WILL HISTORY HOLD BILL GATES ACCOUNTABLE

FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF PUBLIC EDUCATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Ah, Bill Gates—a name synonymous with tech wizardry, philanthropic billions, and, apparently, the wrecking ball that swung a bit too hard at the fragile scaffolding of public education in America. While most people know Gates as the bespectacled genius who brought us Microsoft Office and endless Windows updates (some of which crashed our computers mid-term paper), fewer are aware of his ambitious foray into education reform. But here’s the kicker: Gates’ well-intentioned meddling in schools didn’t just ruffle a few feathers; it sent the entire henhouse into chaos. So, will history hold him accountable for this educational debacle? Or will he simply escape into the philanthropic sunset, leaving behind a trail of standardized test bubbles and underfunded schools?

Let’s dive in, shall we?

The Gates Empire Strikes Back (at Public Education)

Bill Gates didn’t wake up one morning and decide to destroy public education. No, no. That would be too cartoonishly villainous, even for a billionaire. Instead, like many well-meaning tech moguls with more money than sense, Gates genuinely believed he could “fix” education. After all, if you can debug software, why not debug an entire school system? Armed with billions of dollars and an unshakable faith in data-driven solutions, Gates ventured into the world of public education reform like a knight on a white horse—except this knight brought along spreadsheets, algorithms, and a penchant for standardized testing.

Enter the Common Core State Standards, a Gates-funded initiative that swept across the nation faster than you could say “No Child Left Behind.” The idea was simple: create a unified set of academic standards so that students in Mississippi and Massachusetts would learn the same things at the same pace. Sounds great on paper, right? Except that in practice, it turned classrooms into test-prep factories, angered parents who couldn’t decipher their kids’ math homework, and left teachers feeling like robots programmed to teach to a test.

But Gates didn’t stop there. Oh no. His foundation poured billions into charter schools  programs, effectively undermining public schools by diverting funds to privately-run institutions. It was like inviting a fox into the henhouse and then acting surprised when feathers started flying. Charter schools promised innovation and choice but often delivered segregation and inequality. Meanwhile, public schools—already struggling under the weight of budget cuts—were left to fend for themselves with fewer resources and more students.

The Zombie Apocalypse: Jim Crow Edition

One of the most chilling consequences of Gates’ reforms has been the resurgence of segregation in American schools. Yes, you read that right. Thanks to charter schools and voucher programs, we’ve managed to resurrect Jim Crow like a zombie in a bad horror movie. Only this time, he’s armed with PowerPoint presentations and corporate jargon.

Here’s how it works: Charter schools often cherry-pick students, leaving behind those with disabilities, behavioral issues, or language barriers. Voucher programs funnel taxpayer dollars into private schools that aren’t held to the same accountability standards as public institutions. The result? A two-tiered education system where affluent families get shiny new options while low-income students—disproportionately students of color—are left in underfunded and overcrowded public schools.

And where is Bill Gates in all this? Silent as a mouse navigating a Windows 95 error screen. Despite being the father of corporate school reform, Gates has never publicly addressed the rise of segregation or the negative impacts of charter schools and vouchers. It’s almost as if billionaires have a magical ability to dodge accountability while still collecting accolades for their “philanthropy.”

The Standardized Testing Circus

If there’s one thing Gates loves more than Excel spreadsheets, it’s standardized testing. To him, tests are the ultimate tool for measuring success—whether you’re troubleshooting software bugs or evaluating student performance. But here’s the problem: kids aren’t code.

The obsession with standardized testing has turned schools into pressure cookers where students are reduced to numbers and teachers are judged by their ability to produce high test scores. Creativity? Out the window. Critical thinking? Who has time for that when there are multiple-choice questions to answer? It’s no wonder parents across the country have revolted against this testing frenzy, opting their kids out of exams and demanding a return to sanity.

And let’s not forget the teachers—those brave souls who are expected to perform miracles with dwindling resources while being micromanaged by billionaires who’ve never set foot in a classroom. Imagine being evaluated not on your ability to inspire young minds but on how well your students bubble in Scantron sheets. It’s enough to make even the most dedicated educator throw in the towel.

The Billionaire Playbook: Never Apologize, Never Explain

One of the perks of being a billionaire oligarch is that you never have to say you’re sorry. When your initiatives fail—or worse, cause harm—you can simply pivot to your next philanthropic project without so much as a backward glance. It’s like playing Monopoly with an infinite supply of Get Out of Jail Free cards.

Gates is hardly alone in this regard. He’s part of a cabal of wealthy individuals—including Reed Hastings, Mark Zuckerberg, and Betsy DeVos—who have used their fortunes to reshape education according to their own visions. But while others may dabble in education reform as a side hustle, Gates has been its undisputed leader. His fingerprints are all over Common Core, charter schools, and standardized testing. Yet when these initiatives backfire, he remains conspicuously absent from the conversation.

