Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
9-23-25
Idaho: Parents Sue to Block Vouchers. Leading Newspaper Agrees https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/22/idaho-parents-sue-to-block-vouchers-leading-newspaper-agrees/ via @dianeravitch
Idaho parents are challenging a $50 million voucher program in court, arguing it violates the state constitution, which mandates a "uniform and thorough system of public, free common schools." The vouchers primarily benefit wealthy families and threaten funding for rural public schools. Critics point out that similar programs in other states have led to budget issues, fraud, and reduced accountability. Legal precedents from Utah, Ohio, and South Carolina have struck down similar voucher systems for contravening constitutional mandates to fund public education exclusively.### Key Points
- Idaho's legislature passed a $50 million voucher program, mainly benefiting wealthy families, and potentially harming rural public schools.
- Parents argue the program violates the Idaho Constitution's mandate for a "uniform" public school system.
- Voucher systems in other states have faced legal challenges due to fraud, waste, and the creation of non-uniform school systems.
- Precedents from Utah, Ohio, and South Carolina courts have struck down similar voucher schemes for misusing public funds.
- Idaho's legal challenge coincides with Constitution Day, emphasizing the importance of adhering to constitutional principles.
Ta-Nehisi Coates Examines Charlie Kirk's Bigotry https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/22/ta-hisi-coates-examines-charlie-kirks-beliefs/ via @dianeravitch
Ta-Nehisi Coates critiques the posthumous celebration of Charlie Kirk, highlighting Kirk's history of bigotry and harmful ideologies, including white supremacy, misogyny, and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. Coates contrasts these views with the mainstream political and media figures who have praised Kirk for his civility and commitment to debate. The article delves into Kirk’s controversial statements and actions, as well as the troubling legacy of Turning Point USA under his leadership. It also reflects on the dangers of political violence and the complexities surrounding Kirk's assassination and subsequent memorialization.### Key Points
- Charlie Kirk's legacy includes white supremacy, misogyny, and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, which Ta-Nehisi Coates critiques in Vanity Fair.
- Despite Kirk's harmful views, political and media figures have praised his civility and debate skills, creating a sanitized narrative of his life.
- Kirk's Turning Point USA organization has a history of racism and bigotry, further amplifying his controversial beliefs.
- The article reflects on the dangers of political violence and its impact on democracy, questioning the memorialization of Kirk.
Will One Billionaire Own CBS and CNN? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/22/will-one-billionaire-own-cbs-and-cnn/ via @dianeravitch
Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle and one of the richest men in the world, is expanding his influence in media and entertainment. Already a major stakeholder in CBS and Paramount, Ellison is now pursuing acquisitions of CNN, HBO, and TikTok. This move could make him one of the most powerful media moguls in history. Critics are concerned about the implications for democracy, as Ellison's close ties to Donald Trump raise fears of partisan control over major news outlets. The article compares Ellison's ambitions to Rupert Murdoch's impact on media polarization and highlights the risks of billionaires controlling the press.### Key Points
- Larry Ellison, already a stakeholder in CBS, aims to acquire CNN, HBO, and TikTok, consolidating media power.
- His acquisitions could surpass the influence of other tech moguls like Jeff Bezos and Marc Benioff, transforming him into a media magnate.
- Ellison’s friendship with Donald Trump raises concerns about partisan control over major news organizations and its impact on democracy.
- The consolidation of media under billionaires is deemed harmful to freedom of the press and democratic discourse.
CNN Staff Are Worried by Potential Sale to Partisan Billionaire https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/22/cnn-staff-are-worried-by-potential-sale-to-partisan-billionaire/ via @dianeravitch
CNN staff are expressing concerns over a potential acquisition by billionaire Larry Ellison, who is reportedly preparing a bid to purchase Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), the parent company of CNN. Ellison's previous actions, such as steering CBS News toward more Trump-friendly coverage, have heightened anxieties among CNN employees about editorial shifts and potential cost-cutting measures. Current CNN leadership, including CEO Mark Thompson, has attempted to reassure staff amid the uncertainty, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and executing the network’s strategy. However, fears persist, especially with speculation about Ellison's plans to merge CBS News and CNN, potentially altering CNN’s identity and digital strategy.### Key Points
- CNN staff are worried about Larry Ellison's potential takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery, which could lead to editorial changes and cost-cutting measures.
