WHY DOES TRUMP KEEP REPEATING HIMSELF? PROPAGANDA, THE BIG LIE, AND LESSONS FROM HISTORY

 
WHY DOES TRUMP KEEP REPEATING HIMSELF?

PROPAGANDA, THE BIG LIE, AND LESSONS FROM HISTORY

Donald Trump, a man who could probably trademark the phrase “Believe me,” has turned repetition into an art form—or perhaps a battering ram. Whether it’s “Make America Great Again,” “Fake News,” or some variation of “Witch Hunt,” Trump’s rhetorical strategy often feels like a broken record that’s been superglued to the turntable. But why does he do it? Is it simply a lack of vocabulary? A love for hearing his own voice? Or is there something more calculated at play? Spoiler alert: it’s the latter.

To understand Trump’s obsession with repeating himself, we need to take a little trip back in time to the dark days of the 1930s and 1940s. No, not to Trump’s childhood (though that would be fascinating), but to Nazi Germany. Yes, I know invoking the Nazis is a heavy comparison, but stick with me here—it’s not just about mustaches and bad ideas. It’s about propaganda and the infamous “big lie.”

The Big Lie: A Historical Primer

The “big lie” is a propaganda technique that Adolf Hitler outlined in *Mein Kampf*. The idea is simple yet horrifyingly effective: tell a lie so colossal that people can’t believe anyone would have the audacity to make it up. And then—here’s the kicker—repeat it over and over again until it becomes truth in the minds of your audience. The Nazis used this strategy to devastating effect. They blamed Jews for Germany’s woes, spread myths like the “stab-in-the-back” narrative about World War I, and justified horrifying acts of violence and persecution. The key was relentless repetition, turning lies into something that felt familiar, and therefore, believable.

Fast-forward to modern-day America, and Trump seems to have taken a page—or perhaps the whole chapter—from this playbook. Now, before you grab your pitchforks or MAGA hats, let me clarify: I’m not saying Trump is Hitler. But the parallels in rhetorical strategies are impossible to ignore.

Trump’s Master Class in Repetition

If there were a university for propaganda (Propaganda U?), Donald Trump would be the tenured professor teaching “Repetition 101: How to Say the Same Thing 1,000 Times Without Blinking.” And his cabinet members—folks like Pete Hegseth, Stephen Miller, Kristi Noem, Robert F Kennedy Jr., and Pam Bondi—would be his star pupils. Together, they’ve turned the big lie into a team sport.

Take, for example, Trump’s claim that the 2020 election was stolen. Despite being debunked by courts, election officials, and even members of his own party, Trump has repeated this lie so often that it’s become gospel for millions of Americans. His allies echo the claim in interviews, congressional hearings, and rallies, creating an echo chamber where the lie bounces around like a pinball until it feels like fact.

And it’s not just about elections. From “Mexico will pay for the wall” to “I’ve done more for African Americans than any president since Lincoln,” Trump has mastered the art of saying something so often that people either believe it or grow too tired to argue.

Why Repetition Works (Even When It Shouldn’t)

So why does this strategy work? Are we as a society just gullible? Well, kind of—but it’s more complicated than that. Psychologists call it the “illusion of truth” effect. Essentially, our brains are lazy (sorry, brains), and they use shortcuts to make decisions quickly. One of those shortcuts is familiarity. If we hear something repeatedly, our brains start to think, “Hey, I’ve heard this before—it must be true!” It doesn’t matter if we know better; familiarity has a sneaky way of overriding facts.

This is why repetition is such a powerful tool in propaganda. It bypasses critical thinking and goes straight for our emotional jugulars. And let’s face it: humans are suckers for emotions. Fear, anger, pride—these are the levers that propagandists pull to get us on board with their message.

The Nazi Playbook vs. Trump’s Twitter Feed

The similarities between Nazi propaganda and Trump’s rhetoric are almost surreal. Like the Nazis, Trump and his allies often portray themselves as victims—whether it’s Trump being persecuted by the “deep state” or America being under siege by immigrants, China, or wind turbines (seriously, what does he have against wind turbines?). This victim narrative serves two purposes: it rallies supporters around a common enemy and justifies otherwise indefensible actions.

Another parallel is the use of scapegoats. For the Nazis, it was Jews and Communists. For Trump, it’s immigrants, Democrats, and anyone who disagrees with him. By blaming these groups for America’s problems, he creates a simple narrative that’s easy to digest—even if it’s completely false.

