Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 4-23-25

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

4-23-25

 

ProPublica: Trump's War on Data Undermines Public Policy https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/22/propublica-trumps-war-on-data-is-a-disaster-for-public-policy/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses the Trump administration's extensive efforts to dismantle data collection across various federal agencies, which undermines public policy and decision-making. This attack on data is seen as a way to prevent the evaluation of government actions and policies, potentially hiding the consequences of deregulation and other administrative changes. The loss of data impacts areas such as public health, environmental monitoring, education, and immigration enforcement, making it difficult to assess the effectiveness of policies and hold the government accountable.

### Key Points

- Trump's administration is systematically dismantling data collection efforts, affecting the government's ability to make informed decisions. 

- The Department of Health and Human Services and other agencies have laid off teams responsible for crucial surveys and databases, jeopardizing valuable public health data. 

- The Environmental Protection Agency and other departments have reduced or eliminated data collection on climate change and pollution, hindering environmental protection efforts. 

- The lack of data collection can obscure the impact of policies, making it hard to evaluate their effectiveness and hold the administration accountable. 

- The administration's actions are seen as a way to prevent criticism and avoid evidence-based assessments of its policies. 

Robert Shepherd: Trump's Attack on Nature is a Disaster https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/22/robert-shepherd-trumps-attack-on-nature-is-a-disaster/ via @dianeravitch 

Robert Shepherd's article criticizes the Trump administration's proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act, arguing that redefining harm as the direct killing of animals, rather than habitat destruction, threatens biodiversity and ecological interdependence. Shepherd highlights the intricate mutual relationships in nature, such as the fig and fig wasp symbiosis, and stresses the importance of responsibility towards future generations. The article condemns the administration's prioritization of development and resource extraction over environmental conservation, warning of long-term consequences for both nature and humanity.

### Key Points

- Robert Shepherd discusses the mutual interdependence in nature, using the example of fig trees and fig wasps. 

- Shepherd argues that interfering with natural cycles leads to extinction, emphasizing the need for responsibility towards future generations. 

- The Trump administration's proposal to redefine harm under the Endangered Species Act threatens species due to habitat loss, not just direct killing. 

- The administration's actions favor real estate developers and undermine environmental conservation, risking ecological devastation. 

Will Ron DeSantis Outrun This Scandal? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/22/will-ron-desantis-outrun-this-scandal/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses the controversial actions of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, highlighting several scandals and potential abuses of power. It focuses on a particular scandal involving a $10 million donation to a charity founded by DeSantis' wife, which was allegedly used to fund campaigns against two citizen-led constitutional amendments. The article also touches on DeSantis' authoritarian governance style, his influence on educational institutions, and his administration's efforts to suppress certain ballot measures using public funds. The piece suggests that DeSantis may face repercussions for these actions, as investigations and legislative reforms are underway.

### Key Points

- Ron DeSantis has been acting like a dictator, controlling educational institutions and imposing thought control. 

- A scandal erupted involving a $10 million payment from a state contractor to a charity linked to DeSantis' wife, used to fund campaigns against marijuana legalization. 

- The DeSantis administration allegedly used public money to finance campaigns against constitutional amendments on marijuana and abortion rights. 

- Investigations and ethics reforms are being pursued by House Republicans, potentially exposing DeSantis to legal challenges.

 More Than 100 Universities Sign Statement Rejecting Trump's Interference in and Control of Their Campuses https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/22/more-than-100-universities-sign-statement-rejecting-trumps-interference-in-their-campuses/ via @dianeravitch 

More than 100 U.S. universities, including prestigious institutions like Harvard and MIT, have signed a joint statement condemning the Trump administration's political interference in higher education. The universities are resisting the administration's attempts to control their policies and threaten their funding and tax-exempt status. This move follows Harvard's lawsuit against the administration, which had frozen and threatened to suspend billions in funding as part of its demands for policy changes. The universities emphasize the importance of academic freedom and the role of higher education in sustaining democracy. Despite pressure, nearly 200 institutions have joined the statement, although challenges remain, particularly in states with strong political opposition.

