NOVEMBER 12, 2025
- President Trump announced plans for the government to distribute checks to Americans using revenue from tariffs, potentially reshaping fiscal policy amid ongoing economic debates.
- The record-breaking federal government shutdown, lasting six weeks, is nearing its end as Congress advances a reopening deal, easing immediate pressures on federal workers and services.
- President Trump marked Veterans Day with a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, honoring service members while highlighting military priorities for his administration.
- An early winter storm is disrupting travel and power across multiple states, prompting emergency declarations in the Midwest and Northeast.
- Congress is one vote away from ending the six-week government shutdown, with bipartisan negotiations focusing on border security funding and disaster relief.
- A progressive candidate is on the brink of victory in Seattle's mayoral race, signaling shifts in local Democratic politics amid national divides.
- President Trump's administration faces lawsuits over a new rule limiting student loan forgiveness for public servants, drawing criticism from education advocates.
- Investigations intensify into a violent incident at a major university, with the Justice Department probing security lapses and potential civil rights violations.
- Top G7 diplomats gathered in Canada to address escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, focusing on tariffs and supply chain disruptions.
- China outlined four "red lines" in international relations, primarily centered on Taiwan sovereignty and green energy leadership, amid global climate talks.
- The IDF conducted strikes on Hezbollah targets, while President Trump announced policy shifts on Syria and a new reconstruction plan for Gaza.
- Euronews reports rising global concerns over U.S. tariff policies impacting international markets and alliances.
- An Indiana school district is suing the state AG over claims it "thwarted" ICE operations, highlighting tensions between local policies and federal immigration enforcement.
- Experts debate the relevance of SAT and ACT scores in college admissions, with many schools moving toward test-optional policies post-pandemic.
- Dual enrollment programs are expanding rapidly, allowing high school students to earn college credits, but raising questions about equity and quality control.
- A review finds no link between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism in children, easing long-standing parental concerns. (Note: Cross-category relevance on health impacts to education.)
- UBS warns of a weakening labor market with "recession-level" hiring and firing trends, urging caution despite surface-level stability.
- The Dow Jones surged over 500 points to a record close, driven by post-shutdown optimism and strong earnings in tech and finance sectors.
- The end of the government shutdown is expected to release pent-up economic data, potentially revealing impacts on GDP and consumer spending.
- A new survey shows Americans' economic outlook has worsened due to the shutdown, with inflation fears and job insecurity at the forefront.
- Meta's Chief AI Scientist Yann LeCun announced plans to leave and start his own venture, sparking speculation on AI talent shifts.
- CoreWeave shares plummeted after delays in a major data center project, highlighting risks in the AI infrastructure boom.
- SoftBank's $5.8 billion sale of Nvidia shares reignites fears of an AI investment bubble, as market volatility increases.
- Japanese researchers developed a stem cell therapy from fat tissue that repairs osteoporosis-related spinal fractures, offering hope for elderly patients.
- A comprehensive review confirms no causal link between prenatal Tylenol exposure and autism spectrum disorders, based on large-scale studies.
- Exposure to the dry cleaning chemical PCE may triple the risk of liver fibrosis, prompting calls for stricter regulations and worker protections.
- Elevated levels of a heart damage biomarker could signal increased cardiovascular risk, even in asymptomatic individuals, per new diagnostic research.
- Ole Miss edged Memphis 83-77 in a thrilling college basketball matchup, with Ilias Kamardine leading the Rebels with 26 points.
- College football's Week 12 saw top-ranked Ohio State remain undefeated at 8-0, while Indiana holds strong at 9-0 in the AP Poll.
- NBA action featured wins for the Lakers (121-111 over Charlotte), Bucks (116-114 vs. Dallas), and Spurs (121-117 at Chicago).
- Day three of the ATP Finals in Turin highlights key tennis matches, with top seeds battling for semifinal spots.
