HOPE RETURNS TO SAC CITY: STUDENTS PARENTS TEACHERS AND THE COMMUNITY REJOICE, BILLIONAIRE PRIVATIZERS WEEP

HOPE RETURNS TO SAC CITY

STUDENTS PARENTS TEACHERS AND THE COMMUNITY REJOICE, BILLIONAIRE PRIVATIZERS WEEP

After years of billionaires privatizing fueled disruption and broad academy trained superintendents, there is finally hope in the air at Sac City Schools. The new labor agreements signal the new school board's willingness to work with our teachers and staff to make our schools work for the students and meet the needs of the community to provide a better education for all of Sacramento's kids. And maybe, just maybe, we can start turning our schools into community schools instead of disrupting and destroying our precious public schools.

It's about time that the district and the union found some common ground. The only thing that was previously obstructing their partnership was outside consultants. But now, with a newfound partnership, it's time to focus on closing achievement gaps and improving DEI practices in the workplace. And let's not forget about the 10% increase in salaries for union members. That's right, folks, our teachers are finally getting the pay they deserve. 

But that's not all. The district has also changed the names of three schools with racist backstories. It's about time we acknowledge the past and move forward towards a more inclusive future. And let's not forget about the celebratory event for Suy:u Elementary School, previously known as Peter Burnett Elementary. It's always great to see a community come together to celebrate progress.

Now, let's talk about the search for a new superintendent. Interim superintendent Lisa Allen is leading the district for now, but who knows who will take over next? Maybe it will be a billionaire with no experience in education. Or maybe it will be a trained superintendent like Lisa Allen who actually cares about the students and the community. Only time will tell.

In conclusion, it's great to see some progress being made at Sac City Schools. Let's hope that this newfound partnership between the district and the union continues to grow and that we can finally start providing a better education for all of Sacramento's kids. And who knows, maybe one day we'll even have a superintendent who doesn't think that disrupting and destroying public schools is the way to go. A girl can dream, can't she?

As Sacramento City Unified students return to school, here’s what to know https://sacobserver.com/2023/09/as-sacramento-city-unified-students-return-to-school-heres-what-to-know/ 

TO USE CHATGPT OR NOT TO USE CHATGPT: THAT IS THE QUESTION...CHATGPT CAN ANSWER EITHER WAY

TO USE CHATGPT OR NOT TO USE CHATGPT: THAT IS THE QUESTION... CHATGPT CAN ANSWER EITHER WAY 

As a teacher, have you ever wished for a virtual assistant to help you with grading papers or answering student questions? Well, OpenAI has heard your prayers and is bringing ChatGPT to classrooms near you! But before you jump on the bandwagon, let's take a closer look at this AI tool and whether it's worth the hype.

First of all, let's talk about these tutor-specific prompts. Sure, they sound fancy and all, but let's be real - they're just glorified lesson plans. And if you're anything like me, you probably already have a million lesson plans saved on your computer that you never even use. Do we really need more prompts telling us how to teach? I think not.

And don't even get me started on the virtual AI tutor. I mean, who wants to talk to a robot when they could be talking to a real human being? Sure, it might be helpful for students who are shy or have trouble speaking up in class, but what about the rest of the class who actually enjoy human interaction? Are we just supposed to sit back and let the robots take over?

But let's not be too quick to dismiss ChatGPT. After all, it could be a useful tool for tasks like essay writing and math problems. And as much as I hate to admit it, cheating and plagiarism are real issues in today's classrooms. Maybe live proctoring or monitoring software isn't such a bad idea after all.

So, should you use ChatGPT in your classroom? It depends on your teaching style and your students' needs. If you're already a tech-savvy teacher who loves using new tools to engage your students, then go for it! But if you're like me and prefer good old-fashioned human interaction, then maybe stick to your tried-and-true teaching methods.

In conclusion, ChatGPT might be the future of education, or it might just be another overhyped AI tool. Either way, let's not forget the importance of human connection in the classroom. After all, robots may be smart, but they'll never be as funny as your favorite teacher (wink wink).