And then there’s the control of information. While Trump doesn’t have a Ministry of Propaganda like Joseph Goebbels did (though one suspects he’d love one), he has something arguably more powerful: social media. Platforms like Twitter (before his ban) and Truth Social allow him to bypass traditional media and speak directly to his followers, unfiltered and unchallenged. Add in friendly outlets like Fox News and you’ve got a modern-day propaganda machine.

How to Resist the Big Lie

So what can we do about all this? How do we resist the seductive pull of repetition and the illusion of truth? First off, we need to be aware of how these tactics work. Understanding that repetition can make lies feel true is half the battle.

Second, we need to fact-check relentlessly—and not just once. Remember, repetition is what makes lies stick, so we need to counter them with repeated truths. Think of it as fighting fire with fire (but less flammable).

Finally, we need to hold media outlets accountable. When they amplify false claims without pushback or context, they’re essentially doing the propagandist’s job for them.

A Final Thought: The Power of Words

At the end of the day, words matter. They shape how we see the world and how we act within it. Leaders who use repetition to spread lies wield incredible power—power that can divide nations, incite violence, and erode democracy.

So yes, Trump keeps repeating himself. And yes, it’s annoying as hell. But it’s also dangerous. Because as history has shown us, when lies are repeated often enough, they stop being lies in the minds of those who hear them—and that’s when the real damage begins.

As witty as I’d like to remain here, let me leave you with this sobering thought: if we don’t learn from history—if we don’t recognize propaganda when we see it—we risk repeating it ourselves. And trust me, no amount of repetition will make that a good thing.

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!
6-10-25

New Hampshire: GOP is "Willfully and Knowingly" Sabotaging Public Education https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/09/new-hampshire-gop-is-willfully-and-knowingly-sabotaging-public-education/ via @dianeravitch 

New Hampshire's GOP is accused of deliberately undermining public education by expanding voucher programs, reducing state funding, and introducing controversial legislation that burdens educators. These efforts are seen as favoring privatization and disadvantaging public schools, which serve 90% of the state's students.

### Key Points

- New Hampshire's GOP is expanding Education Freedom Accounts (vouchers), primarily benefiting higher-income families while diverting funds from public education. 

- Several bills, such as Senate Bill 100, impose severe penalties on educators and districts, further discouraging teaching careers. 

- The legislature has shifted state education funding responsibilities to local property taxpayers, exacerbating inequities. 

- Critics argue this agenda aligns with far-right think tanks, aiming to weaken public education and increase privatization. 

Russ Vought Will Keep the DOGS going Without Elon https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/09/russ-vought-will-keep-the-dogs-going-without-elon/ via @dianeravitch 

Russ Vought Will Keep the DOGS going Without Elon By dianeravitch June 9, 2025 // 8 In case you wondered, I now call DOGE something else. I call it DOGS, although truthfully that’s not fair to dogs. Dogs are wonderful creatures; In my experience, dogs give you unconditional loyalty and love. These DOGS are loyal to one man, Elon Musk. They are shredding the federal government, destroying the careers and lives of tens of thousands of professional civil servants. They have gathered our personal data. They are embedded in high-level positions across the government. They should all be fired and sent back

### Key Points

- Diane Ravitch criticizes the influence of Elon Musk's loyalists, referred to as "DOGS," who are embedded in high-level government positions and causing significant harm to federal operations. 

- Russell Vought, a Christian nationalist and former Trump advisor, is highlighted as a key figure in continuing these efforts, with goals to reshape the federal government into a Christian nationalist framework. 

- Vought has been instrumental in policies like Schedule F, which undermines non-partisan civil service by replacing career officials with political appointees, and he advocates for hiring processes that prioritize allegiance to Trump’s policies. 

- He has also proposed significant spending cuts targeting public broadcasting and foreign aid, and suggested bypassing Congress’ constitutional authority on budget allocation. 

- Critics compare Vought's vision to authoritarian regimes, expressing concerns about his push for Christian nationalism and its implications for democracy and federal governance. 

Trump Is Trying to Seize Control of Public Broadcasting, But Judge Blocks Him, for Now https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/09/trump-is-trying-to-seize-control-of-public-broadcasting/ via @dianeravitch 

Trump's attempt to take control of public broadcasting by removing three board members of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has been met with legal resistance. While a federal judge declined to block the firings, the ruling affirmed CPB's independence from presidential control, which CPB celebrated as a victory. Trump continues to push for defunding NPR and PBS, labeling them as far-left media outlets.

