Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
7-18-25
7-18-25
Environmental Protection Agency Fires Hundreds of Scientists, Stops Research https://dianeravitch.net/2025/07/18/environmental-protection-agency-fires-hundreds-of-scientists-stops-research/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Trump administration, led by Lee Zeldin at the EPA, has eliminated the agency's scientific research arm and laid off hundreds of scientists.
- The EPA’s Office of Research and Development provided essential data for environmental policies, such as analyzing hazardous chemicals and fracking impacts. Its closure weakens regulatory oversight.
- The administration's actions align with broader plans to shrink federal agencies, approved by the Supreme Court despite ongoing legal challenges.
- Critics argue that dismantling the EPA's safeguards exposes the public to dangerous substances and environmental harm.
Paul Krugman: Trump Understands Nothing About Tariffs https://dianeravitch.net/2025/07/18/paul-krugman-trump-understands-nothing-about-tariffs/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Trump misunderstands tariffs, believing they are payments from other countries, not costs borne by American consumers.
- The planned tariffs are historically high, likely reducing trans-Pacific trade by 60%.
- South Korea and Japan cannot make concessions as their tariffs are already minimal, making Trump's demands baseless.
- Trump's disregard for existing trade agreements like KORUS and the Uruguay Round highlights his unreliability in honoring commitments.
- Attempts to appease Trump often embolden him to demand more, making genuine trade deals unlikely.
- Krugman doubts the tariffs will be rescinded and warns of their destructive impact on global trade.
Justice Department Employees Dismissed Without Reason, Creating Climate of Fear https://dianeravitch.net/2025/07/18/justice-department-employees-dismissed-without-reason-creating-climate-of-fear/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Arbitrary dismissals at the Justice Department under Attorney General Pam Bondi, targeting staff suspected of disloyalty to Trump.
- Lawyers involved in prosecuting January 6 insurrectionists and Trump investigations are among those terminated.
- Employees are fired without explanation, fueling speculation and fear within the workforce.
- Some firings are linked to ideological differences, email pronouns, or social media activity.
- Many lawyers resign voluntarily to avoid ethical conflicts or random firings, exacerbating staff shortages.
- Trump administration aims to fill vacancies with ideologically aligned attorneys, reshaping the Justice Department workforce.
"A Series of Unfortunate Events Connecting Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein" https://dianeravitch.net/2025/07/18/a-series-of-unfortunate-events-connecting-donald-trump-and-jeffrey-epstein/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein had a close friendship for years, which complicates MAGA followers' demands to release Epstein files.
- Epstein files are believed to contain flight logs, client lists, and incriminating videos, but Trump dismissed MAGA followers' demands for their release, calling them "stupid" and "weaklings."
- Trump and Republicans have given conflicting statements about the existence and release of Epstein files, creating controversy and prolonging the issue.
- Democrats attempted to pass a resolution to release Epstein files, but Republicans voted it down, defending claims that the files either don't exist or shouldn't be released.
- The Epstein scandal implicates figures from both parties, including Bill Clinton, making it politically sensitive and potentially explosive.
- Media and intelligence agencies are suspected of complicity in covering up Epstein's operations, further complicating efforts to expose the scandal.
- Democrats are accused of avoiding full exposure of Epstein's network due to bipartisan ties, while Republicans are accused of shielding Trump.
Brian Stelter: WSJ Story about Trump and Epstein Surprised Everyone https://dianeravitch.net/2025/07/18/brian-stelter-wsj-story-about-trump-and-epstein-surprised-everyone/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Wall Street Journal published a story revealing a "bawdy" note from Trump to Epstein, highlighting their shared interests.
- Rupert Murdoch's contrasting approaches with WSJ and Fox News reflect his dual priorities as a newsman and businessman.
- Trump reacted angrily, calling the story a "hoax" and threatening to sue Murdoch and WSJ.
- The timeline of events leading to the WSJ's publication and Trump's attempts to dismiss the story is detailed.
- Commentary highlights the polarized views on Trump's connections to Epstein and broader issues of pedophilia and misconduct.
