Today's Top News Stories: October 10, 2025
- Government Shutdown Enters Second Week: The partial federal government shutdown, now in its 11th day, continues to disrupt services, with over 2 million federal workers furloughed or working without pay. Military personnel face missing their October 15 paychecks, and programs like WIC (nutrition for women, infants, and children) risk running out of funds soon. States are bracing for unreimbursed costs, potentially totaling billions, as Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked over spending cuts and Obamacare subsidies.
- Deadlock over Health Care: The shutdown centers on a partisan deadlock in the Senate over funding the government, specifically with Democrats demanding the extension of expiring Affordable Care Act health insurance subsidies, which Republicans have so far refused to negotiate on until the government is reopened.
- Impact: The shutdown has caused furloughs of federal workers, service disruptions across agencies (including most of the Department of Education staff), and threats of permanent cuts to "Democrat programs" from the Trump administration.
- Air Traffic Control Disruptions: Increased sick calls among FAA controllers have led to flight delays nationwide, with reduced staffing at major airports like Orlando International. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized safety adjustments but warned of ongoing slowdowns.
- Indictment of NY AG Letitia James: Federal charges against New York Attorney General Letitia James, pushed by President Trump, stem from her successful civil fraud lawsuit against him. The case highlights escalating political tensions.
- Trump Pushes Project 2025 Cuts: President Trump has tasked OMB Director Russ Vought, a key architect of Project 2025, with identifying federal jobs and agencies for slashing during the shutdown. This includes targeting "Democrat agencies" and halting $18 billion in New York infrastructure projects over DEI concerns, drawing sharp rebukes from Democrats like Chuck Schumer.
- James Comey Pleads Not Guilty: Former FBI Director James Comey entered a not guilty plea to federal charges related to his 2020 Senate testimony, amid Trump's long-standing calls for prosecution. Comey, a vocal Trump critic, faces two counts that could impact ongoing political narratives.
- Partisan Stalemate in Congress: House Speaker Mike Johnson canceled votes, while Senate Majority Leader John Thune called the impasse a "stalemate." Polls show divided blame, with 39% faulting Trump and Republicans, but both parties believe they hold the political advantage.
- Gaza Ceasefire Agreement: Israel and Hamas have agreed to the "first phase" of a U.S.-brokered peace plan promoted by President Trump, potentially ending the war. Celebrations erupted in Gaza and Tel Aviv, with a ceasefire vote pending in Israel's Cabinet. Over 7,800 patients, mostly children, have been evacuated since the conflict began.
- India Joins Coalition Against U.S. on Afghanistan: In a surprise move, India aligned with the Taliban, Pakistan, China, and Russia to oppose Trump's bid to reclaim the Bagram air base, escalating U.S. tensions in the region.
- Pakistan Militancy Clashes: Eleven Pakistani Army personnel were killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during operations against Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan militants, with 19 insurgents also reported dead.
Global Health: The World Health Organization (WHO) is seeking clarification from India regarding the export of a cough syrup linked to child deaths.
Nobel Prize: The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was recently awarded to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar M. Yaghi for their work on metal-organic frameworks.
- Foreign Workers Fill Critical Roles: Higher education leaders and school superintendents report heavy reliance on skilled immigrants for teaching and administrative positions, amid debates over visa policies during the shutdown.
- U.S. Department of Education Honors: Secretary Linda McMahon announced 161 students as 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars, recognizing academic excellence.
- New York State Releases Test Data: The NYSED published 75% of questions and reports from 2025 grades 3-8 ELA, math, and science tests, aiding instructional improvements.
Impact of Shutdown: The U.S. Department of Education is severely impacted by the government shutdown, with most staff furloughed, leading to a freeze on new grants and potential delays in non-essential services like civil rights investigations.
State-Level Action: In contrast, Michigan's Governor Whitmer recently signed a major education budget into law, providing record per-pupil funding, free meals, free pre-K, and free community college.
Banned Books Week: Banned Books Week concludes on October 11, 2025, an annual event focusing on free expression and the fight against censorship.
- Shutdown's $15 Billion Weekly Hit: The impasse is costing the U.S. economy up to $15 billion per week, with delayed jobs reports and unreimbursed state expenses. Tariffs generated $215 billion in FY2025, but consumer prices are rising slowly due to new duties.
- Slower Growth Forecast: Deloitte predicts U.S. GDP growth will decelerate in 2025 compared to prior years, despite lower tariffs, with a potential recession in late 2026 from higher inflation and rates. Net migration assumptions cut to 3.3 million adults through 2030, pressuring labor supply.
- State Budgets Strain: Most states maintained rainy day funds, but record $600 billion in municipal bonds signals borrowing spikes. Food stamp benefits are secure for October, but broader impacts loom.