Perhaps it’s because billionaires operate on a different plane of existence—one where accountability is optional and criticism is dismissed as the whining of ungrateful peasants. Or perhaps Gates genuinely believes he’s doing more good than harm. After all, he recently announced plans to give away nearly all his wealth through the Gates Foundation, doubling its contributions to over $200 billion by 2045. That’s a lot of money—and a lot of potential for both progress and unintended consequences.

The Verdict: History’s Judgment Awaits

So, will history hold Bill Gates accountable for the destruction of public education in the United States? It’s hard to say. On one hand, his reforms have undeniably caused harm—undermining public schools, exacerbating inequality, and turning classrooms into test-prep factories. On the other hand, Gates’ philanthropy has also funded life-saving vaccines, global health initiatives, and poverty reduction efforts.

Perhaps history will remember him as a complicated figure—a man whose good intentions sometimes led to disastrous outcomes. Or perhaps it will lump him in with other billionaire meddlers who thought they could solve complex social problems with money and data but ended up making things worse.

One thing is certain: public education deserves better than to be treated as a billionaire’s pet project. It deserves investment, equity, and respect for the expertise of educators who actually know what they’re doing. So let’s hope that future reformers learn from Gates’ mistakes—and that history doesn’t let him off the hook too easily.

In the meantime, we’ll be here—watching from the sidelines with popcorn in hand—as billionaires continue their misguided attempts to save us from ourselves. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned from Bill Gates’ foray into education reform, it’s this: just because you can reboot a computer doesn’t mean you should try rebooting an entire school system.

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-11-25

Trump Plans Deep Cuts to Interior Department, National Parks Service https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/10/trump-plans-deep-cuts-to-interior-department-national-parks-service/ via @dianeravitch 

Trump administration plans significant budget cuts and workforce reductions at the Interior Department, particularly targeting the National Park Service (NPS) and other agencies like the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The reductions include layoffs, incentivized departures, and consolidation of department functions, leading to concerns about the agency's ability to maintain operations and morale. Critics argue these cuts undermine the department's mission and essential services.

### Key Points

- The Interior Department, led by Secretary Doug Burgum, plans to cut thousands of jobs, including 1,500 at NPS, with reductions also impacting USGS and BLM. 

- Consolidation of functions at headquarters is seen as a means to facilitate layoffs, with science and cultural resource teams at NPS particularly affected. 

- Critics warn the cuts will harm essential services like fish surveys and park operations, with some statutory functions potentially left unfulfilled. 

- Employees and stakeholders express concerns about low morale, operational failures, and the inability to support Trump administration priorities like leasing and resource management. 

- Critics view the changes as a deliberate attack on effective government functions, with legal challenges likely to follow. 

Senator Chris Murphy Gives a Master Class in Cutting Through B.S. https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/10/senator-chris-murphy-gives-a-master-class-in-cutting-through-b-s/ via @dianeravitch 

Senator Chris Murphy criticized Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem during a Senate hearing for breaking laws, overspending, deporting people with legal status, and ignoring due process. The blog post highlights Murphy's pointed remarks and expresses broader frustrations with Trump administration officials, accusing them of undermining democracy and governance.

### Key Points

- Senator Chris Murphy accused Kristi Noem of illegal practices, including budget overspending and violating due process rights. 

- The post reflects criticism of Trump-era officials, describing them as harmful to democracy and governance. 

- Readers praised Murphy’s speech as direct and impactful. 

Arkansas: Supporters of Abortion Rights Meet, Protestors Don't Show Up https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/10/arkansas-supporters-of-abortion-rights-meet-protestors-dont-show-up/ via @dianeravitch 

Arkansas: Supporters of Abortion Rights Meet, Protestors Don’t Show Up By dianeravitch May 10, 2025 // 0 Arkansas is deep-red, so of course the Legislature banned abortion. Supporters of abortion rights gathered enough signatures to put the issue to the voters, but the politicians knocked their referendum off the ballot. But the issue has not gone away. I thought readers might like to read about the persistence of abortion right supporters. The Arkansas Times is a dissident website that keeps readers informed about events like this one. If you want to know what Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is doing, this is a great source. Austin Gelder wrote about the annual planned parenthood Garden Party: For proof of the sorry state of reproductive rights in Arkansas, consider that

### Key Points

- Arkansas has banned abortion, with supporters of abortion rights facing challenges in getting a referendum on the ballot. Despite setbacks, advocacy persists. 

- Anti-abortion protests at Planned Parenthood events have diminished, with the focus shifting to other issues like transgender rights and immigration. 

- Arkansas has some of the worst maternal and child health outcomes, yet continues to implement restrictive policies on reproductive health. 

- Planned Parenthood in Arkansas is adapting to restrictions, sharing strategies with affiliates in other states, and seeing a rise in patients for non-abortion services. 