### Key Points

- Over 100 universities oppose the Trump administration's interference in their policies, citing threats to academic freedom. 

- Harvard University sued the Trump administration over a funding freeze and demands for policy changes. 

- The universities' joint statement emphasizes the importance of academic freedom and democracy. 

- Nearly 200 institutions have signed the statement, despite political challenges in some states. 

What to Do about Trump’s Threat to Title I Funding: A Dilemma for All the  States and for 13,000 Public School Districts https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/04/22/what-to-do-about-trumps-threat-to-title-i-funding-a-dilemma-for-all-the-states-and-for-13000-public-school-districts/ via @janresseger 

The article discusses the Trump administration's threat to withdraw Title I funding from states and school districts unless they comply with new directives that eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in education. This demand follows the Supreme Court's decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which banned affirmative action in college admissions. The article highlights the historical context of educational inequality and the current political climate reminiscent of pre-Civil War attitudes towards race and education. Legal experts and several states argue that the administration's actions lack due process and violate constitutional rights, leading to multiple lawsuits challenging the directive.

### Key Points

- Derek W. Black's book examines the historical and current impact of racism on public education, highlighting progress and setbacks in achieving educational equality. 

- Recent political actions against DEI in education echo pre-Civil War Southern paranoia, with vague laws limiting educational content. 

- The Trump administration's demand for compliance with Title VI and the Students for Fair Admissions ruling threatens Title I funding, sparking legal challenges. 

- Sixteen states have refused to comply with the administration's demands, raising questions about the legality and enforcement of the directive. 

- Legal experts criticize the administration's lack of due process and argue its actions violate constitutional rights, leading to lawsuits from major educational organizations. 

Il Papa è Morto – Grumpy Old Teacher https://grumpyoldteacher.com/2025/04/22/il-papa-e-morto/ 

Grumpy Old Teacher reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, who brought a pastoral approach to his papacy, focusing on inclusivity and empathy. Francis emphasized the importance of literature in personal development and education, advocating for reading as a means to broaden perspectives, foster empathy, and stimulate intellectual growth. His views challenge the overuse of digital media and standardized testing, promoting reading for pleasure and personal enrichment.

### Key Points

- Pope Francis is remembered for his pastoral approach, focusing on marginalized groups and inclusivity. 

- Francis advocated for the role of literature in education, emphasizing reading novels and poems for personal maturity. 

- Reading helps avoid the negative effects of excessive screen time and encourages active engagement. 

- Literature fosters empathy and understanding of different cultures and experiences. 

- Reading improves vocabulary, intellectual abilities, concentration, and reduces stress. 

- Francis believed reading should be for pleasure, not as a chore, and criticized standardized testing. 

- Reading literature allows us to experience life through different perspectives and breeds empathy. 

Big Education Ape: TRUMP'S WAR ON DEI: A MISGUIDED CRUSADE AGAINST AMERICAN PROGRESS + MAY DAY RALLY INFORMATION https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/04/trumps-war-on-dei-misguided-crusade.html 

The article discusses various topics, primarily focusing on Donald Trump's stance against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. It critiques Trump's approach as an attempt to reverse social progress and likens it to outdated segregationist policies. The article highlights the backlash against Trump's policies, with grassroots movements advocating for DEI as essential for America's future. Additionally, it touches on the irony of Trump's alignment with corporate interests while claiming to support meritocracy.

### Key Points

- Donald Trump's opposition to DEI is viewed as a misguided attempt against American progress, likened to a Shakespearean play's tragicomic subplot. 

- DEI is essential for addressing systemic inequities, and Trump's rhetoric is seen as fearmongering. 

- Critics argue that DEI initiatives are not about reverse discrimination but ensuring fair opportunities for all. 

- Trump's policies resemble Jim Crow-era rhetoric, ignoring the benefits of diversity and inclusion. 

- Grassroots movements are resisting Trump's policies, emphasizing DEI as a competitive advantage. 