OpenAI Wants Teachers to Use ChatGPT In Classrooms, And It Has a Plan! | Beebom https://beebom.com/openai-teachers-use-chatgpt-classrooms/ 

It’s time for ChatGPT to head to class https://www.morningbrew.com/daily/stories/2023/09/01/it-s-time-for-chatgpt-to-head-to-class 

Big Education Ape: WHAT EVERY TEACHER NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT CHATGPT BEFORE THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/what-every-teacher-needs-to-know-about.html 

Big Education Ape: CHATGPT: A GUIDE FOR STUDENTS AND TEACHER USING CHATGPT IN THE CLASSROOM https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/chatgpt-guide-for-students-and-teacher.html 

Big Education Ape: DON'T FEAR THE CHATBOT REAPER (IN THE CLASSROOM): AI COVERS THE BLUE OYSTER CULT CLASSIC https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/dont-fear-chatbot-reaper-in-classroom.html 

Big Education Ape: CHATGPT: TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL? https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/05/chatgpt-too-cool-for-school.html 

CALIFORNIA SB 596 AKA STFU & END THE THREATS AND VIOLENCE MOMS FOR LIBERTY BILL

 

CALIFORNIA SB 596 AKA STFU & END THE THREATS AND VIOLENCE MOMS FOR LIBERTY BILL

Attention all parents! Are you tired of being threatened and all the violence at school board meetings? Well, fear not! California's SB 596, also known as the STFU & End the Threats and Violence Moms for Liberty legislation, is here to save the day. But will it really put an end to disruptive behavior at school events or just be another way for the board to blow off parents with "issues"?

Let's take a closer look at this bill. It aims to punish parents who harass school officials at board meetings by extending an existing law that bans parents from disrupting on-campus activities to include off-campus activities such as board meetings. If found guilty of harassment, parents could face a misdemeanor charge, a $500-$1,000 fine, and up to a year in jail. Yikes!

But hold up, Moms for Liberty is not having it. They believe the bill is just a way for Democrats to silence those who oppose sexually explicit material in the curriculum. I mean, who doesn't love a good conspiracy theory?

Critics of the bill argue that it's too ambiguous and could lead to parents being punished for speaking out on hot-button issues at board meetings. But let's be real, if you're causing a ruckus and making it impossible for anyone to get anything done, then maybe it's time to take a step back and reevaluate your approach.

Democratic state Sen. Anthony J. Portantino, who sponsored the bill, defends it by stating that it's intended to protect school employees from harassment and would not infringe on free speech. So, sorry Karen, you can't just scream "fake news" and expect to get away with it.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room. The MAGA mask protester who stormed the field in Brentwood, CA. Look, we all have our opinions on politics, but let's leave the masks out of it and focus on the game. No one wants to see your political statement while trying to enjoy some good old fashioned high school football.

But fear not, because California Senate Bill 596 is here to save the day! It aims to protect school employees from harassment and disruption by making it a misdemeanor for anyone to materially disrupt school activities or threaten or harass school employees in relation to their duties. So, if you're planning on storming the field with your political agenda, you might want to think twice.

In all seriousness though, let's remember that school events are meant to be a safe and inclusive environment for all students and teachers. We should be focusing on supporting our children's education and creating a positive atmosphere for everyone involved.

So, parents, let's be brave and stand up for our children's future. But let's also remember to do it in a respectful and constructive manner. And who knows, maybe one day we'll look back and laugh at how worked up we got over that one school board meeting. Or maybe not, but at least we tried.

In other news, a former staff member of Heritage High School was arrested at a football game after defying a ban to stay away from the campus. Carlos Hurtado was tackled by a bystander after running through the stadium. Moral of the story? Don't be like Carlos.

