TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES
DECEMBER 27, 2025
U.S. News- Winter storms disrupt post-holiday travel: A major winter storm brought heavy snow, ice, and blizzard conditions across parts of the U.S., complicating holiday travel with a "Blue Norther" cold snap and potential bomb cyclone.
- Corporate bankruptcies reach 15-year high: Over 700 companies, including Spirit Airlines and Rite Aid, filed for bankruptcy amid economic pressures from tariffs and inflation.
- U.S. military strikes ISIS in Nigeria: Airstrikes targeted Islamic State militants, following warnings about threats to Christians.
- Flu cases surge nationwide: Record-high flu activity in states like New York, with warnings of a severe season amid lower vaccination rates.
Politics- Trump-Zelenskyy meeting amid Ukraine tensions: Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is set to meet President Trump, as Russia launched attacks on Kyiv just ahead of talks.
- Trump administration actions on trade and foreign policy: Ongoing tariff impacts, with California dropping a lawsuit over high-speed rail funds, and reflections on Trump's second-term promises like immigration and Gaza ceasefire.
- Epstein documents release: Justice Department continues releasing records from investigations into Jeffrey Epstein.
- Controversies over Trump policies: Lawsuits, executive orders, and criticisms of actions like renaming the Kennedy Center.
World Affairs- Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine: Major missile and drone strikes on Kyiv and other areas killed and injured civilians ahead of U.S.-Ukraine peace discussions.
- Myanmar holds phased elections amid civil war: Military rulers proceed with voting described as a "sham" by the U.N.
- U.S. and allies strike ISIS in Syria: Airstrikes hit 70 targets in retaliation for attacks.
- Global conflicts and ceasefires: Ongoing issues in Gaza, Sudan, and border disputes like Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire.
Education- AI integration in classrooms: Growing use of AI for teaching digital literacy, monitoring homework (e.g., in China), and concerns over job displacement in education.
- Student loan relief through bankruptcy rises: More borrowers successfully discharge debts due to updated guidelines.
- Budget cuts and leadership changes in U.S. schools: Financial challenges lead to layoffs and turnover in districts and colleges.
- Focus on mental health and social media: New requirements for warnings on platforms and teaching navigation of AI/deepfakes.
Economy- Strong Q3 GDP growth: U.S. economy expanded at 4.3% rate, driven by consumer spending and exports, despite tariff concerns.
- Record corporate bankruptcies: Surge linked to high tariffs roiling import-dependent businesses.
- Stock markets near records: Gains in tech and broader sectors, with precious metals hitting highs.
- Inequality and Fed challenges: Acknowledgment of "K-shaped" recovery, with Fed cutting rates but limited tools for inequality.
Technology- Nvidia's major AI deals: Licensing Groq technology and hiring executives in a reported $20B move to bolster inference capabilities.
- AI job displacement warnings: Experts highlight massive workforce impacts, with calls for retraining funds.
- AI bubble concerns: Debates over overvaluation, with heavy investments driving economic growth but risks of crash.
- Regulatory and ethical developments: China regulates interactive AI; parents use AI for homework monitoring.
Health- Severe flu season underway: Surging cases set records in several states, with warnings of widespread impact.
- Advancements in treatments: Progress in CRISPR for rare conditions, potential Alzheimer's prevention via vaccines, and new insights into epilepsy and dementia.
- Global health milestones: Achievements in disease elimination (e.g., measles in African countries) and cervical cancer vaccination targets met early.
- Climate and health links: Rising threats from heatwaves and extreme weather impacting global health.
Sports- NFL Week 17 action: Key games including Ravens-Packers and Texans-Chargers; playoff implications with teams like Bears clinching divisions.
- College football bowls underway: Multiple games with notable scores, building to playoffs.
- WNBA expansion and growth: League announces new teams, reflecting rising popularity.
- NBA and other highlights: Christmas games, player awards, and ongoing seasons with standout performances.
HAPPY KWANZAA 2025
Kwanzaa has seven core symbols representing its principles and African culture: the Mkeka (mat, foundation), Kinara (candleholder), Mishumaa Saba (seven candles for principles), Mazao (crops/harvest), Muhindi (corn for children/future), Kikombe cha Umoja (unity cup), and Zawadi (gifts)
The article provides a comprehensive overview of major news events and updates from December 21 to December 27, 2025. It covers topics ranging from political developments, global conflicts, weather events, education, health advancements, economic updates, and cultural highlights. Key stories include President
Trump's Christmas activities, the release of Jeffrey Epstein files, U.S. airstrikes in
Nigeria, significant weather disruptions, and various global political and social issues.