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Spring | JD2718 https://jd2718.org/2025/04/22/spring/ 

The article is a personal narrative reflecting on the author's experiences over several months, focusing on personal challenges, professional responsibilities, and involvement in educational and union activities. The author shares the emotional impact of their mother's illness and their efforts to understand medical information and support her. They also discuss their role in the Retired Teachers Chapter of the UFT and their participation in the UFT election campaign with the ARISE coalition. Despite feeling overwhelmed, the author finds solace in nature, math problems, and cultural activities as they gradually regain balance in their life.

### Key Points

- The author's mother fell ill, leading to an emotional and challenging period as they navigated medical information and support. 

- The author is an officer in the Retired Teachers Chapter of the UFT and feels overwhelmed by the responsibilities. 

- Involvement in the UFT election campaign with the ARISE coalition, aiming to challenge Unity and address educational issues. 

- Personal reflections on regaining balance through nature, solving math problems, and engaging in cultural activities. 

Janresseger: What About that “Dear Colleague” Letter from Trump’s Dept. of Ed. Attacking Schools on Race and Diversity? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/dear-colleague 

The article discusses a lawsuit filed by the American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association against a "Dear Colleague" letter issued by the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights. This letter, sent under the Trump administration, threatened to cut federal funding to schools considering race in various aspects of campus life, which led to confusion and panic. The directive is criticized for potentially undermining civil rights protections and being unconstitutionally vague. Legal experts argue that the letter misinterprets the law and could have a chilling effect on schools' diversity efforts. Despite the letter's demands, no funding has been cut as the process requires thorough investigation and due process. The article notes that there may be a replacement document that aligns better with civil rights law.

### Key Points

- The lawsuit challenges a "Dear Colleague" letter from the U.S. Department of Education that threatens to cut funding to schools considering race in any aspect. 

- The letter is criticized for misinterpreting the Supreme Court's 2023 decision on affirmative action and going beyond its scope. 

- Legal experts argue the letter is vague and could lead to self-censorship among schools trying to maintain diversity. 

- Despite the letter, no funding has been cut as it requires a multi-step process, including investigation and due process. 

- There may be a new document replacing the original letter that does not violate civil rights law as severely. 

Kelli Stargel's only Florida Poly performance eval reads like a preschooler's report card, by @BillyTownsendEd https://open.substack.com/pub/billytownsend/p/kelli-stargels-only-florida-poly?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

Subscribe Kelli Stargel's only Florida Poly performance eval reads like a preschooler's report card Two days after I reported on her empty work calendar in 2023, Poly certified that Kelli made no progress on performance goals that don't exist. But she "exceeds expectations" in every way. Billy Townsend Apr 22, 2025 2 1 4 Share The following image comes from the only performance evaluation that former State Sen. Kelli Stargel, R-Lakeland has ever received from Florida Polytechnic University. Former President Randy Avent issued it to Stargel on May 5, 2023, about two months into her new gig as Poly’s “senior advisor for strategic relationships.” Avent captured her “progress on any identified goals from previous year” like this: As you can see, both “progress” and “goals” were even emptier than Kelli’s work calendar at that time. Coincidentally — or

### Key Points

- Kelli Stargel received a performance evaluation from Florida Polytechnic University with no progress on goals, yet she "exceeds expectations." 

- Stargel's work calendar showed minimal activity, with many days having no planned interactions. 

- Despite an empty calendar, Stargel received promotions and a significant salary increase. 

- The article criticizes Florida Poly's leadership and the lack of serious evaluation for Stargel's role. 

SUBSTACK: The right to think at all | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2025/04/22/substack-the-right-to-think-at-all/ 

The article discusses recent incidents involving academic freedom and government intervention in universities. It highlights the arrest and visa revocation of students and academics, the government's demands on Columbia University, and the broader implications for academic freedom. It draws parallels with historical events like McCarthyism and Galileo's persecution, emphasizing the importance of the right to think and teach freely.