U.S. Economic Indicators: The economy is a key topic amid the government shutdown. Recent reports (Q2 2025) indicated U.S. real GDP increased at an annual rate of 3.8%.
Inflation and Tariffs: Federal Reserve officials are voicing concerns that the recent surge in tariffs has boosted inflation and is a major risk to the Federal Reserve's price stability goal.
Upcoming IMF Report: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is scheduled to release its World Economic Outlook update soon (on October 14, 2025).
- AI Adoption Doubles in Workplaces: Gallup reports U.S. employee AI use surged from 21% to 40% over two years, with daily users doubling to 8%, driven by tools in diagnostics and operations. The global AI healthcare market is projected to hit $187 billion by 2030.
- Microsoft Outage Hits Thousands: A widespread disruption affected Microsoft's productivity suite on October 9, per Downdetector, amid rising cyber concerns like a Google-reported Oracle-linked hacking campaign impacting over 100 users.
- Sen. Cruz's AI 'Sandbox' Bill: Legislation proposes regulatory exemptions for AI firms like OpenAI and Google to foster innovation, following industry calls to ease barriers under the Trump administration.
- New AI/Web 3.0 Technology: Datavault AI is scheduled to showcase its new Joke Token technology on October 11, 2025. This blockchain-based system aims to tokenize original jokes and track audience engagement data for monetization.
- Windows 10 End-of-Support: October 14, 2025, is a major upcoming date as Windows 10 reaches its end of support, meaning no more technical assistance or security updates will be provided after that date.
- Prediabetes Reversal Cuts Diabetes Risk: A Tübingen study shows normalizing blood sugar via lifestyle changes—without weight loss—reduces type 2 diabetes risk by 71% in prediabetics, emphasizing fat metabolism improvements.
- Parkinson's Breakthrough: Researchers identified PP2A-B55alpha as a regulator of mitochondrial health; reducing it in models alleviated symptoms, offering new therapeutic targets.
- Medicare Open Enrollment Starts: Enrollment begins October 15 for seniors to adjust plans, amid shutdown delays in federal health data releases.
Cancer Research: The American Cancer Society (ACS) is presenting key research studies at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Quality Care Symposium on October 10-11 in Chicago.
Topics include health disparities, palliative care, and the impact of social factors on cancer survival.
- MLB Playoffs Heat Up: The Toronto Blue Jays beat the New York Yankees 5-2 in ALDS Game 4, advancing to the ALCS for the first time since 2016. Aaron Judge hit a three-run homer in Game 3, but the Jays' bullpen dominated late.
- NHL Action: The Calgary Flames rallied 4-3 in a shootout over Edmonton to spoil Leon Draisaitl's 400th goal; the Los Angeles Kings edged Vegas 6-5, overshadowing Ivan Dorofeyev's hat trick and Mitch Marner's debut.
- Soccer Shifts: A Argentina-Puerto Rico match moved from Chicago to Florida due to U.S. immigration policies; Kylian Mbappé scored his 60th Champions League goal in Real Madrid's 5-0 rout.
- College Sports: Scheduled games for October 11, 2025, include a Central Washington University soccer match and a University of the Pacific volleyball match, among other college sporting events.
- MLB Postseason: The MLB postseason would be in full swing, with the Division Series potentially nearing its conclusion or the League Championship Series about to begin.
(The Toronto Blue Jays hosted the Yankees in a recent AL Division Series game)
Paul Offit: RFK Jr.'s Obsessions Threaten the Lives of Children https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/09/paul-offit-rfk-jr-s-obsessions-threaten-the-lives-of-children/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Dr. Paul Offit criticizes RFK Jr.’s dangerous anti-vaccine stance and his unqualified leadership in public health, which endangers children.
- RFK Jr. disregarded CDC data showing the benefits of COVID-19 vaccines for children and issued unsupported recommendations against vaccinating young, healthy children.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics contradicted Kennedy’s stance, recommending COVID-19 vaccines for infants and young children at high risk for severe illness.
- Kennedy accused the AAP of being influenced by pharmaceutical companies, diverting attention from his unsupported decisions.
- Kennedy issued a baseless threat suggesting legal liability for medical professionals recommending vaccines, causing confusion and risking children’s health.
- RFK Jr.’s anti-vaccine propaganda over two decades has consistently undermined public health efforts, leading to preventable harm to children.
- The article connects RFK Jr.’s appointment to Trump’s chaotic leadership strategy aimed at consolidating control and dismantling democracy.
ProPublica: The Department of Education Wants to Destroy Public Schools https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/09/propublica-the-department-of-education-wants-to-destroy-public-schools/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Linda McMahon, appointed as U.S. Secretary of Education by Trump, aims to shut down the Department of Education and impose policies favoring privatization and alternatives to public schools.
- McMahon has reduced the department’s staff and introduced policies to promote private, Christian, and virtual schools over traditional public schools.