- Advocates at events like the Planned Parenthood Garden Party emphasize resilience and creativity in fighting for reproductive rights despite federal and state-level challenges. 

NAEP: A Modest Proposal https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/05/10/naep-a-modest-proposal/ via @plthomasEdD 

The article critiques the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), a standardized test in the U.S., highlighting its flaws and its role in perpetuating a false narrative of educational crisis. It argues that the NAEP's achievement levels are misleading and often misinterpreted, leading to exaggerated claims about student performance. The article connects NAEP's origins to accountability-driven education reforms and criticizes the excessive reliance on standardized testing, which it claims reflects socioeconomic disparities rather than actual educational quality. The author proposes renaming achievement levels to align with age-level performance metrics as a step toward reforming NAEP and addressing systemic issues in education.

### Key Points

- NAEP is a misunderstood and misrepresented test, often misused to declare an educational crisis. 

- Achievement levels like "proficient" are misleading and create false perceptions of failure. 

- NAEP originated from accountability-focused education reforms tied to the Reagan administration. 

- Standardized testing results are heavily influenced by socioeconomic factors, which schools cannot control. 

- Policies relying on test results unfairly reward advantaged schools and penalize disadvantaged ones. 

- The author proposes renaming achievement levels to "below age level," "age level," and "above age level" for clarity. 

- Excessive testing has failed to improve education and instead perpetuates a state of crisis for political and market agendas. 

Vallas takes a poke at Trump's D.O.E. But it was just a head fake.  https://open.substack.com/pub/klonsky/p/vallas-takes-a-poke-at-trumps-doe?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

### Key Points

- Paul Vallas, a policy adviser and CEO of a charter school start-up group, critiques Trump’s Department of Education but ultimately supports privatizing schools, vouchers, and weakening teacher unions. 

- Vallas criticizes Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and advocates for replacing them with charter schools, claiming they are failing due to systemic issues tied to income and ZIP codes. 

- His argument relies on standardized test scores to label CPS schools as failing, ignoring the correlation between test scores and family income. Wealthier districts perform better globally, while poorer districts struggle. 

- Research shows charter schools and vouchers do not outperform public schools and often underperform. Vallas’ claims about teachers' unions shutting down charter schools are misleading, as unions have worked to support and unionize charter schools. 

- Vallas’ alignment with MAGA policies and his attacks on teacher unions suggest his criticism of Trump’s education policies is a diversion, aligning with broader goals to privatize public education. 

Schools Matter: Tell Congress to Stop the Presidential Crime Wave http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/05/tell-congress-to-stop-presidential.html

### Key Points

- The blog highlights the importance of classmates' characteristics over teachers in influencing a child's learning, referencing James Coleman's statement from 1972. 

- It discusses political activism, urging Congress to impeach Trump and address a "Presidential Crime Wave." 

- The article critiques corporate education reforms, including "No Excuses" teaching and charter school models, linking them to systemic issues like poverty and compliance-driven systems. 

- The blog emphasizes poverty as a key factor affecting education outcomes, contrasting it with the focus on teacher quality. 

- It references Hillary Clinton's alleged role in promoting corporate charter schools in Haiti, as revealed by WikiLeaks. 

- The blog archives contain extensive commentary on educational policies, testing, and reforms over the years, with critiques of standardized testing and NCLB (No Child Left Behind). 

- Reviews and essays on various educational themes, such as teacher renewal, qualitative research, and the impact of testing, are included. 

Schools Matter: Nationalize, Stigmatize, Penalize: Corporate Education's Recurring Fever Dream Recast http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/05/nationalize-stigmatize-penalize.html 

Schools Matter: Analysis of Corporate Education and Testing Culture

### Key Points

- The blog critiques corporate-driven education reforms, highlighting their focus on standardized testing and penalization rather than addressing systemic issues like poverty. 

- It references the recurring push for privatized education models, including corporate charter schools, and their detrimental effects on public education systems. 

- The article discusses broader societal issues tied to education, such as economic inequality, political agendas, and the influence of corporate interests in shaping education policy. 

- The blog emphasizes the need for systemic change, including resistance to over-testing and a focus on equity in education. 

CURMUDGUCATION: The Failed Case for Super-NAEPery https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-failed-case-for-super-naepery.html 

The article critiques a proposal to expand the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) into an annual, universal standardized test for all 4th and 8th graders in the U.S. The author argues that such a move would repeat past failures of national standardized testing initiatives, such as those linked to Common Core, and would lead to federal overreach, ineffective accountability, and misaligned educational goals. The writer emphasizes that standardized tests like NAEP have historically failed to solve systemic educational issues and questions the practicality and necessity of the proposed reforms.

### Key Points

- The proposal to expand NAEP into a universal, annual test repeats past failed attempts at national standardized testing. 

- Standardized test scores are incorrectly expected to rise perpetually, which is an unrealistic and flawed assumption. 

