Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-24-25
The Stench of Censorship Spreads in Higher Education in Red States https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/24/the-stench-of-censorship-spreads-in-higher-education-in-red-states/ via @dianeravitch
The article discusses the growing trend of censorship in higher education within Republican-controlled states, particularly targeting discussions on race, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). These measures, inspired by figures like Ron DeSantis and others, have led to restrictive laws that threaten academic freedom, free speech, and the ability of educators to teach historically accurate and socially relevant topics. Critics argue these laws instill fear among professors and undermine democracy, while supporters claim they aim to prevent ideological bias and ensure job-focused education.### Key Points
- Republican-led states are enacting laws restricting teaching about race and DEI in higher education, following the example of Florida’s Ron DeSantis.
- Professors face potential investigations and job loss for teaching “divisive concepts,” sparking First Amendment lawsuits.
- Over a dozen laws have been passed in recent years limiting curriculum choices and imposing gag orders on educators.
- Supporters of these laws argue they prevent political activism in classrooms and ensure education aligns with workforce needs, while critics see them as censorship and attacks on academic freedom.
- The restrictions create fear among educators and threaten free speech, with historical parallels drawn to McCarthyism and other reactionary movements.
Federal Judge Again Blocks Trump's Ban on International Students https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/24/the-universities-with-the-most-international-students/ via @dianeravitch
Federal Judge Blocks Trump's Ban on International Students### Key Points
- A federal judge in Massachusetts blocked President Trump’s attempt to ban international students at Harvard University, citing constitutional rights such as freedom of thought, expression, and speech.
- The judge argued that the presidential power used to ban these students was intended for addressing foreign enemies, not targeting international students.
- The Trump administration has been making it increasingly difficult for international students to study in the U.S., including scrutinizing their social media for critical opinions.
- International students contribute significantly to U.S. higher education, often paying full tuition and helping universities compensate for reduced state funding.
- The growing number of international students in the U.S. reflects rising incomes in countries like China and India, as well as domestic financial challenges in higher education.
Trump Strips Protection from 58 Million Acres of Wilderness https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/24/trump-strips-protection-from-58-million-acres-of-wilderness/ via @dianeravitch
Trump Administration Removes Protections for 58 Million Acres of Wilderness### Key Points
- The Trump administration announced the removal of protections from 58 million acres of national forest wilderness, allowing road construction and commercial development.
- Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins justified repealing the 2001 "roadless rule," calling it outdated and claiming it would promote consistency and sustainability in forest management.
- Environmental groups criticized the decision, warning it could destroy pristine landscapes like Tongass National Forest in Alaska and the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness in Idaho.
- Critics argue that the move prioritizes commercial interests, such as timber and housing development, over environmental conservation.
- Supporters suggest the decision could improve access for firefighters and help manage wildfires, though this justification is debated.
Big Education Ape: TRUMP'S WORLD WIDE WAR ON KIDS WITH BRUCE LESLEY AND NICHOLAS KRISTOF https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/trumps-world-wide-war-on-kids-with.html
Children worldwide suffering due to preventable issues like malnutrition. The article critiques privatization schemes in U.S. schools and highlights global failures in addressing child welfare, especially in malnutrition and healthcare, despite available solutions.### Key Points
- Policies under leaders like Trump are described as harmful to children, cutting essential programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and education funding.
- Global child malnutrition is highlighted, with Nicholas Kristof emphasizing the solvability of this crisis through affordable, available solutions like RUTF peanut paste and deworming pills.
- The U.S. has historically led efforts to combat global health issues, but recent cuts to humanitarian aid and programs like PEPFAR are reversing progress, leading to preventable child deaths.
- The article calls for political will and public action to prioritize children’s welfare and address these crises.
The Fog of Lies: How Instagram Reels Became the Gospel – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/06/24/in-the-fog-of-lies-how-information-became-twisted-and-instagram-reels-became-the-gospel/
### Main Ideas- The rise of distrust in legitimate, evidence-based information sources has led to the replacement of credible research with curated propaganda and conspiracy theories, often spread through social media platforms like Instagram Reels.