### Key Points
- President Trump sent a Christmas greeting shortly after threatening U.S. broadcasters critical of him.
- A major winter storm caused significant snow and ice in the Northeast.
- A federal judge ordered the release of Jeffrey Epstein's grand jury records from 2006, with scrutiny on Ghislaine Maxwell.
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California experienced mudslides and flooding after record-breaking holiday storms.
- A shooting in
North Carolina during a custody exchange resulted in one death and two injured officers.
- California dropped its lawsuit against the federal government regarding high-speed rail project funding.
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National Kwanzaa observances began on December 26, focusing on community resilience.
- A gas explosion at a Pennsylvania nursing home required a significant rescue operation.
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EU warned of retaliatory action after the U.S. barred five European officials from entry.
- The Trump administration announced plans to replace 30 career ambassadors with loyalist diplomats.
- Over a third of U.S. states sued the Department of Health and Human Services over youth gender-affirming care restrictions.
- The U.S. launched airstrikes on ISIS camps in Nigeria to protect persecuted Christians.
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China imposed sanctions on U.S. defense firms after an arms deal with
Taiwan.
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Yemen separatists seized control of southern governorates, prompting Saudi Arabia to withdraw troops from
Aden.
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Pope Leo XIV called for global peace and criticized the global economy in his Christmas message.
- Analysts reported that Trump’s 2025 tariffs significantly impacted U.S. trade policies.
- Studies highlighted
virtual reality's role in combating loneliness among the elderly during the holidays.
- Rising medication costs were linked to deadly consequences due to reduced insurance coverage.
- Scientists identified four distinct biological types of
autism, which could change treatment approaches.
- A rare outbreak of
infant botulism linked to contaminated formula prompted a health alert.
- A study suggested certain social hobbies could reduce
dementia risk by up to 76%.
- U.S. states increased
child care investments in 2025 to combat rising costs.
- Teacher retention in
rural areas reached a 10-year low despite increased recruitment.
- The NBA witnessed record-breaking viewership during its Christmas Day games.
- President Trump issued over 220 executive orders in the first year of his second term.
- Israel became the first country to recognize
Somaliland's independence.
-
MERS-CoV cases increased globally, including in Saudi Arabia and France.
- Global spending during the holiday season exceeded expectations despite economic concerns.
- New research suggested that
orange juice could improve heart health.
- The NFL's Christmas Day games saw record-breaking viewership.
The article provides a comprehensive overview of various political, social, educational, economic, technological, and health-related developments and events that occurred in 2025. It discusses global affairs, U.S. domestic policies, education reforms, technological advancements, and societal challenges. Key topics include U.S. airstrikes, immigration policies, the rise of AI, public education challenges, and the erosion of democratic values under the Trump administration.
### Key Points
- President Trump sent out a Christmas greeting shortly after threatening to shut down U.S. broadcasters airing criticism against him.
- A major winter storm hit the Northeast, causing heavy snow and ice.
- President Trump announced U.S. airstrikes on ISIS targets in Nigeria on Christmas Day, targeting militants accused of attacking Christians.
- Holiday spending exceeded expectations in 2025, boosting retail sales despite economic concerns.
- President Trump initiated steps to ease federal restrictions on marijuana, potentially changing its classification and access.
- California dropped its lawsuit against Trump’s decision to withdraw $4 billion in federal funding for the high-speed rail project.
- Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is set to meet with President Trump in Florida to discuss territorial issues and peace plans amid ongoing talks with Russia.
- Russian President Putin signaled possible flexibility on Ukraine negotiations, insisting on retaining control of Donbas.
- Democrats are repositioning themselves as disruptors to the Republican-controlled government ahead of the midterm elections.
- Israel formally recognized Somaliland as an independent state, causing backlash from Somalia.
- Yemen saw a significant detainee exchange between Houthis and the Yemeni government in a UN-mediated deal.
- U.S. school districts faced budget cuts, layoffs, and leadership changes in 2025, impacting K-12 and higher education.
