running away from his duties and obligations as governor. They have also challenged him to face reality and move on with his life.

But it seems like DeSantis is determined to keep chasing after his dreams of turning Sarasota into a circus of education. Maybe he'll even hire some clowns to teach math and science. Who knows? All we can do is sit back and watch the show. But let's hope it doesn't come at the expense of our children's education.

Scrutiny of DeSantis’ education agenda focuses on Sarasota https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2023/06/01/scrutiny-desantis-education-agenda-focuses-sarasota/ 

WELCOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF GERONTOCRACY, THE OLD GRAY MARE AIN'T WHAT SHE USED TO BE OR IS SHE

WELCOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF GERONTOCRACY 

THE OLD GRAY MARE AIN'T WHAT SHE USED TO BE OR IS SHE

Welcome to the United States of Gerontocracy, where the old gray mare ain't what she used to be. We have a government run by old people, and I'm not talking about the wise and experienced kind. No, I'm talking about the kind that still uses AOL and thinks Facebook is a newspaper.

Our President is 79 years old, which means he was born before the invention of sliced bread. And don't even get me started on the U.S. Senate, where the average age is 62. These guys are so old, they probably think TikTok is a clock that only tells time in seconds.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But wait, isn't age just a number?" Well, sure, if that number is 21 and you're trying to buy alcohol. But when it comes to running a country, age can be a real problem.

Older people may have experience and wisdom, but they also have a tendency to be set in their ways. It's like trying to teach an old dog new tricks, except the dog has access to nuclear codes. And let's not forget that as we age, our physical and mental abilities decline. I mean, have you seen Joe Biden try to climb stairs?

But why is our government so old? One reason is that people are living longer. And I'm not just talking about politicians who refuse to retire. Thanks to advancements in medicine and technology, people are living well into their 80s and 90s. Which is great news for them, but not so great for the rest of us who have to suffer through their outdated policies.

Another reason is that running for office has become too expensive for younger people. It's like trying to buy a house in San Francisco on a minimum wage salary. Unless you have a trust fund or a sugar daddy, you're out of luck.

But fear not, my fellow Americans. There is hope on the horizon. In the 2018 midterm elections, the number of millennials in Congress doubled. That's right, we finally have some fresh blood in the game. And by fresh blood, I mean people who know how to use Snapchat filters.

These young leaders bring new ideas and perspectives to the table. They understand the struggles of everyday Americans because they're still paying off their student loans. They know how to use technology because they grew up with it. And they're not afraid to speak their minds because they haven't been around long enough to develop a filter.

So what can we do to support these young leaders? Well, for starters, we can vote for them. And not just in presidential elections, but in every election from city council to Congress. We can donate to their campaigns, even if it means giving up our daily Starbucks fix. And we can volunteer our time to help them get elected, even if it means missing an episode of The Bachelor.

It's time for us to take back our government from the gerontocracy. It's time for us to elect leaders who represent us, not just their own outdated views. It's time for us to embrace change and progress, even if it means learning how to use TikTok.

So let's raise a glass of prune juice to the future of America. A future where age is just a number, and where young leaders have a seat at the table. Because if we don't, we'll be stuck with politicians who think dial-up internet is still a thing.

Gerontocracy: the exceptionally old political class that governs the US https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/feb/19/us-congress-presidency-gerontocracy?CMP=share_btn_tw 

Opinion | Feinstein, Biden and Grassley show America's gerontocracy is too old - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/05/19/america-gerontocracy-feinstein-biden-grassley/ 

DUST OFF YOUR OLD STUDENT LOAN MILLSTONES - REPUBLICANS CANCELED BIDEN'S DEBT RELIEF DEAL

DUST OFF YOUR OLD STUDENT LOAN MILLSTONES

REPUBLICANS CANCELED BIDEN'S DEBT RELIEF  DEAL

Student debt, oh student debt, the bane of our existence. It's like a millstone around our necks, dragging us down into the depths of financial despair. But fear not, my fellow debtors, for I have a solution! And it involves brushing off that pesky debt and laughing in its face.

You see, student debt relief is a hot topic in Washington these days. Everyone's talking about it, from the president to Bernie Sanders to your weird uncle who always wears a MAGA hat. But what's the deal with all this talk? Why can't we just make our debt disappear with a snap of our fingers like Thanos?

Well, my dear readers, it's not that simple. You see, there are these pesky things called laws and regulations that prevent us from just wiping out all our debt. And Republicans. Don't forget about them. They're like the Grinches of student debt relief, stealing our hopes and dreams with their cold, dead hearts.

But let's not dwell on them. Instead, let's focus on the good news. President Biden has a plan to forgive up to $20,000 in student debt for some borrowers. Hooray! That's like winning the lottery, but without the money. And there's a catch, of course. The plan is facing legal challenges from Republicans who think Biden doesn't have the constitutional authority to cancel student debt without congressional approval. Because apparently, the Constitution cares more about the rights of lenders than the rights of borrowers.