Bill Text: CA SB596 | 2023-2024 | Regular Session | Amended | LegiScan https://legiscan.com/CA/text/SB596/id/2832553 

Section 44811 - Conduct of parent, guardian or other person disrupting classwork or extracurricular activities, Cal. Ed. Code § 44811 | Casetext Search + Citator https://casetext.com/statute/california-codes/california-education-code/title-2-elementary-and-secondary-education/division-3-local-administration/part-25-employees/chapter-4-employment-certificated-employees/article-1-rights-and-duties/section-44811-conduct-of-parent-guardian-or-other-person-disrupting-classwork-or-extracurricular-activities 

California mom claims Democrats 'trying to legislate First Amendment out of existence' with school bill | Fox News https://www.foxnews.com/media/california-mom-claims-democrats-trying-legislate-first-amendment-existence-school-bill 

Ex-Teacher Arrested After Running onto Field During Heritage HS Football Game https://contracosta.news/2023/09/02/ex-teacher-arrested-after-running-onto-field-during-heritage-hs-football-game/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BING AI

California Senate Bill 596 is about protecting school employees from harassment and disruption. Here are some key points about this bill:

• - The bill was introduced by Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank) on February 16, 2023¹ and passed the Senate Public Safety Committee on April 25, 2023².
• - The bill proposes to make it a misdemeanor for any person to **materially disrupt school activities** or **threaten or harass school employees** in relation to their duties¹. The bill defines these terms as follows:
•     - Materially disrupt school activities means to substantially interfere with the orderly operation of a school or the ability of students or staff to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by the school¹.
•     - Threaten or harass school employees means to engage in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or the safety of their immediate family, or to suffer substantial emotional distress¹.
•     - A course of conduct means two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts in which the person directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s property¹.
• - The bill specifies that a person who commits this offense is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment¹.
• - The bill aims to provide a safe and inclusive environment for all students and teachers by addressing the issue of teachers facing harassment and greater scrutiny over lessons taught in the classroom².

Bing, 9/3/2023

• Portantino School Employee Protection Bill Passes Senate Public Safety .... https://sd25.senate.ca.gov/news/2023-04-25/portantino-school-employee-protection-bill-passes-senate-public-safety-committee.
• (6) Senator Portantino Introduces Bill to Protect Teachers from Harassment. https://sd25.senate.ca.gov/news/2023-02-16/senator-portantino-introduces-bill-protect-teachers-harassment.

UNION BUSTERS GET THEIR COMEUPPANCE: NLRB RULING SENDS THEM BACKING

UNION BUSTERS GET THEIR COMEUPPANCE: NLRB RULING SENDS THEM BACKING

In honor of Labor Day, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has gifted us with a new ruling that promises to make unionization easier for firms that break the law while resisting organizing campaigns. Finally, a win for the little guy! Or is it?

The ruling, issued on August 25, 2023, in the case of Cemex Construction Materials Pacific, LLC, has sparked controversy and confusion among both employers and employees alike. But fear not, dear readers, for we have broken down the new framework into bite-sized pieces that even the most anti-union boss can understand.

First of all, let's talk about the old standard, the Joy Silk standard. Under this standard, an employer was required to bargain with a union unless they had a "good-faith doubt" of the union's majority status. Sounds reasonable, right? Well, the new framework takes things a step further.

Now, when a union requests recognition based on a majority of employees in an appropriate bargaining unit designating them as their representative, the employer must either recognize and bargain with the union or file an RM petition seeking an election. But here's where things get interesting: if the employer seeks an election and then commits any unfair labor practices that would require setting aside the election, the petition will be dismissed, and the Board will order the employer to recognize and bargain with the union. Boom.

But wait, there's more! The new framework also aims to address the problems of long delays and unlawful union-busting tactics that often occur during unionization campaigns. It's like the NLRB is saying "Hey, we see you over there trying to intimidate your employees into not unionizing. Knock it off!"

So what does this mean for employers? Well, it means that they now have the option to pursue a Board election but also run the risk of having to immediately recognize and bargain with the union if they engage in any shady behavior during the election process. It's like playing a game of labor relations Jenga - one wrong move and everything comes crashing down.

But what about employees? The new framework promises to make unionization easier at firms that break the law while resisting organizing campaigns. Hooray for workers' rights! However, it remains to be seen how effective this ruling will be in practice. Will employers simply find new and creative ways to skirt around it? Only time will tell.

In the case of Cemex, the Board found that the employer engaged in more than 20 instances of objectionable or unlawful misconduct during the critical period between the filing of the election petition and the election. The Board ordered Cemex to bargain with the Teamsters union, which had lost the election by a narrow margin. Talk about a nail-biter!