- The U.S. economy grew at a 4.3% annualized rate in Q3 2025, driven by consumer spending, exports, and AI investments.
- Nvidia agreed to license Groq's AI chip technology in a $20 billion deal, enhancing competitiveness in AI hardware.
- Advances in health included early detection of pancreatic cancer, new obesity therapies, and a shingles vaccine linked to reduced Alzheimer's risk.
- The Trump administration faced criticism for its immigration policies, particularly for deporting non-criminal immigrants and lack of legal pathways to citizenship.
- The U.S. Department of Education faced threats of dismantling under Trump’s administration, with equity-focused programs like Title I and Head Start at risk.
- The "
Schools of Hope" program in Florida allowed charter schools to co-locate in public school buildings, raising concerns about costs and equity.
- The Trump administration was criticized for its divisive rhetoric and actions that exacerbated political polarization and moral decay in U.S. politics.
- Teachers and education advocates highlighted the need for smaller class sizes and a moratorium on AI in schools due to privacy and cognitive concerns.
- The article discusses cultural reflections on global winter celebrations, including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Diwali, emphasizing joy and togetherness.
- Public education is under threat due to political polarization, funding cuts, and the erosion of equity and diversity programs.
- Trump's use of "low IQ" as an insult reflects historical misuse of intelligence as a political weapon, often targeting marginalized groups.
President Donald Trump made a cheerful Christmas greeting shortly after threatening to shut down broadcasters criticizing him. Key news stories include a severe winter storm disrupting the Northeast, California dropping its high-speed rail lawsuit, and the Federal Reserve acknowledging its role in economic inequality. Internationally, Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine ahead of peace talks, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to a ceasefire, and Sudan’s health system is nearing collapse due to civil war. Advances in AI, education, and healthcare are highlighted, alongside notable sports achievements and legal developments.
### Key Points
- President Trump issued a Christmas greeting following threats to broadcasters critical of him.
- A major winter storm hit the U.S. Northeast, causing disruptions and states of emergency.
- California dropped its lawsuit over federal funding for high-speed rail.
- The Federal Reserve admitted to policies contributing to economic inequality.
- Russia launched a significant attack on Ukraine before peace talks with the U.S.
- Thailand and Cambodia reached a ceasefire agreement after border clashes.
- Advances in AI, education, and healthcare highlighted, including AI breakthroughs and STEM teacher recognition.
- Sports updates include college football playoffs, NBA records, and international cricket milestones.
The article discusses the history of the U.S. Department of Education and its ongoing struggles against opposition to federal oversight in education. It highlights the recurring pattern of resistance to educational equity initiatives, often framed as opposition to federal overreach, wasteful spending, or ideological concerns. The article traces this conflict back to the creation of the Department in 1867, its demotion in 1868, and subsequent efforts to undermine federal involvement in education, including during the Civil Rights Movement and the current era. It also examines the role of privatization, school choice, and voucher programs in perpetuating inequality. The article concludes with a call to recognize historical patterns and prevent the dismantling of federal mechanisms that promote equity in education.
### Key Points
- Southern states historically resisted federal education policies aimed at promoting racial equity, using arguments like "states' rights" and "local control" to justify defunding public education for marginalized communities.
- The introduction of school choice and voucher programs, often under the guise of market efficiency and parental control, has roots in resistance to desegregation and continues to exacerbate inequality.
- Key players in the modern push for privatization include billionaires, think tanks, and legislative strategies promoting vouchers, Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), and privatization of public schools. - President Trump's 2025 executive orders aim to weaken the Department of Education through funding freezes, administrative reorganizations, and tax-credit voucher programs. - States like Iowa and Oklahoma are testing the limits of federal oversight by consolidating federal education funds and redirecting them toward private school vouchers and ideologically aligned curricula. - Legal challenges against these actions are ongoing, with lawsuits questioning the federal government's authority to dismantle the Department of Education and reallocate funding.
- Historically, the removal of federal oversight in education has led to increased inequality, reduced accountability, and weakened civil rights enforcement. - The rhetoric used to oppose federal education policy has evolved over time, but the underlying motivations, such as preserving inequality and opposing civil rights protections, remain consistent.
- The article concludes by urging readers to recognize historical patterns and prevent the repetition of past mistakes in dismantling federal education oversight.
