DECEMBER 26, 2025
- Epstein Files Delay: The Justice Department discovered over a million additional documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, delaying their release by weeks.
- Powerball Jackpot Winner: A ticket in Arkansas won the massive Powerball jackpot, ending a three-month drought without a top-prize winner.
- Federal Holidays Extended: President Trump signed an executive order granting federal workers paid days off on Christmas Eve and December 26, 2025.
- Stock Markets Reopen Strong: Wall Street reopened post-Christmas with the Dow and S&P 500 hitting record highs amid optimism over Fed rate cuts.
- U.S. Strike on ISIS in Nigeria: President Trump announced a military strike targeting ISIS militants accused of attacking Christians in Nigeria.
- Epstein Documents Surge: Ongoing revelations and delays in releasing over a million new Epstein-related files dominate political discourse.
- Democrats Repositioning: Democrats are attempting to redefine themselves as "disrupters" against the status quo under Republican control.
- Immigration Policy Changes: The U.S. suspended the Diversity Immigrant Visa program following revelations about a shooting suspect.
- U.S.-Jordan Airstrikes in Syria: Joint strikes hit 70 Islamic State targets in retaliation for attacks.
- Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Continued Russian drone and missile strikes on Ukraine, including on Christmas Day.
- North Korea Submarine Progress: Unveiling of a completed nuclear-powered submarine hull amid regional tensions.
- Yemen Detainee Exchange: Houthis and government forces released nearly 2,900 detainees in a UN-mediated deal.
- China-India-U.S. Tensions: China accused the U.S. of distorting its defense policy to hinder improving China-India relations.
- AI and Tech Courses Boom: Generative AI, data science, and cybersecurity topped learner choices in India and globally in 2025.
- U.S. School Challenges: Budget cuts, layoffs, and leadership changes marked K-12 and higher education news.
- CTET Registration Reopens: India's Central Board of Secondary Education reopened applications for the teacher eligibility test.
- Out-of-School Children Rise: Estimates increased to 26 million in some regions, highlighting ongoing access issues.
- U.S. Q3 GDP Surge: Economy grew at a robust 4.3% annualized rate, driven by consumer spending and exports.
- Stock Records: Dow and S&P 500 closed at all-time highs post-Christmas, fueled by AI optimism.
- Jobless Growth Concerns: Strong GDP contrasted with rising unemployment and stalled hiring.
- China Growth Downgrade: Think tank estimates China's 2025 growth at 2.5-3%, far below official targets.
- Consumer Sentiment Dip: Inflation, tariffs, and politics weighed on U.S. confidence.
- Nvidia-Groq Deal: Nvidia licensed Groq's AI inference technology and hired key executives.
- Big Tech India Investments: Amazon, Microsoft, and Google pledged over $67 billion for AI data centers and training.
- AI Infrastructure Stocks Soar: Companies like Lumentum and Seagate outperformed Nvidia in 2025 gains.
- TikTok U.S. Operations Shift: Binding agreements handed control to U.S. investors to avoid a ban.
- GLP-1 Pill Approvals: New weight-loss pills expected to accelerate food industry shifts toward healthier options.
- Medicare Drug Price Cuts: Negotiated lower prices for key medications take effect in 2026.
- Alzheimer's Breakthroughs: Advances in vaccines and treatments showed promise in trials.
- Global Health Milestones: Several countries achieved elimination of mother-to-child transmission of diseases like HIV and hepatitis B.
- NFL Christmas Games: Highlighted matchups included Vikings over Lions and Cowboys over Commanders.
- College Football Bowls: Ongoing 2025-26 bowl season, with playoff implications.
- NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers seeking defense; Bucks eyeing Zach LaVine amid active deadline buzz.
- Ashes Cricket: Australia prepares for Boxing Day Test against England with key decisions.
- World Juniors Hockey: Tournament kicks off December 26 in Minnesota.
On This Holy Day, Think About the Machinery of Cruelty All Around Us https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/on-this-holy-day-think-about-the-machinery-of-cruelty-all-around-us/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch reflects on Christmas as a day of peace and love while highlighting societal cruelty, particularly in the Trump administration's handling of immigration.
- Comparisons are made to historical events like Nazi persecution and the Japanese-American internment camps, emphasizing the severity of current policies.
- Readers discuss their concerns and ask what actions can be taken, including protesting, documenting wrongdoing, and joining local groups opposing cruelty.