Andy Spears: New Group in Tennessee Seeks to Eliminate Public Schools https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/11/andy-spears-new-group-in-tennessee-seeks-to-eliminate-public-schools/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Tennessee Leads seeks to shift nearly 500,000 students from public schools to charter and voucher schools by 2031.
- The plan would cost at least $1.5 billion annually, significantly reducing funding for public schools or increasing local taxes.
- The organization advocates for Direct Instruction, a teaching method criticized for being ineffective and potentially harmful to student learning.
- Political ties to Tennessee Republicans and Governor Bill Lee suggest an agenda of privatization despite evidence of failures in similar programs.
Colorado: Voters Like Their Public Schools https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/11/colorado-voters-like-their-public-schools/ via @dianeravitch
Colorado voters showed strong support for public schools in recent elections, with pro-public school candidates winning key school board races despite significant spending by pro-charter advocates. The elections highlighted tensions between public education supporters and proponents of charter schools and privatization efforts. Voters also approved measures to fund school nutrition programs through tax increases on high-income earners, signaling a commitment to supporting student well-being. Upcoming political contests, including the governor's race, will further shape the future of public education and taxation in Colorado.
### Key Points
- Colorado voters backed pro-public school candidates in school board elections, rejecting heavily funded pro-charter candidates.
- Denver voters opposed efforts by wealthy donors and advocacy groups to flip the school board toward a pro-charter majority.
- Public school supporters won notable victories in Douglas County and Pueblo County, reflecting diverse political dynamics.
- Statewide measures to fund school nutrition programs were approved, with affluent taxpayers contributing more to close funding gaps.
- The upcoming governor's race will address issues like public school funding, charter school governance, and potential tax reforms.
New Hampshire: Voucher Program Grows Beyond Its Budget; 80% of Vouchers Used by Students Enrolled in Private Schools https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/11/new-hampshire-voucher-program-grows-beyond-its-budget-80-of-vouchers-used-by-students-enrolled-in-private-schools/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The New Hampshire voucher program, "Education Freedom Accounts," has exceeded its budget and is expected to grow further as income limits are removed.
- 80% of students using vouchers in New Hampshire were never enrolled in public schools, with similar trends in other states.
- The program is projected to cost significantly more than budgeted, with a $26.7 million shortfall for the biennium.
- The percentage of low-income students benefiting from the program has dropped, while more students needing special education or English language services are enrolling.
- An audit of the program is underway, revealing issues with oversight and eligibility documentation.
- Critics argue the program lacks accountability and primarily subsidizes private and religious school tuition, while proponents claim parents are the best judges of educational quality.
Harsh Medicine from Unity... ...as retirees in huge numbers are denied medications ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/harsh-medicine-from-unity
### Key Points
- Unity misled educators into contracts with hidden health-related drawbacks, leading to retirees being denied medications.
- Retirees received letters about medication exclusions, but the health committee failed to demand detailed formulary information.
- Appeals for rejected medications are possible but burdensome, with low appeal rates benefiting healthcare corporations financially.
- The author criticizes Unity for prioritizing appearances over members' welfare and calls for collective learning and accountability.
- The article underscores the systemic issues in healthcare, where corporate profits take precedence over patient needs.
As an Institution, Public Education Is the Very Definition of Our Society's Civic Vision https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/11/11/as-an-institution-public-education-represents-our-societys-civic-vision/ via @janresseger
Public education, as an institution, embodies the civic vision of democracy and equality in America. The article explores the ongoing cultural and political conflicts over national identity, contrasting civic ideals of inclusivity and equality with ethno-nationalist perspectives. It highlights the historical struggle for equal educational opportunities, from the Civil Rights Movement to the present, emphasizing the role of public schools in protecting civil rights. Privatization and "educational freedom" are critiqued as threats to this civic vision, undermining equity and inclusiveness in education.
### Key Points
- Public education is fundamental to the nation's civic vision, promoting equality and democracy.