- Ellison has previously pushed CBS News toward MAGA-leaning coverage and may install Bari Weiss as an editorial authority at CNN.
- CNN CEO Mark Thompson has urged calm, emphasizing the need to focus on the network's strategy despite the uncertainty.
- Concerns persist about the future of CNN’s digital strategy and the broader implications of the acquisition.
- The WBD board may prioritize shareholder interests, potentially making the acquisition inevitable if the offer is compelling.
Disney Announces that Jimmy Kimmel Will Return Tomorrow! https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/22/disney-announces-that-jimmy-kimmel-will-return-tomorrow/ via @dianeravitch
Disney reinstates Jimmy Kimmel's show after backlash over his suspension. Kimmel was initially suspended for comments linking MAGA to the killer of Charlie Kirk, which were deemed insensitive and ill-timed by Disney. Public protests against his removal highlighted concerns over free speech. The controversy also sparked broader discussions about political bias and the suppression of speech in various professions.### Key Points
- Disney suspended Jimmy Kimmel for comments about the killer of Charlie Kirk but reinstated him after public outcry.
- Kimmel clarified he did not directly identify the killer as MAGA but criticized the movement's reaction to the incident.
- The suspension raised issues about free speech and political bias in media and other sectors.
- Kimmel mocked Trump's response to Kirk's death, criticizing his focus on unrelated topics like ballroom construction.
Supreme Court Allows Trump to Fire Last Democrat on Federal Trade Commission---Without Cause https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/22/supreme-court-allows-trump-to-fire-last-democrat-on-federal-trade-commission-without-cause/ via @dianeravitch
The article discusses the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to allow former President Donald Trump to dismiss the last Democratic member of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) without cause. This ruling is part of a broader trend by the Court to expand presidential authority over independent government agencies. The Court is also signaling its willingness to overturn a long-standing precedent, Humphrey’s Executor, which historically protected independent agencies from political interference. Critics argue that these decisions undermine the independence of federal commissions and pave the way for unchecked executive power.### Key Points
- The Supreme Court ruled that Trump could fire the last Democratic member of the FTC without cause, overturning a lower court injunction.
- The Court plans to revisit the 1935 Humphrey’s Executor precedent, which insulated independent agencies from political interference.
- Trump has previously dismissed Democratic members of other independent boards, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Labor Relations Board, citing no reasons despite statutory protections.
- Critics claim these rulings enable excessive executive power and undermine democratic safeguards.
Big Education Ape: NO KINGS II -TECH TITANS AND TRUST BUSTERS: HOW AMERICA'S GADGET FETISH IS HANDING DEMOCRACY TO THE BILLIONAIRE BOYS CLUB https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/no-kings-ii-tech-titans-and-trust.html
Lawmakers and activists are calling for investigations into alleged corruption involving Trump administration officials and broader concerns about the erosion of democracy due to corporate monopolies, media consolidation, and unchecked technological advancements. The article highlights historical trust-busting efforts and advocates for renewed antitrust action to counter the growing influence of billionaires and tech giants.### Key Points
- Allegations of corruption in the Trump administration spark calls for investigations and impeachment proceedings.
- The article critiques America's "gadget fetish," which enables tech billionaires to dominate democracy through monopolies and AI.
- Historical examples of monopolistic practices, such as Standard Oil's dominance, illustrate the dangers of unchecked corporate power.
- Trust-busting laws like the Sherman and Clayton Acts historically curbed monopolies, but deregulation since the 1980s has weakened antitrust enforcement.
- Supreme Court rulings, including Citizens United, have amplified corporate influence in politics, undermining democratic processes.
- Media ownership concentration by figures like Rupert Murdoch and Elon Musk threatens unbiased journalism and civic discourse.
- AI tools are enabling oligarchs to manipulate public opinion and further entrench monopolistic control.
- The article calls for a new wave of trust-busting reforms to dismantle tech monopolies, regulate media mergers, and curb political donations.