- Using NAEP for accountability and federal control over local curricula is criticized as intrusive and counterproductive. 

- The belief that standardized tests can provide actionable data to improve education is challenged, as past efforts have not yielded meaningful results. 

- The article questions the practicality of using NAEP for multiple purposes, such as informing parents, educators, and policymakers simultaneously. 

Big Education Ape: BIG EDUCATION TOP READS THIS WEEK: 5-4 TO 5-10 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/big-education-top-reads-this-week.html 

Schools, education policy, and societal issues dominate the article, discussing topics such as school vouchers, charter schools, abortion rights protests, and critiques of education reform. It also highlights various blog posts, books, and resources related to public education advocacy and political commentary.

### Key Points

- Discussion on Paul Vallas's stance on school vouchers, charter schools, and teacher unions. 

- Arkansas abortion rights supporters gather signatures for a vote, reflecting political activism in a conservative state. 

- Overview of the influence of standardized testing, particularly the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). 

- Highlights from "Big Education Ape," including critiques of billionaire-funded education reforms and the separation of church and state. 

- Mention of Donny Trump’s book and commentary on Trump-era policies. 

- Blog series "Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights" curates notable education-related articles. 

- Resources and organizations supporting public education, such as Diane Ravitch’s blog and the Badass Teachers Association. 

- Advocacy against privatization in education and promotion of public education reform. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-10-25

The article compiles a wide range of topics spanning education, politics, religion, and social issues. Key discussions include Pope Leo XIV's progressive election, critiques of education policies, the challenges of AI in education, Trump's controversial proposals, and systemic issues affecting democracy and inclusivity. The overarching themes emphasize activism, reform, and the importance of protecting democratic principles.

### Key Points  

- Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born and Peruvian pope with Afro-Caribbean roots, continues Pope Francis's progressive legacy, focusing on social justice, workers' rights, and inclusivity.   

- Critics label Pope Leo XIV a "Woke Marxist," reflecting polarized reactions to his progressive ideals.   

- Former President Trump proposed reopening Alcatraz prison, a costly and impractical idea criticized as a distraction from political controversies.   

- New York Governor Hochul faced criticism for compromising with ultra-Orthodox Jewish yeshivas that fail to meet educational standards, undermining equality in education.   

- A federal judge ordered the release of Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts graduate student detained by ICE for writing an op-ed critical of Israel, citing violations of free speech and due process.   

- Over-reliance on AI in education risks undermining critical thinking, perpetuating inequality, and damaging intellectual growth.   

- Proposals to expand NAEP into universal standardized testing are criticized for federal overreach and failing to address systemic educational issues.   

- Teacher Tom emphasizes the value of play-based learning, dignity, and respect in fostering independent and cooperative children.   

- Trump administration policies weakened protections for marginalized students, dismantling civil rights offices and reducing diversity initiatives.   

- Bill Gates’s influence on education policy, driven by technology and corporate interests, often undermines democracy and perpetuates inequality.   

- Activism and grassroots efforts are essential to resisting authoritarian policies and promoting democratic values.   

- Seattle Public Schools' enrollment practices harm equity and drive families away, leading to funding losses and program cuts.   

- Teacher appreciation is undermined by systemic disrespect, privatization, and reduced teacher roles in public education.   

- Community schools in Wisconsin are highlighted as transformative models addressing systemic inequalities.   

- STEM stereotypes and limited early exposure hinder gender diversity in engineering and computer science.   

- Eating disorders on college campuses are a hidden crisis, with programs like Body U addressing the issue. 

BIG EDUCATION TOP READS THIS WEEK: 5-4 TO 5-10 2025

 BIG EDUCATION TOP READS THIS WEEK

5-4 TO 5-10 2025

Big Education Ape: HABEMUS PAPAM: THE TALE OF POPE LEO XIV AND THE WINDS OF CHANGE + TRANSCRIPT: Pope Leo XIV’s first speech, in English https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/habemus-papam-tale-of-pope-leo-xiv-and.html 

Big Education Ape: THE CORNERSTONES OF LIBERTY: HABEAS CORPUS, DUE PROCESS AND THE RULE OF LAW IN THE AGE OF TRUMP https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-cornerstones-of-liberty-habeas.html 

Big Education Ape: BILL GATES: DO YOU STILL HAVE TO MOW YOUR ASTROTURF https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/bill-gates-do-you-still-have-to-mow.html 

Big Education Ape: REDUX: SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE - SCOPES MONKEY TRIAL AT THE SUPREME COURT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/redux-separation-of-church-and-state.html 

Big Education Ape: TOP POSTS THIS MONTH - APRIL 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/top-posts-this-month-april-2025.html

DONNY TRUMP'S NEW BOOK: The Art of Being Right  https://open.substack.com/pub/ru4people/p/donny-trumps-new-book-the-art-of?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