- America's identity is shaped by conflicting narratives: one of inclusive civic ideals and another of exclusive ethno-nationalism.
- Historical milestones like Brown v. Board of Education have advanced equal educational opportunities, but challenges persist.
- Privatization and "educational freedom" initiatives are criticized for undermining public education's role in ensuring equity.
The Hidden Costs of Being Ruled by the Politicians – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/11/11/the-hidden-costs-of-being-ruled-by-the-right-wing/
### Key Points
- Economic policies, such as tariffs, raise costs for average Americans while benefiting corporations and political elites.
- The "toll-booth presidency" model uses subsidies and relief payments as political tools, creating dependency and higher prices for the public.
- Politicians use scapegoats like immigrants or environmentalists to distract from policies that funnel wealth upward.
- Immigration restrictions raise production costs, contributing to inflation, while maintaining a political narrative of fear.
- Rising household debt, fueled by stagnant wages and privatized services, benefits financial institutions and entrenches inequality.
- Automation and AI threaten middle-class jobs, intensifying economic polarization and dependence on debt.
- Ownership of valuable assets is increasingly concentrated among corporations, leading to "digital feudalism" and reduced economic democracy.
- Political rhetoric shifts blame for economic struggles onto cultural grievances, sustaining inequality and corporate control.
- The author advocates for broad-based ownership, public investment, fair immigration policies, and a robust social safety net to counter these trends.
Teacher autonomy, collaboration, and advocacy for students: English learners do better Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- A study of New York City high schools serving immigrant English learners (ELs) identified teacher autonomy, collaboration, and collective responsibility as key factors for student success.
- Schools with high levels of teacher collaboration showed the strongest academic outcomes for ELs, with significant differences in credit attainment ratios.
- Researchers suggest focusing on teacher support and creating collaborative environments rather than solely prioritizing language acquisition.
Disparities in Early Reading Difficulties
- Black, Hispanic, and Native American elementary students are more likely to struggle with reading compared to white and Asian peers, with gaps appearing as early as kindergarten.
- Early reading difficulties correlate with adverse life outcomes such as bullying, incarceration, and unemployment.
- Family socioeconomic status and academic/cognitive skills at kindergarten entry are consistent predictors of reading struggles.
Mental Health Crisis Among International Students
- Anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among international students in U.S. colleges have sharply increased from 2015 to 2024, while counseling service utilization remains inadequate.
- Factors such as academic pressure, financial hardship, and cultural adjustment contribute to mental distress, with female students showing higher vulnerability.
- Researchers recommend culturally competent counseling, peer support networks, and AI-assisted mental health tools to address the issue.
Other Studies
- Immigrant students in U.S. colleges tend to work in large firms or self-employment, with earnings surpassing native peers, reflecting productive sorting.
- Video watching negatively impacts children’s noncognitive skills but has mixed effects on cognitive skills, with positive impacts noted for Hispanic children.
- Faculty sexual misconduct significantly reduces degree completion in affected fields, especially incidents post-2015.
- Immigration enforcement in 2025 negatively impacted Spanish-speaking students’ academic performance and disciplinary involvement.
Teacher Tom: Today is Veteran's Day https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/11/today-is-veterans-day.html
### Key Points
- War has been a constant backdrop in American lives, affecting multiple generations.
- Veterans and their families face immense stress, even during times without active wars.
- Many veterans struggle with unemployment, with rates significantly higher than the general population.
- Veterans face systemic challenges, including mental health crises and exploitation by financial institutions.
- The author critiques the societal and political failures in supporting veterans and calls for systemic changes.
- Honoring veterans means focusing on diplomacy, justice, and creating a society that values peace over war.
glen brown: Babyn Yar Massacre https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/babyn-yar-massacre.html
### Key Points
- The Babyn Yar Massacre in Kyiv during WWII was one of the largest massacres of Jews, with over 33,000 victims in two days, and a total of 100,000–150,000 people killed during the German occupation. The site is now a Holocaust memorial.