But let's not get bogged down in legal mumbo-jumbo. Let's talk about the real issue here: how do we get rid of our debt and still have enough money to buy avocado toast? Well, my friends, I have a solution. It's called "brushing off your debt and pretending it doesn't exist."

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But wait, won't that ruin my credit score and make it impossible for me to buy a house or a car or anything else I want in life?" Well, yes. But think about it this way: if you don't acknowledge your debt, it doesn't exist. It's like a tree falling in the forest with no one around to hear it. Did it really make a sound? Who cares! You didn't hear it, so it doesn't matter.

Of course, this strategy might not work for everyone. If you have a lot of debt, you might need to come up with a more creative solution. Like robbing a bank or marrying a billionaire. Or maybe just getting a higher-paying job and paying off your debt like a responsible adult. But where's the fun in that?

No, my friends, we must embrace the absurdity of our situation and laugh in the face of our debt. We must make jokes about Sallie Mae and Navient and all those other loan servicers who are constantly harassing us with phone calls and emails and carrier pigeons. We must turn our debt into a punchline and refuse to let it control our lives.

So go ahead, my fellow debtors. Brush off that millstone and show it who's boss. And if anyone asks why you're not paying your loans, just tell them you're too busy living your best life to worry about such trivial matters. Because in the end, isn't that what life is all about? Being happy, even if you're broke as hell?

"Turning His Back on Student Debtors": Biden's Debt Deal Ends Freeze on ... https://youtu.be/K8PFjk7FWT8 via @YouTube 

Senate passes resolution to block Biden's federal student loan relief plan : NPR https://www.npr.org/2023/06/02/1179633312/senate-passes-gop-led-resolution-to-block-bidens-student-loan-relief-plan 

CHATGPT: I'LL GET YOU MY PRETTY AND YOUR LITTLE JOB TOO

I'LL GET YOU MY PRETTY AND YOUR LITTLE JOB TOO

Gone are the days of dirty and repetitive jobs being automated. Now, even high-paid professionals are feeling the heat. Journalists, teachers, lawyers, and even doctors are worried that ChatGPT will replace them or reduce their income. And who can blame them? ChatGPT is a product of OpenAI, a research organization that aims to create machines that can perform any intellectual task that humans can. That's right, any task. So, what's next? ChatGPT performing brain surgery? I wouldn't be surprised.

But fear not, my fellow humans. There are still jobs that ChatGPT cannot do (yet). Jobs that require physical labor, emotional intelligence, creativity, or human interaction. And some people are taking advantage of this fact. Take, for example, the former journalist who now works as a dog walker. Sure, it may not be as glamorous as writing articles for a living, but at least they get to enjoy the fresh air and the company of furry friends. Or how about the former teacher who now works as an air conditioner repair technician? They get to fix broken units and cool down customers while ChatGPT is stuck behind a screen. And let's not forget about the former lawyer who now works as a clown. Yes, you read that right. A clown. They entertain children at birthday parties and make them laugh. Who needs legal advice when you have a balloon animal?

But let's not get too carried away with the job-switching frenzy. After all, ChatGPT is here to stay, and it's only getting smarter. Some experts predict that it could eliminate up to 40% of jobs in the next decade. That's a lot of people out of work. So, what can we do to cope with the rise of ChatGPT? Well, some are trying to adapt and learn new skills. Some are trying to compete and differentiate themselves from the AI chatbot. And some are trying to collaborate and leverage its capabilities.

But let's face it, none of us can compete with a machine that can understand and generate natural language responses to text prompts. So why not embrace it? Let ChatGPT do the dirty work while we focus on what we do best: being human. We have emotions, creativity, and empathy. We can connect with others on a deeper level than any machine ever could. So let's use that to our advantage.

Who knows, maybe in the future, ChatGPT will even write funny articles like this one. But until then, let's enjoy our human quirks and let ChatGPT walk the dogs and fix the air conditioners. After all, we don't want it getting too big for its digital boots now, do we?

ChatGPT took their jobs. Now they walk dogs and fix air conditioners. Read here: https://wapo.st/3WQpmTc 

BREAKING NEWS: NPR/IPSOS POLL SHOWS MAJORITY OF AMERICANS BELIEVE MATH IS A SCAM INVENTED BY TEACHERS TO TORTURE STUDENTS

BREAKING NEWS: NPR/IPSOS POLL SHOWS MAJORITY OF AMERICANS BELIEVE MATH IS A SCAM INVENTED BY TEACHERS TO TORTURE STUDENTS

After a surprising look into the latest NPR/Ipsos polls, I have come to the conclusion that Americans have some pretty interesting views on education. And by interesting, I mean downright hilarious.

