TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
MARCH 29, 2026
Here are the top news stories as of March 29, 2026 (based on reports from late March 28 into early 29), categorized by area. These draw from ongoing major developments like the US-Israel-Iran conflict, domestic protests, and economic ripple effects.
U.S. News
- "No Kings" Protests Expand Nationwide: Thousands demonstrated in all 50 states (and some international sites) in the third round of rallies against the Trump administration's agenda. Organizers called it potentially the largest non-violent day of action in U.S. history, with major events like one in St. Paul, Minnesota, headlined by Bruce Springsteen.
- Airport Chaos and TSA Funding Issues: Long security lines persist amid congressional delays in TSA funding; President Trump signed an emergency order to address pay and operations.
- American Casualties in Middle East Conflict: Pentagon reports new U.S. troop injuries from Iranian strikes on bases, with additional forces deployed.
Politics
- Ongoing "No Kings" Anti-Trump Protests: Widespread demonstrations criticize Trump's policies, with political fallout including cabinet meetings and responses from figures like RFK Jr. at CPAC.
- Trump Administration Actions: Recent cabinet meetings, farmer outreach at the White House, and executive moves on issues like DEI in contracting and HHS reforms.
- Iran War Political Fallout: Debates over timelines for ending the conflict, with statements from officials like Sen. Rubio, alongside domestic political divisions.
World Affairs
- Escalating US-Israel-Iran War: Strikes continue (e.g., Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear sites, Houthi missile launches at Israel). Iran warns of retaliation, including potential targeting of universities; civilian casualties and displacement reported, with regional involvement from Yemen/Lebanon.
- Humanitarian and Diplomatic Impacts: Over 1,500 civilians killed, millions displaced; global concerns over energy supplies and aid.
- Broader Regional Tensions: Russian intelligence sharing allegations and calls for peace marches.
Education
- Federal Funding and Policy Shifts: Disruptions from budget battles and Trump administration rules on grants, racial equity, and undocumented immigrants; push for tax-credit scholarships and merit-based admissions.
- Higher Ed Challenges: Declining public confidence, enrollment pressures, student debt reforms, and debates over DEI/accreditation.
- Local/Positive Notes: Medical students celebrate Match Day; various school recognitions and programs (e.g., semiconductor training).
Economy
- Market Turmoil from Iran War: Dow in correction (down >10%), S&P/Nasdaq declines; oil prices surged, gas prices up ~$1/gallon to ~$3.98.
- Consumer Sentiment Drop: University of Michigan index hit 3-month low (53.3) due to inflation worries and economic uncertainty.
- Broader Risks: Job data expectations modest amid war impacts; warnings of tougher times ahead.
Technology
- Big Tech Energy and Market Moves: Meta funding natural gas plants for massive Louisiana data centers amid AI demands; stocks sliding with broader market correction.
- AI and Chip Developments: Ongoing AI race, chip shortages for buildout, and potential Anthropic IPO.
- Regulatory/Legal Pressures: Lawsuits over social media addiction likened to "Big Tobacco" moment for Meta/Google.
Health
- War-Related and Policy Impacts: Casualties from Middle East conflict; HHS reforms under RFK Jr./Trump admin, including new advisory committees and anti-DEI contracting rules.
- CDC and System Challenges: Workforce morale issues from prior firings/funding cuts; Americans making hard choices on medical expenses amid rising costs.
- Other: Global health partnerships and investments continuing with varying commitments.
Sports
- NCAA March Madness: Elite Eight games on March 29 (e.g., Michigan advancing strongly); regional finals coverage.
- NBA and Other: Scheduled games (e.g., Lakers vs. Bucks, Heat vs. Pacers); Tiger Woods news (DUI-related release).
- Upcoming/Seasonal: NHL matchups and general daily scores.
News evolves rapidly, especially with the Middle East conflict and protests. Check major outlets for live updates.
When Trump Says "Nobody Knows," Watch Out! #NoKingsMar28 #NoKingsInAmerica #NoKings https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/28/when-trump-says-nobody-knows-watch-out/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Trump frequently uses the phrase "nobody knows" or "nobody knew" to deflect blame or exaggerate achievements, often contradicting known facts.