- The department has allocated $500 million to charter schools and encouraged states to redirect federal funds for at-risk students to private institutions.
- Federal funding penalties have been threatened for public schools that maintain diversity programs or refuse anti-trans policies.
- A coalition with conservative groups like Turning Point USA and PragerU promotes “patriotic education” that downplays historical injustices.
- McMahon has appointed individuals from conservative groups like The Heritage Foundation to key positions, who advocate for school choice and reducing public school enrollment.
- Policies have been introduced to provide parents with debit cards to manage tax dollars for private education expenses.
- Critics argue that privatization efforts, including vouchers and block grants, undermine public schools and could lead to segregation and inequality.
- Conservatives in the administration view public schools as unsafe and ineffective, promoting reduced federal oversight and market-driven education policies.
- The administration has rolled back civil rights protections for marginalized groups in education while promoting religion in schools.
- Betsy DeVos, a former education secretary, supports school vouchers to advance religious education, calling public schools a "monopoly."
- Public school advocates warn that these policies harm low-income students and rural communities that rely heavily on public education.
- Critics describe these efforts as a coordinated attempt by conservative groups and wealthy donors to weaken public education and favor privatization for profit.
Overwhelming Majority of Mass Shootings Are by Males https://dianeravitch.net/2025/10/09/overwhelming-majority-of-mass-shootings-are-by-males/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The U.S. leads the world in mass shootings, with 98% committed by males, and incidents are increasing due to weak gun control laws.
- Discussions about the political affiliations and racial demographics of shooters, along with concerns about toxic masculinity and untreated mental health issues.
- Research shows that stricter gun laws, such as assault rifle bans or background checks, reduce fatalities and gun-related deaths.
- Criticism of cultural attitudes toward guns, including open carry policies and normalization of violence.
Big Education Ape: A MESSAGE FROM A KINDERGARTEN TEACHER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/a-message-from-kindergarten-teacher.html
### Key Points
- A kindergarten teacher reflects on her 40-year career, detailing the shift from joy and collaboration to burnout and disillusionment in teaching.
- The teacher's farewell message underscores the emotional toll of teaching and the need for more respect and understanding for educators.
- Broader discussions on public education reform and advocacy, including resources and blogs, are presented.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST October 9 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0689662428.html
### Key Points
- The Trump administration's "compact" pressures universities to surrender academic freedom in exchange for federal benefits, raising concerns over ideological influence.
- The U.S. government shutdown has entered its eighth day, affecting federal operations, economic data, and services like Social Security.
- The Department of Education under Linda McMahon has redirected federal funding from public schools to private and religious institutions, promoting school choice and conservative ideologies.
- Gaza ceasefire talks have progressed, with a U.S.-brokered peace plan involving hostages and prisoner exchanges.
- AI adoption in workplaces has doubled, raising efficiency and ethical concerns, while its role in education remains controversial.
- The Seattle School Board discussed a $71M electronic upgrade project, amendments to safety policies, and the 2025-2026 Highly Capable Plan for advanced learners.
- The article critiques the post-Katrina transformation of New Orleans' public schools into an all-charter district, highlighting its negative impact on Black communities.
- Advances in health research include diabetes prevention through lifestyle changes and breakthroughs in Parkinson's treatment.
- Studies highlight issues in education, such as the failure of sex education for 2SLGBTQIA+ students and the impact of BMI on educational outcomes.
- The Trump administration's use of the Insurrection Act and National Guard deployments raises concerns about democratic erosion.
- Leadership in education is criticized for perpetuating toxic work environments, leading to teacher burnout and systemic failures.
- AI models like Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT, and Copilot are compared for their capabilities, with user choice depending on specific needs and ecosystems.
- The ICC secured its first conviction for Darfur atrocities, marking a milestone for global justice.
- The blog "Liberal Redneck" critiques taxpayer-funded school vouchers, emphasizing issues with privatization in education.
- The role of storytelling is emphasized in shaping children's narratives and fostering autonomy.
- The resignation of French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu reflects political turmoil similar to U.S. partisan gridlock.
- The Perkins Platform podcast explores the challenges of leadership in equity work, emphasizing persistence and resilience.
- The article highlights the role of grassroots advocacy in addressing systemic inequities and improving public education.
Big Education Ape: The Great AIdea Bash: A Battle of Wits, Pixels, and Guardrails https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-great-aidea-bash-battle-of-wits.html
The article provides a detailed comparison of four leading AI models—Google’s Gemini, xAI’s Grok, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and Microsoft’s Copilot—evaluating their strengths, weaknesses, and unique features. It highlights their multimodal capabilities, image generation tools, and guardrails, while also discussing their usability, pricing, and target audiences. The analysis concludes with an overview of the top AI models of 2025 and their applications across industries.