Big Education Ape: THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: WHO NAILED IT AND WHO NEEDS A REBOOT? Monday, September 22, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-great-ai-news-smackdown-who-nailed_22.html
The article discusses the performance of four AI models—Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot—in analyzing and reporting major news stories on September 22, 2025. It critiques their approaches, highlights their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately declares Grok the winner for its comprehensive and balanced coverage. The content also touches on global events, political developments, and the role of AI in shaping news consumption.### Key Points
- Lawmakers are demanding investigations into alleged corruption involving a $50,000 bribe to Trump Border Czar Tom Homan, with calls for impeachment proceedings within the Trump administration.
- Governor Newsom declared a state of emergency in Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties due to wildfires.
- The article evaluates the performance of AI news models Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot, highlighting their diverse approaches to news reporting.
- Gemini focused on U.S.-centric stories, including Charlie Kirk’s memorial and Tylenol-autism claims, but lacked depth and global perspective.
- Grok provided comprehensive coverage of global events, including deadly crashes, Pakistan Taliban bomb blasts, and Israeli-Palestinian tensions, but lacked engaging delivery.
- ChatGPT 5 summarized multiple topics neutrally, covering Ukraine, Middle East diplomacy, and humanitarian crises, but lacked flair and depth.
- Copilot delivered dramatic and chaotic news coverage, spanning topics like Palestine recognition, Russian airstrikes, and extreme weather events, but lacked focus.
- Grok was declared the winner among AI models for its balanced and global coverage, despite its corporate-style presentation.
- The article emphasizes the evolving role of AI in news reporting and its imperfections while acknowledging their entertainment value.
- Major global stories include Charlie Kirk’s assassination, international recognition of Palestine, Israeli-Palestinian tensions, and U.S. visa policy changes.
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 humorously critiques the Trump administration's efforts to undermine public education, focusing on the release of Randi Weingarten's book *Why Fascists Fear Teachers*. The book highlights how education is essential for democracy and counters authoritarian attempts to defund public schools, promote private academies, and ban critical thinking. Through satire, the narrative explores the cultural and political battles over public education and emphasizes the importance of teachers and unions in preserving democratic values.### Key Points
- Allegations of corruption within the Trump administration, including a $50,000 bribe involving Tom Homan.
- Governor Newsom declares a state of emergency in response to fires in California counties.
- Satirical depiction of Trump administration's "Operation Destroy Public Schools," aiming to defund public education and promote private academies.
- Randi Weingarten's book *Why Fascists Fear Teachers* argues that public education is critical for democracy and counters authoritarianism.
- Trump's administration plans to gut the Department of Education, promote vouchers, and rewrite curricula to fit conservative agendas.
- Book bans in red states target works like *To Kill a Mockingbird* and *The Diary of Anne Frank*, with extremist groups leading the charge.
- Randi Weingarten emphasizes the role of teachers in fostering critical thinking and resisting authoritarianism.
- The AFT distributes free books and revives career and technical education programs to counteract educational attacks.
- Public sentiment shifts against the Trump administration's education policies, favoring better schools over censorship.
- Teachers and unions are portrayed as defenders of democracy, with Randi's book gaining widespread acclaim.
- The article concludes with a satirical depiction of the failure of authoritarian attacks on public schools and the resilience of educators.
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.
### Key Points- The article explores the philosophical and historical dimensions of faith, emphasizing its universal echoes across cultures and its role in shaping human consciousness.
- Organized religion is criticized for being a mechanism of control, yet its texts contain fragments of wisdom that resonate universally.
- The recurring archetypes in religious stories point to humanity’s shared longing for redemption and hope, rather than fraud or mere borrowing.
- Faith is considered an explanation for aspects of the universe that align with science but remain beyond human comprehension.
- The concept of natural law, rooted in historical philosophy and Enlightenment thought, is highlighted as a universal moral order transcending government and culture.
