DECEMBER 16, 2025
- Homicide of Director Rob Reiner and Wife: Hollywood director-actor Rob Reiner and his wife Michele were found stabbed to death in their Los Angeles home; authorities are investigating it as a homicide.
- Terrorist Attack at Bondi Beach Hanukkah Event (Impact on U.S.): A shooting near a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, killed at least 16 and injured over 40, prompting vigils and statements in the U.S., including from Jewish communities and officials.
- University Shootings: A shooting at Kentucky State University left one dead and one critically injured; separately, reports of a Brown University incident with casualties.
- President Trump Signs Executive Order on Fentanyl: Classified fentanyl as a "weapon of mass destruction" during a border defense ceremony.
- Obamacare Subsidies Set to Expire: Republican-controlled Congress is poised to let enhanced Affordable Care Act tax subsidies lapse, potentially spiking insurance costs nationwide.
- U.S. Supreme Court on Texas Redistricting: Permitted Texas to use its redrawn congressional map for 2026 midterms, staying a lower court ruling on racial gerrymandering.
- Trump Administration Policies: Ongoing tariff relief for farmers ($12 billion announced), visa overhauls affecting higher education, and fentanyl executive order.
- Health Care and Immigration Developments: Debates over ICE actions in courtrooms and VA health care job cuts.
- Terrorist Attack in Australia: Two gunmen opened fire at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah event, killing at least 16 (including a gunman) and injuring over 40; declared a terrorist incident.
- Australia's Social Media Ban for Under-16s Takes Effect: Major platforms restricted for minors, with potential fines; challenges filed, including by Reddit.
- Ongoing Ukraine-Russia Conflict: Russian missile strike on Dnipro killed four and injured 40; U.S. discussing security guarantees for potential peace deal.
- IMF Aid to Pakistan: Approved $1.2 billion release for economic recovery.
- Faroe Islands Legalizes Abortion: Narrow 17-16 vote to allow within first 12 weeks.
- Trump Administration Moves on Department of Education: Significant steps toward eliminating the U.S. Department of Education, impacting federal oversight.
- Australia's Social Media Age Restriction: Ban on platforms for under-16s effective, raising debates on youth access and safety.
- Higher Education Reforms: Proposals to merge India's UGC, AICTE, and NCTE into a single regulator; U.S. challenges for undocumented students intensify.
- AI in Education: Growing use of AI tools in classrooms, including for special education IEPs and literacy grants.
- Delayed Economic Data Releases: Due to government shutdown, key jobs, inflation, and retail sales reports rescheduled, creating uncertainty; November jobs report delayed to December 16.
- Federal Reserve Actions: Third rate cut of 2025 amid slowing labor market and lingering inflation from tariffs.
- U.S. Growth Projections: Expected 1.9-2.0% GDP growth in 2025, with policy uncertainty from tariffs and shutdown effects.
- Global Developments: IMF aid to Pakistan; competitive markets boosting Latin America per IDB.
- Australia's Under-16 Social Media Ban: Enforced on major platforms, shifting users potentially to less regulated sites; Meta criticizes it for reducing safety.
- AI and Tech Funding/Developments: High venture funding in AI startups; concerns over AI in medicine and entertainment deals (e.g., Disney-OpenAI).
- Oracle Earnings Miss: Revenue shortfall and negative cash flow impacted tech stocks.
- South Korea AI Ad Labeling: Requires labels on AI-generated ads to curb deepfakes.
- Brain Health and Lifestyle Factors: New research shows optimism, sleep, and social support can reduce brain's "true age"; Ozempic linked to potential brain benefits.
- Mental Health in Children: In-person schooling during COVID reduced anxiety, depression, and ADHD diagnoses compared to remote learning.
- Vaccine and FDA Developments: Discussions on testosterone decline; approvals for new treatments like at-home depression devices.
- Aging and Nutrition: Cocoa compounds may slow biological aging; peanuts linked to better brain blood flow.
- NFL Injuries: Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes diagnosed with torn ACL; playoffs impacted as Chargers eliminate Chiefs.
- NBA Cup: Semifinals action, with Oklahoma City's 16-game streak ending; final upcoming on December 16-17.
- College Basketball: Top matchups like Arkansas over Texas Tech; women's rankings shifts.
- Other Highlights: Army-Navy game (Navy wins 17-16); ongoing bowl season prep and Heisman reflections.
The War on Public Education Hurts the Most Vulnerable Students https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/15/the-war-on-public-education-hurts-the-most-vulnerable-students/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Privatization and voucher systems are harming public education and disproportionately affecting vulnerable students.
