FROM HOMEROOM TO HYSTERIA: HOW MAGA POLITICAL CONFLICT IS RUINING HIGH SCHOOL

FROM HOMEROOM TO HYSTERIA: HOW MAGA POLITICAL CONFLICT IS RUINING HIGH SCHOOL

It's no secret that the political climate in the United States is a bit tense right now. But did you know that this tension has seeped its way into our public schools? That's right, folks, MAGA madness has officially come to our classrooms.

According to a recent report by John Rogers and Joseph Kahne, political conflicts have had a chilling effect on public education. But let's be real, what's more chilling than a bunch of high schoolers arguing about politics? It's like watching a bunch of baby goats try to headbutt each other. Hilarious, yet slightly concerning.

The report found that principals in politically diverse communities (aka "purple districts") face the most challenges when it comes to addressing controversial issues. They're more likely to experience political pressure from parents, community members, and district officials. And let's be honest, no one wants to deal with Karen from PTA when she's on a mission.

But it's not just purple districts that are feeling the heat. Principals in politically homogeneous communities (aka "blue or red districts") are also facing their own set of challenges. They're more likely to encounter misinformation and disinformation among students and families. And let's face it, teenagers believing everything they read on the internet is about as surprising as a Kardashian posting a selfie.

So, what can we do about this? The report offers some recommendations for educators, policymakers, and civic leaders. But let's be real, we all know the real solution is to just make everything a joke.

Imagine if every time a student tried to argue about politics, the teacher responded with a dad joke. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you over the sound of how much I don't care." Or what if we replaced all textbooks with memes? "The history of the United States in one picture: George Washington crossing the Delaware, followed by a bunch of Kardashians crossing the street."

But in all seriousness, civic education and engagement are important. We need to prepare our students for the real world and teach them how to have civil dialogue. And let's be real, if we can't do that, we're all screwed.

So, let's take a page out of Leslie Knope's book and "treat yo' self" to some civic engagement. Let's have debates where the winner gets a free pizza. Let's have mock elections where the candidates are all fictional characters. And most importantly, let's remember that at the end of the day, we're all just a bunch of baby goats trying to headbutt each other.

Educating Diverse Democracy for a The Chilling Role of Political Conflict in Blue, Purple, and Red Communities https://idea.gseis.ucla.edu/publications/files/diverse-democracy-report

Public high school principals detail impact of political conflicts on students and educators - ABC7 Los Angeles https://abc7.com/public-schools-political-conflicts-in-the-classroom-uclas-institute-for-democracy-education/13788291/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BING AI

The Chilling Role of Political Conflict in Blue, Purple, and Red Communities is a report by John Rogers and Joseph Kahne that examines how the current political climate in the United States affects public education and civic engagement. The report is based on a survey of 3,000 high school principals and interviews with 60 principals from different regions and political contexts. The report finds that political conflicts have had a chilling effect that has limited opportunities for students to engage in learning and respectful dialogue on controversial topics and made it harder to address rampant misinformation. The report also offers recommendations for educators, policymakers, and civic leaders to support public schools as sites of democratic education and participation.

Some of the main findings of the report are:

• - Principals in politically diverse communities (purple districts) face the most challenges in addressing controversial issues and fostering civic engagement. They are more likely to experience political pressure from parents, community members, and district officials, and more likely to avoid or censor topics that might spark conflict.
• - Principals in politically homogeneous communities (blue or red districts) also face challenges, but of a different nature. They are more likely to encounter misinformation and disinformation among students and families, and less likely to expose students to diverse perspectives and experiences.
• - Principals across all types of communities report that the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 presidential election, and the racial justice protests have increased the level of political polarization and conflict in their schools and communities.
• - Principals across all types of communities also report that they value civic education and engagement, and that they try to provide opportunities for students to learn about current events, discuss controversial issues, participate in service learning, and engage with local government.

Some of the main recommendations of the report are:

• - Educators should adopt a proactive approach to civic education and engagement, rather than a reactive one. They should plan ahead for how to address controversial issues, prepare students for civil dialogue, and create a supportive school climate.
• - Policymakers should provide adequate funding, guidance, and professional development for civic education and engagement. They should also protect the academic freedom and professional judgment of educators from political interference.
• - Civic leaders should partner with public schools to offer authentic and meaningful opportunities for civic participation. They should also model civil discourse and respect for democratic norms and values.