Labor advocates have hailed this ruling as a victory for the US labor movement, which has seen a resurgence in recent years. And what better way to celebrate Labor Day than with a win for workers everywhere? So go ahead and raise a glass (or a picket sign) to this new framework - just be sure to watch your back if you're an anti-union employer. The NLRB is watching you.

US labor movement celebrates new regulation to counter union-busting | US unions | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/sep/02/union-nlrb-decision-delays-busting 

Union Busting: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gk8dUXRpoy8 

Who Are the Union Busters? https://www.nysut.org/resources/special-resources-sites/fight-back/who-are-the-union-busters 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BING AI

The new NLRB framework is a decision issued by the National Labor Relations Board on August 25, 2023, in the case of Cemex Construction Materials Pacific, LLC². It is a new standard for determining when employers are required to bargain with unions without a representation election².

The new framework aims to effectuate employees' right to bargain through representatives of their own choosing and improve the fairness and integrity of Board-conducted elections². It also addresses the problems of long delays and unlawful union-busting tactics that often occur during unionization campaigns¹.

Under the new framework, when a union requests recognition on the basis that a majority of employees in an appropriate bargaining unit have designated the union as their representative, an employer must either recognize and bargain with the union or promptly file an RM petition seeking an election². However, if an employer who seeks an election commits any unfair labor practice that would require setting aside the election, the petition will be dismissed, and—rather than re-running the election—the Board will order the employer to recognize and bargain with the union².

The new framework differs from the historical Joy Silk standard, which required an employer to bargain with a union unless it had a good-faith doubt of the union's majority status². The new framework gives employers the option to invoke the statutory provision allowing them to pursue a Board election, but also disincentivizes them from committing unfair labor practices during the election process².

The new framework was applied retroactively in the case of Cemex, where the Board found that the employer engaged in more than 20 instances of objectionable or unlawful misconduct during the critical period between the filing of the election petition and the election². The Board ordered Cemex to bargain with the Teamsters union, which had lost the election by a narrow margin¹.

The new framework has been welcomed by labor advocates as a useful victory for the US labor movement, which has seen a resurgence in recent years¹. It is expected to make unionization easier at firms that break the law while resisting organizing campaigns¹. However, it may also face legal challenges from employers who oppose it³.

Bing, 9/2/2023

• (1) Board Issues Decision Announcing New Framework for Union Representation .... https://www.nlrb.gov/news-outreach/news-story/board-issues-decision-announcing-new-framework-for-union-representation.
• (2) US labor movement celebrates new regulation to counter union-busting .... https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/sep/02/union-nlrb-decision-delays-busting.
• (3) NLRB Says Companies That Union-Bust Must Recognize Busted Union - Gizmodo. https://gizmodo.com/nlrb-new-guidelines-for-union-busting-1850775649.
• (4) Labor Board Ditches Trump-Era Framework for Workplace Rules (1). https://news.bloomberglaw.com/daily-labor-report/labor-board-ditches-trump-era-framework-for-workplace-rules.

DUHSANTIS OK SCHOOL VOUCHER BONUS BUCKS FOR BIG SCREEN TVS, KAYAKS, DISNEY TICKETS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

 

DUHSANTIS OK SCHOOL VOUCHER BONUS BUCKS FOR BIG SCREEN TVS, KAYAKS, DISNEY TICKETS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has done it again! He's out-stupided Trump and the other Trump wannabes by approving school voucher bonus bucks for Disney tickets, kayaks, and big-screen TVs. Who needs textbooks and pencils when you can have a paddleboard, am I right?

According to a report by Step up for Students, Florida's "school choice" vouchers, which are funded by taxpayers, are being used to pay for theme park tickets to Disney World and other items such as kayaks and treadmills. Yes, you read that right - treadmills! Because nothing says "education" like running on a machine while watching TV.

The list of reimbursements has faced criticism for diverting taxpayer money away from public education to private education. But who needs public education when you can have a VIP pass to Space Mountain? The $8,000 vouchers were originally limited to low-income families and students with disabilities, but that changed in March with the passage of HB-1, which removed the income caps. Now anyone can get in on the fun!

