JANUARY 10, 2026
- Fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis — Video from the ICE agent's perspective has emerged showing the moments before the shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a mother of three, sparking widespread protests and calls for accountability. Minnesota officials are collecting evidence separately, and the FBI has taken over the case.
- Protests and unrest after Portland shooting — A separate incident where border agents shot two people during a traffic stop has fueled anti-ICE demonstrations nationwide, with communities in Minnesota banding together to protect schools and families from enforcement actions.
- Judge blocks Trump's freeze on child/family aid — A federal judge halted the administration's attempt to withhold $10 billion in social services funding from Democratic-led states (including child care funds), citing alleged fraud without evidence.
- Trump's early release of jobs data — The president posted U.S. employment figures on social media before the official release, prompting White House review of protocols.
- Trump's threats over Greenland — The president reiterated demands for U.S. ownership of Greenland, warning it could happen "the hard way" if Denmark refuses, amid broader territorial ambitions post-Venezuela.
- U.S.-Venezuela developments — Trump urges oil giants to repair Venezuela's infrastructure after the U.S. raid and Maduro's capture; discussions are underway to restore diplomatic ties, with the U.S. seizing multiple Venezuelan oil tankers.
- Iran protests and U.S. warnings — Nationwide anti-government demonstrations in Iran continue for a second night, with Trump's threats contributing to the unrest; Iran's leader accuses protesters of aiding U.S. interests.
- War powers pushback — Senate advances a bipartisan resolution to limit further U.S. military action in Venezuela without congressional approval.
- Iran's spreading protests — Demonstrations enter a second night with marches and violence, despite internet blackouts and crackdown threats; at least 48 deaths reported, amid economic woes and anti-regime chants.
- Russia's Oreshnik missile strike on Ukraine — Russia used a nuclear-capable missile targeting a Ukrainian gas facility near the EU/NATO border, escalating the war and drawing European security concerns.
- U.S. focus on Venezuela aftermath — Trump pushes for indefinite U.S. control of Venezuelan oil; Exxon and others study returns, while tanker seizures continue.
- Trump's Greenland demands — Denmark firmly rejects sale, while Trump frames it as a national security necessity against Russia/China.
- Minneapolis schools close amid ICE tensions — Schools shut down or heighten security due to protests and fears over immigration enforcement following the fatal shooting.
- Ongoing debates on federal impacts — Advocates warn of potential funding cuts and policy shifts under the current administration affecting K-12 and higher education.
- School holidays in India — Various states observe closures due to cold waves, festivals (e.g., Makar Sankranti), or winter breaks.
- Trump proposes credit card interest rate cap — The president calls for a one-year limit of 10% on credit card rates starting January 20, with unclear enforcement details.
- U.S. jobs data and market records — Hiring remains modest with weaknesses; S&P 500 hits records driven by chipmakers amid tariff and policy uncertainty.
- Venezuela oil focus — Trump urges U.S. firms to invest in Venezuela's industry post-seizure, potentially boosting energy but raising global supply questions.
- CES 2026 highlights — Major reveals include advanced AI integrations, foldable/rollable devices (e.g., Lenovo Legion Pro), new TVs/soundbars, and robotics from companies like LG, Samsung, and others.
- AI and gadget innovations — Trends include more voice-activated computing, health-connected AI (e.g., ChatGPT Health), and concepts like space data centers.
- CDC vaccine schedule changes — Ongoing discussions about altering childhood vaccine recommendations, including dropping some universal shots (e.g., hepatitis B at birth).
- Flu surge — Record-breaking levels nationwide, driven by new variants; experts urge vaccination and precautions.
- ACA subsidy expiration impacts — Millions face steep premium hikes as enhanced tax credits end, potentially leading to coverage losses.
- College Football Playoff — Indiana routs Oregon to advance to the championship game against Miami, led by standout QB play.
- NFL playoffs — Wild Card weekend underway, with matchups like Rams at Panthers and Packers at Bears.
