Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-12-25
Trump Lashes Out at His Enemies and Sells Merch to Troops at Fort Bragg https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/11/trump-lashes-out-at-his-enemies-and-sells-merch-to-troops-at-fort-bragg/ via @dianeravitch
Donald Trump’s speech at Fort Bragg during a military visit was highly partisan, violating Pentagon policies about nonpartisanship in the military. He criticized political opponents, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and former President Joe Biden, while soldiers were encouraged to participate in jeering. A shop at the event sold Trump campaign merchandise, further politicizing the military. Reports revealed that soldiers for the event were selectively chosen based on appearance and political leanings, raising concerns about the manipulation of military optics. Trump’s actions reflect a disregard for military norms and ethics.
### Key Points
- Donald Trump delivered a partisan speech at Fort Bragg, attacking political opponents and encouraging soldiers to engage in political behavior.
- Soldiers were handpicked for the event based on political leanings and physical appearance, violating military neutrality.
- Trump campaign merchandise was sold at the event, raising ethical concerns about politicizing the military.
- Trump’s actions at Fort Bragg are consistent with his history of disrespecting military norms and personnel.
Trump Shows His Fascist Face https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/11/trump-shows-his-fascist-face/ via @dianeravitch
Trump Shows His Fascist Face
### Key Points
- The article criticizes former President Trump for encouraging violence and authoritarian actions, citing examples such as inciting violence at rallies, deploying military forces unlawfully, and undermining democratic norms.
- Trump mobilized the National Guard and Marines in Los Angeles without consulting Governor Newsom, violating legal protocols like the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits military involvement in civilian matters.
- The deployment was a response to anti-ICE protests, which Trump labeled as an "insurrection," though legal experts and observers disagreed. The large military presence escalated tensions but did not result in fatalities.
- The article connects Trump’s controversial actions to his history of racism, including allegations involving his father’s ties to the KKK, discriminatory housing practices, and his handling of the Central Park Five case.
- Trump’s rhetoric and policies are described as fostering division, leveraging nationalism and racial discrimination, and laying the groundwork for authoritarianism.
Governor Gavin Newsom: Do Not Give In to a Lawless President https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/11/governor-gavin-newsom-do-bot-give-in-to-a-lawless-president/ via @dianeravitch
Governor Gavin Newsom delivered a speech in response to federal actions in Los Angeles, criticizing President Trump's approach to immigration enforcement and the militarization of American cities. Newsom condemned the indiscriminate targeting of immigrants and the use of the National Guard and Marines in civilian areas, arguing that these actions undermine democracy and the rule of law. He emphasized the importance of peaceful protest and the role of citizens in defending democratic values.
### Key Points
- Governor Newsom criticized federal immigration raids in Los Angeles as indiscriminate and harmful to immigrant families.
- Newsom highlighted the misuse of military forces in civilian areas, emphasizing the risks and abuse of power by President Trump.
- The governor condemned the escalation of violence and the militarization of Los Angeles, stressing the need for public safety over theatrics.
- Newsom announced legal actions against the federal government's use of military forces in law enforcement, warning of the threat to democracy.
- The speech called for citizens to peacefully exercise their rights and resist authoritarian measures.
Six Nobel Laureates in Economics Denounce Trump Budget Bill https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/11/six-nobel-laureates-in-economist-denounce-trump-budget-bill/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Six Nobel laureates in economics criticized the U.S. House budget bill passed on May 22, 2025, for cutting key safety net programs like Medicaid and SNAP while benefiting high-income households with significant tax cuts.
- Medicaid cuts are likely to harm vulnerable groups, including low-income retirees, elderly Americans, and rural hospitals, while imposing work requirements on healthy adults will yield minimal savings.
- Federal contributions to Medicaid are vital for state budgets and rural hospital systems, with Medicaid expansion states showing fewer hospital closures.