THE RISE AND FALL OF THE BILLIONAIRE-FUNDED ASTROTURF EDUCATION REFORM: A PONGO REPORT https://open.substack.com/pub/ru4people/p/the-rise-and-fall-of-the-billionaire?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The Great American Church and State Tug-of-War https://open.substack.com/pub/ru4people/p/the-great-american-church-and-state?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-10-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_10.html

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-9-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_9.html 

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-8-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_8.html

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-7-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_7.html 

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-6-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_6.html

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-5-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_5.html

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-4-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_31.html 

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-10-25

Genealogist: The New Pope Has Afro-Caribbean Roots in New Orleans https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/09/genealogist-the-new-pope-has-afro-caribbean-roots-in-new-orleans/ via @dianeravitch

The article discusses the groundbreaking election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born and Peruvian pope, who has Afro-Caribbean roots through his maternal lineage from New Orleans. His election signifies a continuation of the Catholic Church’s focus on social justice, workers’ rights, and compassion, following the legacy of Pope Francis. The article also highlights reactions to his election, including criticism from right-wing figures labeling him a "Woke Marxist," and the symbolic importance of his chosen papal name, which aligns with the progressive principles of "Rerum Novarum."

### Key Points

- Pope Leo XIV is the first American-born and Peruvian pope, with Afro-Caribbean ancestry from New Orleans. 

- His maternal grandparents, Joseph Martinez and Louise Baquié, were Creole people of color from New Orleans’ Seventh Ward. 

- The pope’s election reflects the diverse cultural fabric of America and continues the Catholic Church’s focus on social justice. 

- By choosing the name Leo XIV, the pope signals alignment with "Rerum Novarum," advocating for workers’ rights and social justice. 

- Right-wing critics and MAGA figures have labeled him a "Woke Marxist," reflecting polarized reactions to his progressive ideals. 

Heather Cox Richardson: The New Pope's Clash with MAGA https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/09/heather-cox-richardson-the-new-popes-clash-with-maga/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as the new Pope, Leo XIV, and his alignment with the social justice principles of Pope Leo XIII and Pope Francis. It highlights his rejection of far-right ideologies, particularly those of U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who misinterpreted Catholic theology to justify anti-immigrant policies. Pope Leo XIV emphasizes inclusivity, human dignity, and the rights of migrants, sparking backlash from right-wing figures. The article also notes the broader implications of this papacy for the Catholic Church's stance on social justice and its potential influence on American Catholics.

### Key Points

- Cardinal Robert Prevost, an American-born cleric with Peruvian ties, was elected Pope Leo XIV, signaling a continuation of Pope Francis's progressive reforms. 

- Pope Leo XIV's choice of name references Pope Leo XIII, known for his 1891 encyclical "Rerum Novarum," advocating for workers' rights and social justice. 

- The new Pope rejects far-right interpretations of Catholic doctrine, particularly J.D. Vance's "ordo amoris" concept, which prioritized nationalistic and anti-immigrant policies. 

- Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV emphasize the universal dignity of all individuals and call for compassion and support for migrants and refugees. 

- Right-wing figures, including Laura Loomer and Charlie Kirk, criticized Pope Leo XIV, while former President Trump expressed a mixed response. 

Where Did Trump Get the Nutty Idea of Reopening Alcatraz? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/09/where-did-trump-get-the-nutty-idea-of-reopening-alcatraz/ via @dianeravitch 

A blog post discusses former President Donald Trump's proposal to reopen Alcatraz prison, a suggestion allegedly inspired by watching the movie "Escape from Alcatraz." Critics argue the idea is impractical due to the island's current state as a tourist attraction and the extensive costs involved in restoring it. Commentators suggest Trump's announcement serves as a distraction from other political controversies or failures. The post highlights skepticism about the practicality and seriousness of the proposal, as well as concerns about its purpose as a media diversion.

### Key Points

- Trump proposed reopening Alcatraz to house hardened criminals, citing the need for stricter law enforcement. 

- Critics believe the idea was inspired by the Clint Eastwood film "Escape from Alcatraz," which Trump reportedly watched. 

- The island is now a national park and museum, making the proposal costly and unrealistic. 

- Some commentators argue Trump uses such announcements to distract from political controversies and failures. 

- The proposal has been widely dismissed as a symbolic and impractical stunt. 

New York: State Education  Commissioner's Staff Member Blasts Governor Hochul! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/09/new-york-state-education-commissioner-blasts-governor-hochul/ via @dianeravitch 

### Key Points

- A letter criticizing New York Governor Hochul was written by Jim Baldwin, a deputy to State Education Commissioner Dr. Betty Rosa, addressing her political compromises with ultra-Orthodox Jewish yeshivas, which fail to meet state educational standards. 

- The letter accuses Hochul of prioritizing political gain over the educational rights of children, highlighting deficiencies in yeshiva education, such as students being ill-prepared for college and lacking basic literacy skills. 

