OCTOBER 18, 2025
- Prolonged Government Shutdown Impacts Millions: The U.S. federal government shutdown, now in its third week, has led to delayed Social Security cost-of-living adjustment announcements and widespread disruptions in public services. The SSA postponed its 2026 COLA reveal to October 24 due to halted data releases, with projections estimating a modest 2.7% increase in benefits amid ongoing fiscal gridlock.
- Judge Blocks Mass Federal Layoffs: A U.S. District Judge issued a temporary injunction halting President Trump's administration from mass firings at over 30 agencies during the shutdown, citing evidence of politically motivated cuts targeting "Democrat agencies." Unions hailed the ruling as a victory for workers' rights.
- Bird Migration Season Highlights Window Collision Risks: As fall migration peaks, experts report a spike in bird deaths from building strikes, urging simple preventive measures like window treatments to protect the estimated 1 billion birds affected annually in the U.S.
- Nationwide "No Kings" Protests Set for October 18: Millions are expected to rally against President Trump's policies in what organizers call the largest protest in modern U.S. history, coinciding with the shutdown. Groups like Indivisible predict massive turnout to demand change, with Democrats accused of prolonging the crisis to amplify the demonstrations.
- Senate Rejects Emergency Spending Deal: Lawmakers failed to pass a bipartisan funding bill, deepening the shutdown stalemate. Republicans blame Democrats for stalling until after the protests, while Trump signals reluctance on Ukraine aid amid peace talks with Russia.
- Former Rep. George Santos Faces Sentencing: The disgraced ex-congressman is set for federal court sentencing on fraud charges, marking a high-profile fall from grace in a year of political scandals.
- Pakistan Strikes Afghan Border, Breaking Ceasefire: Pakistani forces launched attacks on Afghan soil, killing at least 10 and shattering a brief two-day truce. Officials cite cross-border militancy as the trigger, escalating tensions in the volatile region.
- Global Climate Summit in Geneva Reaches Critical Talks: World leaders convened for high-stakes negotiations to finalize emissions reduction pacts, amid warnings of "uncertainty as the new normal" from IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva. The event underscores the push for decisive policies despite U.S. tariff disruptions.
- Former Japanese PM Tomiichi Murayama Dies at 101: The leader known for his landmark WWII apology passed away, prompting reflections on Japan's historical reckoning and its wartime legacy.
- State-Wise School Holidays Disrupt Schedules: Schools in Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh remain closed on October 18 due to socio-educational surveys and post-PM visit arrangements, while most other states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar operate normally ahead of Diwali breaks.
- U.S. Department of Education Announces 2025 Honorees: Secretary Linda McMahon revealed 161 students selected for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, recognizing academic excellence amid the federal shutdown's strain on education funding and operations.
- AI Integration in Classrooms Sparks Debate: Educators explore balancing AI's opportunities with risks, as professional development sessions emphasize ethical use; meanwhile, basal readers like Reading Street face scrutiny for outdated content in modern curricula.
- U.S.-China Trade War Reignites with New Tariffs: President Trump announced 100% tariffs and export controls on critical software starting November 1, retaliating against China's rare-earth mineral restrictions. Stock markets plunged, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7% in its worst day since April.
- Global Growth Holds at 3% Amid Uncertainty: IMF forecasts steady expansion despite shocks like U.S. tariffs, crediting adaptive private sectors; however, EU inflation ticked up to 2.2% in September, signaling persistent pressures.
- U.S. Job Growth Accelerates to 150K Monthly: Second-quarter payroll gains rebounded, maintaining unemployment near 4%, though the shutdown threatens future stability; PCE inflation eased to 2.3%, edging closer to the Fed's 2% target.
- Apple's October Event Teases M5 iPad Pro and Vision Pro Updates: Rumors swirl around a refreshed high-end iPad with M5 chip, alongside MacBook Pro enhancements and an evolved Vision Pro headset, potentially launching soon to bolster Apple's tablet lineup.
- AI Investments Drive 46% of U.S. GDP Growth: Business spending on information processing equipment, fueled by AI, accounted for nearly half of first-half economic expansion; meanwhile, startups like Kailera secure funding for AI-powered biotech therapies.
- Huawei Advances 5G-A with 100M Smartphone Projection: The firm predicts 100 million 5G-Advanced compatible devices by year-end, pushing solo innovation amid global trade tensions; separately, Wi-Fi 8 trials hint at faster connectivity on the horizon.