- Examples include his claims about the complexity of healthcare reform, unexpected Iranian retaliation in the Gulf, and the COVID-19 pandemic, despite experts having predicted these events.
- Trump’s use of "nobody" claims often serves political and personal goals, such as portraying himself as a visionary or belittling opponents, while fueling misinformation.
- Some claims, such as those about the US Institute of Peace's building or peace in the Middle East, reflect either ignorance or deliberate falsehoods.
- Critics argue that Trump’s rhetoric is marked by hyperbole, misrepresentation, and a pattern of deflecting responsibility.
- The blog post includes comments highlighting public concerns about Trump’s character, alleged ties to Russia, and his impact on democracy and governance.
A New Declaration of Independence by an Angry Citizen: NO KINGS! #NoKingsMar28 #NoKingsInAmerica #NoKings https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/28/a-new-declaration-of-independence-by-an-angry-citizen-no-kings/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- A retired educator wrote a modern Declaration of Independence condemning Donald Trump's alleged authoritarian actions.
- The declaration criticizes Trump's divisive rhetoric, disregard for the Constitution, and alleged self-enrichment through foreign emoluments.
- It highlights Trump’s perceived favoritism towards his supporters, suppression of dissent, and attempts to consolidate power.
- The declaration calls for citizens to resist tyranny, uphold democracy, and demand accountability from governing bodies.
- The author appeals to the judiciary and legislature to restrain Trump’s alleged efforts to undermine democratic principles.
Big Education Ape: KIDS CAN'T VOTE. KIDS CAN'T LOBBY. KIDS CAN'T WAIT. ONE MAN IS FIGHTING FOR THEM ANYWAY #NoKingsMar28 #NoKingsInAmerica #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/kids-cant-vote-kids-cant-lobby-kids.html
### Key Points
- The article critiques the focus on war promotion, emphasizing its glorification while ignoring the devastating impact on children worldwide.
- It highlights domestic issues such as child poverty, lack of health insurance, cuts to education and healthcare programs, and the mental health crisis among youth in the U.S.
- The piece discusses the global consequences of U.S. budget cuts to foreign aid, leading to millions of preventable child deaths and worsening living conditions for vulnerable children.
- Specific examples of child suffering in conflict zones like Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, and El Salvador are provided, showcasing the severe impact of war and political decisions on children.
- The media and political systems are criticized for ignoring the plight of children due to their lack of political power and representation.
- The article highlights the work of Bruce Lesley and his publication "Kids Can't Wait," which focuses on child welfare and advocacy for making children a priority in policy decisions.
- The "No Kings" movement is introduced as a call to action for defending democracy and ensuring power remains with the people. The movement emphasizes the need to prioritize children in policymaking.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MARCH 27, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01796611645.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of current events, including political developments, global conflicts, education reforms, technology advancements, and societal issues. Key topics include the U.S.-Iran conflict, education privatization, AI integration in schools, public health funding cuts, grassroots movements, and the impact of Trump administration policies. It highlights significant challenges to democracy, equity, and justice while emphasizing the importance of collective resistance, cultural heritage, and evidence-based decision-making.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MARCH 27, 2026 #NoKingsMar28 #NoKingsInAmerica #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/morning-news-update-march-27-2026.html
Big Education Ape Morning News Update for March 27, 2026, covers various topics, including U.S. politics, education, global affairs, technology, health, and sports. Key highlights include updates on U.S. Department of Homeland Security funding, international conflicts, education policy changes, advancements in health technology, and major protests planned for March 28 under the "No Kings 3.0" movement.
Big Education Ape: NO KINGS 3.0 THIS SATURDAY UP YOURS, BILLIONAIRE EDUCATION OLIGARCHY: HOW REGULAR PEOPLE ARE RECLAIMING AMERICA'S CLASSROOMS #NoKingsMar28 #NoKingsInAmerica #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/no-kings-30-this-saturday-up-yours.html
Big Education Ape highlights the ongoing battle for public education in the U.S., focusing on grassroots movements, political shifts, and resistance to privatization efforts. The "No Kings" movement and the "Non-Permission Slip" campaign are pivotal strategies in opposing billionaire-backed education reforms and promoting community ownership of schools.