- Dr. Betty Rosa supports the viewpoint expressed in the letter, although she clarified that she was not the author. 

- Critics argue that Hochul's actions undermine the state's educational laws and perpetuate inequality in education. 

Federal Judge Orders Immediate Release of Tufts Graduate Student from ICE Detention! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/09/federal-judge-orders-immediate-release-of-tufts-graduate-student-from-ice-detention/ via @dianeravitch 

Federal Judge Orders Immediate Release of Tufts Graduate Student from ICE Detention!

### Key Points

- A federal judge ordered the immediate release of Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish Ph.D. student at Tufts University, who was detained by ICE agents for authoring an op-ed critical of Israel. 

- Judge William Sessions III ruled her detention violated free speech and due process rights, stating there was no evidence beyond her op-ed to justify her arrest. 

- The Trump administration’s actions, including visa revocations targeting students critical of Israel, were criticized for potentially suppressing free speech among noncitizens. 

- Secretary of State Marco Rubio had revoked Ozturk’s visa, citing foreign policy interests, which was part of a broader crackdown on dissent. 

What’s Killing Democracy?: 8 Paths to America’s Intellectual Decline – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/05/09/whats-killing-education-8-paths-to-americas-intellectual-decline/ 

What’s Killing Democracy?: 8 Paths to America’s Intellectual Decline

### Key Points

- The over-reliance on AI without fostering human intelligence (HI) risks undermining critical thinking and independent thought.   

- The rise of short-form video content as a primary information source fosters misinformation, emotional manipulation, and a lack of fact-checking.   

- Standardized testing stifles creativity, critical thinking, and perpetuates inequality, promoting conformity over intellectual diversity.   

- Distrust in experts and authoritative knowledge, fueled by political manipulation, leads to cynicism and confusion.   

- Polarized media streams, designed to provoke conflict, benefit elites while dividing society and undermining collective understanding.   

- Authoritarian tactics, such as manufactured emergencies and censorship, use education as a tool for political control.   

- Curriculum bans and historical erasure damage civic engagement and foster ignorance, leading to societal injustice.   

- Public apathy and delayed consequences of educational decay threaten democracy and intellectual growth.   

- A call for a national recommitment to education prioritizing critical thinking, historical context, and democratic values. 

CURMUDGUCATION: AI Is Bad At Grading Essays (Chapter #412,277) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/05/ai-is-bad-at-grading-essays-chapter.html 

AI struggles to grade essays effectively, as shown by consistent failures across various tools and studies. These systems reduce complex writing to simplistic numerical scores, failing to assess true writing quality. ChatGPT also performs poorly in essay grading, as it cannot comprehend or evaluate nuanced human expression. The reliance on algorithms raises concerns about biases and the negative impact on student writing when essays are judged by machines instead of humans.

### Key Points

- AI essay grading tools, including ChatGPT, fail to effectively evaluate writing due to their inability to truly comprehend or assess the quality of ideas. 

- Scholar Les Perelman and others have demonstrated how AI systems can be tricked into giving high scores to nonsensical essays, highlighting their limitations. 

- Studies reveal biases in AI grading, with Black students often receiving lower scores compared to other groups, undermining the claim of objectivity in AI tools. 

- Using AI for grading damages the fundamental purpose of writing as a human-to-human communication process. 

CURMUDGUCATION: The Failed Case for Super-NAEPery https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-failed-case-for-super-naepery.html 

The article critiques a proposal to expand the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) into an annual, universal standardized test for all 4th and 8th graders in the U.S. It argues that this idea repackages failed past initiatives, raises concerns about federal overreach, and misinterprets the utility of standardized testing. The author highlights the ineffectiveness of such tests in addressing systemic educational issues and criticizes the notion of tying federal funding to compliance with national testing mandates.

### Key Points

- The proposal to make NAEP a universal, annual test is criticized as a repackaging of previously failed attempts at national standardized testing. 

- The expectation that test scores should continuously improve is questioned, as it lacks a clear rationale or theory. 

- Concerns are raised about federal overreach and the potential illegal control of local curricula through tying test compliance to federal funding. 

- The article argues that standardized tests like NAEP fail to provide actionable solutions or meaningful accountability in education. 

- The proposal overlooks the complexities of educational accountability and flexibility, offering a flawed solution to systemic issues. 

Teacher Tom: I Picked Up a Small Stone . . . https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/05/i-picked-up-small-stone.html 

Teacher Tom reflects on a simple yet profound moment where a small stone became a symbol of sharing and connection among preschoolers. By gifting the stone, he observes how it transformed into a treasure as children passed it along, illustrating the concept of a "gift economy" and the relationships it fosters. This experience highlights the importance of treating children with dignity and respect, creating an environment where they naturally cooperate, solve problems, and think independently. Teacher Tom ties this practice to his philosophy of play-based learning and encourages others to adopt similar approaches.