- Finasteride Linked to Psychiatric Risks Ignored by Regulators: A review exposes global data tying the hair-loss drug to depression and suicide, criticizing Merck and the FDA for inaction despite warnings, urging updated safety protocols.
- Mediterranean Diet Plus Exercise Cuts Diabetes Risk by 31%: Spanish research shows combining calorie reduction with physical activity and support slashes type 2 diabetes odds, highlighting lifestyle interventions' power.
- Neuronal "Nanotubes" Spread Toxic Proteins in Brain: Johns Hopkins findings reveal how cells transfer harmful amyloid-beta via microscopic channels, offering clues to Alzheimer's progression and potential waste-clearing therapies.
- Cristiano Ronaldo Hits Billionaire Status: The soccer icon became the first billionaire athlete via endorsements and investments, per Bloomberg, capping a career of record-breaking feats on and off the pitch.
- MLB World Series Looms Amid Postseason Thrills: October's calendar buzzes with playoff intensity, including key NCAAF matchups like Texas Tech vs. Arizona State, as teams vie for championship glory.
- Sheetal Devi's Para Archery Triumph at 18: The Indian teen adapted her technique to claim world championship gold, inspiring with her journey from war-torn Congo roots to podium dominance.
Three More Universities Reject Trump's "Compact" https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/17/three-more-universities-reject-trumps-compact/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Universities, including MIT, Brown University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Southern California, have rejected a proposal by Donald Trump offering federal funds in exchange for adopting right-wing policies.
- The proposal, referred to as the "Compact," was presented as a way to secure federal funding but was seen as a threat to academic freedom and independence.
- Diane Ravitch commends these universities for standing firm in their commitment to academic autonomy and resisting federal control.
Join a "NO KINGS" Rally Tomorrow https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/17/join-a-no-kings-rally-tomorrow/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Millions are set to join "NO KINGS" rallies nationwide to protest the Trump administration's authoritarian actions.
- Allegations include misuse of federal agencies like ICE, bypassing Congress's constitutional powers, and financial self-enrichment by Trump and his family.
- The Supreme Court's conservative majority is criticized for granting Trump "absolute immunity," which contradicts constitutional principles.
- Comments from readers emphasize the need for both domestic and international resistance to authoritarianism and militarism.
- Calls for broader societal action, including from public figures, to prevent further consolidation of authoritarian power.
Jennifer Rubin: Why Donald Trump Will Never Win the Nobel Peace Prize https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/17/jennifer-rubin-why-donald-trump-will-never-win-the-nobel-peace-prize/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Jennifer Rubin criticizes Donald Trump's campaign for the Nobel Peace Prize, highlighting the inconsistency between his actions and the values of peace and democracy.
- Rubin discusses the challenges of the Gaza ceasefire, including Hamas's resistance to disarming and transitioning to civilian governance.
- The Nobel Peace Prize for 2025 was awarded to Maria Corina Machado for her efforts in promoting democracy in Venezuela, emphasizing the importance of democratic values over authoritarianism.
- Rubin suggests that the Nobel Committee's awards inadvertently highlight Trump's opposition to democracy, human rights, and free media.
- Trump's policies, including trade wars and actions against free media, are criticized as harmful to peace, progress, and economic growth.
When Science Is Stranger Than Fiction https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/17/when-science-is-stranger-than-fiction/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Scientists theorize Earth's oceans originated from water carried by asteroids billions of years ago.
- Analysis of isotopes from asteroid Ryugu suggests these asteroids retained ice for a billion years, carrying more water than previously believed.
- Other science topics include innovations like ethanol reducing hangovers and humorous anecdotes from early biologists.
Dan Rather: Show Up and Speak Out! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/17/dan-rather-show-up-and-speak-out/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The "No Kings" rallies aim to protest against President Trump and his administration, with millions expected to participate peacefully.
- The Republican Party is accused of mischaracterizing the rallies as anti-American and attempting to suppress turnout through misinformation campaigns.
- Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent made controversial comments deflecting responsibility for the government shutdown and attacking the protests.
- Historical context highlights the role of protests in achieving social and political change, from the Boston Tea Party to civil rights movements.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has implemented restrictive press rules, limiting access and transparency at the Pentagon, raising concerns about accountability.