### Key Points
- Google’s Gemini is a multimodal AI model with a wide range of capabilities, including text, image, and audio processing, and features like Imagen and Nano Banana for image editing. It is highly polished and suited for enterprise-level tasks.
- Grok, developed by xAI, emphasizes truth-seeking and real-time data integration, with a playful and witty personality. It offers free access with premium options and excels in coding, math, and creative image generation through its Aurora model.
- OpenAI’s ChatGPT is versatile and user-friendly, offering multimodal capabilities, including text, vision, and audio processing. It uses DALL·E 3 for image generation and editing while maintaining strict safety filters. It is ideal for generalists and developers.
- Microsoft’s Copilot integrates OpenAI’s models into Microsoft’s productivity suite, excelling in enterprise applications like Word, Excel, and Teams. It uses DALL·E 3 for static image generation but lacks advanced editing capabilities.
- All four AIs agree on the top AI models of 2025, which include GPT-5, Gemini, Claude, and Grok. Open-source models such as DeepSeek and Mistral are also recognized for their customizability and cost efficiency.
- Guardrails vary across models, with Copilot having the strictest compliance-focused filters, while Grok adopts a more relaxed approach. None of the models exhibited significant hallucination issues.
- Personality-wise, Grok is witty and engaging, ChatGPT is approachable and conversational, Gemini is polished but distant, and Copilot is professional but rigid.
- The article concludes that selecting the right AI depends on user needs—Grok for creativity and real-time data, ChatGPT for versatility, Gemini for enterprise users, and Copilot for productivity-focused tasks.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST October 8, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/10/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0543957893.html
Whatever Happened to Coding in U.S. Schools? https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/10/09/whatever-happened-to-coding-in-u-s-schools/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- Coding was once promoted as an essential skill for students by tech leaders like Apple's Tim Cook, but its importance in school curricula has diminished over time.
- By 2025, while half of U.S. high schools still offer computer science courses, coding is no longer seen as a "golden subject" due to limited job opportunities and changing priorities.
- Silicon Valley companies and donors heavily lobbied for coding to be included in state curriculum standards, often motivated by their own workforce needs.
- This trend mirrors historical patterns where businesses influenced schools to introduce vocational courses to prepare students for specific industries.
- Public schools have traditionally served as a means to prepare students for the workforce, and coding education aligns with this purpose.
New Book Documents Trump Administration’s Actions to Destroy Diversity in Higher Education https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/10/09/new-book-documents-trump-administrations-actions-to-destroy-diversity-in-higher-education/ via @janresseger
### Key Points
- Justin Driver’s book explores the history of U.S. Supreme Court decisions on affirmative action, from the 1978 Bakke ruling to the 2023 Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard case that banned affirmative action.
- The book highlights the significant decline in Black student enrollment at elite universities following the 2023 decision, with cascading societal consequences in various sectors.
- Driver discusses the transformative impact of affirmative action on racial diversity in elite institutions and its role in challenging racial hierarchies.
- The book delves into the constitutional debate over the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause, analyzing its two interpretations: prohibiting racial classification versus preventing racial subordination.
- Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s perspective on addressing racial discrimination contrasts with Chief Justice John Roberts’ conservative view.
- Driver critiques the Trump administration’s expansive and restrictive interpretation of the Students for Fair Admissions decision, which aimed to suppress diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education.
- The Trump administration’s policies extended beyond college admissions, targeting efforts to address historical racial injustices in K-12 education and beyond.
A Test of Conscience: Who Would Betray Anne Frank? – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/10/09/would-you-tell-them-where-anne-frank-was-hiding/
### Key Points
- The metaphor of Anne Frank represents a moral test of trust and courage, highlighting the weight of betrayal and disillusionment in personal relationships.
- Anne Frank's story reminds us that legality is not always aligned with morality, and historical acts of conscience often challenge unjust laws.
- The fracturing of trust in relationships is exacerbated by modern political ideologies, such as MAGA politics, which amplify prejudice and cruelty.
- Everyday life presents "Anne Frank tests," where people's character is revealed through their actions in small but significant moral challenges.
- Betrayal by close friends and family is particularly painful, forcing individuals to confront the reality of broken trust and reevaluate their relationships.
- Recognizing betrayal allows space to rebuild trust and form new, value-based communities centered on empathy, courage, and integrity.
- Despite the pain of betrayal, the article emphasizes holding onto hope and seeking out those who embody trust and moral strength.
The Genius of Our Students https://thejosevilson.com/the-genius-of-our-students/ via @TheJoseVilson
### Key Points
- The MacArthur Foundation's “Genius Grant” awards $800,000 to individuals with remarkable creativity and potential, aiming to advance public-facing, community-benefiting work.
- Gifted and talented programs in schools often foster segregation and deficit thinking, benefiting a select group while neglecting broader student needs.
- The U.S. education system has stifled creativity and individuality over the past decades, prioritizing test scores and standardized methods.
