Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-31-25
Trump Regime Inflicts Chaos on Prestigious Science Agencies https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/30/chaos-imposed-on-prestigious-science-agencies-from-the-start-of-the-trump-era/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Trump administration implemented widespread layoffs and policy changes at the NIH, creating an atmosphere of chaos, fear, and demoralization.
- Mass firings, budget cuts, and restrictions on travel, communication, and purchasing have hampered NIH operations and morale.
- Many scientists, including highly skilled researchers, have left the NIH or are preparing to do so due to uncertainty and fear of retaliation.
- The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), linked to Elon Musk, played a significant role in enforcing disruptive policies.
- Major reductions in NIH funding and grant cancellations have impacted critical research areas such as HIV, transgender health, and vaccine hesitancy.
- The NIH has faced political interference, including executive orders targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as well as LGBTQ health studies.
- The Trump administration proposed slashing the NIH budget by up to 44% and restructuring the agency, threatening its global leadership in science.
- Leadership changes at the NIH included the appointment of politically aligned figures, further undermining the agency’s independence.
- Policies under the Trump administration have delayed research, disrupted grant programs, and caused long-term damage to the U.S. biomedical research community.
- Efforts to centralize and downsize NIH and other health agencies, such as the FDA and CDC, have led to significant operational challenges.
- The NIH’s ability to attract and retain diverse scientific talent has been severely affected, with many training programs for underrepresented groups eliminated.
- Despite some easing of internal restrictions, staff shortages and operational backlogs continue to hinder NIH research and patient care.
- Political interference has influenced research priorities, such as studies on autism and transgender health, raising concerns about the agency’s credibility.
- Congressional leaders and research advocates have expressed concerns about the long-term damage to NIH and the broader scientific community.
- Former NIH leaders warn that the administration’s reckless decisions could have lasting negative effects on U.S. science and public health.
Oliver Darcy: Don't Fall for the Rightwing Attacks on Biden https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/30/oliver-darcy-dont-fall-for-the-rightwing-attacks-on-biden/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Right-wing media exaggerated claims about Biden’s mental state, framing him as a puppet controlled by shadowy forces.
- Biden’s presidency was marked by achievements like a strong economy, low unemployment, and solid international alliances.
- The media’s narrative often ignored Biden’s thoughtfulness, competence, and humane leadership.
- MAGA Media’s attacks on Biden were politically motivated, aiming to delegitimize him while excusing Trump’s authoritarian tendencies.
- Biden’s aging was evident, but claims of severe cognitive decline were unfounded and weaponized for propaganda.
- The article criticizes the media’s revisionism and defends Biden’s legacy against bad-faith attacks.
NYC: ICE Snatches High School Student Who Entered Legally https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/30/nyc-ice-snatches-student-from-his-high-school/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- A Venezuelan high school student, Dylan, was detained by ICE despite entering the U.S. legally, prompting protests and legal action.
- Dylan’s lawyers argue his detention violated due process and that he is ineligible for expedited deportation.
- His detention has disrupted his education, work, and family responsibilities, while he faces health issues requiring urgent medical attention.
- The case has drawn national attention, with rallies and fundraising efforts to support Dylan and his family.
Federal Judge Restores Visa to Russian Harvard Scientist https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/30/federal-judge-restores-visa-to-russian-harvard-scientist/ via @dianeravitch
Federal Judge Restores Visa to Russian Harvard Scientist
- Kseniia Petrova, a Russian scientist working at Harvard, was detained at Logan Airport for failing to declare non-hazardous frog embryo samples and had her visa revoked.
- A federal judge ruled that the visa cancellation and subsequent deportation proceedings lacked legal and factual basis, granting her bail.
- Petrova was held in an ICE detention center in Louisiana for over three months, facing deportation despite her claims of political persecution in Russia.
- The Department of Justice escalated the case by filing felony smuggling charges against Petrova, complicating her release.
- Petrova’s lawyer argued that the customs violation was minor and typically punishable by a fine, but the government pursued severe actions.
- The case highlights concerns about academic freedom and the treatment of foreign researchers under the Trump administration.
Big Education Ape: OUR FAILURES TO LIVE UP TO AMERICAN VALUES: A REFLECTION ON DEMOCRACY IN CRISIS UNDER TRUMP https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/our-failures-to-live-up-to-american.html
### Key Points
- The article reflects on America's struggle to uphold its values, noting historical and ongoing contradictions like systemic racism, inequality, and voter suppression.