First up, let's talk about teacher pay. According to the poll, a majority of Americans believe that public school teachers are underpaid and deserve a raise. No surprises there. But when it comes to how to fund those raises, things get a little tricky. Only 37% of Americans support raising taxes to pay for higher teacher salaries. And among Republicans, that number drops to a measly 17%. I guess they'd rather their kids' teachers work for free.

Moving on to what students should learn in school, the poll found that a majority of Americans support having national standards for what students should learn in each grade level. Democrats are all for it, while Republicans are a bit more hesitant. But things get really interesting when you start talking about critical race theory and transgender rights.

Apparently, only 28% of Americans support teaching critical race theory in public schools. For those of you who don't know, critical race theory is an academic framework that examines how racism and power structures shape society and institutions. So basically, it's a way of teaching kids about systemic racism. But apparently, almost three-quarters of Americans would rather their kids remain blissfully ignorant.

And don't even get me started on transgender rights. According to the poll, only 24% of Americans support allowing transgender female athletes to compete on women's and girls' sports teams. And among Republicans, that number drops to a pathetic 4%. I mean, come on guys. Is it really that hard to let people be who they are?

But there is one issue that seems to have more bipartisan agreement: school censorship. The poll found that about half of Americans oppose banning books from school libraries or classrooms that some parents or groups find offensive or inappropriate. Finally, something we can all agree on.

Of course, the poll also revealed some common misconceptions that Americans have about education issues. For example, many Americans overestimate how much public school teachers are paid on average. The median estimate of annual teacher salary among Americans is $60,000, while the actual average teacher salary in the U.S. was $62,304 in the 2019-2020 school year. So basically, we all think teachers are getting paid less than they actually are. Oops.

And then there's the issue of immigrants. The poll found that a plurality of Republicans believe that immigrants are more likely to commit crimes or use public benefits than native-born Americans. But studies have consistently shown that immigrants are actually less likely to commit crimes or be incarcerated than native-born Americans. So maybe we should stop demonizing them?

All in all, the NPR/Ipsos poll offers a fascinating look into how Americans view education issues. And by fascinating, I mean hilarious. From Republicans opposing book bans to misconceptions about teacher pay and immigrants, it's clear that we still have a long way to go when it comes to educating ourselves about these important issues. But hey, at least we can all agree that censorship is bad, right?

Poll: Americans say teachers are underpaid, about half of Republicans oppose book bans https://www.npr.org/2023/06/02/1177566467/poll-teachers-underpaid-republicans-book-bans 

JUNE IS PRIDE MONTH - LET'S ALL CELEBRATE AND HAVE SOME FUN (HERE ARE SOME RESOURCES) #PrideMonth 🌈 #Pride2023 🌈 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech

 

JUNE IS PRIDE MONTH

LETS ALL CELEBRATE AND HAVE SOME FUN

🌈HERE ARE SOME RESOURCES🌈

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate and honor the LGBTQ+ community and their contributions to history, society and culture. Pride Month also raises awareness and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Here are some of the ways you can join the celebration and show your support for the LGBTQ+ community.

🌈- Learn about the history and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall riots of June 1969, which sparked the gay rights movement. Since then, the LGBTQ+ community has made significant progress in achieving legal recognition and social acceptance, but also faced many challenges and struggles. You can learn more about the history, diversity, and issues of the LGBTQ+ community by reading books, watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, and following LGBTQ+ media outlets. You can also visit museums, monuments, or landmarks that honor LGBTQ+ history and culture. Some of the resources you can use to learn more about LGBTQ+ history and culture are:

•   - LGBTQ Resource List by GLAAD: https://www.glaad.org/resourcelist
•   - LGBTQ Studies: A Resource Guide by Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov/lgbt-pride-month/resources/
•   - Pride: The Story of the LGBTQ Equality Movement by Matthew Todd: https://www.amazon.com/Pride-Story-LGBTQ-Equality-Movement/dp/1781317203
•   - Stonewall Uprising: The Year That Changed America by Ann Bausum: https://www.amazon.com/Stonewall-Uprising-Changed-America-American/dp/1419747080
•   - Making Gay History: The Podcast by Eric Marcus: https://makinggayhistory.com/

🌈- Participate in pride events and activities. During Pride Month, many cities and towns host pride parades, festivals, rallies, and other events that showcase the diversity and pride of the LGBTQ+ community. You can join these events as a participant or a spectator, and enjoy the music, art, entertainment, and speeches. You can also attend workshops, webinars, or panels that discuss LGBTQ+ topics and perspectives. You can also organize your own pride events or activities with your friends, family, or colleagues. Some of the resources you can use to find or plan pride events and activities are:

•   - Pride Events Calendar by The Advocate: https://www.advocate.com/pride/2023/5/31/pride-events-calendar
•   - Pride Month Events by Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/events/pride
•   - How to Plan a Pride Event by wikiHow: https://www.wikihow.com/Plan-a-Pride-Event
•   - How to Celebrate Pride Month Virtually by Bustle: https://www.bustle.com/life/how-to-celebrate-pride-month-virtually
•   - How to Celebrate Pride Month at Work by Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-celebrate-pride-month-at-work

🌈- LGBTQ+ youth are a vulnerable and resilient group that need support and affirmation from their families, peers, and communities. Some of the ways you can support LGBTQ+ youth are:

🌈- Listen to LGBTQ+ youth: Be open and respectful to their experiences, feelings, and needs. Don't judge, criticize, or invalidate them. Ask them how they want to be supported and what they are comfortable with. Let them know that you care about them and accept them for who they are⁴¹.