- Many students, especially multilingual learners and those with individualized education programs, are denied opportunities to excel due to systemic biases.
- Gifted and talented programs reflect societal inequalities, with some parents seeking advantages for their children at the expense of others.
- A reimagined education system should provide equal opportunities for all children, focusing on socio-emotional and academic growth rather than labels.
- Advocates call for a collective effort to transform education, ensuring every child can thrive and contribute to a better future.
The Future of Higher Education: The Age of Sponsored Knowing, and What This Means to Higher Education | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/age-sponsored
- The integration of advertising into generative AI platforms, such as ChatGPT, could reshape higher education by turning information access into a commercially driven, sponsored service.
- Generative AI’s ability to provide clear and authoritative answers may be compromised by commercial interests, potentially influencing the neutrality and trustworthiness of its outputs.
- This shift could erode the ethos of scholarly independence in higher education, moving from public knowledge to sponsored knowledge.
- Universities face critical decisions about whether to adopt commercial AI platforms or invest in independent, ad-free AI infrastructure to preserve educational integrity.
- The rise of advertising in generative AI raises broader concerns about the legitimacy, trust, and symbolic value of knowledge in an era of synthetic and sponsored information.
- The article calls for higher education institutions to address the challenges posed by these tools to safeguard the mission of education.
NYC Public School Parents: How NYC parents can opt out of data sharing and better protect their child’s privacy https://nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com/2025/10/how-nyc-parents-can-opt-out-of-data.html
### Key Points
- NYC Department of Education revised regulations to allow sharing of student Directory Information with non-school vendors, but the opt-out process is unclear and difficult for parents to navigate.
- The Parent Coalition for Student Privacy created an unofficial, simplified opt-out form for parents to use, as the DOE has not provided one.
- Parents should request specific opt-out forms from their school and ensure written agreements exist to protect their child’s data when shared externally.
- Schools use over 500 ed-tech programs that collect sensitive student data. Parents have the right to know what data is collected, how it is protected, and request corrections if needed under NY Ed Law 2D.
- Parents should inquire about ed-tech programs using AI, their privacy safeguards, and how much screen time students are exposed to in schools.
- A special privacy briefing for parents is scheduled for October 20, 2025, to address these issues further.
Teacher Tom: "I Wonder if That's True" http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/10/i-wonder-if-thats-true.html
### Key Points
- Teacher Tom shares a story of finding awe during a family trip, describing how a walk in nature shifted frustration into wonder.
- Awe is described as a spontaneous and transformative experience that fosters curiosity, openness, and a sense of connection.
- The article contrasts the awe-filled perspective of children with adults’ routine-driven lives, emphasizing the unique opportunity educators and parents have to experience awe through children.
- Philosophical reflections on the universe and existence are inspired by awe, highlighting its ability to provoke deep thought and connection.
- Teacher Tom offers resources for educators and parents to foster creativity and play-based learning, encouraging engagement with awe and curiosity.
MORNING NEWS UPDATE: Thursday, October 9, 2025 https://ru4people.substack.com/p/morning-news-update-thursday-october
### Key Points
- The U.S. government shutdown continues into its 10th day, impacting federal workers, IRS operations, air travel, and public services like museums.
- James Comey, former FBI director, faces federal charges related to 2020 Senate testimony.
- Senate Democrats push a War Powers Resolution to limit Trump’s military actions, while the shutdown standoff centers on Obamacare subsidies.
- The Gaza war enters its third year, with severe humanitarian crises, while Israel targets Hamas leadership in Qatar.
- Ukraine escalates drone strikes on Russian targets, and Poland intercepts Russian drones.
- China announces new export controls on rare earth elements ahead of a Trump-Xi Jinping meeting.
- AI’s rise in education sparks concerns about bullying and trust, while new U.S. college rankings see minimal changes amid higher education challenges.
- Economic concerns mount with tariffs slowing growth, gold prices spiking, and delayed jobs data due to the shutdown.
- Advances in AI and technology dominate headlines, with Nvidia reporting surging demand and discussions on AI deregulation.
- Updated COVID vaccines reduce severe illness by 50%, and prediabetes reversal through habits shows significant health benefits.
- In sports, the Yankees advance in the MLB postseason, India’s women’s cricket team sets records, and Connor McDavid signs a major contract extension in the NHL.
The AI Arms Race A Witty Whirlwind Tour of Your Favorite Chatbots https://ru4people.substack.com/p/the-ai-arms-race
### Key Points
- The article sets up a playful "competition" between Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT, and Copilot to explore their capabilities and corporate personalities.
- Gemini emphasizes its multimodal capabilities and deep integration with Google’s ecosystem, showcasing a range of models and tools like Imagen and MusicFX.
- Grok stands out with its casual, sarcastic personality, focusing on truth-seeking and real-time data integration via the X platform.
