Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 4-22-25

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

4-22-25

Best Easter Tweet! | Diane Ravitch's blog https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/21/best-easter-tweet/ 

Memo Leaked about Cuts to State Department, Slashing Africa Offices, Climate and Human Rights Agencies https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/21/memo-leajed-about-cuts-to-state-department-slashing-africa-offices-climate-and-human-rights/ via @dianeravitch

The article discusses a leaked plan to reorganize the Trump State Department, aiming to align with Trump's "America First" agenda. The proposed changes include drastic cuts to Africa operations, climate change, and human rights agencies, as well as restructuring regional bureaus into four new corps. The plan suggests laying off career diplomats, ending the foreign service exam, and using AI for policy development. The reorganization faces potential legal challenges and congressional notification requirements.

### Key Points

- A leaked plan proposes drastic restructuring of the Trump State Department, aligning with Trump's "America First" agenda. 

- The plan calls for cutting Africa operations, climate change, and human rights offices, and closing embassies in Africa. 

- It includes laying off diplomats, ending the foreign service exam, and using AI for policy development. 

- Regional bureaus would be replaced by four new corps, focusing on specific global regions. 

- The reorganization faces potential legal challenges and congressional notification requirements. 

DOGE Kids Are Slashing Government Agencies, While Holding Multiple Jobs https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/21/doge-kids-are-slashing-government-agencies/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses the controversial practice of DOGE staffers, associated with Elon Musk, holding multiple positions across various federal agencies, leading to unprecedented influence and access to confidential information. This arrangement, supported by President Trump, raises ethical concerns and legal challenges due to the lack of formal authority and experience of these young appointees in government roles. Critics argue that this setup undermines government integrity and poses risks to public service.

### Key Points

- DOGE staffers, including Gavin Kliger, hold positions in multiple federal agencies simultaneously, which is unusual and raises ethical concerns. 

- These staffers, trusted by Elon Musk, have significant influence and access to confidential information, despite being low-level bureaucrats. 

- The appointments of DOGE staffers are seen as unprecedented and potentially problematic for government operations. 

- The arrangement poses legal challenges and questions about the validity of such appointments without proper nomination and confirmation. 

Politico: MAGA Loyalist Describes a Month of Chaos at the Pentagon https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/21/politico-maga-loyalist-describes-a-month-of-chaos-at-the-pentagon/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses the chaos and dysfunction at the Pentagon under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a Trump loyalist with minimal administrative experience. Hegseth's leadership has led to leaks of sensitive information, mass firings, and accusations against former aides. Critics argue that Hegseth is unqualified for his role, and his actions have caused significant disruption within the Pentagon. There is speculation that President Trump may replace Hegseth soon due to the ongoing turmoil.

### Key Points

- Trump loyalist Pete Hegseth blamed for chaos at the Defense Department due to lack of administrative experience. 

- John Ullyot predicts Trump will replace Hegseth swiftly as chaos distracts the president. 

- Firings of senior staffers linked to false claims of leaking sensitive information. 

- Hegseth presides over a purge, losing key advisers and chiefs of staff, increasing disarray. 

- Public commentary criticizes Hegseth's incompetence and questions his appointment. 

Teacher Tom: "Children Do Not Like Being Incompetent Any More Than They Like Being Ignorant" https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/04/children-do-not-like-being-incompetent.html 

Teacher Tom discusses the importance of treating children as capable individuals rather than as incomplete adults. He criticizes adults who condescend to children, viewing them through stereotypes rather than as actual human beings. Tom argues that children dislike incompetence and ignorance and are eager to learn and participate in real, meaningful activities. He emphasizes that protecting children from life's difficult lessons is not beneficial and that adults should support and love them as competent beings. The article also highlights Tom's advocacy for play-based learning and his efforts to promote high-quality preschool education.

### Key Points

- Children prefer being treated with respect and dislike condescension from adults. 

- Many adults view children as stereotypes rather than individuals, which is damaging. 

- Children are eager to learn and dislike being seen as incompetent or ignorant. 

- Adults should support children by acknowledging their capabilities and helping them navigate life's challenges. 