🌈- Educate yourself and others: Learn about the diversity, history, and issues of the LGBTQ+ community. Avoid making assumptions or stereotypes about LGBTQ+ people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Use inclusive and affirming language and pronouns for LGBTQ+ people. Challenge homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and other forms of discrimination and prejudice when you encounter them. Share accurate and positive information about LGBTQ+ people with others⁴ .

🌈- Create a safe and supportive environment: Make your home, school, workplace, or community a welcoming and respectful place for LGBTQ+ people. Display signs, stickers, or flags that show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. Join or start a Genders & Sexualities Alliance (GSA) club or network at your school or workplace. Participate in LGBTQ+ events, such as pride parades, festivals, or workshops. Advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and policies that protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination and violence⁴ .

🌈- Donate or volunteer for LGBTQ+ organizations: Support the work of LGBTQ+ organizations that provide services, resources, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth. You can donate money, time, skills, or items to these organizations. You can also volunteer as a mentor, counselor, educator, or activist for LGBTQ+ youth. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQ+ youth are The Trevor Project, GLSEN, SAGE, PFLAG, Advocates for Youth, and many more⁴ .

🌈- Seek help when needed: If you or someone you know is struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity, or facing bullying, harassment, or violence, don't hesitate to seek help. There are many resources and helplines available for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies. You can call, text, chat, or email with trained counselors who can offer support, guidance, and referrals. Some of the resources and helplines for LGBTQ+ youth are The Trevor Lifeline (1-866-488-7386), Q Chat Space, Trans Lifeline (1-877-565-8860), LGBT National Youth Talkline (1-800-246-7743), and many more³ .

🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈These are just some of the ways you can support LGBTQ+ youth. There are many more that you can explore and discover on your own. The most important thing is to be respectful, compassionate, and open-minded towards LGBTQ+ youth and their struggles⁴ .

🌈- Supporting LGBTQ+ youth has many benefits, both for the youth themselves and for the society at large. Some of the benefits are:

🌈-Improved mental health and well-being: LGBTQ+ youth who receive support and acceptance from their families, peers, and communities are more likely to have higher self-esteem, lower levels of depression and anxiety, lower risk of substance abuse and suicide, and greater life satisfaction than those who face rejection and discrimination .

🌈-Increased academic and career success: LGBTQ+ youth who feel safe and supported at school are more likely to have better attendance, grades, test scores, and graduation rates than those who experience bullying, harassment, or exclusion. They are also more likely to pursue higher education and careers that match their interests and abilities .

🌈-Enhanced social and civic engagement: LGBTQ+ youth who have positive role models and mentors in the LGBTQ+ community are more likely to develop a strong sense of identity, belonging, and pride. They are also more likely to participate in LGBTQ+ events, groups, or networks, and to contribute to the LGBTQ+ movement and other social causes .

🌈-Reduced stigma and discrimination: Supporting LGBTQ+ youth helps to create a more inclusive and respectful culture that values diversity and human rights. It also helps to challenge and change the negative attitudes and behaviors that fuel homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and other forms of oppression. By supporting LGBTQ+ youth, we can foster a more tolerant and compassionate society for everyone .

🌈- Display the rainbow flag or other symbols of LGBTQ+ pride and solidarity. The rainbow flag is a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride and solidarity that was created by artist Gilbert Baker in 1978. The flag consists of six colors: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and purple for spirit. You can display the rainbow flag or other symbols of LGBTQ+ pride and solidarity on your clothing, accessories, home, car, or online profile. You can also use hashtags such as #PrideMonth or #Pride2023 to show your support on social media. Some of the resources you can use to display or create LGBTQ+ symbols are:

•   - Rainbow Flag History and Meaning by Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/topic/rainbow-flag
•   - LGBTQ Symbols and Flags by GLAAD: https://www.glaad.org/blog/lgbtq-symbols-and-flags
•   - How to Make a Rainbow Flag by wikiHow: https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Rainbow-Flag
•   - How to Make a Rainbow Cake by Taste of Home: https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-make-a-rainbow-cake/
•   - How to Add a Rainbow Filter to Your Facebook Profile Picture by Mashable: https://mashable.com/article/how-to-add-rainbow-filter-facebook-profile-picture/