But wait, there's more! Governor DeSantis has signed a bill to expand school vouchers even further, increasing the amount parents receive to $8,000 per student and allowing them to spend the money more freely. This means that parents can now buy big-screen TVs and paddleboards with taxpayer money. Because why learn math when you can watch Netflix on a 55-inch screen?

Critics have questioned whether it is appropriate for taxpayer dollars to be spent on such items. But let's be honest, who wouldn't want to use their hard-earned money to send their kid to Disney World? And why should teachers have all the fun buying their own classroom supplies when parents can now use their vouchers to buy treadmills and kayaks?

The purchases can be made by parents who home-school their children or send them to private schools, if any voucher money remains after paying tuition and fees. The vouchers have nearly doubled in size, to more than 425,000 students, after HB 1 became law on July 1. So get ready, Florida - it's time to hit the theme parks and paddle down the river with your taxpayer-funded kayaks!

In conclusion, Governor DeSantis has truly outdone himself with this latest move. Who needs education when you can have a VIP pass to Disney World? Let's just hope that the next generation of Floridians can paddle their way to success with their new kayaks and treadmills.

Florida school vouchers can pay for TVs, kayaks and theme parks. Is that OK? https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2023/09/01/florida-school-vouchers-can-pay-tvs-kayaks-theme-parks-is-that-ok/

DeSantis Gives OK for School Voucher Money to Be Used on Disney Tickets https://www.thedailybeast.com/desantis-gives-ok-for-school-voucher-money-to-be-used-on-disney-tickets 

Expanded education voucher pays for theme park tickets, big-screen TVs, paddleboards and more https://floridapolitics.com/archives/632365-expanded-education-voucher-pays-for-theme-park-tickets-big-screen-tvs-paddleboards-and-more/

Florida allows taxpayer-funded ‘school choice’ vouchers to pay for kayaks, Disney tickets – WFTV https://www.wftv.com/news/local/florida-allows-taxpayer-funded-school-choice-vouchers-pay-kayaks-disney-tickets/GLAC7OS7JVFDHIKJAE3E35TZ6A/ 

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-2-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech

 
TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-2-23

Big Education Ape: ROCKLIN SCHOOL BOARD PRES CALLS ON WHITE JESUS TO SAVE THE DISTRICT: FILM AT 11 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/rocklin-school-board-pres-calls-on.html

Big Education Ape: TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 8-26-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #MagaMugshot https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/top-banana-top-reads-this-week-8-26-23.html

 

Big Education Ape: NEW BS HIGH SCHOOL RANKING IS OUT: RICH KIDS STILL WINNING https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/new-bs-high-school-ranking-is-out-rich.html 

Big Education Ape: MEATAXE MIKE MILES AND THE TEXAS MEATAXE MASACRE OF PUBLIC EDUCATION https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/meataxe-mike-miles-and-texas-meataxe.html 

Big Education Ape: BACK TO SCHOOL SURVIVING THE MADNESS WITH A CUP OF COFFEE AND A SMILE
https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/back-to-school-surviving-madness-with.html

Big Education Ape: SFUSD WHERE THE BILLIONAIRES PLAY AND TEACHERS PRAY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/sfusd-where-billionaires-play-and.html

Big Education Ape: THE FUTURE IS NOW: HOW MEASURE QQ GIVES HIGH SCHOOLERS A VOICE... AND A VOTE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/the-future-is-now-how-measure-qq-gives.html 

Big Education Ape: AMERICANS SAY P. U. TO A.I. IN NEW PEW REPORT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/americans-say-p-u-to-ai-in-new-pew.html

Big Education Ape: TRUMP GANGSTER? I AM SO CONFUSED https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/trump-gangster-i-am-so-confused.html 

Big Education Ape: SAC CITY USD WHERE BILLIONAIRES BOYS CLUB HAS RULED AND STUDENTS HAVE PAID FOR THE MISTAKES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/sac-city-usd-where-billionaires-boys.html 

OTHER GREAT READS THIS WEEK FROM THE BIG EDUCATION APE

Big Education Ape: FIRE IN PARADISE: HOW YOU CAN HELP THE PEOPLE OF MAUI #mauihawaii #maui #mauifire #fire #devastation #prayers

https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/fire-in-paradise-how-you-can-help.html