- Figure skating championships — U.S. results determine Olympic teams, with some top pairs facing eligibility issues.
Becca Good, Wife of Renee Good, Releases a Statement About Her Death https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/09/becca-good-wife-of-renee-good-releases-a-statement-about-her-death/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The charter school model, originally intended as laboratories of innovation, has largely broken down, with increasing public distrust, frequent closures, and ongoing scandals.
- Structural flaws in the charter school system enable mismanagement, profiteering, and instability, with for-profit management corporations dominating the sector in several states.
- Complex real estate and contracting practices allow management companies to profit at the expense of students, and authorizing entities often fail to ensure accountability due to fee incentives and political influence.
- Governance in charter schools is often unaccountable, with many boards lacking democratic election processes and oversight, leading to financial mismanagement and fraud.
- Reports reveal massive financial losses due to fraud and waste, with over $858 million in taxpayer funds lost between 2023 and 2025, and a significant number of charter schools closing within their first decade.
- Proposed solutions include stronger financial transparency, prohibitions on related-party transactions, limits on authorizer fees, and democratic governance for charter school boards to mitigate fraud and restore their original mission.
- Reforming charter school laws and ensuring public accountability is critical to stabilizing the education system and protecting public funds.
Colorado: School Choice Is Theft of Public Funds https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/09/colorado-school-choice-is-theft-of-public-funds/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Colorado Schools Fund uses capital and political influence to promote privatization of education, threatening public schools.
- Voucher systems redirect public funds to private and religious schools, undermining public education and inclusivity.
- Riverstone Academy exemplifies the blending of public funding with religious education, sparking legal and ethical concerns.
- National voucher programs weaken student protections and promote exclusionary practices, particularly against LGBTQ+ students.
- Critics warn of the negative consequences of vouchers, including financial deficits, segregation, and the erosion of public education's democratic role.
Peter Greene: Judge Blocks West Virginia Charter Schools...Because... https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/09/189323/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- A West Virginia judge issued a permanent injunction requiring voter approval for new charter schools in the county where they are proposed.
- The state's 2019 charter school law originally allowed county or state school boards to authorize charter schools, but local boards were reluctant to approve them due to concerns about using local taxpayer funds to support competing schools.
- In 2021, the law was amended to rename charter schools as "public charter schools" and establish the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board to oversee charter authorizations.
- The blog mentions related discussions on accountability and the impact of charter schools on public education funding and governance.
This article critiques the "Returning Education to Our States Act," which allows states like Iowa to consolidate federal education funds into block grants, arguing that this move undermines federal oversight and equity in public education. The author highlights the potential negative consequences, such as increased funding disparities, loss of civil rights protections, and the defunding of public schools in favor of private and charter schools.
The Personal Side of Being a District Superintendent https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/01/09/the-personal-side-of-being-a-district-superintendent/ via @CubanLarry
Schools Matter: Avoid Red State Universities If You Want An Uncensored Education http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/01/avoid-red-state-universities-if-you.html
### Key Points
- Texas A&M University is implementing new rules restricting discussions of race, gender, and related ideologies in academic courses.
- Philosophy professor Martin Peterson was asked to remove sections on Plato and topics related to race and gender from his syllabus to comply with the new policies.
- The university claims Plato’s works will still be taught, but without modules on race and gender ideology.
- The new policies have led to course cancellations, reclassifications, and concerns about academic freedom among professors.
- These measures are part of a broader conservative push in Texas to limit perceived liberal influences in higher education.
- Faculty and academic organizations have criticized the policies, arguing they undermine the mission of higher education and academic freedom.
Teacher Tom: The Essence of Being a Play-Based Teacher is Not Teaching http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-essence-of-being-play-based-teacher.html
### Key Points
- Teacher Tom argues that learning cannot be forced or predicted, as it occurs naturally when children are ready.
- He emphasizes the importance of play, exploration, and curiosity in fostering learning in preschoolers.