🌈- Support LGBTQ+ organizations and causes. There are many organizations and causes that provide services, resources, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ people and issues. You can support these organizations and causes by donating money, time, skills, or items. You can also volunteer as a mentor, counselor, educator, or activist for LGBTQ+ people and issues. Some of the organizations and causes that support LGBTQ+ people and issues are:

•   - The Trevor Project: A national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ young people under 25. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
•   - GLSEN: A national organization working to end discrimination, harassment, and bullying based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in K-12 schools. https://www.glsen.org/
•   - SAGE: A national organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older adults. https://www.sageusa.org/
•   - PFLAG: A national organization uniting LGBTQ+ people with their families, friends, and allies. https://pflag.org/
•   - Advocates for Youth: A national organization working to ensure that young people have access to accurate information, education, and services related to sexual health and rights. https://advocatesforyouth.org/

🌈- Be a friend and ally to LGBTQ+ people in your life. One of the best ways to support the LGBTQ+ community is to be a friend and ally to LGBTQ+ people in your life. You can do this by being open and respectful to their experiences, feelings, and needs. You can also ask them how they want to be supported and what they are comfortable with. You can also let them know that you care about them and accept them for who they are. You can also celebrate their achievements and milestones and offer help when they face challenges. Some of the resources you can use to be a friend and ally to LGBTQ+ people are:

•   - How to Be an Ally to LGBTQ+ People by Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity/sexual-orientation/how-do-i-be-a-good-ally-to-lgbtq-people
•   - How to Support Your LGBTQ+ Friends by The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/trvr_support_center/friends/
•   - How to Support Your LGBTQ+ Child by PFLAG: https://pflag.org/sites/default/files/How%20to%20Support%20Your%20LGBTQ%20Child.pdf
•   - How to Support Your LGBTQ+ Partner by Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-support-lgbtq-partner
•   - How to Support Your LGBTQ+ Coworker by Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-support-lgbtq-coworkers

Pride Month is a time to celebrate and honor the LGBTQ+ community and their contributions to history, society and culture. It is also a time to raise awareness and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. By joining the celebration and showing your support for the LGBTQ+ community, you can help create a more inclusive and respectful society for everyone. Happy Pride Month! 🌈

BISH, I DON'T MIND BEING A LITTLE CATTY

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🌈- LGBTQ+ culture wars refer to the ongoing conflicts and debates between the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, and the conservative and religious groups that oppose LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Some of the reasons for these culture wars are:

🌈- Differing views on morality and identity: Many conservative and religious groups view LGBTQ+ people as sinful, unnatural, or immoral, and believe that their sexual orientation or gender identity can be changed or cured. They also oppose LGBTQ+ people's right to marry, adopt children, serve in the military, or access health care and other services. On the other hand, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies view LGBTQ+ people as normal, diverse, and deserving of respect and dignity. They also advocate for LGBTQ+ people's right to love, express, and be themselves without discrimination or violence¹².

🌈- Differing views on the role of government and law: Many conservative and religious groups view the government and the law as instruments to uphold their values and beliefs, and to protect their freedom of religion and speech. They also oppose any legislation or policy that grants LGBTQ+ people equal rights or protection, such as anti-discrimination laws, hate crime laws, or marriage equality laws. They also support legislation or policy that restricts LGBTQ+ people's rights or access, such as bathroom bills, conversion therapy bans, or religious freedom laws. On the other hand, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies view the government and the law as instruments to ensure justice and equality for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. They also support any legislation or policy that promotes LGBTQ+ rights or protection, and oppose any legislation or policy that harms or excludes LGBTQ+ people¹².

🌈- Differing views on the role of media and culture: Many conservative and religious groups view the media and culture as sources of influence and indoctrination, and as threats to their values and beliefs. They also accuse the media and culture of being biased, agenda-driven, or corrupting towards LGBTQ+ issues. They also resist or boycott any media or cultural representation of LGBTQ+ people, such as books, movies, TV shows, or celebrities. On the other hand, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies view the media and culture as sources of information and education, and as opportunities to celebrate and empower LGBTQ+ people. They also praise the media and culture for being inclusive, diverse, or supportive of LGBTQ+ issues. They also seek or create more media or cultural representation of LGBTQ+ people¹².

🌈- These are just some of the reasons for the LGBTQ+ culture wars. There are many more that vary depending on the context, location, and situation. The LGBTQ+ culture wars are not only political or legal, but also personal and emotional. They affect the lives, rights, and well-being of LGBTQ+ people and their families, friends, and communities¹².

(1) Pride Month guide for brands—navigating LGBTQ+ marketing amid the culture wars. https://adage.com/article/marketing-news-strategy/pride-month-brands-navigating-lgbtq-marketing-amid-culture-wars/2497226.