- Criticism of the Trump administration's policies, including environmental deregulation, judicial partisanship, and threats to democratic principles, is a central theme.
- The piece advocates for reforms such as eliminating gerrymandering, updating the Electoral College, and campaign finance reform to strengthen democracy.
- Examples of progress, such as the Civil Rights Movement and women’s suffrage, are used to inspire optimism and collective action for future reforms.
- The article calls for increased public engagement, institutional accountability, and fostering empathy to rebuild trust in democracy.
Big Education Ape: WHEN CAMELS, DIXIECRATS AND ROCKEFELLER REPUBLICANS GOT COZY IN THE DEMOCRATIC TENT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/when-camels-dixiecrats-and-rockefeller.html
- The article discusses the shift in American political dynamics, focusing on the decline of Rockefeller Republicans, a moderate faction within the GOP, and their migration to the Democratic Party.
- Barry Goldwater's 1964 presidential campaign marked the rise of conservatism in the Republican Party, alienating moderates and reshaping the political landscape.
- The exodus of Rockefeller Republicans coincided with the defection of Dixiecrats from the Democratic Party due to disagreements over civil rights, forming a new center-right coalition within the Democrats.
- This coalition evolved into "Establishment Liberals," who prioritize pragmatism, incremental change, and corporate interests but face criticism from both progressives and conservatives.
- The Democratic Party is portrayed as divided into factions: Progressive Left, Establishment Liberals, Democratic Mainstays, and Outsider Left, with Establishment Liberals struggling to balance competing interests.
- The article argues that Democrats should embrace bold progressive messaging instead of chasing elusive center-right voters, as polarization challenges the viability of moderates in politics.
My High School Spanish Teacher Taught Me about the Original AI — Authentic Interaction (Becca Katz) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/05/30/my-high-school-spanish-teacher-taught-me-about-the-original-ai-authentic-interaction-becca-katz/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- The article highlights the importance of authentic interactions between teachers and students, emphasizing relationship-building as a timeless and effective teaching tool.
- Becca Katz reflects on her high school Spanish teacher, Seรฑora, who prioritized real human connections over technology, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment.
- Seรฑora’s teaching style involved personal interactions, storytelling, and cultural immersion, fostering both language skills and emotional bonds.
- Katz recounts inheriting Seรฑora’s teaching materials and philosophy, which inspired her to focus on genuine connections with her students rather than relying heavily on technology.
- The article critiques the current obsession with AI in education, advocating for human-centered approaches instead.
What Lessons Are We Learning from Our Students? | The Jose Vilson https://thejosevilson.com/what-lessons-are-we-learning-from-our-students/
### Key Points
- Jose Vilson recounts the journey of a former student who is now pursuing a doctoral degree, showcasing the long-term impact of educational relationships.
- He reflects on how students’ behavior and challenges have taught him to adapt his teaching methods and develop a more empathetic approach.
- Vilson emphasizes the role of students in shaping his understanding of pedagogy and his growth as a teacher, acknowledging their contributions to his learning.
- He discusses the importance of recognizing the influence of students and colleagues in academic work, advocating for giving credit where it is due.
- The article highlights Vilson’s ongoing journey of learning and intellectual growth, even after completing his doctoral studies.
New legislation aims to expand school choice with tax credits - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/new-legislation-aims-to-expand-school-choice-with-tax-credits/
### Key Points
- New legislation aims to expand school choice with tax credits.
- Congresswoman Elise Stefanik supports the bill.
- The Network for Public Education argues that expanding school choice could divert resources from public schools.
When the Middle Fails: What Weak Educational Leadership Really Looks Like https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/05/30/when-the-middle-fails-what-weak-educational-leadership-really-looks-like/
### Key Points
- Weak middle leaders avoid accountability by passing difficult decisions to higher-ups, eroding credibility and creating organizational confusion.
- They prioritize being liked over leading effectively, avoiding conflict and making decisions based on convenience rather than principles.
- Reactive leadership, focused on daily logistics rather than strategic planning, leads to institutional stagnation and burnout.
- Inconsistent enforcement of rules based on politics rather than principles undermines trust and equity within organizations.
- Weak leaders deflect blame onto higher-ups, creating resentment and sabotaging progress.