- Journalists have refused to comply with these restrictive rules, emphasizing their commitment to reporting on national security issues despite these challenges.
- The article underscores the importance of standing against corruption, chaos, and attacks on democratic values.
You Are Invited to Hear Me Talk About My New Book at the Brooklyn Public Library! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/14/you-are-invited-to-the-debut-of-my-new-book-at-the-brooklyn-public-library/ via @dianeravitch
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?
Join NPE President Diane Ravitch as she discusses her new memoir - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/join-npe-president-diane-ravitch-as-she-discusses-her-memoir/
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: OCTOBER 17, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/morning-news-update-october-17-2025.html
- Nationwide protests against Trump administration policies escalate, with millions expected to participate.
- The government shutdown enters its third week, delaying Social Security COLA announcements and impacting federal services.
- Criminal charges against John Bolton and Supreme Court deliberations on voting rights dominate U.S. political headlines.
- Global affairs include an Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Bangladesh protests, and Raila Odinga's death.
- Economic updates highlight U.S. budget deficit trends, IMF global growth forecasts, and EU inflation rates.
- Technological advancements include AI investment concerns and Apple's upcoming product launches.
- Health research reveals Alzheimer's progression insights and new treatments for osteoarthritis and post-workout recovery.
- Sports updates include Dodgers' playoff success, NBA preseason highlights, and India hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 17, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01056517387.html
### Key Points
- The Trump administration's "patriotic education" initiative aims to revise history curricula to exclude negative aspects of U.S. history, raising legal and ethical concerns.
- Federal education cuts, including the dismantling of special education services, threaten equity and protections for vulnerable students, such as those with disabilities.
- The U.S. government shutdown has caused widespread disruptions, including delayed paychecks, layoffs, and halted services.
- The Gaza ceasefire has led to prisoner exchanges and increased humanitarian aid, though tensions remain.
- María Corina Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize for her advocacy for democracy and human rights in Venezuela.
- AI's growing role in education is eroding student-teacher trust and prompting a reevaluation of assessments and teaching practices.
- Ending universal free school meals has increased student meal debt and stigma, while states continuing the policy report better outcomes.
- Anti-immigration policies under Trump have intensified community fear and sparked protests like "No Kings 2.0," advocating for reform and resistance to authoritarianism.
- Historical reflections on the Vietnam War protests emphasize their role in challenging imperialism, racism, and economic injustice.
- Privacy concerns arise over student mental health services provided by Hazel Health, linked to data misuse risks.
- Economic policies under Trump, such as tariffs, are critiqued for fostering political dependence and economic instability.
- Global economic growth is slowing due to policy volatility, though the U.S. recorded 4% growth in Q3 2025.
- The Times Higher Education Rankings 2026 placed Centurion University in Odisha at 98th nationally and 1501+ globally.
- WHO warns of accelerating antibiotic resistance, and studies highlight health risks linked to early childhood screen time and smartphone use.
- Diane Ravitch announced her memoir, discussing her advocacy for public education reform.
Big Education Ape: TRUMP'S LYIN' EYES (APOLOGIES TO THE EAGLES) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/trumps-lyin-eyes-apologies-to-eagles.html
Big Education Ape's article focuses on various topics, including critiques of Donald Trump's rhetoric, the importance of public education, activism against authoritarianism, and reflections on historical and current events impacting education and society. It also highlights ongoing protests and initiatives related to education reform and social justice.
### Key Points
- A satirical take on Donald Trump's misleading claims and public persona, comparing them to "Lyin' Eyes" by The Eagles.
- The discontinuation of universal free school meals increases student meal debt and stigma, as reported in a study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior.
- Activism against authoritarianism and the "No Kings" movement, emphasizing protest safety and rights.
- Historical reflections on activism, such as the Boston Tea Party and its relevance to modern defiance against tyranny.
- Critiques of Trump's immigration policies and their impact on protests like the "No Kings Uprising."
- Advocacy for public education and resistance against billionaire influence, as discussed by various education-focused organizations and individuals like Diane Ravitch.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST OCTOBER 16, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01388131330.html
The article provides a collection of news, educational updates, political analysis, and societal insights from various sources. It covers topics such as U.S. government policies, global conflicts, educational reforms, technological advancements, health research, and cultural movements. The content highlights key events, controversies, and developments shaping society in October 2025.