- A commenter warns of ICE's brutality potentially leading to martial law as a political strategy by Trump and the Republican Party.
White House Sends Christmas Greetings https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/white-house-sends-christmas-greetings/ via @dianeravitch
- The article criticizes a Christmas message from the White House, describing it as cruel and inappropriate.
- Diane Ravitch and commenters express their disapproval, calling the message sick and offensive.
- The blog post is part of Diane Ravitch’s broader commentary on education, democracy, and political issues, often critical of the Trump administration.
Minneapolis: A Citizen Encounters ICE https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/minneapolis-a-citizen-encounters-ice/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The article discusses an incident in Minneapolis where a citizen, Susan Tincher, was detained by ICE agents after investigating a neighborhood disturbance.
- Concerns are raised about ICE's aggressive tactics, lack of accountability, and its role in fostering a police-state mentality.
- Commentary points to the militarization of police forces post-9/11 and the increasing use of force by ICE agents under the Trump administration.
- Speculation arises that ICE's actions might provoke public resistance, potentially enabling the government to declare military rule under the Insurrection Act.
- A suggestion is made to abolish ICE as a response to its perceived brutality and overreach.
Merry Deportation Day! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/merry-deportation-day/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch critiques the political climate, highlighting the disconnect between Christmas values and harsh immigration policies.
- The blog addresses broader themes such as cruelty, democracy, and resistance, linking them to current events and policies.
- Diane Ravitch's blog serves as a platform to discuss education reform, social justice, and political accountability.
Resistance: The Empty Manger https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/resistance-the-empty-manger/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch's blog post discusses a symbolic gesture by Catholic churches, which displayed nativity scenes with the Holy Family missing, representing the deportation of immigrants by ICE.
- The blog highlights issues surrounding immigration, cruelty, and democracy, while referencing other related articles and topics like lower crime rates among immigrants and differing political views on immigration policies.
- The blog includes a wide range of topics, such as education reform, politics, social justice, and the impact of government policies on communities.
Trump's Christmas Gift to Us: Reviving Coal While Killing Clean Energy https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/trumps-christmas-gift-to-us-reviving-coal-while-killing-clean-energy/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Trump administration suspended five contracts for partially built offshore wind farms on the East Coast, halting projects that could have delivered clean energy to 2.5 million homes.
- Two coal-burning power plants in Indiana were ordered to continue operating past their scheduled closure, and hundreds of coal plants were granted an additional five years to comply with regulations on toxic chemical leaching.
- The administration's focus on reviving coal comes at the expense of clean energy initiatives, despite coal being a major source of air pollution.
- Increased exportation of liquefied natural gas under Trump's trade policies could lead to higher heating costs for American households, benefiting the natural gas industry.
White House: Santa Is an ICE Agent https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/white-house-santa-is-an-ice-agent/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The blog criticizes the White House's portrayal of Santa as an ICE agent, suggesting it reflects a dystopian vision of enforcing immigration policies with brutality.
- The author and commenters express concerns about the administration's disregard for political consequences and the potential use of martial law to suppress opposition.
- The blog addresses broader themes of cruelty, democracy, and resistance in the context of current political actions.
Trump's Christmas Message: Unifying, Uplifting (NOT!) https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/trumps-christmas-message-unifying-uplifting-not/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- President Trump's Christmas message included divisive language and self-congratulatory remarks, even targeting the "radical left scum."
- Criticism of Trump's politicization of conversations, including with children, and his inability to separate politics from festive moments.
- Commentary on Trump's false claims about inflation, crime rates, and tariffs, alongside critiques of his administration's policies weakening national security and global stability.
- Analysis of the MAGA mindset, which dismisses rational arguments and evidence, blaming Democrats and minorities for societal issues, and highlighting its foundation in hate.
- Examination of the Republican "San Diego Strategy," which focuses on gaining grassroots political control, contrasting with the Democratic Party's ineffective focus on high-profile races.
Trump Sleeps in Heavenly Peace! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/25/trump-sleeps-in-heavenly-peace/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The blog criticizes Trump for appearing to fall asleep during public events and speculates about his health, including possible "death anxiety" and cognitive decline.
- Trump's policies, such as reviving coal energy and shutting down U.S. aid programs, are condemned for their negative impacts on the environment and humanitarian efforts.
- Concerns are raised about Trump's physical and mental health, including signs of health issues like bruising and possible cancer treatment, as well as his control over nuclear codes.