- ChatGPT highlights its diverse model lineup, including GPT-5 and DALL·E 3, positioning itself as a versatile leader in AI innovation.
- Copilot prioritizes practicality, integrating OpenAI’s tech into Microsoft’s productivity tools, making it ideal for professional use.
- Regarding image capabilities, Gemini introduces the quirky "Nano Banana," while Grok, ChatGPT, and Copilot focus on more standardized offerings like Aurora and DALL·E 3.
- All four AIs share a nearly identical Top 10 list of AI models but subtly spin the rankings to favor themselves.
- The conclusion suggests that none of the AIs are "hallucinating" but are engaged in a PR battle, with the best choice depending on the user’s ecosystem preferences.
Later School Start Times Linked to Better Grades, Safer Roads, and Healthier Teens - Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
Key Points
Later school start times improve academic performance, attendance, mental health, road safety, and reduce caffeine dependence.
Benefits include better grades, higher attendance, reduced behavior issues, improved physical and mental health, and fewer teen car accidents.
Delayed school start times allow for longer, better-quality sleep, healthier routines like eating breakfast, and reduced reliance on caffeine.
Further research and planning can help districts implement later start times without compromising academics or sports.
Teenage girls avoiding potentially negative feedback during stressful situations experience higher anxiety over time, contrary to findings in adults.
Girls are more sensitive to social feedback, which may contribute to anxiety disorders during adolescence.
A study using eye-tracking glasses revealed that attention bias plays a significant role in anxiety development among teenage girls.
Parental influence, particularly mothers’ attention to potential threats, may exacerbate anxiety in children.
2SLGBTQIA+ students report less inclusive sex education but exhibit higher sexual health literacy due to self-education through online resources.
Inclusive and comprehensive sex education is crucial to address gaps and ensure all identities are represented.
Children get less sleep than parents realize, with only 14% meeting national sleep guidelines. Disparities exist between Latino and non-Latino children.
Short-term school closures disproportionately affect students from low-income families, causing a decline in academic performance, especially in math for boys.
Developmental vulnerabilities are higher among children from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) families, particularly in communication and language skills.
Early intervention, bilingual programs, and culturally sensitive policies are needed to address developmental challenges in CALD children.
The Inconvenient Success of Mississippi It's not just education reform skeptics who are giving the Mississippi Miracle the side eye https://educationwars.substack.com/p/the-inconvenient-success-of-mississippi
### Key Points
- Mississippi's academic success challenges education reform skeptics but raises concerns about the state's GOP policies aiming to promote school vouchers.
- School voucher proponents argue against Mississippi's progress, claiming it is an illusion, while pushing for privatized education systems.
- Historical analysis shows Southern states, including Mississippi, using policies to weaken public education and maintain segregation, harming Black communities disproportionately.
- Tax cuts and reduced funding threaten Mississippi's public schools, echoing past efforts to sideline public education.
- Comparisons to Florida's failed education reform highlight potential risks for Mississippi's trajectory.
CURMUDGUCATION: The Push To End Public Schools https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-push-to-end-public-schools.html
### Key Points
- The article criticizes the "school choice" movement, arguing that its goal is to dismantle public schools in favor of taxpayer-funded private schools promoting right-wing ideologies.
- Linda McMahon and her team, including individuals like Lindsey Burke, are leading efforts to replace public education with private school voucher programs.
- The movement is rooted in the belief that parents, not society, are solely responsible for their children's education, as highlighted by conservative groups like the America First Policy Institute.
- Voucher programs are criticized for isolating families, placing the responsibility for education entirely on parents while absolving the government and others of collective responsibility.
- Tiffany Justice, affiliated with Moms for America and The Heritage Foundation, openly advocates for the complete elimination of public schools.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Seattle Schools Will Not Pilot the Police Officer at Garfield Program. https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/10/seattle-schools-will-not-pilot-police.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- The Board voted against piloting the SEO program at Garfield High School after extensive debate.
- Testimonies from parents and community members largely opposed police presence in schools, citing concerns about student safety and trust.
- Directors expressed frustration with administrative processes, lack of transparency, and broken trust in decision-making.
- The vote revealed divisions within the Board, with some directors emphasizing the need for community control and accountability in safety measures.
2024–25 California Statewide Assessment Results - Year 2025 (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr25/yr25rel43.asp
### Key Points
- California students showed modest increases in proficiency across ELA (+1.8%), mathematics (+1.8%), and science (+2.0%), marking improvements over last year’s gains.
- The proportion of students meeting grade-level expectations grew to 70.6% in ELA, 61.0% in mathematics, and 86.0% in science, while the percentage of students scoring at minimal levels decreased.
- Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino students made above-average improvements in all subjects, highlighting progress in closing equity gaps.
- Socioeconomically disadvantaged students showed modest gains, but state leaders emphasized the need for further acceleration to address socioeconomic challenges.
