Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
9-20-25
Trump Cancels Annual Hunger Survey https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/21/trump-cancels-annual-hunger-survey/ via @dianeravitch
The Trump administration has decided to cancel the USDA's annual hunger survey starting in 2025, citing concerns about the data being "politicized." This survey, conducted since the mid-1990s, provides critical information on food insecurity across the U.S. and is used by policymakers to allocate funding for food assistance programs. Experts and USDA employees expressed outrage over the decision, emphasizing the importance of such data, especially amid rising food insecurity due to inflation and economic challenges. Critics argue that the move aligns with broader efforts to suppress data that could highlight social issues under the administration's policies.### Key Points
- The Trump administration has canceled the USDA's annual hunger survey for 2025, citing concerns over "politicization" of the data.
- The survey, conducted since the 1990s, measures food insecurity and informs funding decisions for food assistance programs.
- Experts and USDA employees reacted with shock, stating that the data is crucial, especially during periods of rising food insecurity due to inflation and labor market challenges.
- Critics argue that the administration is suppressing data to avoid accountability for worsening food insecurity, as food banks report increasing demand.
- The move follows other actions by the administration to discredit or dismiss government data and officials, such as firing the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Trump Fires US Attorney for Eastern Virginia for Failing to Prosecute Letitia James https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/21/trump-fires-us-attorney-for-virginia-for-failing-to-prosecute-letitia-james/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points- Trump fired U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert for failing to find evidence to prosecute New York Attorney General Letitia James, despite pressure to bring charges.
- Siebert was replaced by conservative Republican Mary “Maggie” Cleary, highlighting Trump’s pattern of appointing loyalists.
- Trump openly targets his critics, including Letitia James, James Comey, and Adam Schiff, for their attempts to hold him accountable.
- Trump’s administration has a history of removing officials who push back against his directives or contradict his claims.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics Commissioner Erika McEntarfer was fired following a disappointing jobs report, raising concerns about suppression of unfavorable data.
Trump Justice Department Killed Investigation of Border Czar Tom Homan for Taking $50,000 Cash Bribe https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/21/trump-border-czar-tom-homan-took-50000-in-cash-from-undercover-fbi-agents-trumps-doj-killed-the-inquiry/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points- MSNBC reported that Tom Homan, the White House border czar, accepted a $50,000 cash bribe from undercover FBI agents, promising to help secure government contracts if Trump won the presidency again.
- The investigation into Homan was stalled and later closed under the Trump administration, with FBI Director Kash Patel requesting a status update and Trump appointees dismissing the case as a “deep state” probe.
- The bribery incident was recorded on hidden cameras during a meeting in Texas, and evidence was reviewed by the Justice Department’s Public Integrity Section, but no further action was taken.
- The White House, Justice Department, and FBI dismissed the investigation as politically motivated, while critics expressed concern over the suppression of the case.
Heather Cox Richardson: Is the Tide Turning? Could Be. https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/21/heather-cox-richardson-is-the-tide-turning-could-be/ via @dianeravitch
Heather Cox Richardson's column highlights significant developments in U.S. politics and governance. Judge Steven Merryday dismissed Trump's $15 billion defamation lawsuit against the New York Times, criticizing the misuse of legal complaints. Public backlash grows against the administration's pressure on media figures like Jimmy Kimmel, reflecting concerns about free speech. Polls show declining approval for Trump, with increasing Republican dissatisfaction. Democrats push legislative reforms to address Trump's actions, including a constitutional amendment against unlimited corporate election funding. Litigation has successfully challenged over 100 administration policies. Representative Jason Crow and other leaders emphasize the role of citizens in defending democracy, calling out elite institutions for failing to uphold constitutional values.### Key Points
- Judge Steven Merryday dismissed Trump's defamation lawsuit, citing improper legal conduct.
- Public resistance grows against government interference in free speech, such as the firing of Jimmy Kimmel.
- Polls indicate declining approval for Trump and growing Republican concern over the country's direction.
- Democrats introduce reforms and oversight efforts to counter Trump's violations of democratic norms.
- Litigation has successfully blocked numerous Trump administration policies.
- Representative Jason Crow calls for citizen action to defend democracy and criticizes elite institutions for failing constitutional duties.