### Key Points
- The "No Kings" movement is rallying millions across the U.S. to protest billionaire-backed privatization of public education and executive overreach.
- Grassroots efforts are flipping traditionally Republican districts, such as Florida's House District 87 and Iowa's Senate District 1, by focusing on education issues like school funding and opposition to private school voucher programs.
- Democrats are adopting a strategy of naming and targeting billionaires funding privatization efforts, such as Jeffrey Yass and Betsy DeVos, in their campaigns.
- The "Non-Permission Slip" initiative empowers parents to formally oppose federal voucher programs, ICE cooperation in schools, and censorship in curriculums.
- Books like Diane Ravitch’s *Slaying Goliath* and Josh Cowen’s *The Privateers* are being used as intellectual tools to challenge the privatization narrative.
- Local and national organizations are providing tools, training, and resources to help citizens run for school boards and advocate for public education.
Big Education Ape: WHO TOOK A BITE OF THE AI APPLE? SIX CHATBOTS WALK INTO A CLASSROOM… https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/who-took-bite-of-ai-apple-six-chatbots.html
The article discusses the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, exploring its potential benefits and risks. It highlights key predictions made by six AI chatbots and examines existing AI ethics policies in various school districts. The article emphasizes the importance of value-driven decision-making to ensure AI's positive impact on education and avoid repeating the mistakes made with social media integration in schools.
### Key Points
- AI in education is predicted to bring hyper-personalized learning, turning teachers into mentors, offering 24/7 tutoring, making AI literacy a core subject, and transforming assessments.
- Different AI chatbots provided unique perspectives on the future of AI in education, with consensus on benefits but varied opinions on challenges like equity, trust, and ethics.
- Concerns about AI in education include cognitive offloading, the attention economy, deepfakes, equity gaps, and surveillance.
- Some school districts, like Chicago, New York City, Tucson, Seattle, and Boston, are leading with proactive AI ethics policies and frameworks.
- Key elements of a model AI ethics policy include mandatory disclosure, bias audits, human oversight, age-appropriate access, and community input.
- The article provides a phased timeline for implementing AI policies in schools, from foundational steps to continuous reviews.
- Parents and the public are encouraged to ask critical questions about AI tools, data privacy, academic integrity, and equity in schools.
- The article draws parallels between the rise of AI in education and the unregulated introduction of social media, emphasizing the need for proactive policies to avoid similar negative outcomes.
- The six AI chatbots — Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT, Claude, Llama, and Copilot — were assessed for their insights, with differing strengths such as equity focus, risk assessment, and optimism.
Creating New Schools: Regression to the Mean (Part 1) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/03/28/creating-new-schools-regression-to-the-mean-part-1-2/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- Historians often highlight that many educational reforms are not new but forget to contextualize their historical differences.
- Historical analysis can inform policymakers by identifying strengths, weaknesses, and outcomes of past reforms, helping to avoid repeating mistakes.
- Innovators and policymakers are influenced by their own perceptions of history, even if those views are incomplete or inaccurate.
- Techno-utopians aiming to revolutionize schooling often underestimate the challenges and overestimate their ability to succeed without accounting for historical lessons.
- A case study of a New York City middle school, designed as a tech-driven, student-centered institution, revealed that it eventually reverted to traditional practices.
- Despite some innovative interludes like "Level Up" weeks, the school largely failed to achieve its reformers' vision of fostering student agency and creativity.
- The school exemplifies the historical pattern where ambitious reforms regress to traditional schooling models, influenced by societal expectations and structural constraints.
ADHD medication in childhood may reduce later psychosis risk, landmark study finds Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
Education Research Report: Insights into Child Development, Education, and Social Factors
- Frequent social media use in early adolescence is linked to weaker reading, vocabulary development, and attentional control, but may improve processing speed. Researchers suggest limiting screen time and delaying smartphone access for children.