The NAACP Is Suing the U.S. Department of Education—Here’s Why Every Parent, Educator, and Student Should Be Paying Attention https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/04/21/the-naacp-is-suing-the-u-s-department-of-education-heres-why-every-parent-educator-and-student-should-be-paying-attention/ 

The article discusses the NAACP's lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education over efforts to dismantle public education and suppress civil rights under the guise of "freedom" and "parental rights." This move is seen as a threat to educational equity, particularly for marginalized communities. Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig, a long-time advocate for educational justice, highlights the importance of this issue and invites people to join a virtual event on April 29, 2025, to address these challenges. The article emphasizes the broader authoritarian agenda to destabilize public education and the NAACP's role in mobilizing against these efforts.

### Key Points

- The NAACP is suing the U.S. Department of Education to challenge efforts undermining educational equity and civil rights. 

- Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig, a NAACP leader, emphasizes the ideological push to dismantle public education and invites participation in a virtual event. 

- The lawsuit addresses the Department's misinterpretation of Title VI, targeting equity-focused programs, and aims to protect students' civil rights. 

- The NAACP mobilizes its members to fight against the dismantling of the Department of Education and advocates for public education. 

WEEKEND QUOTABLES https://open.substack.com/pub/klonsky/p/weekend-quotables-3e4?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

Pope Francis has passed away, leaving behind a transformative pontificate aimed at creating a more inclusive Catholic Church. His successor faces a choice between continuing his inclusive path or reverting to traditional approaches. In his final Easter address, Pope Francis condemned violence in Gaza and urged for peace and humanitarian aid. He also criticized mass deportations in the U.S. and called for political leaders to choose peace over fear. Additionally, the article touches on various political and social issues, including criticisms of the Trump administration’s disregard for due process and the plight of Kilmar Abrego García, an individual affected by immigration policies.

### Key Points

- Pope Francis has died, prompting decisions about the future direction of the Catholic Church. 

- In his last Easter message, Pope Francis condemned the violence in Gaza and called for humanitarian efforts. 

- Pope Francis criticized U.S. mass deportations and urged global political leaders to prioritize peace and development. 

- The article discusses Kilmar Abrego García's situation, highlighting immigration policy issues in the U.S. 

- Concerns are raised about the Trump administration's defiance of the Supreme Court and due process. 

- Various social and political topics are mentioned, including issues of gang identification and media censorship. 

Education Research Report: Incentives Against Phone Use in the Classroom https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/04/incentives-against-phone-use-in.html 

Incentives Against Phone Use in the Classroom: A field experiment at a large public university tested an app designed to reduce phone use in classrooms by offering incentives. Results showed improvements in classroom focus, attendance, and academic satisfaction. However, students using the app spent less time studying, particularly on campus, indicating a possible substitution effect. Although improvements in transcript grades were noted, they were statistically insignificant.

### Key Points

- Phone usage in classrooms is linked to worsened academic outcomes. 

- An app providing incentives was tested to reduce phone use, improving focus and attendance. 

- App usage resulted in potential substitution effects, with less study time on campus. 

- Transcript grade improvements were associated with app usage but were statistically insignificant. 

Utah Judge Rejects School Voucher Scheme, by @TheAndySpears https://open.substack.com/pub/theeducationreport/p/utah-judge-rejects-school-voucher?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

A Utah judge ruled that the state's proposed $100 million school voucher program is unconstitutional because it does not meet the requirements for public education set forth in the Utah Constitution. The program would allow private schools participating in Utah Fits All to deny admission based on factors such as disabilities, gender, religion, or income. Despite this, Utah's Governor Spencer Cox plans to continue efforts to divert public funds to private schools. The ruling comes amidst similar legislative activities in other states, with Missouri rejecting a voucher funding proposal and Texas approving a significant voucher plan. Evidence suggests that vouchers may negatively impact student performance, as seen in Ohio where voucher students showed a decline in proficiency over three years. The article emphasizes the importance of defending public education and encourages readers to support reporting efforts.

### Key Points

- A Utah judge ruled that the state's school voucher program violates the Constitution as it is not open to all children. 

- Utah's governor intends to continue efforts to divert public funds to private schools despite the ruling. 

- Private schools in the program can deny admission based on factors like disabilities, gender, religion, or income. 

- Missouri rejected a $50 million school voucher funding proposal, while Texas approved a $1 billion voucher plan. 