### Key Points

- Trump seeks to defund NPR and PBS, calling them radical media outlets. 

- He attempted to fire three CPB board members to exert control over public broadcasting. 

- A federal judge ruled that CPB is independent of political direction, though it did not block the firings. 

- CPB treated the ruling as a win for its autonomy, continuing to resist Trump's efforts. 

Heather Cox Richardson: Trump Manufactures a Crisis to Distract from Real Problems https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/09/heather-cox-richardson-trump-manufactures-a-crisis-to-distract-from-real-problems/ via @dianeravitch 

Heather Cox Richardson's article discusses former President Trump's actions in Los Angeles, portraying them as part of a broader strategy to consolidate power and distract from political and economic issues. Trump deployed the National Guard to L.A. without the governor's consent, citing protests against ICE's aggressive immigration enforcement as an "insurrection." The article highlights the administration's use of immigration crackdowns to create a police state, divert attention from internal failures, and provoke unrest to justify military interventions. It also critiques Trump's broader immigration policies, economic mismanagement, and personal controversies.

### Key Points

- Trump deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles without the governor's request, citing protests as an insurrection, marking a significant overreach of federal authority. 

- His actions aimed to establish a police state, distract from political failures, and humiliate California's Democratic leadership. 

- Aggressive ICE raids targeted undocumented immigrants, including those without criminal records, escalating tensions and provoking protests. 

- The administration justified these actions using exaggerated claims about immigration, while critics highlighted their economic and humanitarian consequences. 

- Trump's policies fueled unrest, with protesters opposing his militarized response and immigration crackdowns, highlighting a divided nation. 

- Critics argued that Trump's actions were a distraction from his political and economic struggles, including controversies surrounding Elon Musk, tariffs, and the "One Ugly Bill." 

RFK Jr. Fires Every Member of CDC Expert Advisory Panel on Vaccines https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/09/rfk-jr-fires-every-member-of-cdc-expert-advisory-panel-on-vaccines/ via @dianeravitch 

Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has dismissed all 17 members of the CDC's expert advisory panel on vaccines, claiming it will restore public trust despite accusations of unfounded claims about conflicts of interest. This move aligns with Kennedy's skeptical stance on vaccines and could significantly impact U.S. immunization policies. Critics, including former panel member Paul Offit, express concern over the potential consequences on public health.

### Key Points

- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired the CDC's vaccine advisory panel, intending to appoint members who align with his views. 

- Kennedy claims the panel had conflicts of interest, but members are screened for such issues. 

- The change may alter recommended immunizations, raising concerns among experts about public health risks. 

Big Education Ape: TRUMP KICKING THE HORNET'S NEST CHRONICLES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/trump-kicking-hornets-nest-chronicles.html 

The article critiques Trump’s polarizing methods, including his use of military force in civilian protests, and explores the ongoing legal and social battles between California Governor Gavin Newsom and Trump. It emphasizes the role of peaceful protests and the need to refocus on justice and equality.

### Key Points

- Trump’s deployment of military forces in California to suppress protests sparks controversy, with Governor Newsom opposing it as an overreach. 

- Protests in Los Angeles have escalated, involving peaceful demonstrations, clashes, and property damage, including self-driving cars being set on fire. 

- California plans to sue the federal government over the federalization of the National Guard, questioning the legality of Trump’s actions. 

- The article critiques Trump’s governance style, describing it as dramatic and polarizing, with a focus on dominating headlines. 

- Broader themes include the importance of peaceful dissent, the dangers of using federal authority for intimidation, and the need for a shift toward justice and equality. 

The Gospel According to Don https://open.substack.com/pub/ru4people/p/the-gospel-according-to-don?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The article provides a satirical critique of Donald Trump's controversial actions during his presidency, focusing on his handling of protests, federal interventions, and his polarizing leadership style. It highlights his tendency to escalate situations, his confrontations with California Governor Gavin Newsom, and the legal battles stemming from his decisions, while painting his presidency as a chaotic and divisive spectacle.  

### Key Points

- Trump's use of tear gas to clear peaceful protesters for a photo op with a Bible showcased his disregard for the First Amendment and religious sensitivity. 

- His deployment of National Guard troops and Marines to California in response to protests against immigration raids was criticized as excessive and authoritarian. 

- Governor Gavin Newsom opposed Trump's federal overreach, likening it to giving a toddler a flamethrower, and accused him of exacerbating tensions. 