- SNAP cuts and tax reductions primarily favoring wealthy households exacerbate income inequality, add over $3 trillion to public debt, and increase inflation and interest rates.
- The economists argue the bill worsens U.S. economic challenges, redistributes income upward, and fails to address pressing national issues. They urge the Senate to reject the bill and start over.
- Comments emphasize the need for reframing the argument to align with senators' values and suggest targeted amendments rather than dismissing the bill entirely.
Big Education Ape: PEACEFUL PROTEST OR TANKS IN THE STREETS #NoKingsDay #DefendDemocracy #AmericaStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/peaceful-protest-or-tanks-in-streets.html
Big Education Ape PEACEFUL PROTEST OR TANKS IN THE STREETS #NoKingsDay #DefendDemocracy #AmericaStrong - *PEACEFUL PROTEST OR TANKS IN THE STREETS* Protests are as deeply baked into American history as, well, pie
### Key Points
- Protests have been a vital part of American history, from the Boston Tea Party to modern movements like Black Lives Matter, serving as a tool for societal change and holding power accountable.
- The "No More Kings" rallies, planned for June 14, 2025, aim to protest Trump’s authoritarian tendencies and his $45M military parade, which coincides with his birthday and the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary.
- Trump’s disdain for protests, coupled with threats of "heavy force" against demonstrators, highlights his ongoing challenges to democratic norms and free speech.
- Peaceful protests, rooted in the First Amendment, remain a cornerstone of democracy, emphasizing nonviolent resistance for impactful change.
- Trump's military parade is criticized as an ironic display of power, undermining the very democratic principles the military is meant to protect.
Big Education Ape: WHY DOES TRUMP KEEP REPEATING HIMSELF? PROPAGANDA, THE BIG LIE, AND LESSONS FROM HISTORY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/why-does-trump-keep-repeating-himself.html
Big Education Ape: TRUMP KICKING THE HORNET'S NEST CHRONICLES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/trump-kicking-hornets-nest-chronicles.html
Some Thoughts about Science Education Reforms in the Past Century https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/06/11/some-thoughts-on-science-education-reforms-in-the-past-century-2/ via @CubanLarry
Larry Cuban discusses the history and challenges of science education reforms over the past century. He highlights the recurring cycles of curriculum changes, the tensions between different teaching approaches, and the obstacles in implementing reforms due to the multilayered nature of U.S. school curricula. While many reforms have aimed to improve science education, actual shifts in classroom practices often fall short of expectations.
### Key Points
- Policymakers have tried to improve science education for over a century by altering curricula, aiming to change teaching practices and enhance student learning.
- There is an ongoing debate over whether science education should focus on teaching scientific knowledge or engaging students in hands-on inquiry-based learning.
- Numerous historical efforts to reform science curricula include initiatives like the Committee of Ten (1893), National Defense Education Act (1950s), and the National Research Council’s Framework for K-12 Science Education (2011).
- Top-down science curriculum reforms often struggle to translate into changes in classroom practices and student learning due to the multilayered curriculum structure.
- Despite teacher involvement in developing science standards, reforms have typically been led by policymakers and experts, not grassroots teacher initiatives.
A Birthday Manifesto: What I Will—and Won’t—Do at 50 https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/06/11/a-birthday-manifesto-what-i-will-and-wont-do-at-50/
### Key Points
- The author reflects on turning 50, emphasizing the importance of standing boldly for liberty, freedom, community voice, and equity in today's challenging social and political climate.
- Leadership today requires more than credentials; it demands courage, a strong record of standing for justice, and the ability to lead through crises rather than merely manage controversies.
- Communities value leaders who consistently show up, defend academic freedom, support DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), and prioritize collaboration and innovation over maintaining the status quo.
- The author shares their journey of prioritizing authenticity, community, and conviction over convenience or applause, while reflecting on the personal sacrifices and rewards of this approach.
- A manifesto for leadership is presented, advocating for fierce protection of freedom, genuine community engagement, justice-rooted DEI, unapologetic knowledge-sharing, and transparency.