- Kindness is presented as a fundamental principle that sustains and enriches shared humanity.
glen brown: Lawmakers Demand Answers Over Alleged $50,000 Bribe of Trump Border Czar Tom Homan https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/09/lawmakers-demand-answers-over-alleged.html
The article discusses allegations of corruption within the Trump administration, focusing on Border Czar Tom Homan's acceptance of a $50,000 bribe during an undercover FBI operation. Despite documented evidence, the investigation was dropped, sparking outrage and demands for accountability from lawmakers and the public. The case also implicates high-ranking officials like Kash Patel and Pam Bondi, raising concerns about political loyalty and shielding officials from legal consequences.### Key Points
- Allegations surfaced that Tom Homan accepted a $50,000 bribe during an FBI sting operation, yet the investigation was abruptly dropped.
- Lawmakers and public figures expressed outrage, calling for transparency, impeachment proceedings, and further investigation into the corruption.
- The case highlights potential shielding of officials by the Trump administration, raising questions about political loyalty and integrity.
Governor Newsom Proclaims State of Emergency - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/govnewsomtculightning.asp
Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency for Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties due to the TCU Lightning Complex Fires, which burned over 13,000 acres and damaged over 100 structures, including homes in Chinese Camp. The California Department of Education (CDE) issued disaster relief guidelines for affected Child Nutrition Programs (CNP), providing flexibility in reimbursement claims and usage of USDA Foods during the disaster. Contact information for specific programs and resources is provided, along with links to disaster guidance and policy documents.### Key Points
- Governor Newsom declared a state of emergency for Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties due to TCU Lightning Complex Fires.
- CDE issued disaster relief guidelines for Child Nutrition Programs, including claims flexibility and USDA Foods usage.
- Contact information for assistance with disaster relief programs was provided.
- Resources such as disaster guidance, policy documents, and training courses for CNP operators are available.
- Recent updates include webinars, verification reminders, and rescinded USDA policies.
Choosing Democracy: Acts of Violence Targeting Teachers https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/09/acts-of-violence-targeting-teachers.html
Choosing Democracy: Acts of Violence Targeting Teachers### Key Points
- AFT President Randi Weingarten condemned acts of violence and hate, emphasizing their incompatibility with democratic values and the role of educators in fostering those values.
- The assassination of Charlie Kirk has created national trauma, impacting teachers and students across educational settings.
- Utah Governor Spencer Cox and former presidents called for unity and de-escalation, while some have politicized the tragedy.
- Weingarten criticized actions like doxxing, censorship, and firing educators for their private opinions, advocating for the protection of First Amendment rights.
- Teachers play a crucial role in promoting civil debate, open inquiry, and creating safe learning environments, especially during times of national crisis.
- The AFT represents a wide range of education and public service professionals, emphasizing their importance in upholding democratic principles.
A Study in Irony: What Seattle’s Front Page Reveals About Police in Schools and Public Safety When police misconduct cases pile up and students are still owed $10 million for mental health supports, doubling down on policing isn’t safety—it’s abandonment. https://jessehagopian.substack.com/p/a-study-in-irony-what-seattles-front
A Study in Irony: What Seattle’s Front Page Reveals About Police in Schools and Public Safety The article critiques the reliance on police in schools as a means of ensuring safety, highlighting systemic issues of police misconduct, racial disparities, and the ineffectiveness of law enforcement in preventing school shootings. It argues for prioritizing mental health services and resources for students instead, emphasizing that true safety comes from addressing the root causes of violence and supporting youth well-being.
### Key Points
- Seattle's police system faces a backlog of misconduct complaints, yet there is a push to reintroduce police into schools despite evidence showing this does not improve safety.
- Research indicates that police presence in schools leads to higher rates of criminalization, particularly for Black and disabled students, without reducing violence.
- Armed guards in schools have been linked to higher death rates during shootings, failing to prevent such incidents.
- Students and youth advocates in Seattle successfully secured funding for mental health services, but much of the promised money remains undelivered, hindering efforts to improve school safety.
- Mental health services in schools are proven to enhance safety, attendance, and academic outcomes, while police presence often alienates students and contributes to the school-to-prison pipeline.