- ADHD medication in childhood, particularly methylphenidate, may reduce the long-term risk of psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. Early treatment shows potential protective effects, especially when started before age 13.
- A study reveals significant grade inflation in graduate education, with stronger trends in master's programs. The trend is influenced by factors like grading policies and the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has hindered the development of executive function skills in young children, impacting attention, self-control, and goal-directed behavior. Researchers emphasize the need for systemic support to mitigate these effects.
- Boys are more reliant on school structure to maintain reading habits, falling behind girls during school closures, including holidays and COVID-19 lockdowns. This reading gap may have long-term consequences.
- Socioeconomic and gender biases steer low-income students and girls away from creative careers. The study highlights the need for systemic changes to promote equitable access to creative education and employment opportunities.
glen brown: No Kings Day https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/03/no-kings-day.html
- Glen Brown reflects on the role of writers, emphasizing their need to resist oppression, reject societal illusions, and embrace isolation, quoting Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
- The blog critiques Donald Trump’s presidency, highlighting his autocratic behavior, constitutional ignorance, and other negative traits.
- Discussions include Trump’s war on Iran, its disastrous impacts, and broader geopolitical consequences.
- The blog addresses various societal issues such as pensions, healthcare, social justice, adjunct faculty struggles, and systemic racism.
- Commentary on global conflicts like the Israeli-Palestinian war, Iran, and Ukraine, alongside domestic topics like January 6th and gun control laws in Illinois.
- Criticism of media manipulation by wealthy elites and the influence of MAGA Christian nationalism.
SPI Thurmond Hosts Town Hall to Discuss AB 673 (Jackson) and Critical Needs of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth - Year 2026 (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr26/yr26rel21.asp
### Key Points
- State Superintendent Tony Thurmond and Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson hosted a town hall to discuss AB 673 and its focus on supporting unaccompanied homeless youth.
- AB 673 aims to create the Unaccompanied Youth Support Grant Program, providing housing and resources to help homeless students remain in school and graduate.
- The bill seeks to bridge gaps between education, housing, and social service systems in a fiscally responsible and student-centered way.
- Supports under the program include housing resources, basic needs, academic tutoring, employment skills, and health services, with partnerships encouraged between schools and youth-focused organizations.
- A recording of the town hall is available on the California Department of Education’s Facebook page.
Union Matters Never Murder a Man Who Is Committing Suicide ...and other musings ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/never-murder-a-man-who-is-committing
- The author, Arthur Goldstein, critiques the actions and decisions of the Retiree Advocate (RA) group, accusing them of self-sabotage and poor leadership.
- RA has been criticized for avoiding alliances with other groups, failing to act on key issues like 1096, and being unresponsive to lobbying efforts for retiree benefits.
- Specific criticisms are directed at RA's Jonathan Halabi, including his opposition to important initiatives like 1096 and his handling of the UFT Retiree Facebook page moderation.
- The author defends his critiques as factual observations rather than personal attacks, emphasizing the need for better leadership to address retirees' challenges.
- The article highlights the inconsistency in RA's management of the UFT Retiree Facebook page, favoring certain opinions while suppressing others.
- The author calls for a reform in leadership to protect retiree benefits and address existential threats, emphasizing the importance of unity and action.
NYC Public School Parents: Parents at PS 889 in Brooklyn speak out against DOE refusal to allow them to lower class size which will lead to third grade classes of 33 students https://nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com/2026/03/parents-at-ps-889-in-brooklyn-speak-out.html
NYC Public School Parents share concerns regarding overcrowded classrooms at PS 889 in Brooklyn and the Department of Education's (DOE) refusal to reduce enrollment to comply with class size mandates. Parents highlight issues such as overcrowded classrooms, lack of physical space, and transparency in DOE decisions, urging action to address these challenges.
### Key Points
- Parents at PS 889 in Brooklyn are protesting DOE's refusal to lower class sizes, resulting in overcrowded third-grade classrooms with up to 33 students, exceeding the legal limit of 23.