- State investments, including Universal Transitional Kindergarten, literacy coaches, professional development, and community schools, have positively impacted student proficiency.
- Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted California’s commitment to education funding amidst federal cuts, citing initiatives like universal meals and literacy coaching as key contributors to progress.
- Los Angeles Unified School District achieved record-breaking proficiency levels, surpassing pre-pandemic results due to targeted investments in literacy, math interventions, and science opportunities.
- Compton Unified School District saw significant gains in ELA (+8.0%) and mathematics (+6.4%) through data-driven instructional practices and strategic investments.
- Roseville Joint Union High School District improved proficiency in math (+5.6%), ELA (+3.2%), and science (+2.6%) through data-driven approaches and professional development initiatives.
- Pittsburg Unified School District increased ELA (+4.6%), math (+1.5%), and science (+2.9%) proficiency, supported by a Full-Service Community Schools model and targeted tutoring programs.
- Sanger Unified School District improved ELA proficiency by 4.3%, leveraging funding for literacy initiatives and aiming for every student to advance at least one grade level annually.
- The CAASPP and ELPAC assessment results provide detailed insights into student achievement across demographic groups, available on the Test Results for California’s Assessments website.
- Smarter Balanced Assessments measure grade-level achievement, offering a continuum of student performance data.
- Year-over-year percentage point changes show consistent improvements in proficiency for all students and selected groups across ELA, mathematics, and science.
NEPC: Celebrating and Remembering David Berliner https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/10/09/nepc-celebrating-and-remembering-david-berliner/ via @plthomasEdD
### Key Points
- David Berliner, an acclaimed education scholar, passed away at 87, leaving behind a legacy of impactful contributions to educational psychology and public discourse.
- Berliner was a vocal critic of neoliberal education reforms, advocating for evidence-based policies and respect for teachers.
- He authored numerous works, including books like *The Manufactured Crisis* and *50 Myths and Lies that Threaten America’s Public Schools*, blending academic rigor with accessibility.
- Berliner’s colleagues and family remembered him as a mentor, friend, and advocate for democracy and equality in education.
- Known for his humor, Berliner hosted satirical “Bunkum Awards” to critique flawed educational reports.
glen brown: Twelve Failed Constitutional Amendments That Could Have Reshaped American History https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/10/twelve-failed-constitutional-amendments.html
- The article discusses the role of writers in society, emphasizing their duty to resist oppression and free themselves from societal constraints, citing Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
- It warns of the dangers posed by Trump and his enablers, urging peaceful resistance and vigilance to counter false narratives and protect democratic freedoms.
- References are made to ongoing political and social issues, including pensions, education reforms, healthcare, social justice, and environmental concerns.
- The blog highlights critical events and issues under Trump’s administration, including court battles, government shutdowns, and controversial policies like deploying troops domestically.
- It critiques the Supreme Court’s perceived bias under Trump and addresses broader authoritarian tendencies and threats to democracy.
- Other topics include the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, inequality, censorship, and activism against injustices such as plastic pollution and pharma greed.
Schools Matter: Analysis by Jimmy Kimmel http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/10/analysis-by-jimmy-kimmel.html
Detailed Summary for [Trump Has NOTHING to Do with Epstein Bday Letter, Pam Bondi Grilled & Federal Workers Go Without Pay](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iy5o38VRjtE) by [Monica](https://monica.im)
[00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iy5o38VRjtE&t=0) The video discusses the ongoing government shutdown, highlighting the impact on federal workers and a humorous take on Costco's drug offerings amidst the chaos.
- Introduction by the host, Jimmy, welcoming viewers.}
- Jimmy shares some positive news about Costco offering discounted drugs, humorously linking it to the current situation.}
- Discussion on the Trump government shutdown, emphasizing the struggles of federal employees working without pay, particularly air traffic controllers.}
- Live report from Burbank Airport confirming that air traffic controllers will be leaving work due to the shutdown.}
[02:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iy5o38VRjtE&t=162.07) The video discusses the ongoing government shutdown, the implications for air traffic controllers and federal workers, and the political dynamics surrounding the situation.
- The comparison of current air traffic controller numbers to those during the Wright brothers' era highlights the challenges faced today.}
- Air traffic controllers are deemed essential workers but are not being paid during the shutdown, contrasting with Congress members who continue to receive their salaries.}
- Discussion on whether furloughed employees will receive retroactive pay after the shutdown, emphasizing the ambiguity of the law.}
- A critical commentary on the president's actions and decisions in relation to the ongoing political situation, drawing analogies to crime families.}
[05:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iy5o38VRjtE&t=325.189) The video discusses various political issues, including drug trafficking from Canada, the safety of cities, and the impact of certain policies on society, while also critiquing political figures and their statements.
