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Tuesday, October 28, 2025

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 28, 2025

 

TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES 

OCTOBER 28, 2025 

U.S. News
  • Government Shutdown Hits Day 27, Threatening Food Aid for 40 Million: The ongoing federal shutdown enters its fourth week, with Democrats holding firm against President Trump's demands. Funding for SNAP benefits is set to expire Saturday, risking widespread hunger amid furloughs of essential workers.
  • Hurricane Melissa Strengthens to Category 5, Targets Jamaica: The storm, the worst ever forecasted for the island, is barreling toward landfall Monday or Tuesday, prompting evacuations and warnings after devastating Caribbean islands.
  • Illegal Gambling Arrests Rock College Sports: A coach and player were detained for alleged betting violations, highlighting rising concerns over sports wagering integrity in NCAA programs.
Politics
  • Democrats Dig In on Shutdown, Blame Trump as Aid Cuts Loom: Congressional leaders like Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer refuse compromise, framing the crisis as Trump's partisan ploy while millions face food insecurity.
  • Trump Slaps 10% Tariffs on Canada Over Anti-Tariff Ad: In retaliation for Ontario's Ronald Reagan-themed spot criticizing protectionism, the president escalates trade tensions, drawing rebukes from Canadian officials.
  • U.S.-China Trade Framework Agreed Amid Shutdown Drama: Negotiators outline a deal to ease tensions, but implementation stalls as Trump prioritizes Asia trip, offering hope for markets but skepticism from allies like South Korea.
World AffairsEducationEconomyTechnologyHealthSports

Is Trump Planning to Go to War Against Venezuela? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/27/is-trump-planning-to-go-to-war-against-venezuela/ via @dianeravitch

This article discusses the potential for military action by former President Donald Trump against Venezuela, focusing on regime change and the alleged connection between Venezuela’s government and drug trafficking. It highlights U.S. military deployments in the Caribbean, covert operations authorized by the CIA, and targeted strikes on Venezuela’s coast. Despite claims by the Trump administration, Venezuela is not a major producer or transit hub for illicit drugs. The article also mentions internal dissent, such as the resignation of a key military commander, and the likelihood of intensified operations. ### Key Points - Trump administration considers military action against Venezuela, linking regime change with anti-drug efforts. - Deployment of U.S. troops, warships, and covert operations in the Caribbean region. - Venezuela is not a significant producer or transit hub for drugs like fentanyl, raising questions about the rationale for the campaign. - Resignation of U.S. Southern Command leader signals potential unease with the operations. - Possibility of land attacks targeting alleged trafficker encampments or clandestine airstrips.

Reagan Opposed Tariffs; Trump Exploded When Canada Played the Tape! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/27/reagan-opposed-tariffs-trump-exploded-when-canada-played-the-tape/ via @dianeravitch

Reagan Opposed Tariffs; Trump Exploded When Canada Played the Tape! Canada paid for an ad showing that Ronald Reagan opposed tariffs. Since the U.S. Supreme Court is about to issue a ruling on whether Trump can impose tariffs without consulting, Trump was outraged by the ad and accused Canada of meddling in U.S. politics. Bob Shepherd copied the Reagan speech and posted it here. Here it is: Here’s the transcript of the remarks on tariffs by Ronald Reagan used in the ad by the government of Ontario that Trump just pressured (blackmailed) them to remove: PRESIDENT REAGAN: My fellow Americans: Prime Minister Nakasone of Japan will be visiting me here at the ### Key Points - Canada aired an ad highlighting Ronald Reagan's opposition to tariffs, which angered Donald Trump amidst a pending Supreme Court ruling on his tariff authority. - Reagan's speech emphasized that while tariffs may seem beneficial in the short term, they harm economies by triggering trade wars, reducing competition, and causing job losses. - Reagan believed in free and fair trade, citing historical lessons like the Great Depression, which was worsened by high tariffs such as the Smoot-Hawley Tariff. - Trump reportedly pressured Canada to remove the ad, as it contradicted his pro-tariff stance and might influence Republican views on tariffs. - The blog critiques Trump's reaction and praises Canada for continuing to run the ad during the World Series.