Bing, 9/17/2023

• (1) Educating for a Diverse Democracy: The Chilling Role of Political .... https://idea.gseis.ucla.edu/publications/educating-for-a-diverse-democracy.
• (2) Educating for a Diverse Democracy: The Chilling Role of Political .... https://www.civicsurvey.org/publications/educating-for-a-diverse-democracy.
• (3) Hot-button political issues are having a chilling effect on public .... https://bing.com/search?q=The+Chilling+Role+of+Political+Conflict+in+Blue%2c+Purple%2c+and+Red+Communities.
• (4) Hot-button political issues are having a chilling effect on public .... https://newsroom.ucla.edu/releases/political-issues-chilling-effect-on-public-schools.
• (5) Hot-button political issues are having a chilling effect on public schools. https://phys.org/news/2022-12-hot-button-political-issues-chilling-effect.html.
• (6) Political Conflicts are Having a Chilling Effect on Public Schools. https://seis.ucla.edu/news/political-conflicts-are-having-a-chilling-effect-on.

CHATBOTS: THE NEW HOMEWORK HELPERS OR FUTURE ROBOT OVERLORDS

 

CHATBOTS: THE NEW HOMEWORK HELPERS OR FUTURE ROBOT OVERLORDS

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made its way into our classrooms, and it's causing quite a stir. Teachers are scrambling to keep up with the latest technology, while students are wondering if the robots will take over their education. But fear not, my fellow humans, for AI is just another tool to be used in learning. And let's be honest, with all the cheating and laziness that goes on in schools these days, we could use all the help we can get.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But wait, won't AI replace teachers?" Ha! As if. Sure, AI can help with lesson plans and individualized education programs, but it can't replace the human touch that teachers provide. Who else will give us those awkwardly long pauses after we give a wrong answer? Or make us read out loud in front of the class when we didn't do the reading? We need teachers to keep us on our toes and make us feel like we're actually learning something.

But let's talk about the real benefits of AI in education: chatbots. Yes, you heard me right. Chatbots. These little guys can help us with everything from understanding difficult concepts to providing unlimited feedback on our writing. And let's face it, who wouldn't want a robot to do their homework for them? Okay, okay, I know that's not ethical. But still, chatbots can be a valuable resource for students who need a little extra help.

Of course, there are concerns about the ethics of using AI in education. Some worry about bias and privacy issues. But let's be real, if AI is going to take over the world, it's going to do it whether we use it in schools or not. So we might as well embrace it and teach our students how to use it ethically. And who better to do that than our trusty teachers?

In fact, some students are already advocating for the use of chatbots in curriculums. One high school senior from Massachusetts wrote an article for CNN arguing that chatbots should be an essential tool in education. She pointed out that chatbots can offer ideas and perspectives that students might not have considered otherwise. And let's be honest, sometimes we need a fresh perspective to really understand something.

But how can teachers guide students to use chatbots effectively? Well, for starters, they can teach them about the dangers of plagiarism and encourage them to think critically about the information they're receiving. They can also monitor their students' use of chatbots and provide feedback on how they're using them. And let's not forget about the importance of good old-fashioned human interaction. Teachers can still provide valuable feedback and guidance that chatbots simply can't.

So there you have it, folks. AI is here to stay, but don't worry, your teachers aren't going anywhere (at least for now). Chatbots can be a valuable resource for students who need a little extra help, but we need to use them ethically and responsibly. And let's not forget to thank our teachers for keeping us on our toes and making us feel like we're failing at life (in the best way possible).