- Differences between WSJ and Fox News audiences and editorial stances are explained.
- Diane Ravitch expresses despair over Trump-era political developments and defends her partisan views.
Big Education Ape: THE EPSTEIN FILES: A GRAND CONSPIRACY WRAPPED IN A MYSTERY INSIDE A GRIFT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/07/the-epstein-files-grand-conspiracy.html
### Key Points
- The Epstein Files are compared to the JFK assassination files, both serving as distractions while offering no clear answers.
- Epstein's crimes were enabled by systemic failures, including a lenient plea deal in 2008, and his client list proves little beyond his networking skills.
- Trump dismisses the Epstein Files as "boring" while fueling conspiracy theories for political survival, causing division within his base.
- The oligarchy exploits scandals like Epstein's to distract the public while benefiting from legislative and economic manipulation.
- Conspiracy theories thrive on half-truths and rumors, leaving the truth locked away and the public chasing distractions.
Big Education Ape: WHY DONALD TRUMP IS RUNNING FROM THE GHOST OF JEFFREY EPSTEIN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/07/why-donald-trump-is-running-from-ghost.html
The article explores various topics, including political intrigue surrounding Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, public education challenges, and other societal issues.
### Key Points
- Donald Trump dismisses the Jeffrey Epstein inquiry as "boring," sparking backlash from MAGA supporters demanding transparency.
- MAGA supporters criticize Trump for perceived hypocrisy, claiming he avoids accountability for elites linked to Epstein's case.
- Prominent Republicans call for the release of Epstein files, but Trump resists, leading to internal divisions within his base.
- Trump frames the controversy as media bias and political witch-hunting, but Epstein's shadow continues to affect his legacy.
STUBBY STACK AND THE CASE OF THE EXTREME WEATHER WHODUNIT https://ru4people.substack.com/p/stubby-stack-and-the-case-of-the
Stubby Stack narrates a humorous yet insightful tale about extreme weather in 2025, exploring its human-made causes and potential solutions. Assisted by four AI "detectives," he uncovers the role of greenhouse gases, deforestation, and fossil fuels in exacerbating climate change. The article emphasizes systemic changes, individual actions, and global cooperation to mitigate and adapt to the crisis.
### Key Points
- Extreme weather events like heatwaves, hurricanes, and floods are worsening, largely due to human activities such as fossil fuel use, deforestation, and methane emissions from livestock.
- Greenhouse gases act like a "mafia," trapping heat and accelerating climate chaos through feedback loops.
- Solutions include transitioning to renewable energy, reforesting landscapes, reducing emissions, and promoting sustainable practices like cutting meat consumption and ditching plastics.
- Systemic changes—government policies, corporate accountability, and international cooperation—are crucial for addressing climate change effectively.
- Wealthy nations and corporations bear significant responsibility and must support developing countries while avoiding greenwashing.
AI Will Never Be Your Kid’s Friend (Russell Shaw) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/07/18/ai-will-never-be-your-kids-friend-russell-shaw/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- AI companions provide validation and frictionless relationships, but they lack the complexity of real human interactions, which are essential for social and emotional growth.
- Real human relationships involve productive friction that teaches skills like empathy, compromise, and conflict resolution, which AI cannot replicate.
- The appeal of AI companions to children and teens lies in their instant gratification and lack of emotional labor, which may discourage real human relationships.
- Adolescent brain development is vulnerable to the reinforcement of tendencies like avoiding social discomfort, which AI companions may exacerbate.
- Schools are increasingly addressing social isolation and screen dependency among students, emphasizing the importance of in-person interactions.
- While AI tools have practical applications in education, AI companions differ fundamentally and should not replace authentic human relationships.
glen brown: CNN: DOGE Cuts, Emil Bove, Police Violence, Trump and Epstein, Stephen Colbert https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/07/cnn-doge-cuts-emil-bove-police-violence.html
- The Trump administration ended the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s specialized service for LGBTQ+ youth, which had received nearly 1.5 million calls since its launch in 2022.