With Ryan Walters Out, It's a New Day for Education in Oklahoma https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/27/with-ryan-walter-out-its-a-new-day-for-education-in-oklahoma/ via @dianeravitch

### Key Points - The resignation of Ryan Walters as Oklahoma's Commissioner of Education has led to a shift in the state's educational landscape, with professionals like Superintendent Lindel Fields and Dr. Daniel Hamlin taking leadership roles. - Grassroots programs and bipartisan collaboration are being emphasized to improve Oklahoma schools, reminiscent of past efforts like the HB 1017 tax increase. - Concerns persist about misinformation regarding standardized test scores and the influence of corporate reforms, such as ExcelinEd, which have negatively impacted Oklahoma's education system since No Child Left Behind. - Chronic absenteeism is a significant issue in Oklahoma schools, driven by factors like lack of transportation, evictions, and poverty. Programs addressing absenteeism focus on holistic approaches and wrap-around services. - Alternative approaches to suspensions, such as programs addressing root causes of behavior, have shown success in reducing suspension rates. - High-dose tutoring and tele-health programs are being utilized to address educational challenges, though funding remains a critical barrier for long-term success. - There is debate over punitive measures like holding back third graders based on reading tests, with mixed evidence on their effectiveness.



An Education | Columbia University Press https://cup.columbia.edu/book/an-education/9780231563161/ 

Book Review :: An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else by Diane Ravitch - NewPages.com https://www.newpages.com/blog/books/book-reviews/an-education-by-diane-ravitch/ 

An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294?


Big Education Ape: BEEN THERE, DONE THAT: AMERICA’S LATIN AMERICAN INTERVENTIONS AND THE LOOMING SHADOW OF A VENEZUELAN CHILI REDUX https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/been-there-done-that-americas-latin.html 

The article explores the historical and ongoing U.S. interventions in Latin America, drawing parallels between the 1973 Chilean coup and current U.S. actions in Venezuela. It delves into the motivations behind these interventions, including economic interests, geopolitical strategies, and ideological narratives. The piece highlights the potential consequences of U.S. actions in Venezuela, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis, international criticism, and the challenges of regime change.

### Key Points

- The U.S. has a long history of intervening in Latin America, often driven by economic and strategic interests, as seen in the 1973 Chilean coup. 

- Current U.S. actions in Venezuela mirror past interventions, including sanctions, military posturing, and support for opposition leaders. 

- Venezuela faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and struggling under economic collapse, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions. 

- The U.S. is motivated by Venezuela's vast oil reserves, geopolitical concerns over its ties with Russia and China, and a narrative of combating a "narco-state." 

- Despite similarities to past interventions, a direct U.S. invasion of Venezuela is unlikely due to global scrutiny, Maduro's resilience, and the complexity of the situation. 

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 27, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0659548163.html 

The article provides a comprehensive roundup of recent news, political developments, education updates, technological advances, and societal issues. Key topics include the U.S. government shutdown, international trade tensions, education reforms, health studies, and cultural reflections. It also highlights controversies around the Trump administration, such as the demolition of the White House East Wing, ICE budget expansions, and education policies influenced by Christian nationalism in Texas.

### Key Points  

- Stephen Miller threatened Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker with arrest, reflecting ongoing political tensions.   

- The U.S. government shutdown continues, impacting federal workers and national services.   

- The Texas Education Agency took over Fort Worth ISD, raising concerns about the erosion of democratic rights in public schools.   

- Civil rights groups sued the U.S. Department of Justice over plans to close an office dedicated to addressing racial and ethnic tensions.   

- Elevated levels of "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in New Mexico highlight environmental health risks.   

- President Trump suspended trade talks with Canada over a provincial ad campaign, escalating tensions.   

- The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) captured El Fasher in Sudan, intensifying the civil war.   

- Cyclone Montha threatens India, prompting evacuations and high alerts.   

- The U.S. Department of Education announced the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars, honoring academic excellence.   

- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) upgraded global economic forecasts due to AI investments.   

- Family health insurance premiums surged 6% in 2025, with rising costs affecting low-income families.   

- Meta secured $27 billion for its largest AI data center, advancing AI and virtual reality technologies.   

- IBM demonstrated quantum error correction on AMD chips, democratizing access to quantum computing.   

- A new iron supplement formula was developed to treat anemia without gut inflammation.   

- Cedars-Sinai researchers successfully reversed Alzheimer’s symptoms in mice using stem cell therapy.   

- Proposition 15 in Texas prioritizes parental rights, raising concerns about child safety.   

- Critics argue that the Trump administration’s demolition of the White House East Wing for a ballroom lacked transparency and posed safety risks.   

- Christian nationalism influences Texas education policy, including the adoption of religious curricula.   

- Diane Ravitch’s new book, *An Education*, reflects on her evolving views on public education policy.   