- The U.S. is unique in placing police in schools, and the article advocates for investing in counselors, social workers, and violence prevention programs instead of expanding policing.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Seattle Police Department Speaks Out on SRO/SEO in High Schools Issue. https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/09/seattle-police-department-speaks-out-on.html?spref=tw
Seattle schools are debating the presence of school resource officers (SROs) or school engagement officers (SEOs) on campuses amid concerns about safety and equity. Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes supports placing officers in schools, citing recent threats of gun violence and the need for student protection. He emphasizes proper training, clear roles, and community involvement in selecting officers. Data shows a reduction in gun violence incidents at Garfield High School following increased police presence. Critics urge the school board to prioritize student safety as delays persist in decision-making.### Key Points
- Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes advocates for school engagement officers in schools, citing safety concerns and the need for trained officers with community backing.
- Recent threats of gun violence at Seattle high schools highlight vulnerabilities and the urgency of addressing campus safety.
- Barnes stresses the importance of clear roles, responsibilities, and specialized training for officers to support students without interfering in school discipline.
- Garfield High School experienced a drop in gun violence incidents after implementing police presence and violence prevention programs.
- Community discussions suggest SROs could also educate students on citizenship, legal rights, and drug dangers, fostering trust in law enforcement.
- Critics urge the Seattle School Board to act swiftly on the issue, as ongoing delays impact student safety.
Second Breakfast: How Do You Want to Be Remembered? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/remembered
### Key Points- The article discusses the political and ideological weaponization of education, technology, and AI under authoritarian influences, particularly in the U.S.
- It highlights the dangers of AI being used for surveillance, behavioral engineering, and control rather than educational enhancement.
- The author critiques the framing of AI as a neutral or inevitable technology, emphasizing its alignment with authoritarian and techno-fascist agendas.
- Universities and institutions are portrayed as complicit in placating powerful forces to avoid repercussions, aligning with authoritarian ideologies.
- There is skepticism regarding the sustainability of current AI models, like OpenAI, and concerns about their long-term impact on society and education.
- The article notes a shift in public sentiment toward AI, with fewer positive stories and increasing scrutiny of its ethical implications.
Weekend Quotables It wasn’t a memorial for Charlie Kirk. It was a MAGA movement rally. https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-c6d
### Key Points- Charlie Kirk's memorial, framed as a funeral, became a MAGA movement rally blending conservative Christianity with Trump’s political agenda.
- Trump used the event to announce a controversial claim about autism and Tylenol, which was criticized by medical experts for lacking scientific evidence.
- Kirk’s death was politicized, casting him as a martyr for the MAGA cause and leveraging grief to fuel political narratives.
- Critics, like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, condemned the glorification of Kirk, highlighting his divisive rhetoric and opposition to civil rights.
- The event symbolized the ongoing shift toward authoritarian tendencies in U.S. politics, with some commentators labeling it as fascistic.
AI News Smackdown: September 22, 2025 THE ULTIMATE AI NEWS FACE-OFF https://ru4people.substack.com/p/ai-news-smackdown-september-22-2025
AI News Smackdown: September 22, 2025### Key Points
- Four AI models—Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot—were evaluated for their news aggregation capabilities, focusing on global and domestic headlines.
- Grok stood out for its detailed coverage of international events, such as the Lisbon funicular crash, Pakistan Taliban bomb blast, and India's GST rate changes, while providing context for U.S. political developments.
- Copilot excelled in personalization, offering local news alongside major global stories, including a Super Typhoon impacting the Philippines and updates on U.S. immigration policies.
- Gemini provided concise geopolitical and U.S. domestic news but missed some notable stories like the Lisbon crash and Jimmy Kimmel suspension.
- ChatGPT 5 focused on thematic summaries and global trends but lacked sharp headline-driven content, making it less effective for direct news consumption.
- Grok and Copilot were declared winners for their comprehensive and personalized approaches, while Gemini and ChatGPT 5 received mixed reviews.
Not a violation of the First Amendment—I guess—technically https://bloom2.substack.com/p/not-a-violation-of-the-first-amendmenti
### Key Points- Jimmy Kimmel was suspended by ABC (a private company) after his September 15 monologue, which criticized MAGA and President #47's reaction to Charlie Kirk's death.
- Kimmel’s comments included criticisms of President #47’s grieving behavior and MAGA's political response to the tragedy.
- FCC Chair Brendan Carr, a government official, condemned Kimmel’s remarks as “sick conduct” and made a statement that could be interpreted as a threat, raising questions about government interference.