### Key Points

- Mahmoud Khalil's arrest and Ranjani Srinivasan's visa revocation highlight government intervention in academic environments. 

- Columbia University's compliance with government demands, including expelling students and redefining antisemitism, raises concerns about academic freedom. 

- The transformation of the Republican Party and its impact on civil liberties and academic institutions. 

- The comparison to McCarthyism and the erosion of academic freedom in universities. 

- The importance of academic freedom and the right to think, drawing parallels with Galileo's struggle for intellectual liberty. 

Wherefore Art Thou, Jesus? https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/04/22/wherefore-art-thou-jesus/ via @plthomasEdD 

The article reflects on the author's personal journey from being raised in a Christian environment in the Bible Belt to becoming an atheist/agnostic humanist. It critiques the commercialization and hypocrisy within mainstream Christianity in the US, particularly during religious holidays like Easter. The author draws parallels between his experiences at a golf course, where Christian men behaved contrary to their professed beliefs, and the broader political landscape under Trump, highlighting the disconnect between Christian teachings and the actions of some of its followers. The piece emphasizes the importance of humanism, kindness, and love over authoritarian religious practices.

### Key Points

- The author critiques the commercialization and pagan elements in US Christian celebrations. 

- Personal experiences in the Bible Belt shaped the author's views on religion and authority. 

- Hypocrisy observed among Christians at a golf course influenced the author's skepticism. 

- The author contrasts intellectual atheism with the lack of kindness found in some Christians. 

- Criticism of the political influence of fundamentalist Christians in the US, especially under Trump. 

- The author advocates for humanism and criticizes the authoritarian nature of some religious practices. 

Teacher Tom: It Works Every Time https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/04/it-works-every-time.html 

Teacher Tom shares a story about a two-year-old boy struggling with separation from his mother on the first day of a summer session. Teacher Tom emphasizes the importance of creating a space for children to express their emotions and supports them through their feelings without trying to immediately soothe or distract them. He highlights that the role of a teacher is to be present with children during their emotional experiences, allowing them to feel and process their emotions naturally.

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom observes a two-year-old boy crying after his mother leaves and decides to sit with him to help him through his emotions. 

- The focus is on creating a space for the child to express his feelings rather than trying to stop the crying. 

- Teacher Tom's approach involves calmly speaking truths and being present, which eventually helps the child engage in activities and move past his sadness. 

- Teacher Tom reflects on the importance of being with children during their emotional experiences and supporting them without trying to fix their feelings. 

Education Research Report: Using ChatGPT, students might pass a course, but with a cost https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/04/using-chatgpt-students-might-pass.html 

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign studied the effectiveness of ChatGPT in an undergraduate control systems course. ChatGPT performed well on straightforward math tasks, achieving an A, but struggled with higher-level reasoning, earning a D. Overall, it received a B, slightly lower than the class average. The study suggests that while ChatGPT can help students pass courses, it may not lead to genuine learning. Educators are encouraged to design courses with more open-ended questions to promote critical thinking. Despite its speed, ChatGPT's accuracy is sometimes questionable, and it can produce strange answers. The study also noted that ChatGPT improved slightly when corrected but showed limited overall learning.

### Key Points

- ChatGPT performed well on simple math tasks but poorly on higher-level reasoning, resulting in an overall B grade. 

- The study suggests that relying solely on ChatGPT may lead to passing grades without genuine learning. 

- Educators are encouraged to incorporate more open-ended questions to enhance critical thinking. 

- ChatGPT's accuracy can be questionable, and it sometimes provides incorrect or strange answers. 

- The study found that while ChatGPT can improve with feedback, its learning was limited. 

Education Research Report: Addressing working memory can help students with math difficulty improve word problem-solving skills https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/04/addressing-working-memory-can-help.html

Education Research Report: Addressing working memory can help students with math difficulty improve word problem-solving skills

### Key Points

- A study by the University of Kansas found that improving working memory can aid students with math difficulties in solving word problems. 