- Overcrowding affects students’ focus, scheduling issues like early lunch hours, and teachers’ ability to provide individualized attention.
- DOE has denied requests from the school’s leadership and superintendent to reduce enrollment based on physical space limitations.
- Parents have expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and accountability in DOE's enrollment decisions, which exacerbate the overcrowding problem.
- Long-term solutions such as expanding physical space are stalled, despite ongoing discussions and community efforts to identify potential locations for new facilities.
- Parents emphasize the importance of smaller class sizes for better educational outcomes and urge City Council to demand immediate action from DOE before approving further funding.
"Smile your on Camera" "I wish it could be short and simple like some others more widely known, but I want to do more than just urge writers to 'Omit Needless Words' or 'Be Clear.'” Joseph Williams, Style PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/smile-your-on-camera
### Key Points
- The author's journey as a writing teacher was shaped by transitioning from strict adherence to Strunk and White's "The Elements of Style" to embracing Joseph Williams' "Style," which emphasizes a more nuanced understanding of language.
- Williams criticized rigid writing rules, advocating for clarity beyond simple directives like "Be clear" and addressing the complexities of effective communication.
- The author acknowledges the flaws in prescriptive language rules and highlights the ethical and linguistic issues of enforcing such mandates.
- The article discusses the evolution of language, the power dynamics of linguistic norms, and challenges the traditional view of grammar as static and authoritative.
- Examples such as the debate over the word "decimate" and the sign "Smile your on Camera" illustrate the adaptability and resilience of language.
- The author integrates discussions on language's power and societal implications into their teaching, using texts like James Baldwin’s "If Black English Isn't a Language, Then Tell Me, What Is?"
- Language trends, such as the decline of "whom," reduced comma usage, and changing grammar norms, reflect its ever-evolving nature.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, March 29, 2026, news surrounding President Trump is dominated by massive nationwide protests and the ongoing military conflict in the Middle East.
1. Massive "No Kings" Protests Sweep the U.S.
Organizers estimate that at least 8 million people participated in "No Kings" rallies across all 50 states yesterday, March 28, with coverage continuing into today.
The Scale: Protests took place at over 3,300 events.
In St. Paul, Minnesota—a focal point for the movement—tens of thousands gathered at the State Capitol, featuring a performance by Bruce Springsteen. The Grievances: Demonstrators are protesting the war with Iran, authoritarian governance, hardline immigration policies, and the rising cost of living.
Global Reach: The movement spread to over a dozen countries, with significant rallies reported in London, Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam.
2. One Month into the War with Iran
The joint U.S.-Israeli military campaign, "Operation Epic Fury," has officially entered its second month.
Strategic Shift: President Trump suggested the U.S. may soon be "winding down" operations, claiming the military is "very close" to meeting its core objectives.
Internal Friction: Reports indicate a disconnect between the White House and the Pentagon regarding whether strategic goals—such as the total elimination of Iran's nuclear program—have actually been met.
Economic Impact: The closure of the Strait of Hormuz continues to cause a global energy supply shock, with President Trump facing domestic pressure as fuel prices remain high.
3. NATO Obligations Questioned
In recent statements, President Trump has raised fresh doubts about the U.S. commitment to NATO's mutual defense provisions.
He argued that the U.S. does not have an "obligation" to support allies who "weren't there for us" during the initial phases of the conflict with Iran, sparking concern among European leaders who were reportedly not consulted prior to the strikes.
4. DHS Funding Standoff and TSA Chaos
A weeks-long budget standoff continues after House Republicans rejected a bipartisan Senate deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Executive Action: President Trump signed a memorandum directing the DHS to find alternative funds to pay approximately 60,000 TSA officers who have been working without pay.
Travel Disruptions: Wait times at several major airports have reached three hours or more as hundreds of TSA agents have resigned or called out sick due to the lack of pay.
5. Signature on U.S. Currency
The Treasury Department announced that President Trump’s signature will appear on future U.S. paper currency to mark the upcoming 250th anniversary (Semiquincentennial) of the United States.