- The protests included both peaceful demonstrations and chaotic acts like targeting self-driving cars, leading companies like Waymo to suspend services. 

- California's legal battle against the federal government over National Guard deployment questions the constitutional boundaries of Trump's actions. 

- The article concludes by portraying Trump as a divisive figure who thrives on drama, leaving his legacy as one of chaos and controversy. 

I Wrote Nearly 100 NY Times Posts On Teaching ELLs – Here Are Links To All Of Them https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2025/06/09/i-wrote-nearly-100-ny-times-posts-on-teaching-ells-here-are-links-to-all-of-them-4/

### Key Points

- Larry Ferlazzo, a retired high school teacher, wrote nearly 100 posts for The NY Times Learning Network focused on teaching English Language Learners (ELLs). 

- A comprehensive list of these posts, along with descriptions, is available through a provided link. 

- The article also mentions various resources and updates, such as free learning opportunities like the "ML Summit" for ELL teachers and teaching resources for events like Father’s Day. 

- Larry Ferlazzo has shared numerous educational resources, including annual "Best" lists and free materials from his books. 

- The site includes other features like videos and archives, as well as recent comments and updates on Ferlazzo’s retirement from teaching. 

Mulgrew Fools Us Again https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/mulgrew-fools-us-again?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The article critiques Michael Mulgrew, leader of the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), for his inconsistent and untrustworthy actions regarding healthcare negotiations and union leadership. It highlights his broken promises, lack of transparency, and questionable deals that seem to benefit the city rather than UFT members. The author emphasizes the need for accountability, member engagement, and proactive measures to ensure better leadership and representation.

### Key Points

- The article criticizes UFT members for re-electing Mulgrew despite his history of unfulfilled promises and lack of action in healthcare negotiations. 

- Mulgrew claimed to withdraw support for Medicare Advantage and healthcare negotiations but later reneged on his promises after winning the election. 

- The article accuses Mulgrew of making deals that prioritize city savings over member benefits and questions his trustworthiness. 

- There is concern about member apathy, with 72% of members not voting, which enables indifferent leadership. 

- The comments section discusses the potential impact of healthcare changes on retirees and in-service members, emphasizing the need for awareness and action. 

Hunting the Uppity Minority: Surveilled and Secretly Recorded https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/06/09/surveilled-and-secretly-recorded-how-they-hunt-the-uppity-minority/ 

### Key Points

- The article uses the metaphor of the movie *Predator* to describe how equity-minded leaders, especially those advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), face targeted surveillance and elimination tactics. 

- Examples of such tactics include secret recordings, FOIA requests, and public smear campaigns, as seen in the cases of Megan Pugh and Janique Sanders, who were terminated after being secretly recorded and misrepresented. 

- Institutions often abandon their DEI leaders under pressure, creating a culture of fear and betrayal instead of defending their staff. 

- The article warns about "honey pot" tactics, where justice-centered educators are baited into traps disguised as collegial outreach, potentially leading to their words being weaponized against them. 

- Internal betrayal is highlighted as another method of silencing equity advocates, with false accusations being used to undermine credibility. 

- Florida and Texas are presented as examples of states where DEI initiatives are being dismantled systematically through financial manipulation, coercion, and political targeting. 

- The author calls for resilience and solidarity among DEI leaders, emphasizing that the movement for justice cannot be erased despite the ongoing challenges. 

The National Guard Has Arrived to Make Sure You Shut Up Safely—Survival Not Guaranteed https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/06/09/the-national-guard-has-arrived-to-make-sure-you-shut-up-safely-survival-not-guaranteed/

The article critiques the deployment of the National Guard and the suggestion to involve the Marines against protests in Los Angeles, highlighting historical examples of military force being used to suppress dissent in the U.S. It discusses the authoritarian undertones of such actions, the misuse of federal authority, and the historical pattern of escalating peaceful protests into violent outcomes. The piece also questions the legality and morality of using military forces against constitutionally protected protests.

### Key Points

- The National Guard was deployed in Los Angeles against the wishes of California Governor Gavin Newsom, sparking a federal lawsuit and debates over state sovereignty. 

- Historical examples, such as Kent State, Jackson State, and the Elaine Massacre, demonstrate a recurring pattern of the National Guard responding to peaceful protests with violence. 

- The suggestion to involve the Marines, who are not trained for crowd control, represents an extreme escalation and authoritarian overreach. 