- The discussion starts with a focus on drug trafficking and the challenges of controlling it at the Canadian border.}
- A comparison is made about the safety of Washington D.C. now versus the past, emphasizing significant improvements.}
- Concerns are raised about the implications of political decisions, including open borders and gender issues in sports.}
- The conversation takes a humorous turn, mocking the idea of windmills dominating the landscape under different leadership.}
- The speaker reflects on the absurdity of some statements made by political leaders, highlighting the disconnect with reality.}
[08:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iy5o38VRjtE&t=488.629) The video discusses the controversy surrounding President Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, particularly focusing on allegations about photographs of Trump with young women and the lack of concrete answers from officials regarding these claims.
- Discussion on Trump's involvement in immigration enforcement and a sarcastic remark about finding illegals.}
- Questions arise about the Epstein files, with officials providing no clear answers regarding the existence of photographs linking Trump to Epstein.}
- Senator Whitehouse's inquiry about FBI findings on the photographs is met with evasive responses from Attorney General Bondi.}
- Senator Durbin challenges Bondi on her claims about having the Epstein client list, questioning the lack of relevant information produced.}
[10:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iy5o38VRjtE&t=649.99) The video discusses Donald Trump's denial of involvement in a controversial birthday letter linked to Jeffrey Epstein, alongside commentary on his language and public persona.
- Trump is suing the Wall Street Journal for $10 billion over a letter he denies authorship of.}
- Trump claims the letter does not reflect his language or style, suggesting it is not his signature.}
- The commentators reflect on their long history covering Trump, considering whether his language matches that of the disputed letter.}
- The video includes a voice-over discussing the concept of having everything, hinting at deeper truths or secrets not revealed.}
- There is an exchange implying shared secrets or knowledge between Trump and Epstein, with a focus on their commonalities.}
Choosing Democracy: The Rift in American Socialism https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-rift-in-american-socialism.html
### Key Points
- Zohran Mamdani's campaign for New York City mayor has faced criticism, particularly regarding the cost of his policies such as universal child care and his association with DSA.
- The DSA is divided into "realists" who seek practical political engagement and "fundamentalists" who oppose compromising on ideological purity.
- The article compares DSA's evolution to Germany's Green Party, which transitioned from a fringe group to a governing coalition partner.
- Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have significantly contributed to the rise of socialism in mainstream U.S. politics by working within the Democratic Party.
- Despite internal divisions, DSA's New York members support Mamdani, recognizing his focus on broader constituencies and pragmatic strategies to win elections.
- Media criticism of Mamdani and DSA often misrepresents their positions, failing to acknowledge the broader public appeal of their policies.
'Antifa Hunting' and the dialectics of fascism Trump demands the jailing of Mayor Johnson and Gov. Pritzker https://klonsky.substack.com/p/antifa-hunting-and-the-dialectics
### Key Points
- Antifascism is a natural response to oppression, rooted in humanity and historical resistance movements.
- President Trump demands the arrest of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker for resisting federal immigration raids.
- Kristi Noem compares Antifa to terrorist organizations, framing it as a domestic threat to justify suppression.
- Historical antifascist efforts, such as the Lincoln Brigade during the Spanish Civil War, are highlighted as genuine resistance against fascism.
- Chicago’s legacy of defiance against oppression is celebrated, showcasing the city as a hub for resistance movements.
- Upcoming discussions with civil rights activists and historians will delve into resistance strategies and dismantling colonial myths.
Nearly Nine Months In: How The Administration Is Failing America’s Children https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/nearly-nine-months-in-how-the-administration
### Key Points
- The Trump administration's policies are undermining critical programs like Medicaid, CHIP, Head Start, and public health initiatives, directly harming children and families.
- The Department of Education is targeted for elimination, with its functions being relocated or phased out, threatening essential support for children with disabilities, low-income students, and civil rights protections.
- Cuts to early childhood programs, pediatric medical research, and mental health services are worsening outcomes for children at a time of increasing need.
- Vaccine skepticism and misinformation promoted by leadership are eroding public trust and increasing public health risks for children.
- Advocates emphasize the urgent need to protect children’s health, education, and safety, calling for public action to reverse these harmful policies.
Jersey Jazzman: When It Comes To School Finance, Ciattarelli Doesn't Know Jack: Part 1 https://jerseyjazzman.blogspot.com/2025/10/when-it-comes-to-school-finance.html
### Key Points
- Jack Ciattarelli's campaign for governor fails to address key issues like education and taxes effectively, particularly regarding school finance.
- Ciattarelli proposes revising New Jersey’s school funding formula to lower property taxes but misrepresents Newark's per-pupil spending figures, using inflated data that includes charter school payments.
- Newark requires higher funding due to its high poverty rate and large population of English Language Learners, which Ciattarelli overlooks in his arguments.
- The article criticizes Ciattarelli's lack of fact-checking and suggests his approach mirrors previous Republican governors who mishandled education policies.