- Public education serves as an equalizer, offering opportunities to all students regardless of socioeconomic status, but is under attack from political and ideological forces.
- The origins of the attack on public education can be traced back to the resistance to desegregation after the Brown v. Board of Education decision.
- Voucher systems and privatization efforts prioritize private and religious schools over public schools, diverting funds and increasing inequality.
- Special education faces significant funding challenges, with the federal government failing to meet its financial obligations, burdening local taxpayers.
- Proposed changes to special education, such as shifting oversight to the Department of Health and Human Services, could undermine progress made in integrating students with disabilities.
- Political leaders in some states are consolidating power and undermining local control, further jeopardizing public education.
Why Indiana Refused to Redistrict to Help GOP Control the House in 2026 https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/15/why-indiana-refused-to-redistrict-to-help-gop-remain-in-control-of-house/ via @dianeravitch
The article discusses the controversy surrounding efforts to redistrict congressional maps in the United States ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Republican strategists aimed to gerrymander districts in red states to secure more seats, while Democratic states responded with their own redistricting plans. Indiana, a Republican stronghold, resisted these efforts due to backlash against aggressive tactics by Trump operatives, including threats and bullying. This resistance led to a significant defeat for Trump, as the proposed map was rejected in the Indiana State Senate.
### Key Points
- Republican strategists pushed for redistricting in red states to secure more Republican seats in Congress, with Texas leading the effort.
- California responded by proposing its own redistricting plan to create more Democratic seats, highlighting the partisan battle over gerrymandering.
- Indiana, despite being a Republican stronghold, rejected the redistricting plan due to opposition from local Republican leaders who resented the pressure and threats from Trump operatives.
- The Indiana State Senate decisively voted down the proposed map, marking a rare defeat for Trump’s influence within the Republican Party.
Big Education Ape: THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT'S GIFT: A STORY OF LOVE, LIGHT, AND WONDER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-holiday-spirits-gift-story-of-love.html
### Key Points
- The ongoing conflict in Gaza is discussed, with concerns about the rebranding of violence and the world's ignorance toward the crisis.
- A mass shooting occurred at Brown University, resulting in fatalities and raising concerns about campus safety.
- A measles outbreak in South Carolina has escalated, leading to quarantines and public health concerns.
- Record flooding in Washington state forced tens of thousands to evacuate, marking one of the worst flooding events on record.
- U.S. troops were reported killed in Syria amid ongoing operations.
- A mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, killed 15 people, raising concerns about antisemitism.
- Studies show mental health diagnoses among students have declined with the return to in-person schooling post-COVID.
- Progress in medical advancements includes a rapid hepatitis C diagnostic test, gene editing for leukemia, and early detection for pancreatic cancer.
- AI was named Time's "Person of the Year," recognizing its significant global impact.
- The 13th anniversary of the Sandy Hook school shooting is marked, with reflections on the lack of gun control progress and the societal normalization of gun violence.
- A satirical proposal suggests tackling gun violence through taxing firearms, mandatory insurance, and a government buyback program.
- Concerns are raised about the influence of billionaires on democracy, public education, and societal structures.
- Universal vouchers in Florida disproportionately favor private school students, causing funding deficits for public schools.
- Tennessee's rejection of the federal Sun Bucks program led to increased food insecurity for children during summer breaks.
- The article critiques far-right indoctrination in K-12 education, highlighting the spread of conspiracy theories and anti-inclusive policies.
- The Trump administration is criticized for policies on immigration, gun control, and foreign policy, with concerns about its alignment with authoritarian regimes and weakening democratic institutions.
- Advocacy for Medicare for All is discussed as a solution to the inefficiencies and inequities in the U.S. healthcare system.
- The article highlights the role of media in spreading misinformation and the societal consequences of prioritizing sensationalism over truth.
- The article reflects on the systemic challenges in addressing gun violence, healthcare reform, and education inequality in the U.S.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: DECEMBER 15, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/morning-news-update-december-15-2025.html
The article also highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, U.S. mass shootings, and global conflicts. Additionally, it discusses the impact of technology on education, economic trends, and health concerns like Long COVID and obesity.
### Key Points
- The article discusses global issues including the Gaza crisis, mass shootings in the U.S., and international conflicts in Syria, Ukraine, and Israel.
- Updates are provided on U.S. politics, including President Trump's policies, Republican pushback, and efforts to engage Latino voters.
- Education topics include the impact of shootings on campus safety, declining international enrollments, and debates on AI and special education.
- Technological advancements like AI funding, crypto developments, and data center transformations are explored.
- Health updates include breakthroughs in diagnostics, mental health trends, and obesity treatment through GLP-1 drugs.