- ICE's FY 2026 budget is projected to surpass the Marine Corps budget, raising concerns about overfunding detention operations.   

- Articles critique the Unitary Executive Theory, warning against excessive presidential power.   

- The heavy metal community mourns the loss of Limp Bizkit bassist Sam Rivers, reflecting on his legacy.   

- Fear-based leadership is critiqued, with an emphasis on mental resilience and empathy as better alternatives. 

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: OCTOBER 27, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/morning-news-update-october-27-2025.html 

Global and U.S. events dominate the article, spanning politics, education, economy, technology, and health. Highlights include the government shutdown's impact on federal workers, trade negotiations, natural disasters, and advancements in AI and healthcare. It also covers public education challenges, sports updates, and cultural incidents like art forgery and jewel thefts.

### Key Points

- U.S. government shutdown continues, affecting federal workers and food aid programs. 

- Trade deals progress between the U.S. and China, and Thailand-Cambodia agree on a border ceasefire. 

- Cyclone Montha and Hurricane Melissa pose major threats in India and the Caribbean. 

- Russia tests new nuclear-capable missile, raising global concerns. 

- Education highlights dual-language programs, AI literacy, and school closures in Mali due to fuel scarcity. 

- Economic developments include IMF growth forecasts, oil price surges, and bank consolidation. 

- AI advancements include NVIDIA's growth and Meta's massive data center project. 

- Health topics cover rising employer premiums, early menopause risks, and vaccine benefits. 

- Sports updates include Packers' win, World Series, and NBA highlights. 

Big Education Ape: WHY THE FOUNDING FATHERS THOUGHT THE UNITARY EXECUTIVE THEORY WAS TOTAL BULLSHIT: A TIME-TRAVELING DEBATE WITH CHIEF JUSTICE JOHN ROBERTS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/why-founding-fathers-thought-unitary.html 

Mike Simpson's satirical article imagines a time-traveling debate where Chief Justice John Roberts defends the Unitary Executive Theory (UET) before the Founding Fathers. Through humorous and pointed dialogue, the Founders vehemently reject the UET, emphasizing their intent to limit centralized power and avoid tyranny. The piece critiques the theory's modern implications, warning against unchecked presidential authority and the erosion of checks and balances.

### Key Points

- Chief Justice John Roberts defends the Unitary Executive Theory, arguing for a strong, centralized presidential authority based on Article II of the Constitution. 

- The Founding Fathers, including Washington, Jefferson, Adams, Hamilton, Franklin, Jay, and Madison, reject UET as contrary to the Constitution's intent, emphasizing the need for checks and balances. 

- Historical examples like Humphrey’s Executor and Federalist Papers are used to counter Roberts' claims of broad presidential removal powers. 

- The Founders argue that UET risks creating a dictatorship-like presidency and undermines democratic accountability. 

- The article concludes with a critique of UET as a modern misinterpretation of the Constitution, warning of its potential to erode liberty and governance balance. 

Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 10-18-25 TO 10-25-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-top-news-stories-this-week-10-18-25.html 

The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent political, social, economic, educational, and technological developments. Topics include the U.S. government shutdown, international sanctions, climate challenges, education reforms, global trade issues, advancements in AI, and health care debates. Key events such as protests against the Trump administration, U.S. military actions, and significant technological breakthroughs are highlighted.




No Kings in Our Schools: What Texas Teaches the Nation About Right Wing Power and Public Education – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/10/27/no-kings-in-our-schools-what-texas-teaches-the-nation-about-right-wing-power-and-public-education/ 

The article critiques the state takeover of Fort Worth ISD by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Education Agency, highlighting the historical failure of such interventions in improving educational outcomes. It argues that these takeovers prioritize political control and ideological goals over genuine academic progress, often targeting districts with high populations of Black and Latino students. The article provides evidence from past takeovers in states like Louisiana, Tennessee, and Michigan, which resulted in academic stagnation, community disruption, and financial mismanagement. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of democratic governance, community leadership, and sustained investment in education.

### Key Points  

- Texas Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Education Agency forcibly took over Fort Worth ISD, replacing the elected school board with a state-appointed board of managers, citing academic underperformance.   

- Critics argue that the district's overall "C" rating reflects acceptable performance, and the state's selective use of data undermines the justification for the takeover.   

- Historical evidence from state takeovers in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Michigan shows consistent failure in achieving academic improvements and highlights manipulation of data to create the illusion of success.   

- Research by Beth E. Schueler and Joshua F. Bleiberg found no academic benefits from state takeovers and noted that these interventions disproportionately target districts serving Black students, reducing local political power and representation.   

