JANUARY 18, 2026
U.S. News
- Immigration enforcement intensifies in Minneapolis — Federal actions, including ICE operations and a fatal shooting incident, have placed the city at the center of sweeping immigration pushes, with detentions and protests highlighting tensions.
- USS Gerald R. Ford faces ongoing sewage issues — Crew members on the Navy's newest aircraft carrier continue dealing with persistent plumbing and sanitation problems, affecting operations on this key vessel.
- Prediction markets boom in Trump's second term — Apps for betting on policy outcomes (like deportations and elections) are thriving, driven by young online traders amid political volatility.
- Trump threatens tariffs on European nations over Greenland — The administration vows new tariffs on eight countries amid disputes over Greenland's status, with protests in Greenland emphasizing "We are not for sale."
- Trump administration proposes $1 billion "peace board" fee — Nations would pay to participate in a U.S.-led initiative, per draft reports, as part of broader foreign policy maneuvers.
- Sunday talk shows feature key figures — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, Rep. Michael McCaul, Sen. Chris Van Hollen, and NJ Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill discuss immigration, foreign policy, and state transitions.
- Greenland and Arctic tensions rise — Protests against U.S. interest in Greenland, Danish military drills focused on Russia, and Trump's repeated claims that the U.S. "needs" the territory dominate discussions.
- ICJ hearings on Myanmar genocide case advance — Landmark proceedings continue regarding atrocities against the Rohingya, with Aung San Suu Kyi reportedly unaware due to imprisonment.
- Global economic outlook tempers — UN and IMF reports project subdued 2026 growth (around 2.7-3.1%), influenced by U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions.
- New California laws take effect — Changes include no fines/jail for parents of truant kids, cellphone restrictions in schools by July, and a reserved seat for early childhood educators on the credentialing commission.
- FAFSA completions hit milestone — Over 5 million 2026-27 forms submitted, up significantly, amid ongoing higher ed policy shifts.
- Trends in student success — Rising perceptions of education quality, AI integration, and mental health focus shape 2026 outlooks for colleges.
- U.S. manufacturing jobs decline despite tariffs — Factory employment continues falling amid Trump's import taxes aimed at boosting domestic production.
- Global growth projected to slow — IMF/UN forecasts show moderation to 3.1% in 2026, with U.S. at ~2.0%, due to trade pressures and softening labor markets.
- ACA health subsidies expire — Millions face steep insurance premium hikes (average +114%), potentially leading to coverage losses without extension.
- Generative AI reshapes devices and habits — Rapid changes in how people use tech, with experiments in post-smartphone gadgets driven by AI advancements.
- Tariffs hit advanced AI chips — 25% import duties imposed on some semiconductors, impacting global supply chains.
- AI in health and other fields advances — Predictions for refined models in reasoning and applications like disease risk forecasting.
- ACA subsidies end, premiums soar — Enhanced tax credits expire, hitting millions with higher costs and risking coverage drops for lower/middle-income enrollees.
- Measles outbreak risks U.S. elimination status — Potential loss of measles-free status by early 2026 if trends continue, amid vaccine concerns.
- AI transforming healthcare predictions — Models predict risks for numerous diseases, with regulatory approvals possible for new therapies like T-cell treatments.
- NFL Divisional Playoffs — Key matchups, including Los Angeles Rams vs. Chicago Bears, highlight postseason action.
- College Football Playoff developments — Ongoing games and implications from recent bowl wins (e.g., Indiana's strong performance).
- Women's Premier League cricket — Royal Challengers Bengaluru's unbeaten run, powered by Smriti Mandhana's standout innings.
Big Education Ape: WHO WAS THAT MASKED MAN? FROM THE LONE RANGER TO ICE AGENTS: HOW AMERICA'S RELATIONSHIP WITH MASKS CAME FULL CIRCLE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/01/who-was-that-masked-man-from-lone.html
### Key Points
- The Trump administration faces backlash over immigration protests in Minnesota and alleged misconduct by ICE agents.
- The historical and symbolic significance of masks is explored, from being associated with heroes like the Lone Ranger to representing anonymity and impunity in groups like the KKK or masked federal agents.
- California passed SB 627 in 2025, banning federal agents from wearing masks during operations and introducing legal consequences for violations.
- The legal battle between California and the Department of Justice raises constitutional questions about anti-mask laws, federal supremacy, and the balance between privacy and accountability.
- Modern surveillance technology complicates the debate as masks are increasingly used to protect privacy amidst digital tracking and facial recognition systems.
- The article critiques the selective enforcement of anti-mask laws, targeting protesters while allowing federal agents to act without accountability.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST JANUARY 17, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/01/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01098773170.html
### Key Points
- President Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota amid escalating protests over ICE actions, including a fatal shooting. Concerns about ICE-related deaths and violence in detention facilities are raised.
- Trump proposes controversial policies, including questioning the need for 2026 midterm elections and capping credit card interest rates at 10%.