- The primary role of a play-based teacher is to create a safe and stimulating environment rather than directly teaching.
- Children learn essential life lessons like perseverance, emotional regulation, and cooperation through play and observation.
- Teacher Tom offers workshops and resources to promote play-based education for educators and parents.
MNPS Is Still Losing Students—and the Data Is Clearer Than the Talking Points https://norinrad10.com/2026/01/09/mnps-is-still-losing-students-and-the-data-is-clearer-than-the-talking-points/ via @norinrad10
### Key Points
- MNPS has lost over 2,100 students between August 2025 and January 2026, with most losses from zoned high schools rather than charter or choice programs.
- Structural issues in data reporting, such as coding changes, can misrepresent enrollment trends, complicating analysis and accountability.
- Some schools experienced growth, showing that while the district overall is shrinking, individual schools may still feel fuller.
- The data raises concerns about missing information on English Learner (ELP) students, limiting the ability to understand their enrollment trends and impacts on funding.
- Tennessee’s voucher programs show low participation rates and data inconsistencies, raising questions about their effectiveness and oversight.
- Kevin Dyson, former NFL player and educator, plans to open a charter school focused on student-athletes, a rare new charter proposal for MNPS.
- Upcoming school board elections have seen limited candidate participation, highlighting potential voter apathy.
glen brown: "Democrats should introduce articles of impeachment now, run on them this November, and then actually do it" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/democrats-should-introduce-articles-of.html
### Key Points
- Writers should maintain a critical perspective on the world and resist oppression, as highlighted by quotes from Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
- The article criticizes Donald Trump’s assertion of unchecked power, highlighting his statements about being constrained only by his own morality and actions against states that opposed him.
- Historical context is provided, referencing the Founding Fathers’ warnings about tyranny and the necessity of impeachment to preserve constitutional democracy.
- Examples of past impeachment attempts against U.S. presidents, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Jimmy Carter, and Barack Obama, are cited to argue that impeachment is not unprecedented.
- The article accuses Trump of various constitutional violations, including unauthorized military actions, undermining the rule of law, weaponizing the justice system, and abusing the pardon power.
- The author urges Democrats to introduce articles of impeachment and publicly campaign on this issue, arguing that silence and caution will not preserve democracy.
- A sample set of articles of impeachment against Trump is outlined, detailing specific charges like abuse of power, contempt for the rule of law, and subversion of democratic institutions.
Phone Bans, School iPads, and Other Stuff The good, the bad, and the questionable ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/phone-bans-school-ipads-and-other
### Key Points
- The phone ban at Francis Lewis High School has been effective, though challenges remain with students using phones and iPads inappropriately.
- Some students misuse school-issued iPads for non-educational purposes, such as translating texts or focusing on appearance, which hinders their language learning.
- The author reflects on their career as an ESL teacher, emphasizing efforts to help students learn English and the obstacles posed by technology.
- A specific incident highlights a student's reliance on AI to produce an essay, raising concerns about the role of AI in education.
- The author expresses concerns about union decisions affecting retirees, advocating for fairer treatment of UFT retirees.
An F-150 Drove Through Progress While We’re Told to Stay Calm – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/01/09/an-f-150-drove-through-progress-while-were-told-to-stay-calm/
### Key Points
- The article uses the metaphor of an F-150 truck damaging a newly constructed road to symbolize how progress can be easily disrupted by carelessness or disregard.
- Waiting for progress is often emotionally taxing, requiring patience, endurance, and composure, even as delays and setbacks occur.
- Progress, when it finally arrives, is fragile and requires collective care and awareness to sustain and protect it.
- The article draws parallels between the fragility of progress and the state of American democracy, emphasizing the need for vigilance, accountability, and action to preserve democratic norms.
- Harm and delays often disproportionately affect those who are already vulnerable, while those with power may remain indifferent to the damage caused.
- The piece advocates for rejecting rhetoric that normalizes harm and for taking responsibility to repair and sustain progress, even when it seems fragile or fleeting.