YESTERDAY

JUDGE TELLS HOUSTON ISD MEATAXE MIKE MILES TO COOL HIS ROLL

by Mike Simpson / 20h

In a shocking turn of events, MeatAxe Mike Miles, the notorious superintendent of Houston Independent School District, has been caught red-handed using another playbook from the billionaires' guide to privatizing schools. This time, it's the teacher evaluation playbook that he's implementing illegally, much to the chagrin of the Houston Federation of Teachers. According to sources close to the m

SAN DIEGO USD WHERE STUDENTS CAN BE WHOEVER THEY WANT TO BECAUSE STUDENTS HAVE RIGHTS TOO!

by Mike Simpson / 20h

San Diego USD has taken a bold stance in the ongoing debate between protecting students' privacy and outing them to their parents. In a move that has caused quite a stir, the school district has allowed students to secretly identify as transgender or nonbinary without informing their parents. And while some may criticize this decision, we here at the Daily Chuckle can't help but see the humor in

OMFG! TEXAS THE STATE THAT LOVES GUNS MORE THAN KIDS MANDATES A GUN IN EVERY SCHOOL

Texas struggles to meet school safety mandate

•

by Mike Simpson / 21h

OMFG! Texas, the state that loves guns more than kids, has implemented a new law requiring every public school campus to have an armed guard stationed by September 1st. Because apparently, the solution to gun violence is more guns. But let's be real, who needs funding for education when you can spend it on arming schools like they're preparing for a warzone? It's like they're saying, "Hey kids,

AMERICANS SAY P. U. TO A.I. IN NEW PEW REPORT

by Mike Simpson / 21h

In a recent report by the Pew Research Center, Americans have admitted to saying "P U" to AI. Yes, you read that right. Apparently, more than half of Americans are more concerned about the effects of AI than they are excited about it. And only 10% of them are actually excited about it. Talk about a buzzkill! It's like the whole country has collectively decided to give AI the cold shoulder. It's

AUG 31

RUFO CONTINUES TO GIVE THE DEVIL A RUN FOR HIS MONEY

by Mike Simpson / 1d

Buckle up folks, because we have a real devil of a man on our hands. Christopher Rufo, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, is causing quite the stir with his efforts to abolish the Gender Studies department at the New College of Florida. And let me tell you, this guy is giving Lucifer a run for his money. As a trustee, Rufo has some serious power when it comes to college governance. And

MAGA ATTACKS KINDERGARTEN: WHO KNEW PLAYDATES COULD BE SO CONTROVERSIAL

by Mike Simpson / 1d

In a shocking turn of events, Chabot Elementary School in Oakland, California, was evacuated on Tuesday after a bomb threat was received via email. But that's not the only thing that's explosive about this story. The threat contained a racial undertone, and the FBI is now assisting the police with an investigation. It seems that the MAGA movement has finally found its way to the schoolyard. This

WILL TEXAS GOV ABBOTT ADD ALLIGATORS AND LANDMINES IN NEXT ANTI-IMMIGRANT MOVE

by Mike Simpson / 1d

As if the year 2020 wasn't enough to handle, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has decided to spice things up by militarizing the US-Mexico border. Because, you know, what's a little extra drama and tension between neighbors? Abbott's Operation Lone Star has been met with controversy and criticism, but that hasn't stopped him from throwing billions of dollars at anti-immigrant efforts. And he's not alo

SCUSD: NO LONGER FOR SALE TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER?

by Mike Simpson / 1d

After years of being led by billionaire privatizers, the Sacramento City Unified School District (SCUSD) is finally turning the page on some of the darkest times in city history. This is great news for the students who deserve better services and for the teachers who have been bashed by the powers that be and the Sacramento Bee. The recent collaboration between the district and its labor unions

AUG 30

THE CONDITION OF EDUCATION 2023( A REPORT): FROM BAD TO MAGA OH MY!!

by Mike Simpson / 2d

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to the Condition of Education 2023! Today, we're going to take a hilarious look at the state of education in America. So grab your pencils and paper (or your laptops and tablets) and let's dive in! First up, we have the key indicators on all levels of education. And let me tell you, these indicators are more confusing than algebra! We've got numbers