### Key Points

- A small stone became a symbol of sharing and connection among children when gifted and passed along, embodying the principles of a "gift economy." 

- The act of sharing created relationships and mutual respect among the children, with no adult intervention needed. 

- Teacher Tom emphasizes the importance of treating children with dignity, fostering environments where they think and act independently. 

- The blog connects this experience to play-based learning and offers resources for educators to adopt similar practices. 

glen brown: Pope Leo XIV https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/05/pope-leo-xiv.html 

A blog post reflects on various social, political, and religious issues, emphasizing the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, his background, and potential papal direction. It also highlights broader themes like justice, pensions, education, and activism.

### Key Points

- The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, brings excitement and uncertainty, with a focus on his background in theology, pastoral work, and global church administration. 

- Prevost's global experience, including his time in Peru and as head of the Augustinian order, contributed to his election as pope. 

- The internationalization of the College of Cardinals under recent popes has enabled more diverse leadership in the Catholic Church. 

- Pope Leo XIV’s initial remarks emphasized peace, dialogue, and unity, signaling his vision for the papacy. 

- Concerns arise from past controversial remarks by Leo XIV about LGBTQ+ issues, contrasting with Pope Francis' inclusive approach. 

- Broader topics discussed include political commentary, social justice, pensions, education, and activism. 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Mizrahi and Clark Issue a Throwdown (of sorts) to ... https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/05/mizrahi-and-clark-issue-throwdown-of.html?spref=tw 

Seattle Public Schools' enrollment practices are under scrutiny, with Directors Sarah Clark and Joe Mizrahi criticizing policies that prioritize administrative convenience over student needs. They argue that current enrollment strategies harm students, limit equity, and drive families away from the district, leading to funding challenges. The op-ed calls for more equitable and transparent enrollment policies and greater community advocacy.

### Key Points

- Seattle Public Schools' enrollment practices assign teachers before students, leaving families on waitlists despite available space and harming vulnerable groups, such as CODA children and students of color. 

- Enrollment issues have caused a significant number of families to leave the district, resulting in funding losses and program cuts. 

- Current policies limit school choice and equity, contradicting the district's stated values. The op-ed advocates for expanding access to quality programs rather than eliminating them. 

- The district's sibling enrollment policy often forces families to relocate older siblings, creating additional hardships. 

- The authors criticize the governance system (Student Outcome Focused Governance) and urge parents and community members to advocate for change, especially during school board elections. 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Who's Running for Seattle School Board? https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/05/whos-running-for-seattle-school-board.html?spref=tw

### Key Points

- A detailed overview of candidates running for the Seattle School Board across Districts 2, 4, 5, and 7, including their backgrounds and motivations. 

- Insights into specific candidates, including their professional experiences, community involvement, and potential challenges in their campaigns. 

- Discussion on the unclear candidacy status of certain individuals and the lack of information about some candidates. 

- Highlights about notable candidates like Laura Marie Rivera, Julissa Sanchez, Vivian Song, and others, emphasizing their qualifications and past roles. 

- Commentary on broader issues in Seattle Public Schools, including nepotism and potential school closures, reflecting systemic challenges. 

Teacher Appreciation: An Oxymoron - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2025/05/09/teacher-appreciation-an-oxymoron/ 

Teacher appreciation in America has become paradoxical, with teachers often feeling undervalued despite gestures like gifts and notes of gratitude. The article critiques the erosion of respect for teachers, the rise of unqualified educators, and the push towards privatization and charter schools. It emphasizes the need for leaders who understand and support teachers, and for empowering teachers to lead schools creatively within the public education system.

### Key Points

- Teacher appreciation is undermined by systemic disrespect and the devaluation of their work. 

- Leaders like Linda McMahon and policies under Trump have shown little respect for teachers, aiming to privatize education and replace public schools with charter schools and AI. 

- The original concept of charter schools, intended to empower teachers, has been co-opted by business interests, reducing teachers' roles and pay. 

- Teachers should be given respected leadership and opportunities to lead schools to foster creativity and innovation within public education. 

Second Breakfast: Computing Versus Democracy | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/computing-versus-democracy

The article critiques the influence of Bill Gates and Microsoft on education, technology, and society, highlighting the problematic ties between computing, neoliberalism, and oligarchy. It explores how Gates' philanthropic efforts have shaped education policy, often prioritizing technology-driven solutions that fail to deliver on their promises. The author argues that these initiatives perpetuate inequality, undermine democracy, and promote a corporate-driven vision of education.

### Key Points

- Bill Gates' philanthropic and technological efforts have reshaped education policy, aligning it with technology and corporate interests. 

- Gates and Microsoft have historically been criticized for monopolistic practices and their role in fostering inequality and environmental harm. 

- The push for tech-driven education, such as AI tools and personalized learning, often falls short of its promises, serving oligarchic interests rather than democratic or educational goals. 