- Authoritarian strategies aim to destroy the concept of truth by flooding people with contradictory narratives, making them distrust reality and rely on charismatic, confident figures instead. Examples include Russia, Turkey, Hungary, and recent trends in the U.S. under Trump.
- Disinformation campaigns target the credibility of institutions such as schools, public health, and voting systems, weakening democratic structures and shared problem-solving.
- Triangulation, a key principle in reliable research, is under attack as data is cherry-picked, experts are discredited, and information systems are dismantled to avoid uncomfortable truths.
- Disinformation is now delivered through polished, addictive content on social media, making lies more palatable and harder to distinguish from truth.
- Fighting disinformation requires promoting transparency, ethical journalism, peer-reviewed research, public-access data, and media literacy to restore trust in truth and democracy.
Chaos and Confusion at U.S. Department of Education May Threaten School Programming this Fall https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/06/24/chaos-and-confusion-at-u-s-department-of-education-may-threaten-school-programming-this-fall/ via @janresseger
Chaos and confusion within the U.S. Department of Education, marked by funding delays, canceled grants, and unclear communication, are threatening the stability of public school programming for the upcoming fall. The disruptions have particularly impacted rural and vulnerable communities, with delayed budgets, staffing challenges, and threats to essential programs like Title I and IDEA. These issues stem from federal mismanagement, policy changes, and proposed funding cuts under the Trump administration.### Key Points
- Federal funding delays and mismanagement are causing instability in public schools, affecting planning, staffing, and essential services.
- Rural districts face uncertainty due to late or flawed funding allocations, complicating preparations for the school year.
- Key federal programs like Title I, IDEA, and others supporting vulnerable students are at risk due to policy changes and proposed budget cuts.
- The Trump administration has threatened to withhold federal funds from states that do not comply with its policies, creating further uncertainty.
Standing Up for Public Schools in Mississippi, by @TheAndySpears https://open.substack.com/pub/theeducationreport/p/standing-up-for-public-schools-in?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
Advocates in Mississippi emphasize the importance of opposing school privatization efforts, highlighting the detrimental impact of voucher programs on public education. They argue that public funds should support public schools, which serve all students and operate with accountability, unlike private schools that selectively admit students and lack transparency. Collaboration across communities is vital to promote the benefits of public education for both individuals and society.### Key Points
- Mississippi advocates stress the need to defeat school voucher programs, which divert public funds to private schools, undermining public education.
- Nancy Loome highlights the role of empowering parents with information and training to engage in policy discussions affecting public schools.
- Advocates argue that private schools lack accountability, operate selectively, and misuse taxpayer dollars intended for public goods.
- Michael Cormack calls for a unified voice across urban, rural, and suburban communities to emphasize the societal benefits of public education, such as higher graduation rates and better career opportunities.
Teacher Tom: I Trust Children With Freedom https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/06/i-trust-children-with-freedom.html
I Trust Children With Freedom ### Key Points
- The author emphasizes trusting children with freedom from birth, while acknowledging the need for adult responsibilities, such as ensuring safety, managing schedules, and teaching courtesy.
- Freedom and responsibility are inseparable; the author believes children can handle autonomy when trusted and supported in environments that encourage curiosity and decision-making.
- The author critiques traditional schooling systems for limiting children’s autonomy and advocates for play-based learning as a way to foster genuine freedom and responsibility.
- The blog reflects the author’s philosophy on education, detailing years of experience in play-based preschool teaching and offering resources for educators and parents.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: AI in Classrooms https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/06/ai-in-classrooms.html?spref=tw
The article discusses various issues and updates related to Seattle Public Schools. It highlights concerns about the use of AI in classrooms, urging readers to contact US Senators to oppose federal budget provisions that could limit state and local regulations on AI to protect student privacy and well-being. The article also touches on nepotism within the school district, noting instances of personnel being promoted based on personal connections. Additionally, it addresses potential school closures as a cost-saving measure, questioning the district's transparency and planning.### Key Points
- Concerns about AI in classrooms and a call to action for contacting US Senators to protect student privacy and well-being.