- U.S. involvement in international issues includes discussions on Greenland, Venezuela, and Iran, with warnings of strong actions against Iran amid protests and crackdowns.
- Education updates include school closures in India due to weather and festivals, while no major U.S. or global education policy shifts dominate.
- The IMF projects slower global economic growth in 2026, with advanced economies growing at ~1.5% and emerging markets above 4%. Inflation concerns rise due to U.S. trade and immigration policies.
- CES 2026 highlights technological innovations such as the Lego Smart Brick, generative AI advancements, and automation trends.
- Paul Thomas critiques the "Mississippi Miracle," attributing its perceived success to retaining low-performing students rather than improving teaching methods, and emphasizes poverty and inequity as critical factors in student achievement.
- John Thompson criticizes Oklahoma's revival of test-driven education policies and calls for holistic teaching methods to replace scripted curricula.
- Diane Ravitch discusses her memoir, highlighting her shift from conservative education views to advocating for public schools and addressing systemic inequality.
- A satirical article humorously compares King George III and Donald Trump, critiquing their leadership styles and legacy through parallels.
- Teacher-led professional development (PD) is discussed as an effective strategy for fostering collaboration and addressing educators' specific needs.
- Social isolation among teenagers is identified as a growing issue, with schools and communities encouraged to foster social connections through activities to combat loneliness.
- Bipartisan bills aim to reform the Child Tax Credit to address inequities and reduce child poverty, but systemic flaws remain.
- Religious Freedom Day is highlighted, commemorating the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom and advocating for tolerance and unity against prejudice.
- Mentoring programs for disadvantaged children in Germany improve educational outcomes, while studies reveal gender bias in math education.
- ICE agent Jonathan Ross's fatal shooting of Renee Good sparks controversy over militarized immigration enforcement and excessive force.
- The MNPS board debates school start times, revealing divided community opinions and systemic challenges in public education.
- The article critiques economic inequality, highlighting how Republican policies favor the wealthy and exacerbate disparities, with warnings of potential future economic crises.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 1-11-26 TO 1-17-26 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-top-news-stories-this-week-1-11-26.html
### Key Points
- Escalating immigration protests in Minnesota following a federal immigration operation and the deployment of federal agents by the Trump administration.
- Justice Department investigations into Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for allegedly obstructing federal enforcement.
- Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was arraigned in a Brooklyn federal court after being captured by U.S. forces.
- Renewed calls for a U.S. takeover of Greenland caused diplomatic tensions with Denmark and NATO.
- A vehicle-ramming incident during an anti-Iranian government protest in Los Angeles injured two people.
- The Trump administration pardoned former Puerto Rico Governor Wanda Vázquez over a campaign finance case.
- The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a major appeal from the maker of Roundup weedkiller regarding pending lawsuits.
- Protests in Iran entered their third week, with thousands killed in a government crackdown amidst U.S. sanctions and international tension.
- The U.S. considered invoking the Insurrection Act to address domestic protests.
- The White House announced a halt to wage garnishment for student loan borrowers in default.
- The Department of Education launched new initiatives, including a "History Rocks! Trail to Independence" tour and efforts to return educational oversight to states.
- The CDC issued a revised immunization schedule for children and adolescents, reducing recommended vaccines.
- The Dow Jones Industrial Average surpassed 49,000 for the first time, driven by AI advancements, despite a sluggish jobs report.
- The Federal Reserve remained divided on interest rate cuts, with no changes expected until mid-2026.
- Iran and the U.S. faced escalating tensions due to Iran's internal uprisings and U.S. sanctions.
- NASA conducted a medical evacuation of an astronaut from the International Space Station (ISS).
- The U.S. Senate moved closer to passing the FY2026 NASA funding bill.
- Quantum computing reached a milestone with advances in "logical qubits," bringing practical applications closer to reality.
- The Trump administration proposed a $1.5 trillion annual defense budget for 2027.
- Major international developments included Sudan's government returning to Khartoum, ongoing protests in Iran, and cross-border drone strikes between Russia and Ukraine.
- The United Cup Tennis championship was won by Poland, defeating Switzerland.
- FIFA officials continued preparations for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
- Investigations into California’s community college athletic policies regarding transgender participation sparked debates.
- The "History Rocks!" tour emphasized civic learning and traditional history education.
- The administration proposed a new funding model to support rural healthcare facilities.
- Health experts released guidelines on winter nutrition and recovery for athletes.
- The U.S. Treasury discussed unfreezing Venezuela's assets to aid in rebuilding efforts.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: JANUARY 17, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/01/morning-news-update-january-17-2026.html
### Key Points
- Escalating immigration protests in Minnesota lead to increased ICE deployments and potential use of the Insurrection Act by the Trump administration.
- U.S. foreign policy tensions rise over Greenland annexation threats, Venezuela, and Taiwan semiconductor trade.
- Federal judge rules against federal officers using tear gas on peaceful immigration protesters in Minneapolis.
- Rollbacks on green energy regulations and rising electricity prices spark concerns about political consequences.