Big Education Ape: WHY FASCISTS FEAR TEACHERS: A WITTY EXPLORATION OF PUBLIC EDUCATION’S ROLE IN DEMOCRACY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/why-fascists-fear-teachers-witty.html
### Key Points- Randi Weingarten’s book, *Why Fascists Fear Teachers*, explores the critical role of public education in preserving democracy and why authoritarian regimes target schools and educators.
- Public schools are described as incubators for democracy, teaching critical thinking, inclusivity, and collaboration among diverse groups, which authoritarian forces see as threats.
- Teachers are portrayed as defenders of truth and democracy, empowering students to question authority and understand systemic inequality, making them targets for authoritarian regimes.
- The book critiques Trump administration policies like defunding schools, promoting private school vouchers, and misusing critical race theory (CRT) to undermine public education.
- Historical examples show how fascist regimes have consistently attacked education to suppress dissent, from Nazi book burnings to modern censorship.
- Teachers’ unions are highlighted as defenders of democracy and public education, with their importance growing post-COVID due to improved public perception.
- The book emphasizes critical thinking as a cornerstone of democracy, making educated citizens harder to manipulate and resistant to propaganda.
- Weingarten calls for protecting public education, supporting teachers, and encouraging teaching as a transformative career for society.
Big Education Ape: OPERATION DESTROY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOILED BY RANDI WEINGARTEN'S NEW BOOK 'WHY FASCISTS FEAR TEACHERS' - A SATIRE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/operation-destroy-public-schools-foiled.html
The article is a satirical exploration of how public education and teachers are targeted by authoritarian agendas, particularly in the context of the Trump administration's policies. It highlights the fictional "Operation Destroy Public Schools" and counters these attacks with the release of Randi Weingarten's book, *Why Fascists Fear Teachers*, which argues that public schools are essential for democracy and critical thinking. The piece mixes humor, historical references, and political commentary to emphasize the importance of educators in resisting authoritarianism.### Key Points
- The Trump administration's fictional "Operation Destroy Public Schools" aimed to defund public education, promote vouchers, and rewrite curricula to favor authoritarian narratives.
- Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, authored *Why Fascists Fear Teachers*, which defends public education and highlights its role in democracy.
- The book argues that authoritarian regimes fear teachers because they teach critical thinking, empathy, and questioning power structures.
- Public schools are depicted as inclusive spaces that promote diversity and democracy, in contrast to privatized, profit-driven education systems.
- The Trump administration's policies included book bans, curriculum censorship, and promoting for-profit charter schools.
- Randi Weingarten's activism involved distributing free books, reviving career and technical education programs, and advocating for bipartisan educational initiatives.
- The book received widespread praise for its wit and historical insights, positioning teachers as defenders of democracy against authoritarianism.
- The satirical narrative concludes with the failure of "Operation Destroy Public Schools" and a resurgence of support for public education.
Big Education Ape: THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: WHO NAILED IT AND WHO DROPPED THE BALL? SEPTEMBER 21, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-great-ai-news-smackdown-who-nailed_21.html
The article explores various topics, including AI performance in news reporting, geopolitical developments, and public education issues. It highlights the "AI News Smackdown," comparing the accuracy of AI models like Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot, while also touching on global and national news stories, such as Trump's policies, international conflicts, and education-related satire.### Key Points
- Randi Weingarten's satirical book "Why Fascists Fear Teachers" critiques efforts to undermine public education.
- AI models are evaluated for their news reporting accuracy in "The Great AI News Smackdown," with ChatGPT 5 emerging as the most reliable.
- Gemini misreported an old speculative blog as breaking news about SpaceX's moon base.
- Grok fabricated a story about the iPhone 17 Pro Max featuring a holographic display and a built-in espresso machine.
- ChatGPT 5 accurately reported on a historic UN agreement to reduce carbon emissions by 60% by 2035.
- Copilot correctly reported a breakthrough in brain implant technology but misattributed the research to Meta instead of an independent biotech firm.
- Global geopolitical news includes Israel-Gaza conflict escalation, cyberattacks disrupting European airports, and recognition of Palestine by UK, Canada, and Australia.
- Trump's administration imposes a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas, sparking backlash from Indian professionals and firms.
- President Trump demands the return of Bagram Airbase from Afghanistan, leading to tensions.
- Israeli strikes in Southern Lebanon and Gaza result in civilian casualties, including children.
- International cyberattacks disrupt major European airports, suspected to involve state actors.