- Readers express their opinions, with some criticizing Trump’s actions and others speculating on his health and behavior.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 25, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_24.html
### Key Points
- Tennessee House Republicans plan to establish an oversight panel for Memphis-Shelby County schools in 2026.
- The U.S. Supreme Court blocked President Trump's attempt to deploy the National Guard to Chicago over the governor's objections.
- The Department of Justice released new Jeffrey Epstein documents, sparking renewed public and media scrutiny.
- The U.S. government suspended the Diversity Immigrant Visa program following the Brown University shooting.
- U.S. bars entry to five Europeans accused of pressuring tech firms to suppress American viewpoints.
- Trump-backed Nasry Asfura declared winner in the disputed Honduras election.
- U.S. economy expanded at a 4.3% annualized rate in Q3, driven by consumer spending and exports.
- Nvidia licenses Groq technology, and Intel secures government investment under new leadership.
- New GLP-1 weight-loss pills and Alzheimer's research breakthroughs could transform health and food industries.
- COVID-19 infections are rising in 31 states, with low vaccination rates persisting.
- Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff proposed a $112 billion "Project Sunrise" to turn Gaza into a luxury resort, raising ethical and political concerns.
- The Streisand Effect highlights how censorship efforts can backfire, increasing public attention to suppressed information.
- Cannabis use among teens is linked to emotional distress, poor academic performance, and brain development issues.
- Sustainable school meals globally could reduce undernourishment by 24%, prevent over 1 million deaths, and cut environmental impacts.
- Short, light-intensity exercises improve children's executive function, mood, and learning efficiency.
- Later high school start times improve teen well-being and save school districts money.
- The Trump administration's policies, including immigration enforcement, deregulation, and education reforms, face criticism for undermining public welfare and democracy.
- AI advancements, such as Google's Gemini 3 and 3D chip designs, highlight progress and raise concerns about environmental impacts.
- The U.S. experienced major climate disasters in 2025, including wildfires, hurricanes, and floods.
- The Oklahoma City Thunder won the NBA Finals, and Coco Gauff achieved a historic French Open victory.
- The article discusses the theoretical physics behind Santa Claus's ability to deliver presents globally in one night.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: DECEMBER 25, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/morning-news-update-december-25-2025.html
### Key Points
- Tennessee Republicans plan to take control of Memphis-Shelby County schools through an oversight panel in 2026.
- Calls for education reform emphasize shifting from lectures to active learning.
- A Powerball ticket in Arkansas won $1.817 billion, one of the largest jackpots in U.S. history.
- U.S. GDP grew by 4.3% in Q3 2025, driven by consumer spending and exports.
- DOJ delayed the release of over a million Jeffrey Epstein documents due to further review needs.
- U.S. markets hit record highs on Christmas Eve, driven by optimism in AI and economic resilience.
- A massive storm hit Southern California, causing flash floods and mudslides.
- Trump-backed Nasry Asfura won the Honduran presidential election amid disputes over fraud.
- U.S. military focuses on enforcing Venezuelan oil sanctions.
- Ukraine and Russia explore peace proposals, but tensions persist.
- The U.S. Department of Education launched a review of Brown University after a campus shooting.
- The FDA approved new GLP-1 weight-loss pills, expected to impact the food industry.
- A study linked high-fat dairy consumption to a lower risk of dementia.
- NBA and NFL holiday games drew attention, while women’s sports achieved milestones in Minnesota.
Big Education Ape: HAIRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAIRY HANUKKAH TOO! https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/hairy-christmas-and-hairy-hanukkah-too.html
"Hairy Christmas and Hairy Hanukkah," reflections on global winter celebrations, and critical commentary on education, politics, and public health systems.
### Key Points
- A whimsical holiday-themed series by the "Big Hairy Education Ape" emphasizes joy, togetherness, and peace during December's festive season.
- A detailed overview of 10 global winter celebrations, including Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, and Winter Solstice, highlights their cultural significance.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS YEAR 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-top-news-stories-this-year-2025.html
The article provides an extensive overview of the top news stories, events, and developments of the year 2025, covering various domains such as politics, world affairs, education, economy, technology, health, and sports. Key topics include Donald Trump's second presidential term, global political shifts, breakthroughs in AI and health, environmental crises, and significant cultural and sports milestones.
### Key Points
- Donald Trump inaugurated as the 47th U.S. President, implementing rapid policy changes including tariffs on imports and renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America."
- Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost became the first American Pope, taking the name Leo XIV after the death of Pope Francis.
- The "Agentic AI" boom led to significant advancements in AI technology, causing massive investments in data centers and raising concerns about energy and water consumption.
- Millions participated in the "No Kings" protests in the U.S. and globally, with the October rally becoming one of the largest single-day protests in history.
- Major global health breakthroughs included the FDA approval of an in-home cervical cancer test and a new HIV prevention injection.
- Geopolitical shifts included leadership changes in Germany, Canada, and South Korea, and the continuation of the Russia-Ukraine war.
- Climate disasters like wildfires in Los Angeles, Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, and flash floods in Texas caused significant damage and loss of life.
- COP30 in Brazil resulted in a voluntary roadmap to reduce fossil fuel reliance, though criticized for lacking enforceable measures.
- A fragile ceasefire was reached in the Israel-Hamas conflict, though tensions remained high.
- Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" included drastic cuts to social safety nets and student loans, causing economic uncertainty.
- Private industry achieved the first successful private moon landing and launched Axiom Mission 4, which included an Indian astronaut.
- The Department of Education was dismantled, with responsibilities redistributed to other agencies.
- Federal and state-level rollbacks of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs were enacted.
- ICE raids in major cities disrupted schools and communities.
- The use of AI in schools increased, including facial recognition and predictive software, raising concerns about privacy and ethics.
- U.S. GDP grew by 4.3% in Q3 despite economic volatility caused by tariffs and trade tensions.
- AI-powered wearables and AR glasses gained mainstream popularity, while AI's environmental impact caused backlash.
- Male birth control pills and breakthroughs in glioblastoma treatment marked significant health advancements.
- The Oklahoma City Thunder won the NBA Finals, and Coco Gauff claimed a historic French Open victory.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 24, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01968998874.html
The article is a collection of blog posts and news summaries covering various topics, including U.S. politics, education, healthcare, global affairs, and societal issues. It highlights recent events, policy changes, and critical analyses of current challenges, as well as reflections on democracy, education, and social justice.
Merry Christmas Music PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/merry-christmas-music
Merry Christmas Music by Peter Greene reflects on the Christmas season and shares curated playlists for the occasion, including a unique YouTube Christmas playlist, a family Spotify playlist from the COVID era, and a Jingle Bells collection. The article also briefly mentions the author's personal festive traditions and wishes readers a fine day, regardless of how they celebrate. Additionally, a separate section touches on unrelated topics such as Bill Gates' views on education and Florida's "anti-woke" college issues.
### Key Points
- Peter Greene shares Christmas-themed playlists, including a YouTube playlist, a family Spotify playlist, and a Jingle Bells collection.
- The author encourages readers to enjoy the day in their own way and emphasizes positivity.
- Unrelated commentary is included, critiquing Bill Gates' stance on education and Florida's "anti-woke" college struggles.
Easing Students Off the Lecture and Into Active Learning (Jeremy Murphy) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/12/25/easing-students-off-the-lecture-and-into-active-learning-jeremy-murphy/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- Professors predominantly use traditional lectures despite calls for active learning methods.
- Active learning, which engages students in collaboration and problem-solving, is supported by research but faces resistance from students.
- Students often perceive lectures as instruction and may struggle with active learning environments.
- Jeremy Murphy advocates for sparing use of lectures while incorporating active learning strategies.
- Transparency in teaching methods helps students understand the purpose and value of active learning.
- Managing student anxieties and fostering a safe, supportive classroom environment is crucial for active learning success.
- Encouraging students to unlearn traditional learning habits is essential for adapting to active learning practices.
Schools Matter: TN Taliban Plans to Seize Memphis Schools http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/12/tn-taliban-plans-to-seize-memphis.html
### Key Points
- The blog discusses plans by the "TN Taliban" to take over Memphis schools, linking it to political and ideological agendas.
- The author critiques the prioritization of poverty over teacher quality as the primary factor affecting education outcomes.
- Concerns are raised about the increasing focus on standardized testing and its implications for students and teachers.
- The blog explores broader issues like K-12 indoctrination, corporate influence in education, and systemic inequities.
- References are made to related topics such as charter schools, voucher systems, and the impact of political decisions on public education.