- The author commits to continuing their bold, justice-driven leadership, emphasizing the importance of courage, clarity, and persistence in the face of challenges.
The "Science of" Movements: Another Education Reform Red Herring https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/06/11/the-science-of-movements-another-education-reform-red-herring/ via @plthomasEdD
glen brown: "We have already called what’s happening in our country a coup" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/we-have-already-called-whats-happening.html
### Key Points
- The article critiques President Trump’s militarization of American streets, highlighting his deployment of federal troops, including the National Guard and Marines, in Los Angeles under questionable legal grounds.
- The Posse Comitatus Act and the Insurrection Act are discussed, emphasizing their limitations on federal military use for domestic law enforcement, which Trump appears to be circumventing.
- California has filed lawsuits against Trump’s actions, arguing they violate federal law and constitutional principles, with Governor Newsom actively opposing the deployments.
- The article contrasts Trump’s actions with historical precedents, such as federal intervention during the 1992 Rodney King riots, where aid was requested by state and local authorities.
- The author criticizes Trump’s motives, suggesting his actions aim to consolidate power and provoke unrest under the guise of maintaining order.
Teacher Tom: The Stupidity of Thinking We Can One-Up Mother Nature https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-stupidity-of-thinking-we-can-one-up.html
The article discusses humanity's arrogance in attempting to surpass Mother Nature's systems, emphasizing that natural processes, such as education, fitness, and community, are superior to human-managed alternatives. It critiques modern schooling for isolating children from real-life experiences, advocating instead for play-based, nature-connected learning. The author underscores the importance of engaging with life directly, rather than relying on artificial substitutions, and highlights the wisdom inherent in nature's time-tested methods.
### Key Points
- Humans mistakenly believe they can improve upon Mother Nature's systems, but natural processes are far superior.
- Modern schooling isolates children from life, replacing natural learning with rigid, artificial methods.
- Play-based, experiential learning aligns better with nature's educational model than traditional schooling.
- Artificial substitutes for natural processes, such as treadmills for fitness or social media for community, lead to negative outcomes.
- Nature teaches through direct engagement with life, which contrasts with the sterile, pre-packaged lessons of schools.
- Supporting and protecting children as they explore life naturally is a more effective educational approach.
Not Pro-Life https://www.changethelausd.com/not_pro_life
Our Parent Action Conference 2025 was a great success! | Class Size Matters | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/class-size-matters-nyc-kids-pac-parent-action-conference-2025/
Choosing Democracy: EXCLUSIVE: Governor Newsom ADDRESSES State and Nation LIVE https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/06/exclusive-governor-newsom-addresses.html
Governor Gavin Newsom delivered a critical address regarding President Donald Trump’s deployment of federal forces in Los Angeles, condemning it as unlawful militarization and a threat to democracy. Newsom highlighted federal raids targeting Latino communities, the commandeering of California National Guard members, and the deployment of U.S. Marines without state consultation. He described these actions as authoritarian, escalating tensions, and undermining constitutional rights. Newsom called on citizens to peacefully stand against these actions and emphasized the importance of protecting democracy amidst growing authoritarian behavior.
### Key Points
- Governor Newsom condemned President Trump’s militarization of Los Angeles, labeling it as authoritarian and unlawful.
- Federal raids targeted Latino neighborhoods, with mass deportations and family separations reported, sparking protests across Los Angeles.
- Trump’s actions included deploying National Guard members and Marines without consulting state officials, escalating tensions and risking public safety.
- Newsom accused Trump of undermining constitutional rights, targeting vulnerable communities, and using division to consolidate power.
- The Governor emphasized the need for peaceful resistance and highlighted the role of citizens in defending democracy.