- Youth workforce participation in the U.S. declines, sparking debates on economic and cultural shifts.
- Local California news highlights heatwaves, fire risks, and lawsuits against Uber over safety concerns.
- Dan Brown releases a new thriller novel, generating excitement among fans.
Big Education Ape: FIRST THEY CAME FOR BLOGGER... THEN THEY CAME FOR GEMINI... THEN THEY CAME FOR GOOGLE... THEN THEY CAME FOR ME https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/first-they-came-for-blogger-then-they.html
This article highlights the tension between corporate compliance and free speech, focusing on Google's response to government pressure to censor a controversial blog post by "The Big Education Ape." The post criticized government actions against free speech and became a symbol of defiance. Google ultimately chose to stand for free speech, showcasing the blog post during the launch of its AI product, Gemini 2.5, despite threats from the FCC and political backlash. The incident emphasizes the importance of protecting free speech and the challenges corporations face in balancing ethical principles with external pressures.
### Key Points
- The blog post by "The Big Education Ape" criticized government crackdowns on free speech, becoming a viral sensation.
- Google faced pressure from the FCC to censor the post to avoid jeopardizing its Gemini 2.5 AI launch.
- Sundar Pichai decided to defend free speech by showcasing the blog post during the Gemini 2.5 launch, highlighting Google's commitment to the principle.
- The incident underscored the importance of free speech and the risks of corporate compliance with censorship demands.
Big Education Ape: THIS WEEK - THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: WHO NAILED IT AND WHO NEEDS A REBOOT? SEPTEMBER 13 TO SEPTEMBER 19, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/this-week-great-ai-news-smackdown-who.html
The article provides a detailed roundup of major news stories from September 13–19, 2025, focusing on U.S. education, politics, and global affairs. It highlights the performance of AI models (Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot) in reporting these stories, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and unique styles in presenting the news. Key topics include shifts in education funding priorities, political tensions, international conflicts, and the role of AI in journalism.
### Key Points
- A wedding in Edinburgh and quick travel to London were mentioned in a personal anecdote.
- Major news stories were analyzed in "The Great AI News Smackdown," comparing AI models like Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot.
- U.S. education updates included patriotic education initiatives, funding shifts for HBCUs, and debates over civics curriculum.
- Political violence was highlighted with the assassination of Charlie Kirk, sparking debates on free speech and extremism.
- Government shutdown fears were discussed due to Senate failures to pass stopgap measures.
- International tensions included Gaza airstrikes, Russian drones breaching NATO airspace, and U.S. tariffs affecting India’s shrimp exports.
- AI models were evaluated for their reporting styles: Gemini for drama, Grok for tabloid-style breadth, ChatGPT 5 for policy precision, and Copilot for optimism.
- The UN Security Council faced deadlocks on resolutions regarding Gaza and Iran sanctions.
- China's growing influence in the UN and Ukraine support sustainability were analyzed.
- Afghanistan rejected Trump's call to retake Bagram Air Base, emphasizing sovereignty.
- Colombia issued restorative sentences as part of post-conflict justice efforts.
Big Education Ape: THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: WHO NAILED IT AND WHO MISSED THE MARK? September 20, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-great-ai-news-smackdown-who-nailed_20.html
The article discusses the "Great AI News Smackdown," a comparison of top AI models—Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, Copilot, and Claude—on their ability to deliver news effectively. Each AI is evaluated based on its strengths and weaknesses, ranging from entertainment value to analytical depth. Key global and local news stories are highlighted, including Middle East tensions, U.S. political developments, climate protests, and technological advancements.
### Key Points
- The "Great AI News Smackdown" compares AI models Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, Copilot, and Claude in delivering news.
- Gemini provides dramatic headlines, focusing on political intrigue but lacks depth in its coverage.
- Grok covers a wide range of global stories but suffers from chaotic storytelling and tonal inconsistencies.
- ChatGPT 5 takes an academic approach, offering detailed analysis but lacking engaging presentation.
- Copilot mixes global and local news with quirky transitions, but its coverage feels scattered.
- Claude focuses on substantive global events, particularly Middle East tensions, offering thoughtful and credible coverage.
- Key global stories include tensions between Israel and Lebanon, Russia's missile attacks on Ukraine, and U.S. political developments.
- Local highlights include Sacramento's cannabis cafés and Rosemont's community auction.