- Takeovers often employ strategies like teaching to the test, manipulating test data, and narrowing curricula, which inflate scores without improving actual learning outcomes.   

- These interventions lead to teacher turnover, curricular narrowing, and privatization, causing instability and long-term harm to communities of color.   

- The article argues that the real purpose of takeovers is ideological, aiming to enforce political control, weaken unions, and privatize public education rather than genuinely improve student outcomes.   

- Genuine educational reform requires investment in wraparound services, bilingual programs, special education, and teacher retention, rather than relying on superficial test score improvements.   

- The so-called "Texas Miracle" is critiqued as a historical example of manipulated data and political theater, which continues to be replicated in new state takeovers.   

- The author emphasizes the need for democratic participation, community leadership, and transparency to achieve meaningful and sustainable improvements in education. 



glen brown: "Evil, Fascist, Wannabe Authoritarian" Stephen Miller Threatens IL Gov. Pritzker with Arrest https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/evil-fascist-wannabe-authoritarian.html 

### Key Points

- Stephen Miller, a top aide in Donald Trump’s administration, suggested on Fox News that federal authorities could arrest state officials, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, for allegedly obstructing federal immigration enforcement. 

- Miller accused officials of engaging in criminal activities such as obstruction of justice and seditious conspiracy if they interfere with ICE operations, sparking backlash from journalists, politicians, and legal experts. 

- Governor Pritzker warned of Trump’s potential plans to use military force to influence elections and criticized the administration’s actions against immigration policies. 

- Protests against ICE operations in Illinois have been met with violence, with critics arguing that ICE officers do not have immunity to violate citizens’ rights. 

- Prominent figures and organizations have condemned Miller’s statements, labeling them authoritarian and a threat to democracy. 

glen brown: Is Corruption the New American Dream — A Nation Rebuilt on the Gospel of the Grift? https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/is-corruption-new-american-dream-nation.html 

A critical analysis of systemic corruption in the United States, particularly under Donald Trump's administration, is presented, highlighting how it mirrors kleptocracies like Russia and Hungary. The article discusses the economic and democratic consequences of corruption, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and legal reforms to combat the erosion of democracy and fairness.

### Key Points

- Corruption in the U.S., especially under Trump, is compared to kleptocracies like Russia and Hungary, where systemic bribery undermines democracy and economic fairness. 

- Examples of Trump's family's financial dealings, such as bribes disguised as investments or gifts, illustrate how corruption reshapes economies and governance. 

- Corruption leads to economic stagnation, crumbling infrastructure, and a hollowed-out middle class while empowering oligarchs. 

- The article warns of "state capture," where private interests rewrite rules for personal gain, eroding public trust and equality. 

- Solutions to combat corruption include prosecuting corrupt leaders, enforcing transparency, protecting whistleblowers, and ensuring accountability in government transactions. 



Teacher Tom: Technology is Destroying Our Minds https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/10/technology-is-destroying-our-minds.html 

Technology is reshaping our minds by externalizing tasks once performed by our minds and bodies, theoretically freeing us for more meaningful activities. However, instead of using this freedom productively, we often fill our time with less meaningful pursuits. The article critiques the impact of technology, such as clocks, literacy, smartphones, and AI, on human lives, emphasizing how they have disconnected us from natural rhythms and contributed to modern mental health issues. It advocates for protecting children from academic and technological pressures, allowing them to engage in play-based learning, which fosters creativity, exploration, and personal meaning.

### Key Points

- Technology externalizes mental and physical tasks, freeing us for other pursuits but often leading to less meaningful activities. 

- Clocks and other technologies have disconnected humans from natural rhythms, emphasizing efficiency over individuality. 

- The rise of mental health issues, even in preschoolers, is linked to technological and academic pressures. 

- Play-based learning is essential for young children to explore, create, and find personal meaning, free from technological interference. 



It Sounds Like Sanger Unified Could Be A Model For Other Districts, Though I’d Love To Hear If Teachers Agree With What Administrators Say Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/ 

The article highlights various educational resources, strategies, and updates from a blog focused on teaching and learning. It covers topics such as effective instructional methods, social-emotional learning, literacy integration, research studies, contests, and tools for educators. The author also shares personal picks for the best posts and resources, along with insights into their published books, radio shows, and videos.

### Key Points

- Sanger Unified’s achievement tied to engaging instruction and student focus. 

- Weekly posts feature useful classroom instruction resources. 

