JANUARY 23, 2026
https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/moments/black-history-month
- A massive winter storm is bearing down on much of the eastern U.S., threatening crippling snow, sleet, ice, and power outages from Texas to Boston, with historic ice accumulations possible and bitterly cold air following.
- Extreme cold is hitting areas like Chicago, with forecasts for daytime highs around -6°F and wind chills plunging further.
- Luigi Mangione's court appearance continues in his federal death penalty case related to the UnitedHealthcare CEO killing, with a judge weighing evidence from his seized backpack.
- A proposed New York bill aims to protect bodega cats by setting parameters for their presence in stores, including separate zones from food prep areas.
- President Trump has returned from Davos, hailing his new "Board of Peace" initiative (signed charter with allies for global conflict resolution, including Gaza focus) as "very special," though he revoked Canada's invitation after criticism.
- Ongoing tensions over Trump's push for U.S. control of Greenland have eased somewhat after tariff threats on European nations were called off or negotiated, leading to stock market rebounds.
- The U.S. has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization, ceasing funding and staffing, citing past failures (e.g., COVID-19 handling).
- Trump met with Ukraine's Zelenskyy at Davos, describing talks as positive amid broader Ukraine-Russia peace discussions moving to Abu Dhabi.
- Preparations for U.S.-Ukraine-Russia peace talks in the UAE test potential resolutions to the ongoing war, following Trump-Zelenskyy discussions at Davos.
- European leaders and global elites at Davos adapt to the Trump era, with buzzwords like sustainability fading as focus shifts to aligning with U.S. priorities (e.g., Greenland, Ukraine).
- Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro remains detained in the U.S. on narco-terrorism charges, with echoes of past interventions.
- Broader global concerns include UN condemnations of conflicts (Russia-Ukraine, U.S.-Venezuela actions) as the UN marks its 80th anniversary.
- NEET MDS and PG 2026 tentative exam schedules released, with tests planned for May and August.
- Google launches free SAT practice tests via its Gemini AI to aid student preparation.
- Analysis of recent JEE Main 2026 exams highlights difficulty levels and key topics.
- India's Education Ministry forms a high-level committee following a PhD scholar's suicide at IIT Kanpur; IIT Kanpur expands mental health support with more psychologists.
- U.S. stocks (S&P 500, Dow) rebound sharply after Trump calls off Europe tariffs linked to Greenland negotiations.
- Ongoing AI-driven supply chain shocks continue, with high demand straining silicon and related resources.
- Bank of Japan holds rates steady but signals potential future hikes with upward revisions to growth and inflation forecasts.
- Economic data releases (e.g., consumer sentiment, PMIs) and inflation signals remain key market drivers this week.
- AI boom faces major power constraints for data centers in 2026, prompting discussions on energy needs for scaling.
- Intel shares tumble on weak forecasts and manufacturing/supply snags hindering its comeback.
- Apple reportedly trains next-gen Siri models on Google's AI chips (TPUs), marking a shift from in-house reliance.
- Cathie Wood/Ark Invest's "Big Ideas 2026" highlights a technology revolution potentially driving high GDP growth, plus optimism for Tesla and deregulation.
- U.S. withdrawal from the WHO takes full effect, limiting future collaboration.
- A South African HIV vaccine trial receives a last-minute reprieve after earlier cancellation.
- Research shows genetic factors help some "super agers" stay sharp, with lower Alzheimer's risk genes.
- Studies on cartilage regeneration offer hope for reversing joint aging/arthritis, and vagus nerve stimulation aids treatment-resistant depression.
- NFL conference championships loom, with matchups like Seahawks vs. Rams (Super Bowl spot on the line) and Broncos' backup QB stepping in.
- Golf: Scottie Scheffler opens strong with a 63 at The American Express tournament.
- NHL: Key games include Flyers vs. Avalanche, with betting focus on spreads and totals.
- Other notes: Bangladesh withdraws from T20 World Cup over venue disputes; various college/high school events adjusted for weather.
Nancy Bailey: What Does "Billionaire Patriotism" Look Like? https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/22/nancy-bailey-what-does-bilionaire-patriotism-look-like/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Nancy Bailey critiques Education Secretary Linda McMahon for promoting a "patriotic curriculum" that violates federal law against government interference in school curricula.
- The curriculum, supported by conservative groups, integrates religious perspectives and focuses on promoting a specific version of patriotism.
- The article highlights the tension between promoting patriotism and addressing the struggles of disadvantaged children, such as hunger and lack of access to quality education.