Teachers Are Going All In on Generative AI | WIRED https://www.wired.com/story/teachers-are-going-all-in-on-generative-ai/ 

Artificial intelligence in schools is here to stay. How will teachers adjust? - Newsday https://www.newsday.com/long-island/education/artificial-intelligence-schools-chatgpt-uhnxre5w 

‘Technology is not something we can hide from students’: How NYC Public Schools invited AI into its classrooms - Source https://news.microsoft.com/source/features/digital-transformation/how-nyc-public-schools-invited-ai-into-its-classrooms/ 

STUDENT LOANS: THE NEW VAMPIRES OF THE ECONOMY

STUDENT LOANS: THE NEW VAMPIRES OF THE ECONOMY

As the saying goes, "money makes the world go round," and for many Americans, that money comes in the form of student loans. But starting October 1st, those loans will begin to suck the life out of the economy, as borrowers are forced to make monthly payments once again.

This news has left many students feeling like they've been hit with a ton of bricks (or should we say, debt?). After all, it's not like they've been living the high life since March 2020, when payments were temporarily suspended due to the pandemic. Most have been scraping by on ramen noodles and dollar store snacks, trying to make ends meet while juggling classes, work, and a social life (well, at least a socially distanced one).

But now, with payments looming on the horizon, students are tightening their belts even further. They're cutting back on everything from clothes to coffee, worried that they won't be able to make ends meet once those loan payments start rolling in.

And it's not just students who are feeling the pinch. Retailers across the country are bracing for a potential slowdown in spending, as consumers divert their hard-earned cash towards loan payments instead of shopping sprees. This has led to some hilarious headlines, such as "Student Loans Threaten to Turn Fashionistas into Frugalistas" and "Loan Payments Leave Starbucks Baristas High and Dry."

But while students may be feeling the pain, Republicans are quick to remind them that bailing out businesses is far more important than helping out the average Joe (or Jane). After all, corporations are people too (at least in the eyes of the law), while students are just a bunch of broke millennials who need to pull themselves up by their bootstraps (which they can't afford to buy).

But fear not, dear readers, for the Biden administration has come up with a solution that is sure to put a smile on your face (or at least a smirk). They've rolled out a program that allows borrowers to make monthly payments based on a small percentage of their discretionary income. So if you're currently living on a diet of ramen and instant coffee, you'll only have to pay a fraction of what your more well-off counterparts are shelling out.

Of course, this program comes with its own set of challenges. For starters, it can be difficult to determine what counts as discretionary income when you're barely scraping by. Is that extra pack of ramen noodles discretionary? What about the occasional trip to the dollar store for some non-essential snacks?

And then there's the issue of paperwork. Applying for this program can be a bureaucratic nightmare, with endless forms to fill out and documents to provide. It's enough to make you want to throw your laptop out the window and scream into the void.

But in the end, isn't that what being a student is all about? Navigating complex systems, juggling competing demands, and finding humor in even the most dire of situations? So go forth, dear readers, and face those loan payments with a smile on your face (or at least a grimace). After all, laughter is the best medicine - unless you're trying to pay off your student loans.

Student-Loan Restart Threatens to Pull $100 Billion Out of Consumers’ Pockets - WSJ https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/student-loan-repayment-consumers-economy-2218ca25?utm_source=newsshowcase 

JUDGE ALLOWS TEACHER TO OUT TRANSGENDER AND NONBINARY STUDENT SINNERS

 

JUDGE ALLOWS TEACHER TO OUT  TRANSGENDER AND NONBINARY STUDENT SINNERS

In a recent turn of events, a federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction allowing teachers to out transgender and nonbinary students to their parents in California. The decision has left many scratching their heads, wondering if we've somehow traveled back to the dark ages.

According to the judge, a parent's right to make decisions concerning their children is one of the oldest fundamental liberties that Americans enjoy. But what about the rights of these students? Are they not entitled to privacy and respect?

Apparently not, at least according to two teachers who sued the district and the state, claiming that the policy violated their First Amendment rights to free speech and free exercise of religion. Their argument? That God made people innately and permanently male or female, and therefore, it's their religious duty to out these so-called "sinners."

Excuse me while I pick my jaw up off the floor.

It's hard to believe that in 2023, we're still having to fight for basic human rights. It's even harder to believe that some people are using religion as an excuse to discriminate against others. But hey, I guess that's just the world we live in.

So, let's take a moment to appreciate the sheer absurdity of this situation. Two teachers, who presumably went through years of education and training, are using their platform to bully and ostracize vulnerable students. And for what? Because they don't fit into a neat little box labeled "male" or "female"?