- Speculation arises that ABC’s decision may have been influenced by concerns over FCC rulings on a proposed merger involving Nexstar Media Group and Tegna.
Charlie Kirk's last words? - Fred Klonsky in Retirement https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/charlie-kirks-last-words
### Key Points- Charlie Kirk's reported last words, "Please sir. Save Chicago," were used by Trump to justify his threats of military intervention in Chicago, a city known for its strong community resistance to ICE actions.
- Recent protests at the Broadview ICE detention facility involved notable political figures and resulted in arrests and clashes with law enforcement. Rumors persist about the facility's future.
- A House resolution to honor Charlie Kirk saw dissent from several Democrats, highlighting divisions within the party.
- The article reflects on Fred Klonsky's broader commentary on politics, unions, and retirement, with references to past posts on Trump, teacher unions, and cultural topics.
Teacher Tom: "What are Your Hopes for Your Child" https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/09/what-are-your-hopes-for-your-child.html
Teacher Tom reflects on the hopes parents have for their children, primarily happiness and a love for learning. He emphasizes that children are inherently curious and love learning, which is best nurtured through play-based education. Happiness, however, is complex and fleeting, often tied to the pursuit rather than the attainment. He argues that learning and happiness should be ends in themselves, not means to achieve external goals like grades or jobs. Teacher Tom advocates for granting children freedom and trusting them to explore their interests. He also introduces his course on creating supportive learning communities for families.### Key Points
- Parents often hope for their children to be happy and love learning, which are natural traits in preschoolers.
- Happiness is elusive and often tied to the pursuit rather than the result, aligning with the principles of self-directed learning.
- Learning and happiness should be pursued for their intrinsic value, not as tools for external achievements.
- Restricting freedom in education can undermine children's natural joy and curiosity.
- Teacher Tom offers a course on fostering collaborative relationships between educators, parents, and children.
Why Don’t Struggling Students Do Their Homework? Low Study Productivity https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
Education Research Report Summary### Key Points
- Low academic productivity, rather than low motivation, is a stronger predictor of academic struggles. School quality enhances productivity and skill development.
- Test-optional admissions policies led elite colleges to enroll more lower-scoring students with high grades, particularly first-generation and lower-income students, though they did not significantly increase applications from underrepresented groups.
- A higher proportion of female peers improves mental health for both boys and girls, with stronger school friendships and better self-image as potential mechanisms.
- Preschool expulsions are less likely when teachers perceive parents as cooperative, highlighting the importance of parent-teacher collaboration in addressing challenging behavior.
- Parents of children with health conditions face added concerns about school readiness, accommodations, and social integration, emphasizing the need for strong communication between families, schools, and healthcare providers.
- Relaxing teacher licensing requirements in Texas increased the supply of certified teachers but resulted in higher turnover and lower value-added from for-profit-trained teachers, with no net harm to student achievement.
- Excellence gaps among first-generation students emerge early and persist, driven by deeper challenges related to parental education rather than solely socioeconomic or school quality factors.
When Tonerheads Run the Enterprise – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/09/22/when-tonerheads-run-the-university/
Higher education is at a crossroads, facing challenges such as rising tuition costs, declining public perception, and the integration of artificial intelligence. The article warns against universities being led by "tonerheads"—administrators disconnected from the core product of education, which is learning and teaching. It draws parallels to Xerox's missed opportunities due to leadership that failed to understand its own innovations. The author advocates for restoring "product sensibility" by involving faculty and staff in decision-making, requiring administrators to teach, and ensuring AI adoption is guided by educators. This approach aims to preserve the transformative essence of higher education and avoid a hollow future.### Key Points
- Higher education offers critical thinking, creativity, and financial benefits but faces a crisis due to rising costs and declining public value perception.
- Leaders disconnected from classrooms ("tonerheads") are making decisions that undermine innovation and the core product of education.
- Steve Jobs's critique of Xerox highlights the danger of sidelining product experts, a mistake higher education risks repeating.
- Faculty and staff, intimately involved with teaching and learning, are often excluded from key decisions, leading to misplaced priorities.
- Administrators should teach courses to reconnect with the realities of education and align policies with student learning needs.