- Historical and philosophical perspectives on patriotism, including critiques by Leo Tolstoy and Albert Einstein, are discussed.
- Diane Ravitch argues for teaching a balanced view of history that includes both the accomplishments and failings of the nation.
The Idiocy of Seizing Greenland https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/22/the-idiocy-of-seizibg-greenland/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Trump's pursuit of Greenland's resources, including oil and rare earth elements, is economically and strategically unsound.
- Greenland's harsh environment and lack of infrastructure make resource extraction highly challenging and costly.
- Legal and environmental constraints, including Greenland's ban on oil exploration since 2021, further complicate resource extraction.
- Rare earth elements in Greenland are not unique, and mining them is not a practical solution given global supply chains and logistical issues.
- Trump's disregard for international law and alliances, as well as his resource-driven foreign policy, undermines U.S. security and global standing.
Thom Hartmann: The ICE Raids are Not About Immigration Enforcement. They Are About Racial Control. https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/22/thom-hartmann-the-ice-raids-are-not-about-immigration-enforcement-they-are-about-racial-control/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The term "homeland" has historical roots in Nazi Germany, where it was used to promote racial identity and superiority.
- American leaders historically avoided using ethnic or racial language to define the nation, favoring terms like "democracy" and "republic."
- The creation of the Department of Homeland Security under George W. Bush marked a shift toward using "homeland" language, with concerns about its implications.
- ICE and DHS have been criticized for using white nationalist rhetoric and imagery in their recruitment campaigns, which align with extremist ideologies.
- Prominent figures and organizations have highlighted the dangers of this rhetoric, linking it to historical and contemporary acts of racial violence.
- Calls for reform include defunding DHS and ICE, removing white nationalist elements, and ensuring adherence to constitutional protections.
Trump Administration Awards Grants to Promote Patriotic Education https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/01/22/trump-administration-awards-grants-to-promote-patriotic-education/ via @janresseger
### Key Points
- The America 250 Civics Education Coalition, launched by the U.S. Department of Education and the America First Policy Institute, aims to promote patriotic civics education in public schools.
- The coalition includes organizations with conservative leanings, raising concerns about historical bias and the potential influence on school curricula despite claims of no federal interference.
- Historians like Johann Neem describe competing narratives of American history: "post-American," "hyper-American," and "mainstream," with the Trump administration favoring the "hyper-American" perspective.
- Federal grants are being directed to projects emphasizing the founding documents and principles of the U.S., sparking debates about historical accuracy and the narrowing of patriotism.
- Critics, including the American Historical Association and Education Law Center, argue that the proposed initiatives could violate federal laws prohibiting interference with local curricula and undermine inclusive historical education.
- Programs like Bowling Green State University's CIVICS 250 Scholars Program are funded to train teachers in American history and civics, but concerns remain about potential bias due to federal funding.
Authors Sue NVIDIA Over AI Theft PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/authors-sue-nvidia-over-ai-theft
### Key Points
- In 2023, Texas passed legislation requiring the State Board of Education to select vocabulary and at least one literary work per grade, but TEA expanded this to a full K-12 literary canon.
- The high school list includes 20 required works per grade, heavily featuring white, male authors and conservative-leaning texts, with minimal representation of diverse voices.
- Critics highlight the lack of flexibility for teachers, the political slant of the list, and the omission of significant works that could provide balance or broader perspectives.
- The proposal’s rigidity ignores the shifting and debated nature of literary canons, which are best adapted by educators to suit their students' needs.
- The proposal is not yet finalized, and Texans are encouraged to contact the state board to express their concerns about the list's limitations and biases.
glen brown: "Candidates vying for the Democratic presidential nomination will face a Herculean task but also an enviable opportunity" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/candidates-vying-for-democratic.html
### Key Points
- Jonathan Toews received an overwhelming ovation from Chicago fans during his return, highlighting his legacy with the Blackhawks.
- Fans and commentators praised Toews for his leadership, contributions to Chicago's Stanley Cup wins, and his off-ice impact on the community.
- The tribute showcased the deep respect and love hockey fans have for their legends, with many expressing pride and emotional reactions to the moment.
Teacher in a Strange Land: Are Schools the Problem? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/are-schools-problem
### Key Points
- The article explores rising mental health issues among children, including ADHD, anxiety, and depression, and questions whether schools contribute to the problem.
- Societal pressures and changing expectations for children, such as academic competitiveness and early academic milestones, are contributing factors.
- Schools are not the sole cause of mental health challenges but are impacted by external factors such as inadequate resources, poor policies, and social inequalities.