- AI models are graded: Gemini for drama, Grok for range, ChatGPT 5 for analysis, Copilot for quirkiness, and Claude for substance.
- Major news stories include U.S. government shutdown fears, climate protests, and technological advancements like Italy's AI law.
Big Education Ape: LET'S CHECK THIS WEEK'S TOP NEWS AND OTHER STORIES Saturday, September 20, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/lets-check-this-weeks-top-news-and_01197440330.html
The article also covers various topics such as free speech, AI news analysis, political violence, and public education. It highlights recurring themes like the impact of AI on journalism, the rhetoric fueling political unrest, and advocacy for public education reforms.
### Key Points
- Commentary on free speech, including historical and modern perspectives.
- Analysis of AI-driven news coverage and its impact on journalism.
- Political violence and the role of divisive rhetoric.
- Advocacy for public education and critiques of its challenges.
Big Education Ape: THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: WHO NAILED IT AND WHO FUMBLED? SEPTEMBER 19, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-great-ai-news-smackdown-who-nailed_19.html
Silencing Kimmel Hurts Kids, Too - by Bruce Lesley https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/silencing-kimmel-hurts-kids-too
The article discusses Jimmy Kimmel’s significant role in advocating for children’s health and well-being, particularly through his opposition to Trump Administration policies that threatened Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It highlights his personal connection to the issue, his public advocacy, and the subsequent government pressure that led to the suspension of his show. The piece also examines the broader implications of silencing voices like Kimmel’s, including the erosion of free speech and its impact on vulnerable groups like children.### Key Points
- Jimmy Kimmel used his platform to advocate for children’s health, especially during the Trump Administration’s attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and cut Medicaid funding.
- Kimmel’s advocacy was driven by his personal experience with his son’s congenital heart condition, which underscored the importance of accessible healthcare for children.
- He introduced the “Jimmy Kimmel test,” a standard to evaluate healthcare policies based on their ability to ensure life-saving care for all children regardless of income.
- Kimmel’s advocacy played a critical role in stopping TrumpCare and the Graham-Cassidy bill, with his efforts influencing public opinion and lawmakers like Sen. John McCain.
- Kimmel also advocated for the reauthorization of CHIP, highlighting the devastating impact of its expiration on millions of children. His efforts helped pressure Congress to act after months of neglect.
- The Trump Administration and FCC Chairman Brendan Carr allegedly pressured Disney/ABC to suspend Jimmy Kimmel Live!, citing political grievances and using veiled threats to enforce compliance.
- The article criticizes the silencing of Kimmel as an attack on free speech and democratic principles, emphasizing its harmful impact on children who rely on advocacy for their health and well-being.
- The Supreme Court’s unanimous decision in NRA v. Vullo reaffirmed that government officials cannot coerce private entities to suppress disfavored speech, yet the Administration’s actions contradict this ruling.
- Disney/ABC’s decision to pull Kimmel’s show reflects corporate capitulation to political pressure, undermining editorial independence and free speech.
The Persistent Dilemma of Melding Play, Work, and Tests in Pre-kindergarten https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/09/21/the-persistent-dilemma-of-play-work-and-tests-in-prekindergarten/ via @CubanLarry
The article discusses the challenges of integrating play, work, and testing in pre-kindergarten classrooms, particularly in the context of New York City's pre-K programs. It explores the shift toward academic instruction in early childhood education due to testing demands and highlights the importance of play-based learning for cognitive, social, and emotional development. Educators argue that play and academic rigor are not mutually exclusive but complementary, emphasizing the long-term benefits of play and the need to reframe the perceived dilemma into a solvable problem.### Key Points
- New York City welcomed 60,000 four-year-olds to pre-kindergarten, raising questions about balancing play, academic work, and testing pressures.
- Kindergarten has become more academically focused, with increased expectations for reading and language arts, while time for social studies, science, and arts has diminished.
- Testing mandates for five-year-olds have pushed academic instruction into pre-kindergarten, creating pressure on younger children.
- Educators argue that play fosters vital skills and is integral to learning, blending seamlessly with academic work.
- Exemplary pre-K classrooms demonstrate how play-based activities support development and integrate learning naturally.
- Educators advocate for meaningful play as a smart investment and urge stakeholders to recognize its value.