YEAR-ROUND SCHOOL VS 4 -DAY WEEK: A BATTLE BETWEEN LEARNING AND COST-CUTTING

by Mike Simpson / 2d

Are you tired of the same old boring school schedule? Do you want to spice things up and add some humor to your education? Well, look no further because we have some hilarious takes on year-round vs 4-day school weeks. First up, year-round school. You may be thinking, "But wait, I don't want to go to school all year round!" Don't worry, it's not that kind of year-round. We're talking about a sch

NEA PRESIDENT BECKY PRINGLE DECLARES STATE OF EMERGENCY DUE TO NATIONAL TEACHER SHORTAGE

National teacher shortage

•

by Mike Simpson / 2d

Breaking news: the National Education Association (NEA) has declared a state of emergency regarding the teacher shortage crisis in Indiana and across the nation. And let me tell you, folks, this crisis is chronic. It's like that nagging cough that won't go away no matter how much cough syrup you chug. According to Becky Pringle, the president of the NEA, low pay, lack of professional respect, an

SAC CITY USD WHERE BILLIONAIRES BOYS CLUB HAS RULED AND STUDENTS HAVE PAID FOR THE MISTAKES

Compensation agreement reached for teachers

•

by Mike Simpson / 2d

Sacramento City Unified School District is in a bit of a pickle. After 25 years of leadership paid for by billionaire privatizers, the district is now facing the consequences of their actions. Will the students pay the price for their mistakes, or will the state finally see the light and put an end to the privatizing policies that are destroying our public schools? Interim Sup Lisa Allen may be

TRUMP GANGSTER? I AM SO CONFUSED

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, has been in the news lately for all the wrong reasons. From his alleged links to organized crime to his hilarious legal defense strategies, Trump has managed to keep us all entertained. But the question on everyone's mind is, is Trump a gangster? I am so confused. Let's dive in and find out. Firstly, let's address the elephant in the room.

AUG 29

ROCKLIN SCHOOL BOARD PRES CALLS ON WHITE JESUS TO SAVE THE DISTRICT: FILM AT 11

Controversy over calls for religion

•

by Mike Simpson / 3d

In a recent turn of events, the president of the Rocklin School Board in California has called upon the almighty White Jesus to save the district. Yes, you read that right. The board president, Julie Leavens Hupp, made a statement urging "Christ-centered" families to join the district's advisory committees. Now, we're not sure if Ms. Hupp is aware of the separation between church and state, but

SFUSD WHERE THE BILLIONAIRES PLAY AND TEACHERS PRAY

SF schools face financial mismanagement

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by Mike Simpson / 3d

San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) is in the news again, and this time it's not for their high-ranking Asian students or their big budget. No, this time it's for their financial mismanagement, teacher shortages, and potential school closures. But don't worry, folks, it's all part of the billionaires' plan to destroy public education in California. According to the San Francisco teache

THE FUTURE IS NOW: HOW MEASURE QQ GIVES HIGH SCHOOLS A VOICE... AND A VOTE

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Attention all high school students in Oakland! Get ready to exercise your right to vote because Measure QQ is coming to town! That's right, the voting age for school board elections is being lowered to 16, and it's not just any ordinary civics lesson, it's a real-life one! Now, I know what you're thinking. "Wait, I can barely decide what to wear to school, how am I supposed to decide who should

NEW BS HIGH SCHOOL RANKING IS OUT: RICH KIDS STILL WINNING

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Are you tired of hearing about the "best" schools in the country? Well, I've got news for you: those rankings are just a bunch of bullsh*t. All they really tell you is which schools have the richest kids and are located in the most affluent areas. Let's take a look at the top 10 schools in the 2021 Best High Schools national rankings. Not a single one of them is a Title I majority school, meanin

JOE BIDEN: WE MUST KEEP MARCHING TOWARD DR. KING'S DREAM

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Joe Biden is president of the United States. Joe Biden: We must keep marching toward Dr. King’s dream https://wapo.st/44oSV0c Sixty years ago, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and hundreds of thousands of fellow Americans marched on Washington for jobs and freedom. In describing his dream for us all, Dr. King spoke of redeeming the “promissory note to which every American was to fall heir” derive