- Post-war Soviet suppression of Jewish victim acknowledgment and Ukraine's efforts post-independence to honor victims and recognize the Jewish dimension of the tragedy.
- Commentary on various social and political topics, including pensions, U.S. politics, social justice, and historical memory.
- Reflections on the role of writers and the importance of resisting oppression, as quoted by figures like Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
glen brown: Veterans Day, November 11, 2025 https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/veterans-day-november-11-2025.html
This article is a collection of reflections, critiques, and observations on a wide range of topics, written by Glen Brown. It includes political commentary, social justice issues, literary references, and personal musings. The content emphasizes resistance to oppression, critiques of authoritarianism, and advocacy for fairness and justice.
### Key Points
- The writer highlights the importance of resisting oppression and maintaining an independent perspective, referencing Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
- Criticism of Donald Trump’s actions and rhetoric, particularly regarding his treatment of soldiers and disregard for constitutional principles.
- Commentary on various social justice issues, including pensions, healthcare, education reform, and environmental concerns.
- Reflections on historical and current events, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Ukraine, and the Babyn Yar Massacre.
- Discussion of socioeconomic issues like wealth inequality, corporate reliance on welfare, and corruption in politics.
- Observations on adjunct faculty conditions in higher education and calls for reform.
- Advocacy for mass movements and alternative centers of power to counter authoritarianism.
The Zombie Politics of Merit Pay for Teachers https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/11/11/the-zombie-politics-of-merit-pay-for-teachers/ via @plthomasEdD
### Key Points
- Merit pay for teachers, a recurring education reform policy, has consistently failed to deliver promised outcomes and often leads to negative consequences.
- Research shows that competition, which is central to merit pay, is incompatible with effective teaching, which thrives on collaboration and cooperation.
- Teacher performance is difficult to evaluate objectively due to the wide range of student abilities and the reliance on standardized testing, which is often inequitable.
- Studies reveal that external factors like family income and social capital significantly impact student performance, making merit pay an ineffective solution.
- Broader social policies, such as universal healthcare and food security, are more impactful on education than performance-based teacher incentives.
Maddow: Democrats snatch defeat from the jaws of victory (again) http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/11/maddow-democrats-snatch-defeat-from.html
- Rachel Maddow discusses how Democrats lost political momentum after a strong election and protests, faltering in the shutdown fight with Republicans, leading to disillusionment among supporters. Senator Bernie Sanders critiques the Democratic establishment and discusses future plans.
- Various topics related to education and politics are highlighted, including poverty's impact on education, criticism of standardized testing, and concerns about corporate influence in education reform.
- A list of political and educational issues, such as Senate actions, early voting, and significant political wins, is mentioned.
- Historical archives of articles and reviews are cited, covering topics like testing, educational policy, and systemic inequality in education.
- The article mentions essays and reviews on teacher growth, literacy, education reforms, and critiques of policies like No Child Left Behind.
WELL, THERE YOU GO AGAIN THE NEVER-ENDING SAGA OF AMERICAN HEALTHCARE https://ru4people.substack.com/p/well-there-you-go-again
### Key Points
- The article humorously critiques the ongoing and cyclical debates over healthcare in America, likening it to a never-ending soap opera.
- The core of the debate revolves around whether healthcare is a right or a privilege, with the U.S. healthcare system being a complex mix of public and private interests.
- A historical overview highlights failed attempts at healthcare reform, from Teddy Roosevelt’s early 1900s proposals to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) under Barack Obama.
- Medicare for All is presented as a potential solution, aiming to simplify the system and provide universal coverage, though it faces strong opposition due to ideological and financial interests.
- Critics argue about the high cost of Medicare for All, but proponents suggest it would save money long-term by reducing administrative waste and negotiating lower drug prices.