- The memory of Renee Nicole Good is highlighted as a call to action for justice and the protection of human dignity.
Morality redefined https://rlratto.wordpress.com/2026/01/09/morality-redefined/ via @ratto_rr
### Key Points
- The author critiques Donald Trump’s questionable morality and leadership, listing various accusations and actions that have impacted the nation’s identity.
- The writer condemns Trump’s influence on redefining morality and calls for Americans to act against it.
- Debate arises in the comments section regarding immigration laws and the actions of ICE, with contrasting viewpoints on legality and racial profiling.
- The blog serves as a platform for protest and engagement, encouraging readers to reflect on their values and take action.
Choosing Democracy: ICE Out Now https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/01/ice-out-now.html
### Key Points
- Over 35,000 people joined an emergency call to address the killing of Renee Nicole Good by ICE and the increasing violence of federal agents in immigrant communities.
- A nationwide "ICE Out For Good" Weekend of Action is planned, featuring public vigils, memorials, silent marches, and other events to honor victims of ICE brutality and demand justice.
- The event calls for accountability, transparency, independent investigations into ICE-related violence, and increased action from elected officials to limit ICE's activities.
- Participants are encouraged to attend events, host their own using a provided toolkit, spread the word, and participate in a peaceful, nonviolent manner while knowing their rights.
- The movement aims to demonstrate widespread opposition to ICE's actions, support those affected, and push for systemic change to end ICE's unchecked violence.
This Cannot Be Normal, This Cannot Be Okay The federal government didn’t just orphan a child — it is walking away from the systems all children depend on. BRUCE LESLEY https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/this-cannot-be-normal-this-cannot
### Key Points
- A federal immigration officer killed a mother in Minneapolis during a raid, leaving her six-year-old son orphaned.
- The federal government denied medical aid to the victim after the shooting, further traumatizing the community.
- Schools in Minneapolis were placed on lockdown due to safety concerns following the incident, affecting children and families.
- The federal government froze $10 billion in child care and family support funding across multiple states, including Minnesota, citing unsubstantiated claims of fraud.
- The funding freeze affects Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), leaving vulnerable children at risk of poverty, homelessness, and hunger.
- The federal government reduced the recommended childhood vaccination schedule, which could lead to preventable illnesses and deaths, especially in underserved communities.
- The administration is attempting to dismantle the Department of Education, which advocates for children’s educational rights.
- Federal budget cuts have targeted Medicaid, SNAP benefits, and the Child Tax Credit, leaving millions of children without essential support systems.
- The rollback of the expanded Child Tax Credit has disproportionately harmed low-income families, with many children losing critical financial support.
- Federal policies have systematically defunded programs that protect children, including child care, public education, and health services, while increasing funding for immigration enforcement.
- Vulnerable groups, including immigrant, LGBTQ, low-income, and minority children, are disproportionately affected by these policies, which reflect a governing philosophy of "organized abandonment."
- The article calls for a shift in policy priorities to focus on children’s health, education, safety, and well-being, urging policymakers and citizens to advocate for children’s rights.
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Issues Statement on Governor Newsom’s 2026–27 Budget Proposal (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr26/yr26rel02.asp
### Key Points
- State Superintendent Tony Thurmond supports the Governor’s proposed investments in TK-12 education, including $1 billion for Community Schools and $4.7 billion for before, during, and after-school programs.
- The budget proposal supports Universal Transitional Kindergarten, literacy initiatives, and reading specialists but falls short of the funding levels needed to drive significant student achievement improvements.
- Thurmond announced a five-year literacy plan to ensure all California children achieve reading proficiency by third grade.
- Concerns were raised about the education governance reform proposal, which may shift authority away from the elected State Superintendent without proven benefits for student outcomes.
- Thurmond expressed pride in previous collaborative efforts with Governor Newsom on historic investments in education and looks forward to continuing their partnership.