- The use of military force against peaceful protests reflects a broader pattern of silencing dissent rather than ensuring public safety. 

Aspira High School Students Demand Change & Accountability From School Leadership https://exceptionaldelaware.com/2025/06/09/aspira-high-school-students-demand-change-accountability-from-school-leadership/ via @ExcptlDelaware 

Aspira High School students in Newark, Delaware, have issued a statement demanding changes and accountability from their school leadership. They express concerns over the high number of teacher dismissals, lack of transparency, and the negative impact on their mental health and education. The students have outlined specific demands, including explanations for layoffs, reinstatement of dismissed teachers, and a commitment to transparency and stability. They emphasize their hope for change and their willingness to speak out for the betterment of their school.

### Key Points

- Aspira High School students demand explanations for the dismissal of over 10-15 teachers and express concerns over staff instability and its impact on their mental health and education. 

- Students highlight a lack of transparency in the school’s decision-making and question potential mismanagement or corruption. 

- The students’ demands include clear explanations for layoffs, stopping unjust dismissals, reinstating unfairly terminated teachers, financial transparency, and a commitment to mental health and educational stability. 

- The statement reflects the students’ determination to advocate for change while expressing hope for a better future. 

- The article criticizes leadership in Delaware schools, emphasizing the detrimental effects of ego-driven decisions on students and staff morale. 

Teacher Tom: Ugly Plastic Things https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/06/ugly-plastic-things.html 

Teacher Tom reflects on the use of plastic items in his preschool environment, discussing the balance between environmental concerns, aesthetics, and practicality. While he supports the movement to replace plastic with natural materials, he emphasizes the importance of reusing and repurposing items to minimize waste. He highlights how children creatively use old or broken plastic items in play and art, showcasing their ability to find value in what adults might consider junk. Teacher Tom advocates for an environmentally conscious yet pragmatic approach to managing resources in preschool settings.

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom discusses the widespread use of plastic in preschools and supports replacing it with natural materials but emphasizes reusing items to reduce waste. 

- Broken or outdated plastic items still hold play and creative value for children, often being repurposed into art or imaginative play. 

- Teacher Tom balances aesthetics and environmental ethics by incorporating recycled or donated items into the preschool environment, even if they are plastic. 

- He views preschools as places to "finish using things," allowing children to find beauty and utility in unconventional materials. 

Weekend Quotables, by @mikeklonsky https://open.substack.com/pub/michaelklonsky/p/weekend-quotables-36f?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

### Key Points

- Federal troops, including California’s National Guard, were deployed in Los Angeles without the state governor's request, escalating tensions over anti-ICE protests. 

- California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal intervention and dismissed threats from Trump’s Border Czar, Tom Homan, who warned of legal consequences for officials obstructing immigration enforcement. 

- Legal experts and public figures criticized the federal government’s actions as an alarming use of military force against domestic protests. 

- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned of potential deployment of active-duty Marines if violence escalates, with President Trump indicating no clear threshold for such actions. 

- Critics, including Florida state Senator Ileana Garcia, expressed disapproval of these measures, stating they did not align with voters' expectations. 

glen brown: The 2026 and 2028 elections may have just gotten a lot more distant. First, the backstory. https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-2026-and-2028-elections-may-have.html 

The article discusses the authoritarian actions of Donald Trump, particularly his deployment of federal troops to suppress protests and override local governance, highlighting the dangers these actions pose to democracy in the United States.

### Key Points

- The use of federal agents and National Guard troops under Trump's administration to suppress protests, as seen in Portland and Los Angeles, sets a dangerous precedent for authoritarianism. 

- Trump’s actions, such as deploying military force without local consent, threaten foundational democratic principles like federalism and local accountability. 

- The article connects Trump’s behavior to historical and global examples of authoritarianism, warning of its implications for the future of American democracy, including potential election suspensions. 

- Legal violations, such as ignoring the Posse Comitatus Act and the Fourth and First Amendments, are highlighted as part of Trump’s actions to suppress dissent and protests. 

- The normalization of militarized responses to protests is criticized as a step toward eroding democratic norms and enabling further authoritarian measures. 

- The article calls for immediate action to resist these anti-democratic practices and protect constitutional rights. 

glen brown: Trump sends in California National Guard https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/trump-sends-in-california-national-guard.html 

This article discusses President Trump's federalization of 2,000 National Guardsmen under Title 10 authority to address protests against ICE operations in California. It examines the legal and political implications of this action, the potential escalation of tensions, and the importance of peaceful protests. The article also highlights Governor Newsom's opposition to the deployment and the broader political dynamics surrounding Trump's administration.