- Working memory is crucial for holding and manipulating information needed to solve math problems. 

- The study involved 207 third-grade students, examining how working memory affects their problem-solving abilities. 

- Four strategies were tested: verbal emphasis, visual emphasis, a combination of both, and materials-only. 

- Post-intervention tests showed that working memory predicts problem-solving ability and that strategies can reduce cognitive load. 

- Strategies with overt cues like underlining or crossing out irrelevant information help reduce demands on working memory. 

- Students without math difficulties consistently outperformed those with difficulties, despite improvements from interventions. 

- Future research could explore the role of executive functions and AI in developing interventions. 

- The study contributes to understanding the importance of working memory and improving math instruction. 

glen brown: Trump Chaos Continues https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/04/trump-chaos-continues.html 

The article discusses various topics including the ongoing chaos under the Trump administration, economic instability, and controversial government actions. It highlights Pope Francis's final public act before his death, Trump's impact on the stock market, Harvard's lawsuit against the government, and cybersecurity concerns within the National Labor Relations Board. The article also mentions the administration's attempt to replace a government program with a private company and explores the consolidation of data across agencies, raising privacy concerns.

### Key Points

- Pope Francis performed his final public act before dying at 88, marking the end of his tenure as the first Jesuit Pope. 

- Trump's actions have led to significant drops in the stock market, creating economic instability. 

- Harvard University is suing the government for withholding grants and contracts, citing violation of the First Amendment. 

- Concerns about cybersecurity breaches at the National Labor Relations Board have emerged, with potential implications for data privacy. 

- The administration plans to replace the SmartPay program with Ramp, a private company backed by Trump and Musk, raising questions about its necessity. 

2025 CA Green Ribbon Schools Award Honorees - Year 2025 (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr25/yr25rel22.asp 

State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announced the 2025 California Green Ribbon Schools Award honorees, recognizing 29 schools, seven school districts, and three county offices for excellence in resource conservation, health promotion, and environmental literacy. Five honorees achieved the "Green Achiever" status. The program evaluates public and private schools for their environmental initiatives. Notable achievements include Laguna Beach Unified's carbon neutrality efforts, San Mateo County Office of Education's sustainability programs, and Bella Mente Montessori Academy's energy conservation projects.

### Key Points

- State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announced the 2025 California Green Ribbon Schools Award honorees. 

- The awards recognize schools for resource conservation, health promotion, and environmental literacy. 

- Five honorees achieved the highest distinction as "Green Achievers." 

- Laguna Beach Unified School District aims for carbon neutrality by 2030, with various sustainability initiatives. 

- San Mateo County Office of Education has expanded its sustainability efforts and partnerships. 

- Bella Mente Montessori Academy focuses on energy conservation and ecological literacy. 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Seattle School Board Meeting, April 23, 2025 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/04/seattle-school-board-meeting-april-23.html?spref=tw 

Seattle Public Schools are undergoing significant transitions, including the search for a new superintendent and various school improvements. Key issues include high costs for school repairs, budget adjustments, and initiatives to integrate work experiences into education. There are also concerns about nepotism and strategic decisions regarding school closures.

### Key Points

- The Seattle School Board is selecting a search firm for a new superintendent and discussing public engagement plans. 

- Key personnel changes include the departure of the Director of Racial Equity Advancement and a principal at Rainier View Elementary. A costly window replacement project at B.F. Day Elementary is also noted. 

- The Board is deferring repayment of the Economic Stabilization Account and reallocating interest funds for budget use. 

- A new policy allows students to earn credits through paid work experiences, with an emphasis on equity. 

- Enrollment has slightly increased, and there are ongoing discussions about school closures and their financial implications. 

- Concerns about nepotism within the district are highlighted, with specific examples of personnel movements. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

 4-22-25

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

- 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. 

- 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. 

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

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

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

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

- Utah's school voucher program was ruled unconstitutional as it is not open to all children. 

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

- Teacher Tom emphasizes the importance of treating children as capable individuals rather than as incomplete adults. 

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

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

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

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