- AI's integration into higher education is vital but must be led by educators to ensure it enhances learning rather than undermines it.
- Universities must prioritize teaching and learning over branding and bureaucracy to avoid becoming "tonerhead institutions."
Christian Nationalists Cash In on Arizona Voucher Scheme Millions in unaccountable funds prop up extremist agenda https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/christian-nationalists-cash-in-on
### Key Points- Arizona's school voucher program is being exploited by Christian Nationalist private schools to fund extremist agendas, with minimal accountability.
- Dream City Christian School, linked to pro-Trump rallies and Turning Point USA, has significantly increased its voucher revenue, while enforcing anti-LGBTQ policies and pricing out lower-income families.
- Tipping Point Academy, run by Great State Alliance, has grown its voucher income and aims to expand to 100 campuses, using a Bible-based curriculum called The Noah Plan.
- These schools reflect a broader trend of Christian Nationalist institutions leveraging public funds to undermine public education and promote conservative ideologies.
Video: “How Feedback Affects Performance” - Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
The article provides an overview of various educational resources, tools, and updates shared by an education-focused blog. It highlights posts about teaching strategies, language-learning AI tools, educational policy, suicide prevention month, and instructional techniques across subjects. It also includes republished posts, insights into engaging parents, and links to additional content like videos and radio shows.### Key Points
- The blog shares the latest posts, including videos on feedback performance and resources for giving effective feedback.
- Highlights tools like "Chicky," a free AI-powered language-learning application.
- Features a weekly round-up of educational policy articles and resources for World Tourism Day.
- Republished posts include a collection of student handouts and excerpts from books on teaching English learners.
- September is Suicide Prevention Month, with resources for teachers and students.
- Offers practical instructional strategies for various subjects, including Math, Science, Social Studies, and English.
- Shares creative techniques for motivating students and engaging parents in education.
- Provides additional content through blog posts, radio shows, and contributions to platforms like Education Week and the New York Times.
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
9-23-25
The article covers a wide range of topics, including political controversies, education reforms, AI advancements, global conflicts, and societal issues. It highlights the Trump administration's actions, such as suppressing critical data, targeting dissenters, and undermining public education, alongside broader discussions on democracy, free speech, and activism. Additionally, it evaluates AI models' performance in news reporting and addresses local and global developments.### Key Points
- Lawmakers demand answers over alleged $50,000 bribe of Trump Border Czar Tom Homan, sparking calls for investigations and impeachment proceedings.
- The Trump administration canceled the USDA's annual hunger survey, citing concerns over politicization, which critics argue suppresses data on food insecurity.
- Trump fired U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert for failing to prosecute Letitia James, replacing him with loyalist Mary Cleary, raising concerns about targeting critics.
- Allegations of bribery against Tom Homan were dismissed by the Trump administration, with evidence suppressed and critics concerned about corruption.
- Judge Steven Merryday dismissed Trump’s $15 billion defamation lawsuit against the New York Times, highlighting improper legal conduct.
- Public resistance grows against government interference in free speech, such as the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show due to political pressure.
- Randi Weingarten’s book, *Why Fascists Fear Teachers*, explores the role of public education in democracy and critiques authoritarian attacks on educators.
- AI models like Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot are evaluated for their news reporting accuracy and styles in the "Great AI News Smackdown."
- Trump administration policies, including efforts to privatize education and suppress dissent, face legal challenges and public opposition.
- Violence and political polarization highlight concerns about societal instability and repression, as reflected in James Baldwin’s prophetic essay.
- The designation of antifa as a terrorist organization is criticized as a tactic to suppress dissent and resistance movements.
- Advocacy for public education reforms and critiques of challenges like standardized testing and teacher shortages are emphasized.
- Trump’s profiteering from the Ukraine war and escalating global tensions raise concerns about authoritarianism and conflict.
- The California Department of Education released a toolkit to protect immigrant families near school sites.
- AI models are analyzed for their strengths and weaknesses in reporting major global and local news stories.
- Community engagement in education is highlighted through Donors Choose and advocacy for diverse role models in schools.
- Seattle Schools face challenges with enrollment, nepotism concerns, and student protests over lunch schedule changes.