- Absence from day-to-day interactions weakens relational trust and disconnects leaders from institutional needs.
- Equity is often used as a branding tool rather than being funded and prioritized, causing initiatives to fail.
- Weak leaders fail to build leadership pipelines, hoarding opportunities and preventing institutional growth.
- Vague communication from weak leaders breeds confusion, discourages critique, and obstructs progress.
- Neutrality in the face of injustice perpetuates harm and signals a lack of moral clarity.
- The article concludes with a call for middle leaders to reflect on their commitments to clarity, community, and justice.
BLUNT FORCE ASSAULT | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2025/05/30/blunt-force-assault/
### Summary
### Key Points
- Authoritarian regimes suppress dissent, free thought, and independent inquiry, with education being an early target.
- The Trump administration has proposed policies to promote nationalism in education while dismantling public institutions like the Department of Education and the National Endowment for the Arts.
- Efforts to privatize education include proposals for a national online university and defunding public schools, museums, and archives.
- The administration has weaponized agencies to intimidate institutions challenging their authority, pushing towards a fascist framework.
- Public education is being systematically defunded, with policies favoring privatization and school choice, which ultimately benefit the wealthy.
- The MAGA movement's education policies undermine public schools and exacerbate inequities by promoting vouchers and inadequate funding.
- Historical parallels are drawn between authoritarian societies and their education systems, emphasizing the need for democratic, empowering, and inclusive schools.
- Education must be a fundamental human right, providing equitable access to high-quality public schooling for all children.
- The privatization of public services, including education, follows a pattern seen in other sectors like public housing, Medicare, and Social Security.
- The author emphasizes the need for a new vision of education that rejects privatization, standardized testing, and inequities, while fostering creativity, mutual aid, and democratic values.
Teacher Tom: A Motivation Problem https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/05/a-motivation-problem.html
### Key Points
- Teacher Tom recounts a story about a misunderstood teenager who was labeled as having a "motivation problem" despite being naturally curious and self-driven.
- The teenager expressed distrust toward teachers, believing they use students' interests as tools for control through rewards or punishments.
- The misuse of movement breaks and recess as rewards or punishments in schools is criticized, highlighting the necessity of movement for cognitive function and learning.
- Teacher Tom argues that traditional education systems suppress self-directed learning and independent thought by over-relying on behaviorist strategies like rewards and punishments.
- Play-based education is presented as a better alternative to foster intrinsic motivation and natural learning in children.
Buyer's Remorse: Reading Story Sold Manufactured Crisis, Fake Miracles https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/05/30/buyers-remorse-reading-story-sold-manufactured-crisis-fake-miracles/ via @plthomasEdD
### Key Points
- The author connects Emerson’s "Self-Reliance" to the flaws in education reform, criticizing the repetitive cycle of false crises and unfulfilled promises in initiatives like the SOR movement.
- The "Science of Reading" movement is labeled as another example of manufactured crises, with uncritical support leading to wasted resources and harm to students.
- Alarmist portrayals of schools undermine public education and set unrealistic standards, as seen in the misuse of NAEP data and exaggerated claims of reading proficiency issues.
- The article calls for rejecting crisis rhetoric and addressing the real needs of students while supporting public education systems.
Before UFT Election Results Arrive https://open.substack.com/pub/jd2718/p/before-uft-election-results-arrive?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
- The article discusses trends in United Federation of Teachers (UFT) elections, highlighting that "Non-Unity" votes have remained flat while Unity votes have been declining by about 10% per election. Unity's campaign performance has varied, with a notably poor effort in 2022 but improvements in their latest campaign.
- Paraprofessionals rejected Unity in the 2024 election by a 3:1 margin, influenced by the "Fix Para Pay" campaign. However, this trend may not persist as Unity has worked on securing financial benefits for paraprofessionals.
- Retiree voting patterns shifted significantly after the introduction of Medicare Advantage ("Mulgrewcare"), dropping Unity's support from 85-90% to 70% in 2021-2022. Retiree Advocate gained majority support in 2023, but Unity has since stabilized its base.
- Questions are raised about Unity's online campaign, voter turnout, and the impact of competing slates like ABC and Arise not collaborating.
- The article concludes with a discussion of organizational challenges and suggestions for future strategies in UFT elections.