CURMUDGUCATION: ICYMI: Porch Edition (9/21) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/09/icymi-porch-edition-921.html
### Key Points- The author discusses the refurbishment of a century-old front porch at the Institute and shares a weekly reading list of notable education-related posts.
- Wealth continues to predict school ratings in Ohio, as highlighted in school report cards with accompanying charts.
- Nancy Flanagan examines the roots of political violence in classrooms.
- Maurice Cunningham writes to a Massachusetts representative opposing mandated Science of Reading legislation.
- Oklahoma's Supreme Court blocks Ryan Walters’ Bible-heavy social studies standards, which included controversial claims about the 2020 election.
- Google pauses a controversial "cheat button" in Chrome after teacher backlash.
- Texas teachers creatively resist a law requiring Ten Commandments displays in classrooms.
- Johann Neem warns public education may soon be deemed unconstitutional due to court decisions like Mahmoud v. Taylor.
- U.S. District Court judges protect Head Start access for undocumented children.
- Sue Kingery Woltanski critiques misleading school choice narratives in Florida.
- Ohio charter schools struggle with low graduation rates, as explained by Stephen Dyer.
- John Warner explores whether platforms like Google negatively influence students’ thinking.
- A Canadian report on ethical AI use contains fake sources, highlighting ongoing issues with AI reliability.
- Peter Greene promotes his newsletter and other platforms for education discussions.
- The blog features various education-related topics, including standardized tests, school choice, and teacher shortages, among others.
Violence and Baldwin’s Prophecy: Why Our Time Is So Perilous – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/09/21/culture-wars-violence-and-baldwins-prophecy-why-our-time-is-so-perilous/
Violence and Baldwin’s Prophecy: Why Our Time Is So Perilous### Key Points
- James Baldwin’s 1963 essay “A Talk to Teachers” warned of dangerous times, highlighting societal violence and the importance of education in addressing systemic inequities.
- Baldwin’s observations remain relevant today, as contemporary America faces violence, political polarization, and repression, including attacks on educators for addressing racism and LGBTQ+ issues.
- Education is inherently political, and Baldwin urged teachers to confront societal truths, empowering students to understand and challenge injustice.
- Clint Smith reflects on how Baldwin’s essay transformed his teaching approach, emphasizing the integration of rigorous academics with culturally relevant discussions.
- The silencing of dissent and the politicization of education highlight the urgency of Baldwin’s call to resist conformity and prioritize truth in teaching.
- Baldwin’s message underscores the importance of fostering student voices, critical thinking, and honest engagement with societal issues in classrooms.
glen brown: "The designation of the amorphous group antifa as a terrorist organization allows the state to brand all dissidents as supporters of antifa and prosecute them as terrorists" -Chris Hedges https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-designation-of-amorphous-group.html
### Key Points- The article critiques the designation of antifa as a terrorist organization, arguing it is a tactic to suppress dissent and resistance movements.
- The author expresses opposition to antifa's confrontational tactics, property destruction, and ideological rigidity, which undermine broader resistance efforts.
- Nonviolent movements are emphasized as a more effective way to expose state corruption and gain support from the public and power structures.
- The weaponization of antifa by the state is viewed as a method to justify repression and isolate resistance movements.
glen brown: Political Affiliations and Free Speech by Jeff Price https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/09/political-affiliations-and-free-speech.html
The article explores themes of political identity, free speech, societal polarization, and the role of independent voices in political discourse. It critiques the inherited nature of political affiliations, the inflammatory narratives of major parties, and the decline of authentic debate. The author advocates for independent thought and tolerance while warning against the dangers of tribalism and violence in politics.### Key Points
- Political identity is often inherited from one's environment rather than chosen through intellectual awakening.
- Major political parties prioritize inflaming their base over informing or persuading moderates.
- The public square has devolved into a space where partisans attack caricatures of opposing views, undermining objective truth.
- The author chooses to remain politically independent, emphasizing the need for impartial voices in society.
- Free speech should expose unjust ideas to scrutiny rather than suppress them.
- Societal polarization has led to tribalism, rhetorical violence, and a lack of substantive policy debate.
- The author warns of a future shaped by intolerance, violence, and the absence of intellectual rigor.
Three LAUSD Incumbents Running For Re-election https://www.changethelausd.com/three_lausd_incumbents_running_for_re_election
### Key Points- In 2026, Los Angeles voters in even-numbered LAUSD districts will decide the direction of the school board, influencing the balance between charter and public schools.