- The article emphasizes the need for immediate action to phase in Medicare for All, starting with vulnerable groups, to address the systemic issues in U.S. healthcare.
MORNING NEWS UPDATE: NOVEMBER 11, 2025 - by MIKE SIMPSON https://ru4people.substack.com/p/morning-news-update-november-11-2025
### Key Points
- The U.S. Senate passed a compromise bill to end the longest government shutdown, with the measure heading to the House for approval.
- President Trump proposed distributing tariff revenue as direct checks to Americans, though critics warn of potential implementation issues.
- Air travel disruptions persist due to the shutdown, with airlines warning delays may continue even after it ends.
- A San Francisco clinic shows promise in addressing drug-fueled public mental health crises, offering a potential urban intervention model.
- Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) starting January 2026.
- Bipartisan outrage emerged after President Trump issued several high-profile pardons before the shutdown resolution.
- Rising trade tensions and global supply chain issues were key topics at the G7 meeting in Canada.
- Israeli forces struck Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, and unrest grows in Iran amid economic pressures.
- Typhoon Fung-wong caused evacuations and fatalities in the Philippines, while a deadly attack occurred in Pakistan.
- AI integration in education received $167 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Education.
- Economists predict rising layoffs and unemployment despite stock market optimism following the shutdown resolution.
- A CRISPR-based gene therapy shows promise in reducing cholesterol levels, and new research links coffee consumption to lower atrial fibrillation risk.
- An infant botulism outbreak linked to baby formula has resulted in six deaths across 10 U.S. states.
- The ICC announced venues for the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals and finals in India.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: This and That, November 11, 2025 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/11/this-and-that-november-11-2025.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- Seattle Public Schools is forming a School Day Task Force to evaluate school day organization and invites diverse participation.
- Ben Shuldiner has been nominated as the next SPS Superintendent, emphasizing transparency and collaboration.
- Enrollment Information Sessions will be held to simplify the Open Enrollment for School Choice process.
- A new state tax law impacts school district finances, raising concerns among education leaders.
- Safety concerns arise over the deteriorating towers at Gas Works Park after multiple accidents, including fatalities.
- Allegations of nepotism within SPS highlight questionable personnel decisions and promotions.
Excerpts or Whole Books? PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/excerpts-or-whole-books
### Key Points
- The debate between excerpts and whole books in literacy education persists, with testing being identified as a key issue.
- Historically, textbooks relied on excerpts and short works, but incorporating complete works often required moving beyond standard materials.
- Standardized testing has led to a focus on low-quality excerpts for test preparation, which undermines deeper literacy development.
- True literacy involves understanding themes, ambiguity, and depth in full works, which standardized tests fail to measure.
- Combining excerpts and whole books in instruction can balance depth and breadth, but the quality of selected works is crucial.
- The current testing model, based on industrial quality control, is damaging to education and fails to assess meaningful literacy.
Donald Trump, The Epstein Files, and “60 Minutes” | The Merrow Report https://themerrowreport.com/2025/11/11/donald-trump-the-epstein-files-and-60-minutes/
### Key Points
- The article highlights the long-standing but unexamined relationship between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, and the lack of media scrutiny on the matter.
- "60 Minutes" failed to ask Trump about the Epstein Files during a 90-minute interview, raising questions about journalistic integrity and possible pre-interview agreements.
- Speaker of the House Mike Johnson shut down the House to avoid a vote on releasing the Epstein Files, further protecting Trump.
- The article criticizes "60 Minutes" and other media outlets for failing to hold Trump accountable and for avoiding controversial topics.
- The author shares a personal anecdote about learning the importance of refusing pre-set conditions in interviews to maintain journalistic standards.
Bovino's Chicago exit after the city pushes back and temperatures drop Was it something we said? MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/bovinos-chicago-exit-after-the-city
### Key Points
- Federal Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino leaves Chicago after public outrage, legal scrutiny, and a failed narrative. His departure was marked by a controversial ICE selfie at a tourist spot, criticized as fascist propaganda.