- Discussion on nepotism within Seattle Public Schools, highlighting personnel promotions based on personal connections.
- Criticism of potential school closures in the district, questioning the lack of transparency and oversight.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Yet ANOTHER Seattle Schools' Scandal With Huge Possible Ramifications. https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/06/yet-another-seattle-schools-scandal.html?spref=tw
Seattle Public Schools (SPS) is facing a scandal involving accusations of antisemitism at Nathan Hale High School. A former student has filed a lawsuit claiming she was harassed and threatened due to her views on the Israel-Gaza conflict, with the school administration allegedly failing to protect her. The situation raises concerns about safety and administrative oversight within SPS, with broader implications for the district's reputation. Additionally, issues of nepotism and the potential closure of schools are highlighted as ongoing challenges within the district.### Key Points
- A former student at Nathan Hale High School has filed a lawsuit alleging she faced antisemitic harassment and threats, with the school administration failing to intervene effectively.
- The student's mother felt compelled to transfer her daughter due to inadequate protection from the school.
- Concerns are raised about the district's response and the broader implications for safety and administrative oversight in Seattle Public Schools.
- Issues of nepotism and the movement of personnel based on relationships are noted as a norm within the district.
- The district's plans to close schools, potentially for financial savings, are criticized for lacking transparency and oversight.
Education Research Report: First-year teachers: frequent mentoring but varying exposure to activities & topics https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/06/first-year-teachers-frequent-mentoring.html
Education Research Report: Mentoring for First-Year Teachers in Missouri### Key Points
- Mentoring is a key strategy for improving teacher retention, with most first-year teachers in Missouri meeting with mentors multiple times a month.
- There is significant variation in first-year teachers' exposure to mentoring activities, such as being observed by mentors and receiving guidance on state-designated topics.
- No clear relationship was found between mentoring features and first-year teachers' likelihood of returning to teach in the same district for a second year.
- The findings raise concerns about whether mentors have adequate resources to meet teachers' needs and suggest the need for larger-scale research to identify effective mentoring practices.
- The report was conducted by Mathematica in collaboration with Missouri partners.
Education Research Report: Economic Opportunity Through Certificates and Associate’s Degrees https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/06/economic-opportunity-through.html
Economic Opportunity Through Certificates and Associate’s Degrees### Key Points
- The report from Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce highlights a projected annual shortage of nearly 712,000 middle-skills credentials (certificates and associate’s degrees) aligned with high-paying occupations for early-career workers without bachelor’s degrees, lasting until at least 2032.
- The largest shortages are in blue-collar occupations (360,800), followed by management and professional office occupations (253,000), and STEM occupations (87,500). Protective services occupations face a smaller shortage (10,600 annually).
- Healthcare is the only high-paying middle-skills occupational group without a projected shortage of certificates and associate’s degrees.
- Addressing these shortages provides opportunities for workers of all genders and races/ethnicities to secure well-paying jobs without a four-year degree.
- To create equitable access, pathways to credential attainment must be widened, transitions to the labor market made more reliable, and disparities in pay and employment addressed.
Progressive Magazine: Are Community Schools the Positive Disruptor Public Education Needs? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/community-schools-positive
Trust in public schools has been eroded by political and ideological challenges, but the community schools approach, as implemented at Hamilton Elementary School in La Crosse, Wisconsin, offers a promising model for rebuilding relationships and fostering collaboration. This approach prioritizes schools as hubs for educational and broader community services, addressing students' and families' physical, mental, and social needs. By engaging families through outreach efforts, needs assessments, and inclusive programs, Hamilton has seen improvements in school climate, family involvement, and community trust. Despite challenges, the model shows potential for uniting diverse school populations and addressing systemic inequities.### Key Points
- Community schools aim to rebuild trust in public education by serving as local hubs for education and broader community services, addressing needs like health, housing, and after-school care.