Alert: Urge your Senators to eliminate the ban on regulating AI from the budget bill! | Parent Coalition for Student Privacy https://studentprivacymatters.org/alert-urge-your-senators-to-eliminate-the-ban-on-regulating-ai-from-the-budget-bill/
The article discusses concerns about a provision in the U.S. budget bill that would impose a 10-year ban on states and localities regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in classrooms and beyond. This unregulated use poses risks to student privacy, educational quality, and societal safety. Advocacy groups are urging citizens to contact their Senators to oppose this provision. It also highlights resources for parents and educators to protect student privacy and ongoing efforts to strengthen privacy regulations.
### Key Points
- The U.S. budget bill includes a provision banning states and localities from regulating AI use in education, raising concerns about student privacy and educational quality.
- AI technologies collect and commercialize student data, posing threats to privacy and human connection in education.
- Advocacy groups and legislators are urging opposition to the ban, emphasizing the importance of local regulation to protect children’s safety and well-being.
- Parents and educators are provided with toolkits and resources to advocate for better privacy policies and practices in schools.
- Recent posts and initiatives focus on strengthening student privacy regulations, addressing telehealth privacy concerns, and discussing AI risks in education.
Schools Matter: Felon47 Appearance at Ft. Bragg More Reality TV http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/06/felon47-appearance-at-ft-bragg-more.html
Schools Matter is a blog focused on education issues, particularly systemic challenges in the U.S. education system. The content discusses topics like the influence of poverty on education, corporate interference in education reform, the impact of standardized testing, and critiques of "No Excuses" teaching models. It highlights issues such as teacher burnout, political agendas in education, and the privatization of schools. The blog also explores broader societal influences on education, including economic inequality and policy decisions.
### Key Points
- The blog emphasizes that a child's learning is more influenced by classmates than teachers, quoting James Coleman (1972).
- Critiques of corporate and political interference in education reform are central, including voucher schemes and "No Excuses" teaching.
- Poverty is argued to be a more significant factor in education outcomes than teacher quality.
- The blog highlights the negative effects of excessive standardized testing and corporate-driven education policies.
- Historical and systemic issues in education, such as the No Child Left Behind Act and its consequences, are discussed.
- Teacher struggles, such as burnout and external pressures, are a recurring theme.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Yet Another Athletics Scandal - This Time's It's R... https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/06/yet-another-athletics-scandal-this.html?spref=tw
Seattle Public Schools and Roosevelt High School are facing significant sanctions after an investigation by the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) revealed illicit recruiting practices in the Roosevelt football program. The penalties include game forfeitures, postseason bans, fines, and suspensions for coaches and administrators involved. The district has pledged to improve its processes to prevent future violations.
### Key Points
- Roosevelt High School’s football program was found guilty of recruiting violations, leading to penalties such as game forfeitures, postseason bans, and fines.
- The investigation revealed that 20 new players, many registered as homeless, transferred to Roosevelt, raising suspicions.
- The WIAA placed Seattle Public Schools and Roosevelt High on probation, barring implicated coaches and players from participating for a year.
- Seattle Public Schools is reviewing the findings and strengthening residency verification processes.
Marines invade California. Who's next? https://open.substack.com/pub/klonsky/p/marines-invade-california-whos-next?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
7 Upgrade to paid Marines invade California. Who's next? The article discusses the deployment of federal troops, including active-duty Marines and National Guard members, to Los Angeles under the Trump administration, citing "border integrity" and protest control as reasons. The move has sparked lawsuits, mass civil disobedience, and criticism from local leaders like California Governor Gavin Newsom, who plans to sue the administration. The piece highlights concerns about the military's role in civilian protests, the normalization of authoritarian tactics, and the potential for future escalations. It also promotes a radio discussion with Ken Cloke on conflict resolution, tyranny, and resistance.
### Key Points
- Federal troops, including Marines and National Guard, were deployed to Los Angeles under the pretext of controlling protests and ensuring border security, sparking legal and public backlash.
- The deployment has led to lawsuits, mass civil disobedience, and accusations of federal overreach, with no clear exit strategy.