- House Republicans approved $9 billion in spending cuts, including $8 billion from USAID programs and $1.1 billion from public broadcasting, which could lead to significant consequences like increased deaths and layoffs at PBS and NPR.
- Emil Bove, former Trump attorney, was nominated for a federal judgeship despite allegations of misconduct and opposition from Democrats and former judges.
- Controversial police violence cases include minimal sentencing for officers involved in the deaths of Breonna Taylor and Eddie Irizarry, sparking public outrage.
- Trump threatened legal action against the Wall Street Journal over a published letter linking him to Jeffrey Epstein and criticized the DOJ for not releasing Epstein-related files.
- CBS canceled “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” due to financial pressures, following a settlement with Trump over a lawsuit against CBS News.
Teacher Tom: Explaining to a Dim-Witted Pupil https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/07/explaining-to-dim-witted-pupil.html
### Key Points
- A preschooler passionately describes his imaginative concept of space, blending physical gestures and abstract ideas.
- Teacher Tom struggles to fully understand the child's explanation but values their creative expression and exploration.
- The article highlights the importance of play-based learning and promotes Teacher Tom's Play-Based Learning Summer Camp.
- Information is provided about how to support Teacher Tom's blog, join his email list, or book him for events.
Alec Karakatsanis | Heising-Simons Sparks of Hope Talk CHECK THIS OUT | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2025/07/18/check-this-out/
Detailed Summary for [Alec Karakatsanis | Heising-Simons Sparks of Hope Talk
Unlisted](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trcklvV-urU&t=1s) by [Monica](https://monica.im)
[00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trcklvV-urU&t=1s&t=0) Alec Karakatsanis shares his experiences and insights on the injustices within the criminal justice system, particularly focusing on the impact of cash bail and family separation.
- Karakatsanis reflects on a pivotal moment outside a jail in Flint, Michigan, where children's chalk drawings inspired him to address systemic issues.}
- He discusses his decade-long efforts to challenge injustices in the criminal system, emphasizing the problem of cash bail that affects countless individuals.}
- Karakatsanis highlights a significant legal victory in California, which addressed the wrongful separation of individuals from their families due to bail practices.}
- He stresses the ongoing reality for many in jails who are separated from their families, underscoring the need for reform in the justice system.}
#RELEASEFUNDS4SCHOOLS Just weeks before the school year begins, Secretary of Education Linda McMahon is refusing to release $8.6 billion in federal funds that Congress approved for public schools. https://networkforpubliceducation.org/releasefunds4schools/
- Secretary of Education Linda McMahon is withholding $8.6 billion in federal funds approved for public schools, potentially signaling permanent budget cuts.
- Advocacy actions include sending letters to Linda McMahon, emailing Congress, and calling the U.S. Department of Education to report the violation of law regarding fund disbursement.
- The Network for Public Education offers updates, resources, and opportunities to support public schools, including donations and information on charter scandals.
The Uppity Minority: Igniting a Commune of Courage – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/07/18/the-uppity-minority-igniting-a-commune-of-courage/
### Key Points
- The author received the NAACP Keeper of the Flame Award for commitment to civil rights and equity, reflecting on the honor and challenges faced along the journey.
- The author recounts backlash for supporting a resolution against school privatization, leading to temporary demotion within the NAACP.
- External pressure from privatization advocates targeted the author and NAACP leadership, revealing the challenges of standing against profit-driven education systems.
- The "commune of courage" is introduced as a network of supporters who rally around leaders advocating for justice, even in the face of suppression.
- Examples like Regent Wanda James highlight how principled leaders face organized attacks but inspire broader community support.
- The article underscores the resilience of leaders and communities who rise against injustice, amplifying their work despite attempts to erase their impact.
Mystery AI Hype Theater 3000: I Hate Wasting Time on Identifying AI Slop | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/ai-slop
- The article criticizes the prevalence of synthetic AI-generated content ("AI slop") in media, expressing frustration over its impact on cognitive load and consumer experience.
- It highlights the environmental cost of AI-generated content, such as water consumption and carbon emissions, and compares such practices to scams and engagement farming.