- Hamilton Elementary uses needs assessments and family engagement initiatives, such as family nights and outreach, to build trust and address challenges faced by low-income families and students with disabilities.
- The community schools approach has improved Hamilton's climate, culture, and family participation, though its impact on academic performance remains unclear.
- Despite ideological divides, the model fosters collaboration between public and charter school communities, aiming to bridge gaps in race, income, and ability.
The School Food Best Practices (SFBP) - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/sfbpfinalreport06302025.asp
The article provides information about the School Food Best Practices (SFBP) Final Report, its submission deadline, related resources, and additional updates on school nutrition programs and initiatives.### Key Points
- The SFBP Final Report is due by June 30, 2025. Recipients received an email with a unique link to their agency’s report, including details like agency name and award amount. For assistance, email SFBP@cde.ca.gov.
- The SFBP funding supports implementing school food best practices under Assembly Bill 181, targeting reimbursable meals through USDA NSLP or SBP.
- Additional updates include the SUN Bucks Webinar recording, Administrative Review for School Nutrition Programs (2025–26), and extended culinary training dates.
- Related resources on child nutrition, food distribution, and advisory councils are available.
- The California Department of Education offers a wide range of educational resources, standards, and information on various programs and policies.
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-24-25
The article is a collection of blog entries and thoughts on various societal and educational issues, including the influence of Donald Trump, the role of writers, privatization in education and national parks, the impact of poverty on education, and global child welfare challenges. It highlights critiques of Trump's policies, the importance of public ownership, and the role of minority leaders in advocating for equity and systemic change.
### Key Points
- The Trump administration's 2017 budget introduced a 1.4% tax on large college endowments, which has now been proposed to increase to as high as 21%, severely impacting scholarships and financial aid for low-income students.
- Wellesley College President Paula A. Johnson highlights the potential devastating effects of this tax increase, particularly for need-blind admissions, academic freedom, and building diverse communities.
- Trump's tax bill reallocates federal tax credits to private-school scholarships, benefiting wealthier taxpayers and advancing school-choice initiatives.
- The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned Louisiana's law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms, citing First Amendment violations.
- The ABA filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging an unconstitutional intimidation policy targeting lawyers and law firms.
- Policies under leaders like Trump are described as harmful to children, cutting essential programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and education funding.
- Minority leaders are often celebrated for their ideals but shunned for their demands, becoming "radioactive" due to their convictions and courage.
- The Wyoming Area School District is facing financial trouble, exacerbated by $3 million in cyber charter school costs, which make up 6% of its budget.
- Glen Brown reflects on the role of writers, quoting Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus to emphasize the need for writers to resist oppression and remain independent of societal constraints.
- Teacher Tom emphasizes the value of unstructured play, allowing children to follow their interests and learn independently.
- The UFT elections have shown a long-term trend of declining voter turnout, with only 27% of teachers voting in the latest election, indicating low engagement among members.
- Both public schools and national parks face threats of privatization, leading to reduced public ownership and management.
- ICE agents have been reported to use masks, avoid identification, and conduct arrests without warrants, which raises concerns about accountability and due process.
- LAUSD operates with an $11 billion general fund budget, which covers essential educational services, but understanding its complexities is challenging for the public.
- A demonstration was held to support Intro 1096, which seeks to restore retirees' health care and eliminate co-pays introduced by the "Mulgrew Tax."
- Privatization schemes threaten public schools, drawing parallels with the privatization of national parks.
- The article critiques Trump's policies, emphasizing the destructive impact on democracy and societal divisions.
- Nicholas Kristof highlights starvation as a solvable issue, emphasizing the availability of life-saving resources that remain unused while children suffer.