- Sports news covers NFL injuries, college basketball results, and international cricket highlights.
Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/looking-back-week-in-review-sunday_01776661109.html
The article compiles various blog entries and discussions on education, healthcare, democracy, and social justice, highlighting the challenges faced by public education, critiques of political figures, and debates over healthcare and societal inequalities.
### Key Points
- Healthcare debates highlight the push for "Medicare for All" versus privatized systems.
- Critiques of Donald Trump address his policies, rhetoric, and impact on democracy and societal structures.
- Reflections on economic disparities and the influence of billionaires on democracy.
- Advocacy for public education and social justice through blogs, podcasts, and organizations.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 12-7-25 TO 12-13-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-top-news-stories-this-week-12-7-25.html
The article is a comprehensive roundup of various news topics from December 2025, covering education, politics, world affairs, economy, technology, health, and sports. It discusses significant events such as political controversies, educational challenges, healthcare debates, technological advancements, and international conflicts.
A Journalist Describes My Class (Part 1) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/12/15/a-journalist-describes-my-class-part-1/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- Larry Cuban shares an account of a history lesson he taught in 1956, as documented by journalist Martin Mayer in his book.
- The lesson focused on the causes of the Civil War, with Cuban encouraging students to analyze various historians' perspectives and engage in debates.
- Cuban emphasized the importance of critical thinking and understanding how historical interpretations evolve over time.
- He raised the topic of white supremacy and its role in Southern history and Reconstruction.
- Cuban reflects on the challenges of reconstructing past lessons when his memory differs from Mayer's account.
glen brown: "Trump and his team exuberantly violate just about every precept of character that I was ever taught" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/trump-and-his-team-exuberantly-violate.html
### Key Points
- The article criticizes Israel's actions in Gaza, highlighting civilian casualties, destruction of infrastructure, and violations of international agreements.
- It discusses the failure of international bodies, including the UN Security Council, to effectively address the crisis, labeling their actions as morally bankrupt.
- The article critiques the "ceasefire" agreements, citing frequent violations by Israel and the lack of adherence to stipulated conditions.
- Israel’s policies in Gaza are described as ethnic cleansing, with statistics on civilian deaths, malnutrition, and the destruction of residential areas.
- The piece explores the role of the U.S. and other powerful nations in supporting Israel's actions, including military aid and political backing.
- The article warns of broader implications for global justice, suggesting that the situation in Gaza may reflect a grim future for humanity amid climate change and rising inequality.
glen brown: “Nobody celebrates the murder of perceived enemies quite like Trump" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/nobody-celebrates-murder-of-perceived.html
Teacher Tom: Our Discussion About "Bad Guys" http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/12/our-discussion-about-bad-guys.html
### Key Points
- Preschoolers engaged in "bad guy" play, which caused fear among some children.
- A democratic discussion was initiated to address the issue, with children voicing opinions on banning or modifying the play.
- The compromise allowed "bad guys" to act like "good guys," balancing fun and emotional safety.
- The resolution demonstrated the power of listening, empathy, and consensus-building in a play-based learning environment.
Weekend Quotables A culture of war and violence MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-634
### Key Points
- The article reflects on two mass shootings: one at Brown University in the U.S., attributed to America's endemic gun violence, and another antisemitic attack in Australia, linked to the ongoing war in Gaza.
- The violence is contextualized within a global climate of fear, polarization, and the glorification of violence by political leaders like Trump.
- The author emphasizes the need for justice through independent investigations and warns against exploiting these events to stigmatize communities or infringe on civil liberties.
- The article discusses the broader impact of war on global violence, suggesting that while not every act is caused by it, war shapes the environment for such acts.
- Quotations from various public figures highlight themes of democracy, economic growth, and civil liberties, contrasting authoritarianism with progressive leadership.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Conversation on SOFG from the December 10, 2025 Bo... https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/12/conversation-on-sofg-from-december-10.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- Director Liza Rankin emphasized the importance of policy creation and accountability but faced criticism for inconsistent actions regarding committee oversight.
- Director Gina Topp was reelected as Board President, with debates over the role and authority of the president and other leadership positions.
- Director Vivian Song expressed dissatisfaction with the governance framework, questioning its effectiveness and raising concerns about its impact on district operations.
- Director Evan Briggs provided a neutral stance on the SOFG model, stating that governance frameworks are necessary but avoiding strong opinions on the current model.
- Director Rankin criticized the misuse of the SOFG model, claiming it has been weaponized and is no longer in use, while advocating for a new governance framework.
- A tense exchange highlighted differing perspectives on the SOFG model's implementation and its impact on staff interactions with board members.