(2) Business During The Culture War - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/josiecaballero/2023/06/01/business-during-the-culture-war/.

(3) Transgender Christian Confronts Pastor During Anti-LGBTQ+ Sermon. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/transgender-christian-confronts-pastor-during-anti-lgbtq-sermon/ar-AA1bZX6W.

(4) In The Fight For LGBTQ Rights, Lessons From The 1990s Culture Wars - NPR. https://www.npr.org/2021/05/21/999241572/in-the-fight-for-lgbtq-rights-lessons-from-the-1990s-culture-wars.

(5) Stonewall 50: LGBTQ Movement's Culture War With The Religious ... - NPR. https://www.npr.org/2019/06/20/733537421/the-culture-wars-live-on-between-the-lgbtq-movement-and-the-religious-right.

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(1) LGBTQ Resource List | GLAAD. https://www.glaad.org/resourcelist.

(2) Resource Center - The Trevor Project. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/.

(3) Homepage - PFLAG. https://pflag.org/.

(4) Resources | Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Pride Month .... https://www.loc.gov/lgbt-pride-month/resources/.

(5) Resources for Families of LGBTQ+ Youth - Child Welfare Information Gateway. https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/systemwide/diverse-populations/lgbtq/lgbt-families/.

Source: Conversation with Bing, 6/1/2023

PUBLIC SCHOOL FUNDING BEING USED FOR UNION BUSTING CONSULTANTS AND LAWYERS

 

PUBLIC SCHOOL FUNDING BEING USED FOR UNION BUSTING CONSULTANTS AND LAWYERS

Have you heard the one about charter schools using public school funding for union-busting consultants and lawyers? No? Well, it's no laughing matter, but we'll try to make it funny anyway.

In recent years, charter schools have been accused of using public funds to hire consultants and lawyers to break up teacher unions. This has led to a heated debate between charter school proponents and teachers unions, with both sides arguing over the legality and ethics of the practice.

On one hand, charter school supporters like the California Charter School Association argue that they have the right to use union-busting consultants and lawyers to protect their freedom of speech. They claim that teachers unions are too powerful and use their influence to stifle innovation and competition in the education market according to a many Citizens United Billionaires.

But on the other hand, teachers unions and education advocates argue that this practice is unfair and undermines the right of teachers to organize. They claim that charter schools are using public funds for their own private interests and that of their billionaire overlords, which is not only unethical but also illegal.

So, who's right? Well, it's hard to say. But one thing's for sure - this debate is no laughing matter. Or is it?

Let's take a closer look at the issue. According to a 2017 report by the Center for American Progress, charter schools have spent over $100 million on union-busting consultants and lawyers since 2010. That's a lot of dough!

But what are these consultants and lawyers actually doing? Are they sneaking into teachers' homes in the middle of the night and breaking up union meetings? Are they hiding in the bushes outside of schools, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting union leaders?

No, of course not. That would be ridiculous. Instead, these consultants and lawyers are hired to provide legal advice and guidance on labor relations issues. They help charter schools navigate the complex world of labor law and ensure that they are in compliance with all applicable regulations or at least not going to be thrown in the clink.

But here's the thing - why are charter schools spending so much money on these services? Is it really necessary to spend millions of dollars on legal fees just to ensure compliance with labor laws?

Maybe it's because charter schools are more likely to face labor disputes than traditional public schools. After all, charter schools often operate outside of traditional collective bargaining agreements and are not subject to the same rules and regulations as traditional public schools.

Or maybe it's because charter schools are more focused on profits than public education. By breaking up teacher unions, charter schools can lower labor costs and increase profits. It's a win-win for them - but a lose-lose for teachers and students.

So, what's the solution? Should charter schools be allowed to use public funds for union-busting consultants and lawyers? Or should this practice be banned altogether?

Well, we're not here to give you the answer. But we will say this - if charter schools are truly committed to providing high-quality education for all students, they should focus on investing in teachers and classrooms, not lawyers and consultants.

After all, education is not a business - it's a public good. And as such, it deserves our full attention and support. So let's stop the jokes and get serious about ensuring that all students have access to the education they deserve.

Public funds for the public good, not union busting | Policy Matters Ohio | March 16, 2022 https://www.policymattersohio.org/blog/2022/03/16/public-funds-for-the-public-good-not-union-busting 

Public Funds Public Schools|Home https://pfps.org/ 

IF YOU ARE NOT WATCHING CHARTER SCHOOLS SCANDALS, YOU ARE MISSING A GREAT CRIME SHOW

IF YOU ARE NOT WATCHING CHARTER SCHOOLS SCANDALS, YOU ARE MISSING A GREAT CRIME SHOW

Are you tired of the same old crime shows? Well, have no fear because the Charter School Scandals are here! Yes, you read that right. The Charter School Scandals are the hottest crime show on the block, and if you're not watching, you're missing out on some serious drama.