- Evidence suggests vouchers may lead to worse academic performance for students compared to public school peers. 

- The article calls for support in defending public education and spreading awareness about voucher schemes. 

CURMUDGUCATION: Moms For Liberty University https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/04/moms-for-liberty-university.html 

Moms For Liberty University (M4LU) is an initiative by Moms for Liberty, aiming to provide resources to parents on various educational and ideological topics. Despite calling itself a "university," M4LU is not accredited and primarily serves as a resource library with a focus on topics like Social Emotional Learning, Critical Race Theory, and Gender Ideology. The program is led by Melissa Karwowski, who has a background in marketing and tech but whose LinkedIn does not mention M4LU. The content is presented from a far-right perspective, often featuring talking points and resources from conservative figures and organizations. The initiative appears more focused on promoting a specific ideological stance rather than offering a balanced educational experience.

### Key Points

- Moms For Liberty University (M4LU) is described as a resource for parents, focusing on educational and ideological topics, but is not an accredited university. 

- The program director, Melissa Karwowski, has a background in marketing and tech, but her LinkedIn profile does not mention M4LU. 

- M4LU's content is presented from a far-right perspective, with resources from conservative figures and organizations. 

- The initiative is more about promoting a specific ideological stance than providing a balanced educational experience. 

glen brown: An Economic Crisis of Trump's Own Making https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/04/an-economic-crisis-of-trumps-own-making.html 

The article is a critical analysis of the economic impact of Donald Trump's policies, highlighting how his administration's actions have led to a significant financial downturn. It discusses the negative effects of tariffs, xenophobia, and poor diplomatic relations on the U.S. economy, particularly in the tourism and export sectors. The article argues that Trump's approach has turned the U.S. into an undesirable destination for international visitors and investors, resulting in substantial economic losses.

### Key Points

- The article criticizes Trump's economic policies, blaming them for a projected $90 billion loss to the U.S. economy. 

- Trump's actions, such as tariffs and xenophobia, have deterred tourism and international goodwill, affecting working-class Americans. 

- The decline in tourism, particularly from Europe and Canada, is causing significant economic distress in regions dependent on seasonal income. 

- Trump's policies have led to increased prices, reduced foreign demand, and financial struggles for American farmers and manufacturers. 

- The article argues that Trump's presidency has damaged the U.S.'s global reputation and economic stability, likening it to a "paranoid, unstable wreck." 

glen brown: "On Easter Sunday 2025, two men addressed the world. One had trouble breathing, the other has trouble shutting up" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/04/on-easter-sunday-2025-two-men-addressed.html 

The article contrasts the final public appearances of Pope Francis and Donald Trump on Easter Sunday 2025. Pope Francis, despite his failing health, delivered a message of hope, peace, and compassion, urging the world to aid those in need and seek peace in conflict zones. His actions were described as courageous and selfless. In stark contrast, Donald Trump used the occasion to express grievances and spread accusations, focusing on his perceived enemies and revisiting past election disputes. The article critiques Trump’s lack of humility and grace, emphasizing the difference between Pope Francis's embodiment of Easter values and Trump's focus on retribution and self-promotion.

### Key Points

- Pope Francis delivered a hopeful and compassionate Easter message, urging peace and aid for those in need. 

- Donald Trump used Easter Sunday to express grievances and accusations, lacking humility and grace. 

- The article highlights the stark contrast between Pope Francis's selflessness and Trump's self-promotion. 

glen brown: Pope Francis Has Left Us by La Civiltà Cattolica https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/04/pope-francis-has-left-us-by-la-civilta.html 

The article explores the literary influences on Pope Francis, focusing on his passion for literature and how it has shaped his thinking and pastoral approach. It delves into his appreciation for various authors and works, such as Dostoevsky, Manzoni, and Virgil, and how these have informed his views on humanity, faith, and leadership. The article also highlights Francis' belief in the power of poetry and literature to convey complex human experiences and the importance of imagination in faith.

### Key Points

- Pope Francis values literature for its ability to read the human heart and influence his pastoral attitude. 

- His passion for literature began in childhood and has been a lifelong companion, influencing his teachings and writings. 

- As a young Jesuit, he encouraged students to engage with literature creatively, even involving Borges in their work. 

- Francis wrote a preface for a young poet, emphasizing the importance of seeing connections and depth in poetry. 