- Outrage over the removal of plaques honoring Black WWII liberators in a Netherlands cemetery.
- President Trump proposes a 10% cap on credit card interest rates, facing opposition from the banking industry.
- Nationwide protests in Iran continue despite government crackdowns; over 50,000 arrests reported.
- Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy grid worsen winter conditions, leaving settlements without power.
- The U.S.-Taiwan trade deal on semiconductors raises tensions with China while boosting U.S. tech investments.
- Federal funding for schools faces a potential $12 billion cut under the new administration, with superintendents seeking ways to support immigrant students.
- Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act signed into law, reversing Obama-era nutrition standards.
- Rising inflation linked to trade and immigration policies; Fed likely to pause rate cuts in early 2026.
- AI trends in education and health, including real-time metabolic feedback wearables and new tech applications.
- Measles outbreaks threaten the U.S.'s measles-free status, while pneumonia-related deaths surge in Canada.
- Sports updates include Australian Open preparations, NBA injuries, and NCAA football championship highlights.
Big Education Ape: A TALE OF TWO KINGS: GEORGE III VS. KING TRUMP A COMPARISON OF ROYAL DELUSIONS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-tale-of-two-kings-george-iii-vs-king.html
### Key Points
- The article humorously compares King George III’s belief in divine right with Trump’s belief in his electoral mandate, portraying both as having delusions of grandeur.
- It contrasts King George III’s historical mental health issues with Trump’s use of “alternative facts” and his media interactions.
- Parallels are drawn between King George III’s taxation policies and Trump’s tax cuts for corporations and billionaires.
- The article likens King George III’s Stamp Act to Trump’s prolific use of Twitter, humorously calling it the “Tweet Act.”
- It critiques Trump’s administration for allegedly undermining representative norms and justice, paralleling King George III’s actions against colonial governance.
- Both figures are depicted as surrounding themselves with sycophants, with Trump’s phrase “You’re fired!” compared to “Off with their heads!”
- The article highlights historical losses for both figures: King George III losing American colonies and Trump losing the popular vote twice.
- It discusses Trump’s controversial actions, such as increased military spending and the use of ICE, as distractions from political failures.
- The author warns of potential consequences for those enabling Trump’s behavior and calls for accountability.
When Jackasses Rule the Roost ...consequences are ignored (by said jackasses) ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/when-jackasses-rule-the-roost
When Jackasses Rule the Roost discusses the issues within the UFT union, focusing on the dominance of Unity Caucus, bigotry, and leadership flaws. The article critiques the lack of inclusivity, stereotyping, and unethical behavior by union leaders, particularly Mulgrew and Unity members, while advocating for reform and equality.
### Key Points
- The UFT union appears dominated by the Unity Caucus, prioritizing leadership over member inclusivity.
- The author condemns bigotry, including antisemitism, homophobia, xenophobia, and ageism, and highlights personal experiences of discrimination.
- Leadership engages in unethical behavior, such as ridiculing retirees and spreading misinformation about health plans.
- Unity Caucus uses dilatory tactics to suppress retiree interests and misrepresents Medicare Advantage plans.
- A petition calls for equal prescription insurance coverage for UFT retirees, as provided to other municipal unions.
Teachers are Patriots, Too! Who Knew? NANCY FLANAGAN https://flanagann.substack.com/p/teachers-are-patriots-too
### Key Points
- Educational research often feels unnecessary or misaligned with practical classroom experiences, with good research frequently ignored and bad research becoming conventional wisdom.
- Teachers, through experience, develop valuable insights into effective teaching strategies, student behavior, and the benefits of play and outdoor activities, which are often more reliable than research tied to commercial or political interests.
- Studies reveal that research funded by developers of educational interventions tends to show exaggerated benefits compared to independent studies, raising questions about its reliability.
- A recent poll showed that teachers value teaching patriotism and the Constitution’s core values more than parents or the general public, countering claims of ideological bias in schools.
- Teachers are generally moderate in their political stance and prioritize fostering engaged citizenship and appreciation for cultural diversity, rather than radicalizing students.
glen brown: His best friend was killed by a crate of food, and that's why The Twilight Zone exists https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/his-best-friend-was-killed-by-crate-of.html
### Key Points
- Rod Serling's traumatic experiences as a paratrooper in World War II profoundly influenced his creative work.
- The death of Serling's best friend, Melvin Levy, in an absurd accident during the war deeply impacted him and became a recurring theme in his storytelling.
- Serling faced censorship in his early television career, leading him to use science fiction and fantasy in "The Twilight Zone" to address controversial social issues.
- "The Twilight Zone" tackled themes like fate, randomness, and moral ambiguity, reflecting Serling's war experiences and his understanding of life's unpredictability.
- Serling ensured his friend Melvin Levy's memory would live on by incorporating his story into "The Twilight Zone," particularly in the episode "The Purple Testament."
- Despite his struggles with PTSD and declining health, Serling's work remains a cultural touchstone, influencing generations of writers and filmmakers.