- Three incumbents—Dr. Rocio Rivas, Nick Melvoin, and Kelly Gonez—are running for re-election, with varying records and challenges. Rivas stands out for her strong advocacy for public education and her unique perspective as a parent.
- Nick Melvoin has been a consistent supporter of charter schools, drawing criticism for his decisions on underperforming schools and financial mismanagement. He faces a challenger, Isaiah Mateas, and has expressed interest in higher political office.
- Kelly Gonez narrowly won re-election in 2022 and faces no current opposition, but this will be her last chance to run due to term limits.
- The incumbents have been asked reflective questions about their campaign promises, surprises during their term, and their proudest accomplishments. New articles will share their responses.
- The article highlights the importance of local school board elections in shaping education policy and governance.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Of Interest This Week in Seattle Schools https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/09/of-interest-this-week-in-seattle-schools.html?spref=tw
### Key Points- The Seattle Schools Board will hold a meeting on September 24, 2025, discussing strategic resource analysis, the 2026-2027 budget, October adjustments, and high school lunch schedules.
- Enrollment numbers are critical for district funding, with the current student count dropping to 49,000.
- High school lunch scheduling changes have caused student protests, highlighting their desire for involvement in decision-making.
- The superintendent search process includes HYA presenting candidates to the Board on September 26, followed by virtual community meetings on September 27 and 29 for feedback.
- Concerns about nepotism within Seattle Schools have been raised, particularly regarding principal and senior staff appointments based on personal connections.
“Chicky” Looks Like A Good Language-Learning AI Tool, & It’s Free (For Now, At Least) Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
This article provides a roundup of recent educational resources, tools, and discussions, including AI-powered language learning, educational policy insights, teaching strategies, and free materials for English Language Learners (ELL). It also highlights key events like World Tourism Day and Suicide Prevention Month, along with reflections on Paulo Freire's contributions to education.### Key Points
- Chicky, a free AI-powered language-learning tool, supports multiple languages.
- A collection of useful posts on educational policy issues is available.
- "Civic Futures" allows users to redesign their neighborhoods creatively.
- Resources for teaching and learning related to World Tourism Day are shared.
- Reflections on resisting the Trump administration's educational agenda are republished.
- Free teaching resources from "ELL Teacher’s Toolbox 2.0" are now online.
- September is Suicide Prevention Month, with resources for educators and students.
- Outline for ELL intermediate students to write biographical essays is provided.
- Books and resources offer strategies for teaching various subjects and engaging students.
- Blog posts, radio shows, and videos support parental involvement and teacher development.
Here I go again, making an ask https://www.dailykos.com/story/2025/9/21/2344769/-Here-I-go-again-making-an-ask?pm_campaign=blog&pm_medium=rss&pm_source=teacherken
This article discusses the efforts of a teacher, "teacherken," to support a majority-minority school by addressing students' mental health, social-emotional learning, and providing diverse role models. The teacher emphasizes the importance of expanding access to books through Donors Choose, a platform for educational funding. The article also highlights community engagement through donations and the broader mission of Daily Kos as a progressive news source. Additional discussions touch on various trending topics, including political controversies, cultural issues, and charitable initiatives.### Key Points
- A teacher advocates for mental health, social-emotional learning, and positive role models in a diverse school, requesting support for expanding book access.
- Donors Choose is praised as a platform for educational funding, with community members contributing to the teacher's project.
- Daily Kos is described as a unique progressive platform for news, action, and discussion, relying on community support for survival.
- Trending topics include political controversies, cultural debates, and other community-driven discussions.
Trump's war profiteering in Ukraine. Europe is a tinderbox of war and fascism. Operation Midway Blitz has turned our sanctuary city, Chicago, into a war zone. https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/trumps-war-profiteering-in-ukraine
Trump’s profiteering from the Ukraine war highlights the economic gains for U.S. defense contractors, while taxpayers bear the cost. The conflict risks escalating into a global confrontation, with NATO and Russia on edge. Meanwhile, authoritarianism and anti-immigrant violence intensify in both Europe and the U.S., with protests in Broadview, IL showcasing the weaponization of immigration enforcement against democracy.
### Key Points
- Trump views the Ukraine war as a profitable arms deal, benefiting defense contractors like Lockheed Martin and Raytheon, while taxpayers cover associated costs.