- The narrative around ed-tech solutions relies on marketing and storytelling rather than measurable success, reinforcing a system that benefits billionaires while undermining public education. 

Schools Matter: Sen. Chris Murphy Educates Homeland Security’s Mean Barbie, Kristi Noem http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/05/sen-chris-murphy-educates-homeland.html 

Schools Matter is a blog that critiques education policies and societal issues affecting education. The article highlights a post discussing Senator Chris Murphy addressing Homeland Security’s Kristi Noem, touching on themes such as fascism and lawlessness. Other topics include poverty's impact on education, corporate charter schools, and various systemic critiques of the education system, such as excessive testing and the influence of corporate interests.

### Key Points

- The blog critiques the influence of classmates on learning versus teacher characteristics, referencing James Coleman's 1972 work. 

- Senator Chris Murphy's commentary on Homeland Security’s Kristi Noem is highlighted, focusing on themes of fascism and lawlessness. 

- The blog discusses poverty as a critical factor in education rather than teacher quality. 

- There is criticism of corporate charter schools and their role in exploiting vulnerable populations, referencing WikiLeaks revelations. 

- The blog archives contain extensive critiques of education policies, including testing, teacher training, and systemic inequalities. 

Trump-Sanctioned Discrimination Hitting Schools, by @TheAndySpears https://open.substack.com/pub/theeducationreport/p/trump-sanctioned-discrimination-hitting?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The article discusses the negative impact of the Trump Administration's policies on the U.S. Department of Education, particularly focusing on how these policies have weakened protections for vulnerable students. It highlights the dismantling of civil rights offices, reduced enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, and a shift in priorities that undermine diversity efforts and protections for marginalized groups.

### Key Points

- The Trump Administration's approach to education prioritizes dismantling the Department of Education, leaving vulnerable students at risk. 

- Protections under laws like IDEA and 504 plans are jeopardized due to the lack of specialists at the Department of Education. 

- Civil rights offices have been closed, making it nearly impossible to investigate discrimination in schools, with families' complaints going unheard. 

- The Office of Civil Rights has shifted its focus to limiting transgender students' rights and diversity initiatives instead of addressing discrimination. 

The article is a compilation of various topics, including political, educational, societal, and religious issues. It highlights recent developments such as Elon Musk's influence, immigration policies, education reforms, and the election of Pope Leo XIV. The content emphasizes systemic challenges, grassroots activism, and the importance of inclusivity and reform in various sectors.  

### Key Points  

- Elon Musk established Starbase in Texas, sparking opposition from environmentalists and indigenous groups due to concerns over public land control and billionaire influence.   

- ICE's deportation practices under the Trump administration targeted non-criminal immigrants, raising ethical concerns and calls for humane immigration policies.   

- Randi Weingarten advocates for Career and Technical Education (CTE) as an alternative to the "college for all" approach, emphasizing its role in preparing students for skilled careers.   

- The Trump administration promoted Elon Musk's Starlink service during trade negotiations, raising concerns about cronyism and conflicts of interest.   

- Trump withdrew Ed Martin's nomination as U.S. Attorney due to opposition stemming from Martin's ties to January 6 insurrectionists.   

- Kristi Noem fired FEMA's acting director Cameron Hamilton for opposing FEMA's abolition, leaving the agency leaderless before hurricane season.   

- Pope Leo XIV, the first American-Peruvian pope, was elected, continuing Pope Francis' progressive legacy with a focus on inclusivity and reform.   

- AI recreations of deceased writers, like Agatha Christie, were criticized for misrepresenting their work and raising ethical concerns.   

- The term "gender ideology" was dissected, highlighting cultural debates on gender identity and the suppression of diverse perspectives in education.   

- Trump's preliminary budget proposed cuts to K-12 education funding while increasing charter school funding, raising equity concerns.   

- Higher education institutions were urged to resist political overreach and defend democratic principles through legal and cultural action.   

- The Illinois Supreme Court's 2015 decision protected public pensions, emphasizing constitutional safeguards against legislative overreach.   

- Academic silence in the face of political threats was criticized, with calls for advocacy to protect education and democracy.   

- Community schools in Wisconsin were highlighted as transformative models addressing systemic inequalities and fostering inclusivity.   

- History education remains largely unchanged, with teacher-centered methods dominating despite calls for inquiry-based approaches.   

- Eating disorders on college campuses were identified as a hidden crisis, with integrated treatment programs like Body U addressing the issue.   

- STEM stereotypes persist, influencing gender diversity in fields like engineering and computer science, with early exposure suggested as a remedy.   

- Teacher Tom emphasized reflective communication with children to foster independence and cooperation.   

- The Trump administration’s education policies, including the MAGA curriculum, were critiqued for promoting nationalism and suppressing critical thinking.   

- Grassroots activism was credited with resisting authoritarian policies and promoting democratic values.