It's almost comical, if it weren't so downright cruel.

In all seriousness, though, this decision is a major setback for the LGBTQ+ community. It sends a message that their identities are not valid or worthy of respect. It also puts them in danger, as outing someone can have serious consequences, including homelessness, violence, and even death.

So, what can we do about it? Well, for starters, we can speak out against this kind of bigotry and discrimination. We can support organizations that fight for LGBTQ+ rights. We can educate ourselves and others on the issues facing this community.

And most importantly, we can show love and acceptance to those who need it most. Because at the end of the day, that's what really matters. Not outdated beliefs or archaic laws, but the simple act of treating others with kindness and compassion.

So let's be better than these teachers. Let's be better than this judge. Let's be better than the hate and intolerance that seems to be spreading like wildfire these days. Because if we don't stand up for what's right, who will?

Judge sides with teachers who say their religion requires them to out trans kids - LGBTQ Nation https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2023/09/judge-sides-with-teachers-who-say-their-religion-requires-them-to-out-trans-kids/ 

Judge grants injunction favoring Escondido teachers who sued over student gender identity policy – NBC 7 San Diego https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/judge-grants-injunction-favoring-escondido-teachers-who-sued-over-student-gender-identity-policy/3307047/ 

Judge blocks Escondido school district's controversial transgender student privacy policy - https://www.kusi.com/judge-blocks-escondido-school-districts-controversial-transgender-student-privacy-policy/

US JUSTICE SYSTEM TO TRUMP: STFU WITH YOUR VIOLENT THREATS

US JUSTICE SYSTEM TO TRUMP: STFU WITH YOUR VIOLENT THREATS 

In a move that has left the American public scratching their heads in disbelief, US Special Counsel Jack Smith has requested that a judge put a gag order on former President Donald Trump. Yes, you heard that right. A gag order. On Trump. The man who can't seem to keep his mouth shut even if his life depended on it.

The order, if approved, would limit what Trump can say publicly about the federal election meddling case against him. It would prevent harassment of witnesses and limit disinformation. In other words, it would prevent Trump from spouting off his usual nonsense and lies about the case.

Now, I don't know about you, but I find this absolutely hilarious. The thought of Trump being silenced is almost too good to be true. It's like a dream come true for anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of one of his violent Twitter rants.

Of course, Trump is not taking this lying down. He has hit back, claiming he is being unfairly silenced and that his first amendment right to freedom of speech is being violated. But let's be real here, does anyone really want to hear what Trump has to say anymore? I mean, the man has been spewing lies and nonsense for years now. It's time for him to take a break from the spotlight and let someone else have a turn.

And let's not forget that Trump is facing mounting legal troubles. He has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election. If he is found guilty, he could be facing some serious consequences. So, maybe it's not such a bad idea for him to keep his mouth shut for once.

In fact, I have a proposal for the judge. Why not ban Trump from making any statements at all? That way, we can all enjoy some peace and quiet without having to listen to his constant whining and complaining. I'm sure the American public would be grateful for the break.

In conclusion, the idea of a gag order on Trump is both hilarious and long overdue. It's time for him to take a break from the spotlight and let someone else have a turn. And who knows, maybe we'll all be better off without having to listen to his constant lies and nonsense.

US special counsel Jack Smith asks judge to place gag order on Donald Trump - BBC News https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-66828011 

US special counsel seeks gag order on Trump’s ‘inflammatory’ statements | Donald Trump | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/sep/15/us-special-counsel-seeks-gag-order-on-trumps-inflammatory-statements

Special counsel asks for 'narrow' gag order for Trump in election interference case https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/justice-department/special-counsel-asks-narrow-gag-order-trump-election-interference-case-rcna105365 via @nbcnews 

Special counsel seeks court order limiting Trump's public statements | CNN Politics https://www.cnn.com/2023/09/15/politics/trump-chutkan-witness-harassment/index.html

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-16-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #StandUpUAW

 

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-16-23

Big Education Ape: JULIE HUPP ROCKLIN USD BOARD PRES: JESUS SAVES TEACHERS UNION DOESN'T https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/julie-hupp-rocklin-usd-board-pres-jesus.html