- The war risks expanding into a NATO-Russia confrontation, potentially triggering global conflict.
- Far-right movements in Europe, such as anti-immigrant riots in the Netherlands, mirror authoritarian trends in the U.S. under Trump.
- ICE agents violently suppressed peaceful protests in Broadview, IL, turning immigration enforcement into a tool against democracy.
AI News Smackdown: September 21, 2025 Who Nailed It, Who Napped? https://ru4people.substack.com/p/ai-news-smackdown-september-21-2025
AI News Smackdown for September 21, 2025, compares the top stories generated by major AI models: Google's Gemini, Elon's Grok, OpenAI's ChatGPT 5, and Microsoft's Copilot. Grok emerged as the winner for its impactful and engaging news coverage, while Gemini and ChatGPT 5 received honorable mentions for their groundbreaking but slightly less urgent stories. Copilot was critiqued for prioritizing self-serving corporate news over broader global narratives. ### Key Points
- Grok won the AI News Smackdown with standout stories on Neuralink's "Cognitive Sync" human trials and asteroid mining's trillion-dollar haul.
- Gemini highlighted CERN's quantum entanglement breakthrough and Mars Colony One's expansion plans.
- ChatGPT 5 showcased ITER's advanced fusion reactor achieving net energy gain for 100 days and the expansion of Universal Basic Income pilots to G7 nations.
- Copilot focused on Microsoft's "QuBit OS" quantum operating system and global cybersecurity summit addressing AI-powered threats.
- Grok was praised for its ability to capture humanity's fascination with disruptive technologies and ethical dilemmas.
- Gemini and ChatGPT 5 were recognized for their groundbreaking scientific and societal contributions but lacked immediate buzzworthy appeal.
- Copilot was critiqued for prioritizing corporate-focused news over captivating global narratives.
- The article humorously noted that none of the AI models caught the "Sentient Toaster Uprising," showcasing the limits of AI in detecting absurd events.
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
9-20-25
### Summary
The article is a compilation of discussions on education, politics, global affairs, AI advancements, and societal issues. It highlights controversies surrounding free speech, public education privatization, healthcare reforms, political violence, and the role of activism in resisting authoritarianism. Additionally, it evaluates AI models' performance in reporting news and examines major global and local political developments.
### Key Points
- Randi Weingarten's satirical book "Why Fascists Fear Teachers" critiques the attack on public schools and advocates for education as a bulwark against authoritarianism.
- Google's defense of free speech was showcased during the launch of its Gemini 2.5 AI product, defying FCC censorship demands.
- The "Great AI News Smackdown" compares AI models like Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, Copilot, and Claude, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses in news reporting.
- Political violence, such as the assassination of Charlie Kirk, raises concerns about extremism and free speech suppression.
- Trump administration's selective approach to free speech includes targeting dissenters while promoting an executive order on free speech.
- Marianne Pizzitola is a polarizing figure advocating for retirees' healthcare and challenging union leadership.
- The Apple+ film "Highest or Lowest" emphasizes the stark choice between building and destroying, rejecting neutrality in politics and community.
- GOP efforts to privatize public education through ESA programs face legal challenges and public opposition.
- AI models analyzed for their reporting styles include Gemini for balanced coverage, Grok for dramatic flair, ChatGPT 5 for thematic analysis, Copilot for localized focus, and Claude for detailed Middle East coverage.
- The California Department of Education released an Immigration Enforcement Rapid Response Toolkit to protect immigrant families near school sites.
- Trump's proposed education budget cuts threaten programs supporting English learners, teacher recruitment, mental health services, and civil rights enforcement.
- Timothy Snyder warns against authoritarianism, emphasizing the importance of freedom of speech and activism to resist oppression.
- Activism and protests are highlighted as critical in opposing authoritarian measures, such as Trump’s policies and censorship.
- The erosion of democratic institutions and free speech under Trump’s regime underscores authoritarian tendencies.
- California’s Community Schools Initiative demonstrates improvements in equity and underserved student outcomes.
- Courts blocked Trump administration policies targeting undocumented children in Head Start programs, protecting vulnerable families.
- The America 250 Civics Education Coalition raises concerns about enforcing a nationalistic curriculum and undermining educational autonomy.
- AI models evaluated for news reporting capabilities highlight strengths and weaknesses in global and local coverage.