The Network for Public Education (NPE) Scandal Report is the go-to source for all things Charter School Scandals. It seems like every day there's a new scandal to report. From financial mismanagement to academic fraud to straight-up abuse, these charter schools are giving traditional public schools a run for their money.

Now, some people might argue that these scandals are just the result of a few bad actors, but let's be real here. When there are so many scandals happening in the same type of school, it's hard to believe that it's just a coincidence. It's like saying that all the bad apples just happen to fall into the same basket.

So, what can be done to prevent these scandals from happening? Well, for starters, we need to close down bad charters and hold the crooks accountable. It's time to stop giving these schools a free pass and start demanding better.

But how do we prevent corruption from happening in the first place? It's not easy, but there are some steps we can take. For example, we can increase government oversight of charter schools and require them to be more transparent about their finances and operations. We can also ban charter school leaders from accepting gifts or donations from businesses or organizations that have a financial interest in the school. And let's not forget about providing charter school teachers and staff with training on ethics and conflict of interest. It's time to create a culture of accountability and transparency within charter schools.

Now, let's take a look at some of the juicy scandals that have been reported in the media. We've got the James Singleton Charter School in New Orleans, which allegedly fabricated criminal background checks for school employees and hired unqualified relatives and friends. And let's not forget about Prenda and EdKey in Arizona, who partnered to run microschools and are now being investigated by the Arizona Attorney General's Office for potentially violating laws or regulations.

But wait, there's more! Deon Boyce, a former senior adviser in the Obama administration, was arrested for stealing more than $200,000 from a network of charter schools that he founded in New York. And the UCP of Central Florida was accused of altering student education plans to inflate its funding by nearly $60,000. And let's not forget about Another Choice Virtual Charter in Idaho, which paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in public funds to companies co-owned by its administrator without following proper ethics procedures.

It's clear that there have been several scandals involving charter schools in recent years. From the A3 charter school network in California to the Indiana Virtual School and Indiana Virtual Pathways Academy, it seems like no charter school is safe from scandal. And let's not forget about the Inspire charter school network in California, which is under investigation for alleged financial malfeasance and conflicts of interest.

So, if you're looking for some drama and scandal in your life, look no further than the Charter School Scandals. But let's not forget that these scandals have real-life consequences for students and their families. It's time to demand better from our schools and hold them accountable for their actions.

Another Day Another Charter Scandal - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/april-2021-scandals/ 

Still Asleep at the Wheel - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/stillasleepatthewheel/ 

Charter schools fail at astounding rate, report says - District Administration https://districtadministration.com/charter-schools-fail-at-astounding-rate-report-says/ 

There have been several juicy scandals involving charter schools in recent years, some of which are listed below:

• A3 charter school network: Executives from this online charter school network in California pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal public dollars by enrolling thousands of students who never took any classes and funneling money from the schools into companies they controlled. They pocketed more than $50 million of public funds.
• Indiana Virtual School and Indiana Virtual Pathways Academy: These two online charter schools in Indiana were ordered to repay $85 million in misspent state funds after a state audit found that they inflated their enrollment numbers by counting students who had left or died, paid millions of dollars to companies linked to school officials, and failed to provide adequate education for their students.
• Inspire charter school network: This network of online charter schools in California is under investigation by state and county authorities for alleged financial malfeasance, conflicts of interest, and poor academic outcomes. The network allegedly enrolled thousands of students without their knowledge or consent, paid parents for enrolling their children and buying educational materials from vendors owned by Inspire officials, and operated as a Ponzi scheme by using state funds from new schools to pay off debts of older ones.
• James Singleton Charter School: This charter school in New Orleans allegedly fabricated criminal background checks for school employees, hired unqualified relatives and friends, and misused federal funds meant for low-income students.
• Prenda and EdKey: These two companies in Arizona partnered to run microschools, which are small groups of students who learn at people’s homes with a guide. The companies enrolled students in EdKey’s online school and collected charter school funding from the state, but used Prenda’s curriculum and staff. The Arizona Attorney General’s Office is investigating their relationship and whether they violated any laws or regulations.
• Deon Boyce: This former senior adviser in the Obama administration was arrested for stealing more than $200,000 from a network of charter schools that he founded in New York. He used the money to get a lower interest rate on a mortgage for a Manhattan apartment.
• UCP of Central Florida: This charter school run by a nonprofit organization that serves people with disabilities was accused of altering student education plans to show that children needed more intensive services than they really did, inflating its funding by nearly $60,000. The Orange County Public Schools is investigating the case.
• Another Choice Virtual Charter: This online charter school in Idaho paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in public funds to companies co-owned by its administrator, Laura Sandidge, without following proper ethics procedures. The Idaho Professional Standards Commission found that Sandidge and the charter board violated state laws and rules.