### Key Points

- President Trump invoked Title 10 authority to deploy 2,000 National Guardsmen in California, citing threats to federal property and personnel due to protests against ICE operations. 

- The deployment avoids invoking the Insurrection Act but raises concerns about escalating tensions and potential misuse of military forces in domestic affairs. 

- Protests in California remained mostly peaceful but grew tense, with isolated incidents of vandalism, which could be used by the administration to justify further actions. 

- Governor Newsom opposed the federalization of the National Guard, calling it a breach of state sovereignty and requesting the withdrawal of troops. 

- The timing of the deployment aligns with Trump's political agenda, including avoiding protests during his birthday parade and asserting presidential authority. 

glen brown: The Past Four Days https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-past-four-days.html 

The article discusses the escalating autocratic actions under Trump’s administration, focusing on recent ICE raids, military deployments, and protests in Los Angeles. It highlights the challenges to democracy and the organized resistance led by the group Indivisible. The narrative emphasizes the importance of nonviolent protests and collective action to counter authoritarianism.

### Key Points

- Trump’s administration has intensified ICE raids, targeting immigrants and workers, leading to protests and clashes in Los Angeles. 

- Military escalation in LA includes deploying the National Guard and Marines, with concerns about broader implications for other cities. 

- Trump’s planned taxpayer-funded military parade is viewed as a display of authoritarianism, meant to intimidate and create fear. 

- Indivisible organizes widespread nonviolent protests, avoiding direct confrontation in DC, to demonstrate resistance against autocracy. 

- The article reflects on the broader defense of democracy, highlighting courage and solidarity as essential in resisting oppression. 

Radical Eyes for Equity: NAEP: A Modest Proposal | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/naep-modest-proposal 

The article critiques the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), emphasizing its misrepresentation and misuse in U.S. education policy. It highlights how NAEP's achievement levels are misleading, its origins in accountability-focused reforms, and its role in perpetuating an educational crisis. The author proposes reforms to standardize and simplify achievement levels, arguing that excessive reliance on standardized testing has failed to improve education but instead served political and market agendas.

### Key Points

- NAEP is often misunderstood and misrepresented, with its achievement levels misleadingly conflated with grade-level proficiency. 

- NAEP was originally designed as an accountability tool for states, not for individual student assessment, but it has fueled a perpetual educational crisis. 

- Social and economic factors, like family income and social capital, heavily influence standardized test results, which schools cannot control. 

- Current policies unfairly reward advantaged schools and punish disadvantaged ones, perpetuating inequality. 

- The author proposes renaming and standardizing achievement levels to better reflect age-level proficiency, as a step toward reducing reliance on standardized testing. 

- Excessive testing has not improved education but has supported political agendas and the education marketplace. 

Louisiana Senate Passes Teacher/Staff Pay Stipend, Bill Returns to House. | deutsch29: Mercedes Schneider's Blog https://deutsch29.wordpress.com/2025/06/09/louisiana-senate-passes-teacher-staff-pay-stipend-bill-returns-to-house/ 

The article discusses legislative developments regarding teacher and school staff pay stipends in Louisiana, focusing on the state's budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The Louisiana Senate passed HB 1, which includes temporary stipends for teachers and staff, but the bill needs further approval from the House. Efforts to make these stipends permanent through constitutional amendments failed earlier in the year, leaving the stipends as one-time payments for now. There is potential for components of the failed amendments to reappear on future ballots.

### Key Points

- The Louisiana Senate passed HB 1, which includes $199 million for teacher and staff stipends for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. 

- Teachers are set to receive $2,000, and support staff $1,000, as part of temporary stipends, but efforts to make these raises permanent through constitutional amendments failed. 

- The failed constitutional amendments could potentially reappear on ballots in 2026 as smaller items. 

- The final decision on HB 1 will depend on the Louisiana House's approval of Senate amendments or further revisions. 

List of schools receiving class size reduction funds for 2025-2026 | Class Size Matters List of schools receiving class size reduction funds for 2025-2026 | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/list-of-schools-receiving-class-size-reduction-funds-for-2025-2026/ 

About the article:

### Key Points

- A list of NYC schools receiving class size reduction funds for 2025-2026 is available, along with updates on related initiatives. 

- An invitation to the "Skinny Award" dinner on June 18, 2025, honoring Dr. Betty Rosa for her advocacy on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in public schools. 