AUG 28

MEATAXE MIKE MILES AND THE TEXAS MEATAXE MASACRE OF PUBLIC EDUCATION

by Mike Simpson / 4d

The Texas takeover of Houston's public school district has caused quite the stir among students, parents, and teachers alike. MeatAxe Mike Miles, the new state-installed superintendent, has implemented some major changes that have left everyone feeling a little anxious. But fear not, dear readers, for I have the inside scoop on what's really going on. First off, let's talk about the new curricul

TIME TO FIRE RYAN WALTERS: THE MAD MAGA MONK BEHIND THE OKLAHOMA BOMB THREATS

by Mike Simpson / 4d

Oklahoma has been rocked by a series of bomb threats that have targeted several schools and public figures. The threats started on August 22, 2023, when a far-right TikTok account called Libs of TikTok reposted a video of a librarian from Union Public Schools who jokingly said she was pushing her woke agenda on kids. The video was taken out of context, and the reposted version left out the part

CATCHING MAGA HELL IN DENVER: WHO IS TIM HERNANDEZ

Teacher Tim Hernández wins House appointment

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by Mike Simpson / 4d

In a move that has left many scratching their heads, Tim Hernández, the man who inspired student protests at Denver Public Schools last spring, has been appointed to the Colorado House of Representatives. It seems that the vacancy committee was impressed with Hernández's ability to rile up a crowd and thought he would be the perfect fit for the job. Hernández, a former teacher who taught a Mexic

BROTHER BERNIE SAYS BACK BIDEN OR BITE ME

by Mike Simpson / 4d

The US presidential election is heating up and it seems like everyone has an opinion on who should take the top seat in the country. But one voice that has been particularly loud is that of Brother Bernie Sanders, who has urged progressive voters to unite behind Joe Biden in order to prevent another term of Donald Trump. And in true Bernie style, he didn't mince his words - he said "back Biden o

AUG 27

BACK TO SCHOOL SURVIVING THE MADNESS WITH A CUP OF COFFEE AND A SMILE

by Mike Simpson / 5d

It's that time of year again, folks. The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and the sound of children's screams can be heard echoing throughout the neighborhood. That's right, it's back to school season. As parents, we all know the drill. We have to prepare our kids for the academic pressure, the social dynamics, and, of course, the active shooter drills. But fear not, my friends. With a lit

VIVA LAS VEGAS TEACHER STRIKE: WILL THEY ROLL THE DICE?

Teachers arrested at school board

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by Mike Simpson / 5d

VIVA LAS VEGAS TEACHER STRIKE WILL THEY ROLL THE DICE As the old saying goes, "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas." But for teachers in the Clark County School District, what's happening in Vegas is no laughing matter. With contract negotiations at a standstill, nearly 5,000 teachers rallied in front of the school board demanding better pay and support staff salaries. Two teachers were even ha

AUG 26

CORRUPTION IN THE US: THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITY FOR CITIZENS UNITED BILLIONAIRES

by Mike Simpson / 6d

Corruption in the US? Ha! Who would have thought? It's not like we have a Supreme Court sugar daddy scandal, a grifting ex-president, or a fake news scandal by Fox and News Corp. Oh wait, we do. And to top it all off, it's been compounded and made worse by the Citizens United decision. Let's start with the Supreme Court sugar daddy scandal. It sounds like a bad romance novel, but unfortunately,

THE COLLEGE BOARD STANDARDIZED TEST WHERE PRIVACY GOES TO MARKET

by Mike Simpson / 6d

Are you a student who has taken the SAT test or an Advanced Placement exam? Well, congratulations, because you are now a data point in the College Board's vast database of student information. And what do they do with all this data, you may ask? They sell it to Facebook and TikTok, of course! That's right, the College Board has been caught using invisible tracking technology called "pixels" to s

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 8-26-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #MagaMugshot

by Mike Simpson / 6d

TOP READS THIS WEEK 8-26-23 Big Education Ape: ARKANSAS THE BLUE LITE SPECIAL STATE: EDUCATION BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE WALTON FAMILY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/arkansas-blue-lite-special-state.html Big Education Ape: TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 8-19-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #mauifire #MauiStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/top-banana-top-reads-