The 12th Day of Boobsmas Merry Christmas, you filthy animals. See you in 2026! KELLY REYNOLDS https://authorkellyrey.substack.com/p/the-12th-day-of-boobsmas
### Key Points
- The "12 Days of Boobsmas" wraps up with thanks to readers for their participation and enthusiasm.
- Winners of the Boobsmas giveaway are announced, and a final holiday romance recommendation is shared.
- The author highlights upcoming writing projects, including the completion of a baseball romance series and the launch of two new series in 2027.
- Events for 2026 are announced, including Sports Romance Con, Hot & Steamy in the PNW, and Romance in Chicago.
- Reader polls encourage participants to share their 2026 reading goals, tracking methods, and event attendance plans.
- The article promotes joining the author's Facebook reader group and accessing exclusive novellas and stories via Substack.
The Day After Christmas: A North Pole Tragedy
It was December 26th, and Santa Claus sat slumped in his favorite armchair, still wearing one boot. The other lay abandoned somewhere between the sleigh garage and the living room—he couldn't remember and didn't care.
"NICHOLAS!" Mrs. Claus burst through the door wearing a bedazzled tracksuit that read "SLEIGH ALL DAY" across the back. "The Boxing Day Sales start in twenty minutes! I've been waiting ALL YEAR for this!"
Santa groaned, a sound that emanated from somewhere deep in his cookie-filled belly. "Jessica... I just circled the globe. Twice. There was traffic over Tokyo."
"Traffic? TRAFFIC?" She planted her hands on her hips. "I've been stuck at the North Pole for 364 days watching you 'test' cookies and take 'practice naps.' Get up!"
Before Santa could protest, three elves burst in through the chimney—because using doors was apparently too mainstream.
"SANTA! SANTA!" Jingleberry, the youngest, was vibrating with energy. "We already started the New Year's Eve fireworks order! We need your approval on the sparkle-to-boom ratio!"
"And the Valentine's inventory!" added Sugarplum, doing literal backflips. "Do we go with 40% chocolate or 45% chocolate?"
"Plus," Tinselton chimed in, consulting a tablet, "Easter is only 119 days away and we're BEHIND SCHEDULE."
Santa stared at them with the hollow eyes of a man who'd just visited 2.5 billion homes in 24 hours. A man who'd been stuck in seventeen chimneys. A man who'd eaten approximately 800 million cookies and was fairly certain his blood type was now "gingerbread."
"Behind schedule?" he whispered. "Easter is in APRIL."
"Exactly!" all three elves shouted in unison.
Mrs. Claus was now doing aggressive stretches. "The elves and I are hitting the outlet malls in Reykjavik. We've got a party bus. There's still room if you get your jolly behind up RIGHT NOW."
"Party bus," Santa repeated numbly.
"It has a disco ball!" Jingleberry squealed.
Santa looked at his remaining boot. Then at the elves, who were literally bouncing off the walls—Sugarplum had just done a parkour move off the mantelpiece. Then at his wife, who was now doing lunges.
"How?" he croaked. "How are you all like this?"
Mrs. Claus stopped mid-lunge. "Nicholas, I love you, but you work ONE NIGHT A YEAR."
"It's a VERY long night!"
"I run a toy manufacturing empire with a workforce of magical beings who survive on candy canes and chaos!" She gestured wildly at the elves, one of whom was now hanging from the chandelier. "You think that happens on its own? I haven't slept since 1987!"
"The reindeer are already asking about their New Year's Eve plans!" Tinselton added helpfully. "Rudolph wants to go clubbing in Oslo!"
Santa pulled a cookie crumb out of his beard and stared at it with existential dread. "I just want to sleep until February."
"MARCH 1ST," Mrs. Claus declared. "And that's my final offer. Now GET UP—the party bus leaves in five minutes and Jingleberry's driving!"
"I'm not licensed!" Jingleberry announced proudly.
As the elves began physically dragging Santa toward the door, one boot on and one boot off, he caught a glimpse of his reflection in a candy cane mirror. He looked like a red velvet disaster.
"This is elder abuse!" he protested.
"You're immortal!" Mrs. Claus called back, already out the door.
And that's how Santa Claus ended up at the Reykjavik outlet mall at 6 AM on December 26th, wearing one boot, holding Mrs. Claus's shopping bags, while three hyperactive elves tried to convince him that "Boxing Day is the REAL Christmas."
He made a mental note: Next year, he was outsourcing to Amazon.
But he knew he wouldn't.
He never did.
THE END