Bad, Ugly, Hopeful | JD2718 https://jd2718.org/2025/05/29/bad-ugly-hopeful/
### Key Points
- The 2025 UFT elections were highly contentious, with Unity Caucus running a harder, more strategic, but also dirtier campaign than in previous years.
- Unity was criticized for unethical actions, such as abusive authority, inappropriate comments, and anti-progressive tactics, including red-baiting and anti-immigrant rhetoric.
- ARISE, a coalition of activists, ran a campaign focused on union democracy, organizing, and bargaining, maintaining a more positive tone despite challenges.
- The article reflects on the broader political shifts within the union, including Unity's alignment with conservative elements and ARISE's hopeful vision for the future.
UFT Election Data 2004 – 2024 MAY 30, 2025 PM31 10:25 PM https://jd2718.org/
### Key Points
- JD2718 explores topics such as education, teaching math, union elections, and UFT activities in New York City.
- The blog provides data and insights on UFT elections, retiree voting, and union dynamics.
- It discusses broader educational themes like pedagogy, blended learning, and curriculum challenges.
- Historical and political contexts, such as NYC’s Freedom Day and federal worker support, are also featured.
- Math-related content includes puzzles, teaching strategies, and reflections on math education.
Teacher in a Strange Land: Five Things Your Child’s Teacher Accomplished Last Week | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/teacher-strange-land
### Key Points
- The article criticizes Elon Musk's proposal for weekly accomplishment reports, likening it to ineffective practices in education.
- Teachers consistently show up despite personal and professional challenges, underscoring their dedication.
- Teachers adapt to failed lesson plans, deal with student diversity, and build inclusive learning environments.
- Teachers act as caretakers, providing a safe space for children, and manage extensive intellectual and emotional responsibilities.
- The article debunks myths about teachers' work lives, contrasting them with corporate settings.
We Got a Date https://norinrad10.com/2025/05/30/we-got-a-date/ via @norinrad10
### Key Points
- Penny Schwinn, former Tennessee state schools chief, will attend her confirmation hearing for the Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education on June 5, 2025.
- Schwinn has pledged to resign from several business roles and divest ownership interests to address potential conflicts of interest.
- Some of Schwinn's financial dealings, including passive income from properties and undisclosed business interests, have raised ethical concerns.
- Schwinn's connection with controversial figures and her history of managing taxpayer funds have been criticized.
- Discussions around the MNPS budget highlight a proposed 13% increase, with debates on teacher pay increases and the allocation of pandemic relief funds.
- Some MNPS board members suggest cutting programs funded by pandemic relief to increase teacher pay, while others argue this could harm critical services.
- The MNPS board debates the sustainability of cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for teachers amid rising costs.
- Concerns are raised about the effectiveness and measurement of certain district programs, such as AVID, which receives significant funding.
- MNPS principals will attend an annual leadership event focusing on building a "dynasty" for their schools, with themed activities and discussions.
- Questions remain about the distribution and timing of a promised $2,000 teacher bonus tied to school choice legislation.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Director Rankin Sets Off A Firestorm of Disagreement in Times Op-Ed.. https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/05/director-rankin-sets-off-firestorm-of.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- Liza Rankin's op-ed in the Seattle Times was widely criticized for being vague, lacking actionable solutions, and alienating community members.
- Rankin's governance approach has shifted from centralized decision-making to advocating for community-driven budgeting processes, though skepticism about her sincerity remains.
- Critics accuse Rankin of hypocrisy regarding accountability, noting her attempts to push out the superintendent and decisions that have deepened the district's financial struggles.
- Broader issues in Seattle Public Schools include nepotism, controversial school closures, and inadequate transparency in decision-making.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Just Wondering https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/05/just-wondering.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- Seattle Public Schools community forum discusses issues like superintendent search events, with participants sharing opinions and updates.
- Concerns raised about nepotism in Seattle Schools, highlighting promotions and job shifts influenced by personal connections within the district.
- Debate over potential school closures, with skepticism about the district's financial rationale and lack of transparency in decision-making.
CURMUDGUCATION: Ted Cruz and Federal Vouchers, Again https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/05/ted-cruz-and-federal-vouchers-again.html
### Key Points
- Ted Cruz proposes a $10 billion federal voucher program, claiming it will address educational inequities, but critics highlight its lack of solutions for cost, discrimination, and accountability.