Big Education Ape: BIG EDUCATION APE YEAR IN REVIEW 2025: PUBLIC EDUCATION AT RISK https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/big-education-ape-year-in-review-2025.html
Critiques of political figures, public education challenges, and social issues in 2025. It highlights the ongoing struggles in the education system, the impact of political decisions on public welfare, and the role of activists and organizations in advocating for change. Key themes include the defense of public education, healthcare reform, and the influence of wealth on societal structures.
### Key Points
- Discussion on the challenges faced by public education in 2025 and the fight against the influence of
billionaire oligarchs.
- Highlighting the importance of public education defenders, bloggers, and organizations in combating systemic issues.
- Coverage of significant events in 2025, such as U.S. airstrikes, school shootings, and political controversies.
- Promotion of books, blogs, and resources related to education and activism, including Diane Ravitch's transformative journey.
"Hairy Christmas and Hairy Hanukkah," reflections on global winter celebrations, and critical commentary on education, politics, and public health systems.
### Key Points
- A whimsical holiday-themed series by the "Big Hairy Education Ape" emphasizes joy, togetherness, and peace during December's festive season.
- A detailed overview of 10 global winter celebrations, including Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, and Winter Solstice, highlights their cultural significance.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS YEAR 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-top-news-stories-this-year-2025.html
The article provides an extensive overview of the top news stories, events, and developments of the year 2025, covering various domains such as politics, world affairs, education, economy, technology, health, and sports. Key topics include Donald Trump's second presidential term, global political shifts, breakthroughs in AI and health, environmental crises, and significant cultural and sports milestones.
glen brown: "When you ship human beings into a place built for cruelty, you own the cruelty" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/when-you-ship-human-beings-into-place.html
This article is a blog post by Glen Brown, which reflects on various social, political, and humanitarian issues. It critiques political corruption, human rights abuses, and societal injustices, with a particular focus on the U.S. immigration system’s role in enabling inhumane treatment of detainees in foreign detention facilities. The article also contains references to historical and contemporary political events, figures, and ideologies, emphasizing the need for resistance against oppression and the importance of accountability.### Key Points
- The blog discusses the moral responsibility of writers to resist oppression and challenge societal and political injustices.
- It highlights the inhumane treatment of detainees in foreign facilities, particularly focusing on the leaked investigation into El Salvador’s CECOT prison, where detainees face torture and abuse.
- The U.S. immigration system is criticized for “outsourcing brutality” by deporting individuals to facilities known for human rights abuses.
- The censorship of a CBS report on this issue is condemned, with allegations of political interference to suppress the story.
- The blog calls for accountability and challenges readers to question the morality of policies that enable human rights violations.
glen brown: "Merry Christmas!" Declares Trump Moments After Threat to Destroy Broadcasters Who Air Criticism of Him https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/merry-christmas-declares-trump-moments.html
This article discusses various political, social, and cultural topics, with a focus on former President Donald Trump's controversial actions during his second term, including threats to media outlets, the influence of his allies on corporations, and his administration's policies. It also highlights Glen Brown's reflections on writing, social justice, and global issues.### Key Points
- Glen Brown reflects on the role of writers in resisting oppression and navigating a flawed world.
- Former President Donald Trump threatened media outlets critical of him, calling for the termination of their broadcast licenses.
- Trump's administration allegedly influenced corporate decisions, including the Federal Communications Commission's approval of major deals involving Trump allies.
- Controversial policies under Trump, such as deporting Venezuelan immigrants to dangerous conditions, are criticized.
- Broader discussions on social justice, censorship, environmental concerns, and global issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Ukraine are included.
Teacher Tom: When We Stop Worrying About What Goes into the Boxes http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/12/when-we-stop-worrying-about-what-goes.html
Teacher Tom shares his reflections on how his family's decision to simplify holiday gift-giving transformed his perspective on the season. By focusing on handmade, budget-friendly gifts rather than the contents of the boxes, he found joy in the act of giving and receiving. This philosophy is mirrored in his preschool classroom, where children engage in play-based learning by wrapping and unwrapping empty boxes, emphasizing the joy and creativity involved in the process, rather than the material value of the gifts.### Key Points
- Teacher Tom's family transitioned to simpler holiday traditions, emphasizing handmade gifts and limiting budgets to $5 per person, which brought joy and reduced stress.