- Republished posts emphasize connecting social-emotional learning with literacy instruction. 

- Research on power dynamics and self-control. 

- NY Times Learning Network’s student contest and infographic on website rankings. 

- October’s “Best” lists and research studies application. 

- Resources for Daylight Savings Time teaching and learning. 

- Criticism of unethical teacher practices involving ICE reporting. 

- Highlights of October’s best posts and insights into educational policy issues. 

- Author’s books offer research-based strategies for various subjects and student engagement. 

- Strategies for parental involvement, technology use, and motivating students. 

- Practical teaching techniques for English learners and Common Core implementation. 

- Blog and other platforms like Bam Radio show and Classroom Q&A posts. 

- Teaching practices categorized into autonomy, competency, relatedness, and relevance. 

- Videos and blog reach statistics. 



A Voucher Mess in Florida Double-dipping by voucher recipients costs public schools millions of dollars https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/a-voucher-mess-in-florida 

Florida's voucher program faces significant issues, with families receiving vouchers while their children continue attending public schools, leading to financial strain on public education. This "double-dipping" practice has resulted in millions of dollars in lost funding for public schools, as these students are not counted in official funding allocations. Despite efforts to cross-check and address the issue, the problem persists, exacerbated by the state's expanding School Choice program and insufficient oversight.

### Key Points

- Florida's voucher system allows families to claim vouchers while their children remain in public schools, creating financial losses for public schools. 

- In 2024, nearly 30,000 students were identified as "double-dipping," costing public schools approximately $250 million. 

- By 2025, another 22,000 students have been flagged for the same issue, with districts not receiving funding for these students. 

- The rapid growth of the School Choice program has caused a $47 million deficit in the Florida Department of Education’s budget, leaving schools underfunded. 

- Student mobility between public, private, and home education contributes to the problem, with taxpayers effectively paying twice for some students. 



“Your Lying Eyes” – I AM AN EDUCATOR https://iamaneducator.com/2025/10/27/your-lying-eyes/ 

Jesse Hagopian's blog post features his poem "Your Lying Eyes," which critiques societal and political hypocrisies, fascism, and systemic oppression. The poem challenges the reader to question misinformation and propaganda, emphasizing the importance of seeing and acknowledging the truth. The article also highlights Jesse Hagopian's broader work in education and activism, particularly his involvement in the Teach Truth movement and his publications advocating for racial and educational justice.

### Key Points

- Jesse Hagopian's poem "Your Lying Eyes" critiques societal and political deceptions, urging readers to confront truth despite propaganda. 

- The poem addresses themes such as fascism, systemic oppression, and misinformation in modern society. 

- Jesse Hagopian’s activism includes co-editing books like "Teaching for Black Lives" and "Black Lives Matter at School," promoting antiracist education. 

- The Teach Truth movement fights against the suppression of systemic racism and oppression in school curricula. 

- The blog post encourages readers to support Hagopian’s work through subscriptions and engagement with his publications. 



The American Way We all have our own truths, and our own justice. ABC seeks a collective voice. https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/the-american-way 

The article discusses the polarization in American society and the importance of collective action and shared values, particularly in the context of unions, education, and healthcare. It critiques leadership that prioritizes self-interest over democratic representation and emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability.

### Key Points

- The author reflects on the polarized state of the country and emphasizes shared desires like quality healthcare and education. 

- The author recounts experiences as a union chapter leader, highlighting the importance of working with people of diverse beliefs and focusing on common goals. 

- Criticism is directed at the Obama administration's education policies, particularly Arne Duncan's push for privatization and charter schools, which united people across political divides. 

- ABC, a member-driven organization, is described as focusing on collective input and shared values rather than top-down decision-making. 

- Critique of Unity leadership for undemocratic practices, such as approving health plans without member consultation and prioritizing loyalty over representation. 

- The author expresses distrust in leadership due to past dishonesty and emphasizes the need for transparency and member-driven decision-making. 

- The article concludes with a call for efforts to restore democratic principles in unions and society, despite challenges. 



Questions NYC public school parents should ask schools about their use of ed tech and privacy practices | Class Size Matters | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/questions-nyc-public-school-parents-should-ask-schools-about-their-use-of-ed-tech-and-privacy-practices/ 

The article discusses the concerns surrounding the use of educational technology (ed tech) in NYC public schools, particularly regarding student data privacy. It provides a guide for parents to ask schools about their ed tech practices, data privacy policies, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI). It also highlights the legal framework protecting student data, including NY Ed Law § 2-d and COPPA, and offers resources for parents to take action if privacy violations occur. Additionally, the article touches on broader educational issues like class sizes and initiatives for improvement.