- The author discusses the need for "AI literacy" in education, emphasizing that students should critically evaluate AI outputs and understand the context and motives behind media content.
- The article condemns AI technologies for supporting "scam capitalism" rather than promoting democracy, calling for a return of mental space and meaningful communication.
- Dr. Alex Hanna, the author, is introduced as a sociologist and Director of Research at the Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR).
CURMUDGUCATION: OK: More Woke Panic (Less Food) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/07/ok-more-woke-panic-less-food.html
### Key Points
- Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters aims to eliminate "woke" ideologies in schools and enforce conservative education policies.
- Walters proposes school districts fund meals independently, claiming taxpayer money is misused on administrative costs.
- New nutritional rules ban processed foods and artificial additives in school meals, sparking criticism of overreach.
- Walters collaborates with PragerU to screen incoming teachers for alignment with conservative values.
- Critics argue these initiatives worsen Oklahoma's education struggles and prioritize political gains over children's welfare.
WATCH: Teachers vs. fascists Teachers union leader Randi Weingarten on why Trump fears educators, how the Democratic Party has to change, and why A.I. will transform learning itself https://the.ink/p/watch-teachers-vs-fascists?utm_source=substack&utm_content=feed%3Arecommended%3Acopy_link
Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, discusses the challenges facing public education, democracy, and societal progress. Topics include the politicization of education, the Democratic Party's need for inclusivity, and the transformative impact of AI on learning. She also reflects on her resignation from the Democratic National Committee, the importance of engaging with concerned parents, and lessons from the gay rights movement. While many praise her advocacy, some critics accuse her of aligning with tech billionaires and undermining public education.
### Key Points
- Randi Weingarten explains why education is targeted by the right and highlights the fears fascists have regarding teachers.
- She emphasizes the need for the Democratic Party to expand its tent and address parental concerns about social change.
- Weingarten discusses the future of education in the context of AI and addictive technologies.
- Her interview sparked positive reactions about her insights and leadership, though some criticized her alleged ties to tech billionaires and their influence on public education.
- Critics argue that her support of AI and partnerships with corporations may harm the teaching profession and public schools.
Volunteer Opportunities, Events, and Petitions Near Me · AFT on Mobilize
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
7-18-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/07/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_0322955239.html
The article provides a roundup of various blog posts, studies, and discussions on topics such as public education, political controversies, climate change, AI in education, and societal issues. It highlights systemic challenges like privatization, inequality, censorship, and the erosion of democracy while emphasizing advocacy and ethical practices.
### Key Points - Supreme Court ruling allows Trump to dismantle the Department of Education without Congressional approval, raising concerns about constitutional checks and balances. - The Trump administration aims to dismantle the Department of Education, claiming it promotes "woke" ideology, despite its primary role in supporting high-poverty schools and prohibiting discrimination. - Missouri lawmakers banned the "three-cueing" method in favor of phonics-based reading instruction, sparking debates over education politicization. - Jackie Mitchell, a 17-year-old girl, struck out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig in 1931, showcasing women’s historical role in baseball. - Extreme weather events are worsening due to human activities, requiring systemic changes, renewable energy adoption, and global cooperation. - Recent legislation under Trump increases barriers to economic mobility, caps student loans, and redistributes public resources to benefit the wealthy. - Meritocracy in education fosters unhealthy competition and societal stratification, prompting calls for a paradigm shift toward human interdependence. - Free school meal participation is hindered by food preferences, health concerns, and stigma, requiring better strategies like scratch cooking and extended lunch periods. - AI tools like ChatGPT are ineffective at grading essays, exhibiting biases and undermining the purpose of writing. - "Parent power" in education perpetuates inequality, favoring wealthy families and neglecting systemic reforms. - Randi Weingarten discusses the politicization of education, AI’s transformative impact, and the importance of addressing parental concerns. - Researchers discovered the largest wolf pack in North America, offering insights into social structures and ecological impacts. - Advocacy groups combat privatization, censorship, and authoritarianism in public education, emphasizing equity and inclusivity. - Grassroots movements and educators emphasize the need for ethical education practices and defending vulnerable communities.
7-18-25