- Announcement of the Annual Parent Action Conference on June 7, 2025, featuring keynote speaker Jamaal Bowman. 

- Encouragement to support class size reduction efforts through donations, petitions, and surveys. 

- Information on the "Talk out of School" radio show and podcast addressing public school issues. 

- Details on the 2022 NY State law mandating smaller classes in NYC schools and related hearings in June 2025. 

- Resources available for parents and educators, including a video on why class size matters and FAQs on the new law. 

Talking points for Class size hearings, June 10-June 16 2025 | Class Size Matters  | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/talking-points-for-class-size-hearings-june-10-june-16-2025/ 

### Key Points

- The city’s mandated Zoom hearings on the class size plan for the 2025-2026 school year are scheduled for June 10-16, 2025, with borough-specific dates and times provided. 

- Public participation is encouraged, and talking points for discussing class size issues are available. Attendees can share personal experiences or concerns regarding class sizes. 

- The city has faced criticism for failing to deliver an adequate class size reduction plan. A presentation from the Parent Action Conference highlights these failures. 

- An award dinner honoring Dr. Betty Rosa for her contributions to education will be held on June 18, 2025. 

- Additional events include the Annual Parent Action Conference on June 7, 2025, featuring Jamaal Bowman as a keynote speaker. 

- Opportunities to support the cause include signing a petition, completing a survey, subscribing to updates, and donating to Class Size Matters. 

- A radio show and podcast, “Talk out of School,” airs Sundays at 7 PM ET, discussing public school issues in NYC and beyond. 

- The NY State Legislature passed a law in June 2022 mandating smaller class sizes in NYC schools, which is being phased in across all grades. 

Utah's Rejection of Vouchers, by @TheAndySpears https://open.substack.com/pub/theeducationreport/p/utahs-rejection-of-vouchers?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false

Utah's rejection of a school voucher program by a state judge ensures that public education funding remains focused on schools serving the majority of children in the state, maintaining equitable and inclusive opportunities. The ruling emphasizes that the program does not meet the constitutional requirements for public education as it is not accessible to all children in Utah. This decision contrasts with other states like Tennessee and Texas, which are pursuing similar voucher initiatives.

### Key Points

- A Utah judge rejected a school voucher program, ensuring public education funding remains in schools serving 90% of the state’s children. 

- The Utah Education Association supports the decision, stating it upholds equity and inclusivity in public education. 

- The ruling highlighted that the voucher program does not meet constitutional requirements for public education, as it is not open to all children. 

- Unlike Utah, states such as Tennessee and Texas are moving forward with voucher programs, raising concerns about their impact on public education. 

Preserving an Educated Future for America (Short Term Plan) – School Finance 101 https://schoolfinance101.com/2025/05/02/preserving-an-educated-future-for-america-short-term-plan/ 

Preserving an Educated Future for America (Short Term Plan)

### Key Points

- The article discusses short-term strategies to counteract the erosion of public education caused by certain federal and state policies, focusing on states committed to educational equity and quality. 

- Some states, like Mississippi and Florida, are proposing tax cuts that would harm public school funding, while others rely heavily on federal aid despite opposing federal equity policies. 

- "Education States" should focus on progressive funding, upholding education rights, and resisting anti-equity federal demands. Kansas is highlighted as an example of a state meeting these criteria. 

- The article proposes creating federally tax-exempt state education endowments to stabilize funding for public schools and protect against future economic uncertainty. Examples like Texas' Permanent School Fund are cited. 

- Strengthening state data collection and research capacity is recommended to offset declining federal data support and improve education outcome tracking. 

- The article warns about the potential dismantling of church/state separation in public education and suggests stricter regulations for charter schools to prevent religious and discriminatory practices. 

- States with historical private academies may need to alter their funding structures to prevent loopholes that allow religious alternatives to receive public funds. 

August Egg Company Recalls Eggs Due to Health Risk - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/augusteggrecallseggs.asp 

On June 6, 2025, August Egg Company recalled 1.7 million dozen brown cage-free and organic eggs due to potential Salmonella contamination. The California Department of Education's Nutrition Services Division advises food program operators to avoid serving or consuming these eggs and return or dispose of them as per FDA guidelines. The eggs, distributed between February 3 and May 15, 2025, in California, Nevada, and other states, carry sell-by dates from March 4 to June 19, 2025. Symptoms of Salmonella infection include fever, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain, with severe cases potentially leading to arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis. Consumers can contact August Egg Company or the Nutrition Services Division for more information.