- Preschoolers engage in a play-based activity of wrapping and unwrapping boxes, focusing on the act of giving and receiving rather than the contents of the boxes.
- The blog highlights that the true essence of gift-giving lies in the thought and experience, not the material value of the gift.
- Teacher Tom reflects on his years of blogging about play-based learning and invites readers to explore his work and support his efforts.
I’m Pretty Surprised That Sal Khan Wrote This Op Ed, & Even More Surprised The NY Times Published It Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
The article is a collection of educational resources, updates, and reflections authored by Larry Ferlazzo. It highlights recent blog posts, teaching strategies, book recommendations, and upcoming events, focusing on education, classroom management, student engagement, and teacher development.
### Key Points
- Larry Ferlazzo shares his latest posts, including reflections on Sal Khan's op-ed, upcoming panel discussions, and predictions for education in 2026.
- Recommendations for zero-prep activities for ELL classrooms and teaching with limited resources are provided.
- Highlights of "Education in Review" posts for 2025 and resources for teaching during New Year’s.
- Weekly updates on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) resources and research studies connected to classroom applications.
- Insights into practical, research-based instructional strategies for teaching various subjects, including Math, Science, Social Studies, and English.
- A detailed list of Larry Ferlazzo's books and resources for teachers to improve classroom management, student motivation, and parental involvement.
- Additional resources include blog posts, radio shows, videos, and educational articles written for The New York Times.
Yes, Today's GOP Really Does Want to End Public Schools An example from the Sunshine State ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/yes-todays-gop-really-does-want-to
### Key Points- The GOP and some Democrats are pushing efforts to dismantle public education, favoring charter schools and private operators, as seen in Florida's "Schools of Hope" program.
- In Indianapolis, an unelected board is managing logistics between district and charter schools, further disrupting public education.
- The federal government and states like Tennessee are promoting school voucher schemes and expanding charter schools, threatening public education systems.
- Tennessee faces significant challenges in school funding under Governor Bill Lee, falling behind other states and struggling with teacher compensation.
- Investment in teacher pay can attract more applicants, but Tennessee has not implemented such measures effectively.
Choosing Democracy: A MOVEMENT-BUILDING STRATEGY FOR ALL WORKERS https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/12/a-movement-building-strategy-for-all.html
The article discusses the need for a movement-building strategy to unite all workers, regardless of their immigration status, in the fight for labor rights, social justice, and political change. It highlights historical and contemporary struggles faced by immigrant workers and the importance of solidarity among diverse working-class communities. The article emphasizes the role of unions, grassroots activism, and political education in fostering alliances that challenge corporate interests, anti-immigrant policies, and systemic inequalities.
### Key Points
- Farmworkers and domestic workers marched in support of the Registry Bill to grant legal immigration status to undocumented individuals.
- Zohran Mamdani, elected as mayor of New York City, emphasized the importance of solidarity and the need for dignity and freedom for all workers, including immigrants.
- Modern migration is driven by exploitation, colonialism, and global economic inequalities, which displace people and create competition among workers.
- Immigrant communities and unions advocate for family reunification, labor rights, and an end to deportations and detentions.
- The 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act, supported by the AFL-CIO, included employer sanctions that made immigrant workers vulnerable to retaliation.
- Labor opposition to the 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act grew, leading to the AFL-CIO calling for its repeal in 1999 and advocating for immigrant amnesty.
- Immigrant communities and unions in Los Angeles have formed alliances, transforming the city’s politics into one of the most progressive in the U.S.
- Immigrant radicalism and alliances between immigrant and native-born workers have historically driven political and social change in the U.S.
- In Nebraska, immigrants have become a significant political force, with growing community opposition to ICE raids and anti-immigrant policies.
- Community activism has resisted ICE raids in conservative areas like North Carolina, with alliances forming between immigrant and local communities.
- Political strategies that demonize immigrants have backfired, alienating key voter groups and failing to address the root causes of migration and economic inequality.
- Progressives must focus on organizing for social change by addressing the root causes of migration and fostering solidarity among workers.
- Political education programs, such as the AFL-CIO’s "Common Sense Economics," are essential to empower working-class communities and counter anti-immigrant rhetoric.
- Immigrant workers, such as those in Teamsters Local 320, have shown that collective action and solidarity can lead to significant labor victories.