- Cruz introduces the "Invest in America Act," giving newborns $1,000 investment accounts to encourage a capitalist mindset, though its effectiveness is questioned.
CNP-01-2025 Crediting Tofu and Soy Yogurt Products - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/mbcnp012025tofusoy.asp
### Key Points
- The USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has updated crediting information for tofu and soy yogurt products in the CNPs.
- The updates apply to NSLP, SBP, SFSP, and NSLP preschools, with a new sugar limit for yogurt in NSLP and SBP starting July 1, 2025.
- The SFSP is exempt from the added sugar limit for yogurt.
- The bulletin provides contact information for Nutrition Services Division specialists for questions about these updates.
- Additional resources include meal pattern requirements, plant-based meal options, and menu production record forms.
- The bulletin is part of broader updates and resources for Child Nutrition Programs, including guidance on documenting meal pattern compliance.
An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294/ref=sr_1_1?
This article discusses Diane Ravitch's upcoming memoir, "An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else," set to be released on October 21, 2025. Ravitch, a historian and former conservative education reform advocate, recounts her ideological shift from supporting standardized testing and privatization to advocating for public schools and addressing systemic inequality in education. The book blends personal reflections with decades of research, making a compelling case for greater investment in public education.
### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch's memoir explores her ideological transformation from a proponent of conservative education reforms to a critic of privatization and standardized testing.
- The book highlights her belief that poverty, not failing schools or bad teachers, is the root cause of educational inequality.
- Ravitch shares her personal and professional journey, including her government service and advocacy for public schools.
- The memoir combines personal anecdotes with research to argue for systemic changes in education, including better support for professional teachers.
- Published by Columbia University Press, the book is 240 pages long and will be available in multiple formats.
Big Education Ape: WE DON'T DO KINGS: NATIONWIDE PROTESTS TO RAIN ON TRUMP'S $45M BIRTHDAY MILITARY PARADE #NoKingsDay #DefendDemocracy #AmericaStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/we-dont-do-kings-nationwide-protests-to.html
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-30-25
The article is a compilation of various educational, political, and social topics, including critiques of policies, reform initiatives, societal challenges, and reflections on democracy, education, and climate change. It features discussions on Trump’s presidency, the school voucher system, class size reduction in NYC schools, climate change impacts, and Diane Ravitch's ideological transformation in her upcoming memoir.
### Key Points
- Thomas Edsall’s article explores the damage caused by Trump’s presidency, including attacks on law, education, public health, and democracy. Experts debate whether his actions were chaos-driven or aligned with conservative agendas.
- New York City is reducing class sizes by hiring 3,700 teachers and spending $400 million, following a state law mandating caps of 20-25 students per class.
- Peter Greene critiques the school choice movement, highlighting its focus on profit over educational quality and the exploitation of public funds.
- The Rockefeller Republicans shifted to the Democratic Party after the GOP became more conservative, forming a center-right coalition. The Democratic Party struggles with factionalism and balancing interests.
- Maria Ressa warns against authoritarianism, emphasizing the importance of press and education freedoms to protect democracy. Examples include censorship and ideological control in classrooms.
- Jesse Hagopian discusses the importance of confronting historical truths to achieve justice, emphasizing antiracist education and collective responsibility.
- Diane Ravitch’s memoir illustrates her shift from supporting privatization and standardized testing to advocating for public schools and addressing systemic inequality.
- Early college programs in Rhode Island positively impact college enrollment, particularly for underserved students, with significant cost variations.
- AI is criticized for being unreliable and biased compared to calculators, which provide consistent and factual outputs.
- Low lead exposure in early childhood is linked to poor academic performance, suggesting a need to lower intervention thresholds.
- Teacher Tom reflects on the importance of connecting children with nature to foster gratitude and counter consumerism.
- A federal court halted illegal tariffs, and Elon Musk exited Washington after failed political and business efforts, leaving damage to federal institutions.
- The UFT elections in 2025 are marked by internal conflicts, with ARISE coalition focusing on positive campaigning and Unity Caucus facing criticism for unethical practices.
- St. Tammany Parish School Board approved raises for staff, resolving disputes over overtime pay.
- Climate change forecasts predict record-breaking global warming, with intensified extreme weather events and rising sea levels.
- The article humorously compares Elon Musk to Howard Hughes, highlighting their eccentricities and groundbreaking innovations.