- The article critiques the Board's leadership and decision-making process, calling for more open discussions and reforms in governance practices.
CURMUDGUCATION: Zeroing Making Public Ed https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/12/zeroing-making-public-ed.html
### Key Points
- The Department of Education, under Linda McMahon, has been influenced by far-right groups advocating for school vouchers and privatization, aiming to dismantle public education.
- The Heritage Foundation's Lindsey Burke envisions a future where the majority of children are in private school choice programs, emphasizing individual parental responsibility in education.
- The department's hires include operatives from conservative groups like Defending Education and America First Policy Institute, which promote anti-public education agendas.
- Tiffany Justice, a political operative, explicitly stated her goal of reducing public school enrollment to zero, reflecting the broader aim of ending public education.
- The article critiques these efforts as ideologically driven, aiming to remove government oversight, reduce societal responsibility, and promote religious influence in education.
The Undemocratic School Primer PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/the-undemocratic-school-primer
### Key Points
- The article contrasts two educational premises: one based on equality and opportunity for all, and the other on hierarchical societal structures where some individuals are deemed more valuable than others.
- The egalitarian premise focuses on providing equal opportunities for all students, including special resources for those with unique needs.
- The hierarchical premise supports a system where schools sort individuals into societal roles, emphasizing obedience and compliance for those deemed "Lessers."
- This ideology promotes limited education for "Lessers," focusing on marketable skills, while "Betters" receive broader liberal education.
- Advocates of this hierarchical approach, like Betsy DeVos, support school choice but envision it as reinforcing societal tiers rather than fostering diversity.
- The article critiques the Betterist ideology, which opposes democracy and civil rights, and highlights its negative impact on education and society.
- It notes the challenge of engaging in meaningful discussions with Betterists due to their fundamentally different values and views on education.
When Someone Make a Big Mess and You Disagree on How to Fix It – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/12/15/when-someone-make-a-big-mess-and-you-disagree-on-how-to-fix-it/
### Key Points
- Leadership often requires addressing problems created by others while maintaining integrity and focusing on what can still be done well.
- Understanding the nature of the issue is crucial, as different problems require different approaches. Observing and identifying the root cause of the problem is a form of leadership.
- Effective disagreement involves respectful communication, focusing on community purpose, and knowing when to stop reiterating concerns to maintain credibility.
- Everyday leaders prioritize protecting people and the purpose of their work, even when disappointed by higher leadership.
- Leaders should set boundaries, avoid overburdening themselves, and allow strain to surface to reveal systemic challenges.
- Deciding whether to stay or leave depends on whether the situation aligns with one’s values and integrity. Leaving should be deliberate and dignified.
- Everyday leadership is characterized by humility, patience, and quiet resilience, fostering trust and sustainable change without seeking recognition.
Ending Public Schools IS The Goal Conservatives aren't even trying to hide it ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/ending-public-schools-is-the-goal
- The Trump administration's education agenda, influenced by the Heritage Foundation, aims to end public education by promoting school vouchers and diminishing federal involvement.
- Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 advocates for private school choice programs, erasing LGBTQ representation, and turning federal education funds into block grants.
- Tiffany Justice, a Heritage Action hire, openly supports eliminating public education and hopes for zero children in public schools.
- In Tennessee, advocacy group Tennessee Leads aims to significantly reduce public school enrollment by promoting Education Freedom scholarships and expanding charter schools.
- The overarching goal of these initiatives is not fairness or improving competition but ending public education entirely.
The 6th Day of Boobsmas I'll take a kinky night with Krampus and a pan of PMS bars for $1200, Alex. KELLY REYNOLDS https://authorkellyrey.substack.com/p/the-6th-day-of-boobsmas
### Key Points
- The sixth day of "Boobsmas" focuses on community, comfort, and festive self-reflection, with playful discussions about holiday fantasies and polls.
- Readers are encouraged to share holiday-themed confessions, such as favorite romance tropes or memorable moments, fostering a judgment-free space for romance lovers.
- Holiday romance book recommendations are provided, including "Taylor" by Mary Warren and "Coming for Christmas" by Lizzie B. Brown, featuring cozy, diverse, and spicy stories.
- Additional content includes exclusive NSFW art, sneak peeks at upcoming books, and a welcoming Facebook group for romance enthusiasts.
- Access to Kelly Reynolds' novellas and exclusive sapphic content is available through her Substack.
Hospital Crisis Watch: Republican Health Care Cuts Threaten Communities’ “Very Existence” As Pressure Mounts Nationwide — Protect Our Care https://www.protectourcare.org/hospital-crisis-watch-republican-health-care-cuts-threaten-communities-very-existence-as-pressure-mounts-nationwide/