### Key Points

- NYC public schools use over 500 ed tech programs, raising concerns about compliance with privacy laws like NY Ed Law § 2-d. 

- Parents are encouraged to ask schools about data-sharing practices, third-party vendors, and opt-out options for their child's personal data. 

- Questions include whether AI is used, its privacy protections, and its compliance with laws, as well as the presence of algorithmic bias. 

- Concerns about the overuse of computers in classrooms and its impact on learning are highlighted. 

- Resources for parents include filing complaints, accessing privacy rights, and participating in initiatives like lowering class sizes. 



Weekend Quotables Chemical Warfare in the Neighborhoods: A Public Health Indictment. https://klonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-c06 

Chemical Warfare in the Neighborhoods: A Public Health Indictment

### Key Points

- Federal agents, including ICE, conducted raids in Chicago neighborhoods, using tear gas despite a court order prohibiting its use on non-threatening individuals. 

- Tear gas, banned in warfare under the Chemical Weapons Convention, is being used in residential areas, causing severe health risks, especially for seniors with COPD and children with asthma. 

- Exposure to tear gas has psychological and physical effects on children, with incidents reported near schools like Funston Elementary, leading to panic, illness, and long-term contamination of homes. 

- Tear gas disproportionately impacts low-income families who cannot afford proper cleanup, turning it into a class-based weapon. 

- Residents report a sense of fear and abandonment in their neighborhoods due to ICE raids, which have disrupted communities and businesses. 

- Personal stories highlight the trauma caused by ICE actions, such as Ofelia Torres, whose father was detained while she battles cancer. 



NANCY’S SUBSTACK:  Diane Ravitch Sums It All Up A review of her new book. https://substack.com/home/post/p-177288347 

Diane Ravitch's latest book, *An Education: How I Changed my Mind about Schools and Almost Everything Else*, serves as a reflective autobiography and analysis of her evolution as a leading voice in education policy. Ravitch, a historian and former Assistant Secretary of Education, recounts her journey from early life in Texas to her pivotal roles in shaping and critiquing public education. The book highlights her ideological shifts, her critiques of privatization and testing, and her advocacy for public education. It also delves into her experiences navigating the education policy establishment and her insights into the challenges facing public schools today. The work is both a personal narrative and a call to action to preserve and improve public education.

### Key Points

- Diane Ravitch's book reflects on her life, career, and ideological evolution in education policy. 

- She shares her early life experiences, family background, and the influences that shaped her views on public education. 

- The middle section explores her roles in education policy, including serving on boards and in the George H.W. Bush administration. 

- The final section provides her critiques of education reform efforts and her enduring advocacy for public schools. 

- Ravitch's book serves as a testament to her decades-long fight for public education and her commitment to truth in education policy. 



Choosing Democracy: Vote Yes on 50. Fight Fascism. https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/10/vote-yes-on-50-fight-fascism.html 

The Election Rigging Response Act

https://stopelectionrigging.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22972371338 

Emergency for Democracy

This isn’t politics as usual

Donald Trump and Texas Republicans are making an unprecedented power grab to steal congressional seats and rig the 2026 election before voting even begins.

Other Republican states are following suit. They want to steal enough seats to control Congress regardless of how the people vote.

If Californians don’t act now, Donald Trump will seize total power for two more years.



Second Breakfast: The Prime Directive | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/prime-directive 

The article critiques the integration of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in education, arguing that these technologies prioritize profit and control over genuine pedagogical benefits. It highlights the exploitation of education by tech and business interests, the imposition of AI tools on educators and students, and the ideological implications of AI in learning management systems (LMS). The author also criticizes government policies and ed-tech initiatives for their lack of meaningful impact and their alignment with corporate agendas. The piece calls for resistance against the commodification of education and the pervasive influence of AI and ed-tech.

### Key Points

- The rise of ed-tech and AI in education has been driven by profit motives and market exploitation rather than pedagogical improvements. 

- Learning management systems (LMS) and AI tools reduce education to data transactions, benefiting tech companies rather than educators or students. 

- AI is being forcefully integrated into educational spaces, often without demand from users, and its implementation raises ethical concerns. 

- Government AI policies and funding prioritize corporate interests, undermining educational values and equity. 

- The article calls for resistance against the surveillance, control, and commodification of education by rejecting AI and ed-tech dominance. 








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