- Bovino's deployment to Chicago, named “Operation Midway Blitz,” was seen as political theater targeting Democratic cities. Over 1,000 migrants were arrested, with many facing deportation without due process.
- U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis exposed Bovino for lying under oath regarding the use of tear gas and imposed penalties, though some were softened on appeal.
- Claims about gang threats against ICE were unsubstantiated, and community resistance to ICE actions was evident.
- ICE remains in Chicago suburbs, but Bovino and his team are being redeployed to other cities. Community protests and resistance played a role in pushing back against ICE operations.
- Activist groups continue to organize protests against ICE, emphasizing the importance of protecting the right to protest and resisting federal immigration enforcement.
California Charter Schools Heading for 2026 | tultican https://tultican.com/2025/11/11/california-charter-schools-heading-for-2026/
### Key Points
- California's charter school system has been marred by fraud, such as the A3 scandal, where over $400 million was stolen from the state education budget.
- Billionaires like Reed Hastings and the Walton family have played a significant role in funding and advancing the charter school movement.
- Despite large investments, charter school growth has slowed, and many schools face closures due to instability.
- Audits have revealed financial mismanagement, conflicts of interest, and corruption in some charter schools, including inflated attendance figures and unqualified hires.
- Political battles over reforming charter school laws, such as AB 84 and SB 414, have resulted in limited progress, with Governor Newsom vetoing a recent bill for falling short.
Why Child Advocates Must Reclaim Social Media and How We Can Do It Children are often missing from the conversation and debate: let's make them visible. BRUCE LESLEY https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/why-child-advocates-must-reclaim
### Key Points
- Social media can be used for good or bad, but child advocates have largely withdrawn from platforms like Twitter/X, leaving space for misinformation and divisive narratives to dominate.
- Anti-vaccine misinformation and fabricated controversies have taken precedence on social media, harming public health and education.
- Disengagement from social media by child advocates has allowed culture wars to overshadow children’s issues, but progressive voices are beginning to return to platforms like Twitter/X.
- Advocacy requires consistency and presence, not outrage or performance, to make children’s issues visible and focus on real concerns.
- Advocates must build curated feeds, use the “Following” tab instead of algorithm-driven “For You” feeds, and create lists of relevant accounts to limit toxic content and amplify meaningful discussions.
- Engagement strategies include liking, replying, and sharing posts about children’s issues, tagging stakeholders, and using hashtags like #InvestInKids and #VoicesForKids to increase visibility.
- Younger generations, including men under 39, are more receptive to child policy issues, but they need to see these issues raised in social media discussions to take action.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has successfully increased its social media presence to advocate for children’s health and well-being, setting an example for others.
- Collective advocacy, collaboration, and strategic use of social media can shift algorithms and attention toward children’s needs.
- The author invites collaboration and encourages advocates to actively engage on platforms, share resources, and amplify each other’s work to reclaim the digital space for children.
Choosing Democracy: How AI Is Taking Over Politics https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/11/how-ai-is-taking-over-politics.html
- The article discusses the unchecked development of AI, driven by corporate greed rather than public guidance or oversight, raising concerns about its impact on humanity.
- Comments from readers highlight ethical concerns and skepticism about AI, with some equating its development to capitalism-driven greed and others questioning its quality compared to natural intelligence.
- The author encourages sharing a video discussing these issues, aiming to raise awareness about the implications of AI development.
- Additional unrelated discussions in the article touch on political topics, including criticism of Trump and media coverage.
Former President Obama surprises veterans on honor flight to DC for Veterans Day
Former President Barack Obama greets veterans arriving in DC, thanking them and gifting Presidential Challenge coins. https://www.usatoday.com/videos/news/2025/11/11/obama-surprises-veterans-on-honor-flight-to-dc-for-veterans-day/87218768007/