- He believes that imagination is crucial for faith and uses poetic language to express complex truths. 

- Dostoevsky's "Notes from Underground" is a significant influence, reflecting the complexity of human experience. 

- Francis appreciates literature that reflects the soul of a people and the interconnectedness of humanity. 

- He finds inspiration in the works of Manzoni and Malègue, which portray everyday holiness and mercy. 

- Virgil's depiction of Aeneas as a symbol of carrying history and seeking the future resonates with Francis. 

- Francis sees Tolkien's heroes as embodying the journey of hope and mission. 

- The article emphasizes Francis' belief that life is the measure of words, and literature should reflect this relationship. 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Garfield High Senior Dead in Shooting in Yakima https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/04/garfield-high-senior-dead-in-shooting.html?spref=tw 

Garfield High School senior Salvador "Junior" Granillo was killed in a shooting at a Yakima party, with the suspect still at large. The Garfield PTSA announced a vigil in his honor. Separately, discussions in Seattle focus on potential school closures and allegations of nepotism within the school district.

### Key Points

- An 18-year-old Garfield High School senior was shot and killed at a party in Yakima. The suspect, Isreal Barriga Vargas, is considered armed and dangerous. 

- A candlelight vigil is planned for the victim, Salvador "Junior" Granillo, and a school club is collecting flowers in his memory. 

- Seattle Public Schools are considering closing schools, but there is controversy over the lack of transparency about potential savings. 

- Allegations of nepotism within Seattle Schools involve personnel moving between jobs based on personal connections. 

Student Outcome Focused Governance is Impuissant | tultican https://tultican.com/2025/04/21/student-outcome-focused-governance-is-impuissant/ 

Elected school boards are fundamental to American democracy, but the Student Outcome Focused Governance (SOFG) model is criticized for undermining democratic control by focusing solely on student outcomes through standardized testing. Developed by A.J. Crabill and promoted by the Council of the Great City Schools, SOFG restricts school boards from addressing non-student outcome issues, placing those responsibilities on superintendents. Critics argue that this model is anti-democratic and limits community influence on important school decisions. Despite its intentions, SOFG has faced backlash for neglecting programs and aspects vital to a holistic educational environment.

### Key Points

- SOFG uses standardized testing to focus school boards solely on student outcomes, potentially undermining democratic control. 

- The model restricts school boards from addressing issues like school safety and extracurricular programs, delegating these to superintendents and limiting community input. 

- A.J. Crabill, who lacks formal education credentials, developed SOFG and has been influential in its adoption across urban school districts. 

- Critics argue that SOFG is anti-democratic and fails to consider the broader needs of schools, with financial backing from entities like the Gates Foundation. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

 4-21-25

The article is a comprehensive roundup of various educational and political topics, highlighting issues such as school vouchers, political interference in education, AI accountability, and the influence of key political figures. It covers a wide range of subjects including the impact of Trump's policies, grassroots resistance movements, and the role of technology in education.

### Key Points

- Missouri rejected the expansion of school vouchers, emphasizing the importance of classmates over teachers in a child's learning. 

- Texas Governor Abbott used strong-arm tactics and financial resources to pass voucher legislation, which faced opposition from rural Republicans and Democrats. 

- Trump's administration is targeting non-profits with funding cuts and bureaucratic challenges, affecting their ability to operate. 

- Harvard University is using delay tactics similar to Trump to resist administration demands, leveraging its substantial resources and legal expertise. 

- The U.S. Naval Academy removed books by civil rights authors but retained "Mein Kampf," following an order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. 

- Bernie Sanders and AOC lead a "Fighting Oligarchy Tour" to challenge economic inequality and corporate power. 

- Technology for Freedom uses AI to assist MAGA advocates and think tanks in research and advocacy, raising concerns about AI's lack of objectivity and potential bias. 

- Teacher Tom reflects on the importance of play in child development, inspired by Lev Vygotsky's concept of children behaving beyond their average age during play. 

- The California Local School Wellness Policy Collaborative is hosting a "Winning at Wellness" webinar to aid Local Educational Agencies in developing wellness policies. 

- Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig contemplates running for public office, inspired by Easter's themes of renewal and responsibility. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 4-18-25 AI-generated podcast

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