- California Governor Gavin Newsom has responded defiantly, announcing plans to sue the Trump administration and criticizing their actions.
- The article raises concerns about the military's role in suppressing protests, the creeping normalization of fascism, and the potential for future authoritarian actions.
- A radio discussion with Ken Cloke, an expert in conflict resolution, is promoted, focusing on themes of mediation, resistance, and tyranny.
Are You Subbing? https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/are-you-subbing?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
The article discusses various issues related to the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) and its internal and external challenges. It highlights concerns about double dues for retired teachers, the need for union democratization, healthcare plan negotiations, and issues surrounding immigrant student protection. The article also covers union meetings, resolutions, and the broader socio-political context affecting the union.
### Key Points
- The author expresses frustration over paying double UFT dues as both a retiree and a current teacher, raising concerns about how widespread this issue might be.
- The author reflects on their career as an ESL teacher and the impact of teaching immigrant students on their life perspective.
- There is a desire to democratize the union and move away from the current Unity patronage system.
- UFT Delegate Assembly meetings cover a range of issues, including healthcare plans, union elections, and political endorsements.
- The article mentions the ongoing negotiations for a healthcare plan that offers a broader network of doctors and hospitals, particularly for pre-65 retirees.
- Concerns are raised about the burden of IEPs on teachers and the need for better processes.
- The union is dealing with challenges related to cell phone policies in schools and the need for a clear approach.
- Discussions include the importance of supporting immigrant students and opposing ICE detentions.
- The union is navigating political endorsements and internal disagreements regarding candidates.
- The article touches on broader socio-political issues, including the impact of national policies on immigrants and unions.
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!
6-11-25
The article provides a comprehensive overview of various political, educational, and social issues, including critiques of Trump’s policies, privatization in education, protests against authoritarianism, environmental concerns, and the role of equity and inclusion in governance. It highlights the ongoing debates and challenges in public education, leadership, and societal systems.
### Key Points
- Florida's GOP leaders have politicized the state's university system, prioritizing loyalty over merit in appointing college presidents.
- Trump's "Educational Choice for Children Act" (ECCA) incentivizes wealthy individuals to exploit tax shelters, redistributes funds from poorer areas, and lacks safeguards against discrimination and misuse of funds.
- ABC News suspended reporter Terry Moran for criticizing Stephen Miller, reflecting corporate interests' influence over journalistic integrity.
- Trump's use of repetition as a propaganda tool parallels Nazi techniques, emphasizing the dangers of misinformation and societal gullibility.
- Trump’s deployment of military forces in California to suppress protests has sparked legal and social battles, highlighting the importance of peaceful dissent and justice.
- The Child Tax Credit in the proposed tax bill excludes millions of low-income children, exacerbating poverty and educational challenges.
- The article critiques corporate greed and environmental negligence, highlighting the harmful effects of chemical exposure on children and systemic failures in public health policy.
- Pete Hegseth’s renaming of Navy ships honoring civil rights icons reflects a MAGA-driven agenda, undermining diversity and historical contributions.
- The Educational Choice for Children Act of 2025 provides tax incentives favoring wealthy donors, raising concerns about fairness and equity.
- Los Angeles schools are safeguarding graduation ceremonies to protect families from ICE agents, amidst protests and federal troop deployments.
- Haruki Murakami’s works are explored for their philosophical dimensions, addressing themes like existentialism, psychoanalysis, and semiotics.
- Penny Schwinn’s nomination as Deputy Secretary of Education under Trump draws mixed reactions due to her controversial career and ties to privatization.
- Nationwide protests against Trump’s $45M military parade highlight concerns over authoritarianism and misuse of federal resources.
- The National Education Policy Center criticized a Wisconsin report on school choice for flawed methods and lack of transparency.
- Epic Charter Schools in Oklahoma laid off 357 employees, raising concerns about the charter school model’s impact on students and staff.