Critical Studies of Education & Technology: We Need to Talk About AI in Terms of Values, Not Vibes | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/%5Cwe-need-talk
### Key Points
- The current AI discourse is dominated by emotions, speculative promises, and polarized public opinions, which hinder meaningful discussions about its societal role.
- AI development reflects specific values like efficiency and scalability, often aligning with corporate and authoritarian interests, while neglecting social and environmental considerations.
- The article calls for democratic deliberation and governance of AI, emphasizing the need for collective decision-making about its role in education, healthcare, and other societal domains.
- Alternative approaches, such as participatory data stewardship, public-funded AI infrastructure, and diverse perspectives (e.g., Indigenous, feminist, or Black AI), are vital for ethical AI development.
- Societal discussions should focus on values like care, solidarity, and environmental sustainability, challenging the dominant growth-centric AI model.
Trying to get video cameras for my school https://www.dailykos.com/story/2025/10/17/2349022/-Trying-to-get-video-cameras-for-my-school?pm_campaign=blog&pm_medium=rss&pm_source=teacherken
- A teacher, "teacherken," is seeking donations through DonorsChoose to acquire video cameras for a school project, with a 50% match available for contributions.
- Daily Kos highlights its reliance on reader donations due to declining ad revenue, urging readers to contribute to sustain its operations.
- The article features community contributions, including discussions on political and social topics like Republican policies, education, and public opinion on various issues.
- Daily Kos emphasizes solidarity with the Black community and promotes its content-sharing policies and ethical guidelines.
Tons Of Parent Engagement Resources! Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
### Key Points
- The blog shares resources on parent engagement, classroom routines, and immigration-related infographics.
- Posts include republished content on social-emotional learning and character education, as well as teaching resources for Halloween, Day of the Dead, and Diwali.
- Media Literacy Week resources and a video about popular pets are highlighted, along with resources on Hannah Arendt's life for classroom use.
- Books and materials offer instructional strategies across subjects like Math, Science, Social Studies, and English, with a focus on ELL support and student motivation.
- Additional works include a radio show, a blog for parent engagement, and contributions to publications like Education Week Teacher and The New York Times.
The 2025 Nobel Laureate Who Saw The Collapse Coming – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/10/17/the-2025-nobel-laureate-who-saw-the-collapse-coming/
### Key Points
- László Krasznahorkai was awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature for his visionary work that captures societal collapse and reaffirms the power of art.
- His novels depict the slow breakdown of meaning, faith, and democracy, mirroring current global trends of democratic decline.
- Reports from organizations like the V-Dem Institute and Freedom House reveal a rise in authoritarianism, with more people living under autocratic regimes than democracies.
- Krasznahorkai's works, such as *Sátántangó* and *The Melancholy of Resistance*, illustrate how societies surrender to despair and authoritarianism through manipulation, fear, and disinformation.
- Hungary under Viktor Orbán exemplifies the hybrid model of authoritarianism, maintaining the façade of democracy while hollowing out its core institutions.
- The article warns about the erosion of democratic values in the United States, driven by polarization, disinformation, and the normalization of authoritarian habits.
- Krasznahorkai’s fiction emphasizes the importance of art, imagination, and collective action as tools to resist authoritarianism and rebuild democratic values.
glen brown: "No Kings" Rally Against Trump's Authoritarianism https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/no-kings-rally-against-trumps.html
MIT and other universities have stood against Donald Trump's proposed "Compact for Academic Excellence," which sought to impose restrictions on academic freedom and independence in exchange for federal funding. MIT, followed by institutions like Brown University, University of Pennsylvania, and USC, rejected the compact, citing its conflict with core values such as free expression, merit-based funding, and institutional autonomy. This collective resistance has been praised as a defense of democratic principles, setting a precedent for others in academia and beyond.
### Key Points
- MIT rejected Trump’s “Compact for Academic Excellence,” emphasizing the importance of academic independence, free expression, and merit-based funding.
- Other universities, including Brown, Penn, and USC, followed MIT’s lead in rejecting the compact, with faculty, students, and alumni voicing opposition.
- The compact was criticized for attempting to restrict academic freedom and impose political influence on universities.
- Political figures like Gavin Newsom and Chris Van Hollen praised the universities’ courage in resisting authoritarianism.