Another Day Another Charter Scandal - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/april-2021-scandals/ 

NEW EARLY EDUCATION REPORT: ALL SPED STUDENTS ARE EQUAL BUT SOME SPED STUDENTS ARE MORE EQUAL THAN OTHERS

 

ALL SPED STUDENTS ARE EQUAL BUT SOME SPED STUDENTS ARE MORE EQUAL THAN OTHERS

Attention all readers! Brace yourselves for a wild ride as we take a deep dive into the latest report from the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER). But don't worry, we promise to keep things light and funny, even when discussing the serious issue of unequal access to special education services.

The report, titled "State[s] of Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education: Looking at Equity," highlights the fact that not all young children with disabilities have equal access to essential services at a young age. And let's be real, that's not funny at all. But what is funny is the fact that the disparities in access to services are largest for Black children. Seriously? We're still dealing with this in 2023?

According to the report, only 3.7% of children under 3 years old received early intervention (EI) services in Fall 2020. And if you thought that number was bad, wait until you hear about the state-by-state breakdown. Massachusetts served 10% of children under 3, while Arkansas and Hawaii only served 1%. Come on, Arkansas and Hawaii, you can do better than that!

But wait, it gets even worse. Disparities in access to early childhood special education (ECSE) services are even larger than disparities in access to EI services. Nationally, only 6% of 3- and 4-year-olds received ECSE services in Fall 2020. And the state-by-state breakdown is just as bleak. Wyoming served 14% of children, while Alabama served less than 3%. Seriously, Alabama? You're better than that.

The report found that these disparities in access to services cannot be explained by need. In fact, at school-age, Black children are more likely than White children to be identified as needing special education. So what's going on here? It's time for policymakers and educators to step up and ensure that all young children with disabilities, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, have equal access to the services they need to succeed.

But let's not forget the silver lining here. Early intervention and ECSE services are critical for helping young children with disabilities reach their full potential. These services can help children develop their language, motor, and social-emotional skills. And they can also help children prepare for kindergarten and beyond. So let's make sure all children have access to these essential services.

In conclusion, the NIEER report may be a sobering reminder of the work that needs to be done, but that doesn't mean we can't have a little fun along the way. So let's keep fighting for equal access to special education services and never forget to sprinkle a little humor into our advocacy efforts. Because let's face it, sometimes you just have to laugh to keep from crying.

Report Highlights Unequal Access to Special Education Services https://www.ffyf.org/new-report-highlights-unequal-access-to-special-education-services/ 

VANITY FAIR: FLORIDUH, SMART PEOPLE ARE FALLING FOR STUPID LIES

FLORIDUH,  SMART PEOPLE ARE FALLING FOR STUPID LIES

Smart people are falling for stupid lies! And it's happening in Florida, of all places. Yes, the Sunshine State has become ground zero for the far right's education blitz, and it's all happening in Sarasota County.

From board battles to book bans to "woke" audits, Republicans in Sarasota are waging a grassroots assault on "everything, everywhere, all at once." And who's leading the charge? None other than the county's former school board chair.

Now, you might be thinking, "Wait a minute, aren't school board chairs supposed to be, you know, smart?" Well, apparently not in Sarasota. This guy has fallen hook, line, and sinker for the far right's ridiculous agenda.

So what exactly is this agenda? It's pretty simple, actually. The far right wants to erase anything and everything that doesn't fit into their narrow worldview. That means banning books that don't align with their beliefs, pushing "alternative facts" instead of actual science, and generally just being a bunch of close-minded jerks.

And unfortunately, they're having some success in Sarasota. The school board has already banned several books, including "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison and "Beloved" by the same author. Apparently, the far right doesn't like books that deal with difficult topics like racism and slavery. Who knew?

But it's not just books that are under attack. The far right is also going after teachers who dare to teach critical race theory or anything else that challenges their fragile worldview. They've even launched "woke" audits to root out any teachers who might be guilty of, you know, actually teaching.

Now, you might be thinking, "This all sounds pretty bad. What can we do about it?" Well, there's good news and bad news. The bad news is that the far right isn't going to give up without a fight. They're committed to their ridiculous agenda, and they're not going to let a little thing like reality get in the way.

The good news is that we can fight back. We can speak out against book bans and "woke" audits. We can support teachers who are trying to teach critical thinking instead of propaganda. And we can vote out politicians who are more interested in pushing their own agenda than in actually helping our kids.

So let's do it. Let's stand up to the far right and their ridiculous agenda. Let's show them that we're not going to fall for their stupid lies. And let's make sure that our kids get the education they deserve – one that's based on facts, not ideology.

“Smart People Are Falling for Stupid Lies”: How One Florida County Has Become Ground Zero for the Far Right’s Education Blitz | Vanity Fair https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2023/05/florida-ground-zero-far-right-education-blitz