### Key Points

- August Egg Company recalled 1.7 million dozen eggs due to Salmonella contamination risk. 

- Contaminated eggs were distributed in multiple states, including California and Nevada, with sell-by dates from March to June 2025. 

- Salmonella infection can cause severe health issues, especially in vulnerable populations. 

- Consumers are advised to return or dispose of the eggs and contact the company or relevant authorities for further details. 

Response to the Department of Justice Letter Regarding California Laws Governing Athletic Competition https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/fa/yr25cosoltr0609.asp 

California’s Department of Education (CDE) responded to a June 2, 2025, letter from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) policies allowing students to participate in athletics consistent with their gender identity. The DOJ claimed these policies violate the Equal Protection Clause and demanded local educational agencies (LEAs) certify non-compliance by June 9, 2025. The CDE rejected these claims, asserting that CIF policies align with California law and the U.S. Constitution, emphasizing the importance of inclusive athletics for all students, including transgender students.

### Key Points

- The DOJ claimed that California LEAs face legal liability under CIF policies allowing students to participate in athletics consistent with their gender identity. 

- The CDE responded on behalf of LEAs, affirming that CIF policies comply with California law and the U.S. Constitution. 

- The CDE emphasized the benefits of inclusive athletic programs for all students, particularly transgender students, and rejected DOJ’s interpretation of the Equal Protection Clause. 

- California remains committed to preventing discrimination and ensuring inclusion in schools. 

CURMUDGUCATION: Another Bad AI Classroom Guide https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/another-bad-ai-classroom-guide.html 

The article critiques the Southern Regional Education Board's (SREB) guide on using AI in K-12 classrooms, highlighting its lack of depth, questionable assumptions, and over-reliance on AI tools. The author questions the ethics and practicality of the guide's recommendations, emphasizing the risks of AI bias, data privacy concerns, and its potential to undermine critical thinking and teacher autonomy.

### Key Points  

- The SREB guide lacks named authors, reducing its credibility.   

- The guide is influenced by policymakers, corporate representatives, and AI-focused professionals, raising concerns about its impartiality.   

- AI is presented as essential for future jobs, but the guide assumes AI can replace foundational knowledge and critical thinking development.   

- The guide promotes AI as a tool for personalized learning, administrative efficiency, and creative problem-solving, but these claims are questioned.   

- The guide's "Four Pillars" emphasize AI for cognitively demanding tasks, streamlining teacher work, supporting personalized learning, and teaching ethical AI use.   

- AI is framed as a tool for lesson planning, feedback, and grading, but the author argues it cannot replace human judgment or assessment.   

- The guide assumes AI must be integrated into classrooms, often ignoring its limitations, including biases and ethical concerns.   

- Ethical AI usage is placed on students and teachers rather than addressing systemic issues with AI development and implementation.   

- The guide promotes using AI for tasks like generating outlines and media literacy but underestimates the importance of human creativity and critical thinking.   

- The appendix includes charts on AI-related teacher skills but avoids addressing fundamental questions about AI's nature and limitations. 

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!

6-9-25 

The article is a comprehensive roundup of various topics, ranging from political controversies involving Trump and Musk, educational reforms, privacy concerns, and social justice issues. It highlights the impact of political decisions on education, press freedom, and privacy, while also discussing community activism and educational initiatives.

### Key Points

- Heather Cox Richardson criticizes the Trump administration for distorting history and highlights their misuse of historical events for political purposes. 

- Trump excluded the Associated Press from the White House press pool for not adopting his renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, raising concerns about press freedom. 

- Trump's criticism of Harvard's math course as "remedial" is debunked by experts, highlighting mischaracterizations in his administration's education policies. 

- A Supreme Court decision allowing DOGE access to sensitive personal data sparks privacy concerns and calls for constitutional amendments. 

- Trump's deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles is criticized as a political maneuver rather than a genuine effort to restore order. 

- ICE's controversial raids in Los Angeles and the subsequent protests highlight tensions between federal immigration policies and local sentiments. 

- The article criticizes H.R. 1 for exacerbating child poverty by not making the Child Tax Credit fully refundable and excluding certain groups. 

- A public feud between Trump and Musk over policy disagreements impacts their business interests and public perception. 

- Principal Matthew Sloane's practice of shadowing students to improve school environments gains recognition and inspires changes in teaching practices.