Big Education Ape: HAVING 'THE MAN' ON CAMPUS: COPS DOING THE JOB OR WINDOW DRESSING https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/having-man-on-campus-cops-doing-job-or.html

Big Education Ape: CHARTER SCHOOL GIRLS TICKET TO RIDE: THE PURPLE MENSTRUAL PASS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/charter-school-girls-ticket-to-ride.html

Big Education Ape: TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-9-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/top-banana-top-reads-this-week-9-9-23.html

Big Education Ape: QUEEN FOR A DAY: AN EDUCATOR FOR LIFE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/queen-for-day-educator-for-life.html

Big Education Ape: DIVINE INTERVENTION OR DIVINE COMEDY? THE CLT BRINGS GODLINESS TO YOUR STANDARDIZED TESTING EXPERIENCE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/divine-intervention-or-divine-comedy.html

Big Education Ape: MAGA MADNESS FLORIDA TEACHERS CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/maga-madness-florida-teachers-caught-in.html

Big Education Ape: GOV. DESANTIS DR LADAPO SAY VACCINES ARE FOR LOSERS: NEVER BE WOKE AGAIN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/gov-desantis-dr-ladapo-say-vaccines-are.html

Big Education Ape: RYAN WALTERS THE MAD MAGA MONK OF OK ED PROMISES MAGA INDOCTRINATION FOR EVERY KID IN OKLAHOMA https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/ryan-walters-mad-maga-monk-of-ok-ed.html

Big Education Ape: NORTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO CHARTER SCHOOLS: YOU'RE NOT THE BOSS OF US https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/north-carolina-state-board-of-education.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

#StandUpUAW

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school board president

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Black benefit restorative

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Disregard Repeated Claims

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Controversial drag queen hired as elementary

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NORTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO CHARTER SCHOOLS: YOU'RE NOT THE BOSS OF US

by Mike Simpson / 5d

NORTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO CHARTER SCHOOLS YOU'RE NOT THE BOSS OF US In a move that has left charter school advocates scratching their heads, the North Carolina State Board of Education has told the Charter Schools Advisory Board to "slow your roll" and stop trying to destroy public education on their watch. In a statement that was equal parts stern and sassy, the board reminded t

SEP 09

UTAH'S SPECTRUM ACADEMY: ANOTHER CHARTER SCHOOL SCANDAL (NUMBER 1,666,666)

Utah charter school violates civil rights

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by Mike Simpson / 6d

In the latest episode of "Charter School Scandal," we have Utah's Spectrum Academy taking center stage. This charter school for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders has been federally investigated for classroom-related civil rights concerns, and let's just say, it's not looking good for them. The investigation found that the school violated Section 504 of Title II of the Civil Rights Act by r

GOV. DESANTIS DR LADAPO SAY VACCINES ARE FOR LOSERS: NEVER BE WOKE AGAIN

by Mike Simpson / 6d

In a recent press conference, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis proudly announced that he has finally found someone dumber than himself. And who might this person be, you ask? None other than his very own state's surgeon general, Dr. Joseph "Kevorkian" Ladapo. Yes, you read that correctly. The man responsible for the health and well-being of millions of Floridians is being touted by DeSantis as the

ARIZONA GOV ACCUSES STATE SUP OF PUBLIC ED OF PLAYING FAVORITES WITH FEDERAL FUNDS

Arizona officials clash over school funding

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by Mike Simpson / 6d

ARIZONA GOV ACCUSES STATE SUP OF PUBLIC ED OF PLAYING FAVORITES WITH FEDERAL FUNDS In a recent feud between Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs and Superintendent of Public Education Tom Horne, the topic of discussion is federal school funding. Hobbs is accusing Horne of withholding up to $27.5 million in funding, while Horne is accusing Hobbs of putting politics before pupils. It's a classic case of he

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

by Mike Simpson / 6d

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-9-23 Big Education Ape: TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-2-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/top-banana-top-reads-this-week-9-2-23.html Big Education Ape: ONCE UPON A TIME IN AMERICA THE 1776 FAIRY TALE CURRICULUM TAKES OVER SCHOOLS http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/once-upon-time-in-america-1776-fairy