- The resistance by MIT and others set a precedent for defending institutional values and rejecting external political pressures.
Teen mental health concerns: family fights, peer bullying outweigh other risk factors for depression Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Social conflicts, particularly family fights and peer bullying, are the strongest predictors of teen mental health issues, with gender differences in how boys and girls experience stress.
- Researchers used computational models on data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study to identify family conflict and peer reputational damage as key mental health predictors, while neuroimaging was less predictive.
- Persistent psychotic-like experiences in adolescents are linked to environmental stressors, brain structure changes, and cognitive declines, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.
- Positive social environments at home and school can buffer against mental health risks, and resolving social conflicts can have lasting positive effects on teens.
- Ending universal free school meals increases student meal debt, stigma, and reduces participation, while continuing these policies ensures stable revenues and equitable access to nutritious meals.
- A positive school climate promotes physical activity in students, especially girls, and boosts overall well-being and academic success.
- LGBTQ+ youth face higher rates of mental health challenges and substance use, but inclusive school policies and affirming environments can improve outcomes.
- Early smartphone use in children correlates with increased family conflict, emotional isolation, and mental health risks, highlighting the need for delayed use and regulated screen time.
- Higher screen time in early childhood is associated with lower academic achievement in elementary school, particularly in reading and math, emphasizing the need for early interventions to promote healthy digital habits.
Teacher Tom: "Don't Worry, Dearie, We'll Eat You First" https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/10/dont-worry-dearie-well-eat-you-first.html
### Main Points
- A preschooler asks to join a group of girls playing as unicorns, demonstrating strategies for entering established playgroups in preschool settings.
- The children engage in imaginative role-play, acting out scenarios involving "evil" and "good" unicorns, showcasing their storytelling abilities and creativity.
- Teacher Tom reflects on the value of fairy tales in helping children understand human nature and life's challenges.
- He offers free resources for educators and parents and discusses his efforts to promote play-based education globally.
- Information about Teacher Tom's blog, speaking engagements, and ways to stay updated is provided.
CURMUDGUCATION: OK: A New Edu-wind Blowing https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/10/ok-new-edu-wind-blowing.html
### Key Points
- The article discusses the rise of the "6 7" meme among young students, highlighting its harmless but annoying nature and its challenge to teachers' patience.
- Teachers should avoid authoritarian responses to student-driven nonsense, as it sets a poor example of governance and undermines the principles of fair rule-setting.
- Classrooms should model the Rule of Law rather than the Rule of Me, ensuring decisions are based on consistent rules rather than personal preferences or mood.
- Teachers are encouraged to foster non-authoritarian governance in classrooms, helping students internalize better societal values and resist authoritarian tendencies.
Poem: Testaments: Tiger’s blood breath (these terabytes of love) https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/10/17/poem-testaments-tigers-blood-breath-these-terabytes-of-love/ via @plthomasEdD
### Key Points
- A poem titled "Testaments: Tiger’s blood breath (these terabytes of love)" reflecting themes of love, memory, and intimacy.
- Commentary on educational and societal issues, such as the "reading wars," phonics, and the impact of policies on diversity and urban students.
- References to critical pedagogy, media literacy, and social justice topics, including racism, sexism, and economic inequality.
- Discussions on various literary and cultural figures, including Paulo Freire, James Baldwin, Margaret Atwood, and George Orwell.
- Exploration of personal and professional themes, including poetry, teaching, and academic freedom.
October 2025 Information Memoranda Background information and updates on issues of interest to the State Board Members. Periodically, the State Board Members may receive information memoranda from State Board staff and the California Dept of Education. https://www.cde.ca.gov/be/pn/im/infomemooct2025.asp
### Key Points
- Background information and updates on issues of interest to the State Board of Education members, including educational topics and legislative updates.
- Financial condition reports for California State Board of Education-authorized districtwide charters and charter schools for fiscal year 2024–25.
- Draft criteria and guidance for selecting or developing literacy professional development programs.
- Notices for screening committee meetings to interview and appoint candidates for the IQC and CPAG.
- Overview of CDE resources, programs, and initiatives, including standards, accountability, and school performance.
No Kings: Protest Safety, Know Your Rights & De-Escalation Training 10/15 https://act.aclu.org/a/no-kings-kyr-eng2
No Kings https://www.nokings.org/