- Teachers highlight the importance of building a supportive community, outdoor play, and addressing behavioral issues with patience rather than shame.
- Screen time and exposure to inappropriate content have also influenced children’s mental health and behavior.
- Schools can provide a sense of security and belonging, but they cannot be solely responsible for solving children’s mental health challenges.
Teacher Tom: This is Why Our Schools are So Threatened By Children at Play https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/01/this-is-why-our-schools-are-so.html
### Key Points
- Play-based learning fosters holistic understanding and creativity in children, contrasting with the segmented, hierarchical approach of traditional education.
- Hands-on experiences are essential for meaningful learning, as emphasized by educator Bev Bos's principle: "If it hasn't been in the hand and the body it can't be in the brain."
- Inspiration and intrinsic motivation are key to deep engagement, but modern systems often suppress these qualities to maintain control.
- Play empowers learners by returning control to their minds, hands, and hearts, challenging institutional authority.
- Teacher Tom invites educators and parents to join a workshop promoting play-based education for young children.
ICE OUT OF MN https://www.iceoutnowmn.com/
### Key Points
- A statewide day of action on January 23rd will involve no work, school, or shopping to protest ICE activities in Minnesota.
- Protesters demand the removal of ICE from Minnesota, legal accountability for the officer responsible for Renee Nicole Good's death, and an investigation into ICE's constitutional and human rights violations.
- Businesses are encouraged to become "4th Amendment Businesses" by ceasing economic relations with ICE and refusing to allow ICE to use their properties.
- Community members are urged to participate in the march, rally, and solidarity actions, and to pressure businesses to stand against ICE.
- Regular community briefings are being held to provide updates on ICE activities and organize further action.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Seattle School Board Meeting - January 21, 2026 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/01/seattle-school-board-meeting-january-21.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- The Seattle School Board meeting included all elected members in person for the first time, with significant contributions from student board member Sabi Yoon.
- Superintendent Fred Podesta marked his 7th anniversary and final board meeting, addressing issues like ICE presence on school property and misinformation in the community.
- A proclamation for Black Lives Matter in SPS was read, and student initiatives with the NAACP Youth Council were highlighted.
- Discussions focused on revising the Novak consulting contract, concerns about adult-centered school calendars, and public testimonies about ICE protocols and school safety.
- Consent Agenda discussions revealed concerns about procedural accuracy in personnel reports and financial misstatements in a water line repair project.
- The Board amended its Safety Policy, aiming to improve partnerships with SPD and the Mayor’s office, though no concrete next steps were announced.
- The new student board member policy and Board committees were discussed, with transparency and resource allocation being key points.
Updated "Treating and Preventing Adolescent Mental Health Disorders" Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Oxford University Press published the third edition of "Treating and Preventing Adolescent Mental Health Disorders," which includes expanded research on adolescent mental health, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and strategies to combat mental health stigma.
- The book addresses major adolescent mental health conditions, treatment, and prevention strategies, as well as the importance of positive youth development.
- The book emphasizes the need for evidence-based treatments, overcoming stigma, and prioritizing adolescent mental health in public policy.
- The book discusses societal changes affecting adolescent mental health, including financial insecurity, climate change, social media, and divergent sexual and gender identities.
- A study on public Montessori preschool programs found that children in Montessori schools showed stronger outcomes in reading, memory, social understanding, and executive function by the end of kindergarten, with potential long-term benefits.
- Montessori education is cost-effective, saving school districts an average of $13,127 per child over three years due to mixed-age classrooms and peer learning.
- Researchers plan to investigate the long-term effects of Montessori education on children as they progress through elementary school.
- Recycled tire rubber used in playgrounds and sports fields releases harmful chemicals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and toxic metals, which pose risks to ecosystems and human health, especially in fine particle sizes.
- The study calls for size-specific regulations, long-term monitoring, and safer alternatives for recycled rubber materials in public spaces.
- A national poll reveals that fewer parents believe swearing is never acceptable for children, with many citing context, age, and intent as factors in their views.
- Children primarily learn profanity from peers and media, and parents often set rules about swearing, though enforcement varies widely.
- Moral courage plays a significant role in influencing bystanders’ prosocial defense behaviors in bullying situations, such as comforting victims and reporting incidents.
- A study found that moral courage is more strongly related to prosocial defending attitudes, with variations based on age and gender.
- Pilot programs in schools have shown that moral courage training can increase students' awareness and willingness to act in bullying situations.
- Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) graduates earn more than Associate's degree holders but slightly less than traditional Bachelor's degree holders, with varying outcomes depending on the field of study.
- Gender bias affects how children learn math, with young children more likely to trust incorrect numerical information from male teachers over accurate input from female teachers.
- The study highlights the need to address gender stereotypes in education, as they influence how children process information and develop foundational skills like numerical estimation.
Resolution calling for a moratorium on AI in NYC public schools until rigorous guidelines are enacted to prevent harm to students | Class Size Matters | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/resolution-calling-for-a-moratorium-on-ai-in-nyc-public-schools-until-rigorous-guidelines-are-enacted-to-prevent-harm-to-students/
### Key Points
- A resolution calls for a moratorium on AI use in NYC public schools until strict guidelines are developed to protect students from potential harm.
- Many states and districts have issued AI usage guidelines, but NYC and New York State have not yet done so.
- AI programs, such as ChatGPT, are being used in schools despite concerns about data privacy violations, including the collection of sensitive student information.
- Studies indicate negative impacts of AI on students’ learning, critical thinking, creativity, and academic performance, with AI acting as a "crutch" and promoting group thinking.
- Concerns exist about AI's potential to reinforce biases, provide misleading information, and negatively impact mental health and social development.
- Teachers in NYC report increased cheating and plagiarism due to AI use, which may also harm students' math and writing skills.
- The use of AI has environmental implications, such as increased energy consumption and carbon emissions, contributing to the climate crisis.
- NYC's Department of Education has not adequately addressed concerns about AI use, including student privacy and lack of transparency in AI product implementation.
- The resolution urges Mayor Mamdani and Chancellor Samuels to halt AI use temporarily, expand the AI Working Group, hold public forums, and establish rigorous protections against potential harm.
Ohio Charter Schools' Shameful History of Bad Academic Performance Nearly 1/2 of all failing Ohio Report Card handed out since 2005 have been given to Ohio Charter Schools, even though more than 3 times as many grades have been given to Ohio Public Schls https://10thperiod.substack.com/p/ohio-charter-schools-shameful-history
### Key Points
- Ohio Charter Schools have received nearly half of all failing grades since 2005, despite being outnumbered in total grades by Public Schools.
- Charter Schools receive more state funding than Ohio’s major urban school districts, yet perform worse academically.
- Charter Schools consistently receive a higher percentage of failing grades compared to Public Schools across different accountability systems.
- Ohio Public Schools have demonstrated resilience and strong performance, even under more challenging academic standards.
- Despite $20 billion in taxpayer funding since 1998, Ohio Charter Schools continue to underperform significantly.
Rhode Island's Backdoor Approach to Stopping Federal School Vouchers A bill that outlines what IS required for an opt-in to happen ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/rhode-islands-backdoor-approach-to
### Key Points
- A Rhode Island bill requires both the Governor and the legislature to approve before opting into the federal school voucher program, emphasizing legislative authority and reluctance to participate.
- Federal school vouchers are criticized for diverting public funds to private schools, leading to worse educational outcomes, risking students' civil rights, lacking accountability, and encouraging fraud.
- The federal voucher program is seen as benefiting the wealthy at the expense of public school students and taxpayers, potentially leading to increased costs and a slippery slope of expanding voucher programs.
- Private education vouchers are widely unpopular among voters across political spectrums and have consistently been rejected in public voting.
Children as Collateral Damage A Child-Centered Response to the Heritage Foundation's 'Saving America by Saving the Family' Report BRUCE LESLEY https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/children-as-collateral-damage
### Key Points
- The Heritage Foundation's report frames itself as a moral intervention on behalf of children but focuses on adult compliance with a narrow vision of marriage and family life.
- Children are treated as tools to influence adult behavior rather than as independent rights-holders with needs of their own.
- The report conditions support for children on adult compliance with marriage, work, sexual orientation, and citizenship standards, leaving vulnerable children unsupported.
- Heritage's policies exclude children in mixed-status families, children of single parents, and children in families experiencing financial or personal hardship.
- The report acknowledges flaws in the Child Tax Credit system but defends policies that harm vulnerable infants and children to enforce work requirements.
- The proposed policies, such as the Family and Marriage (FAM) Tax Credit and Home Childcare Equalization Credit, exclude children from non-conforming families by design.
- The report opposes no-fault divorce and prioritizes marital permanence over children's safety and emotional security, even in high-conflict households.
- Heritage's "whole-of-government" approach seeks to align federal policies around marriage promotion rather than children's developmental needs.
- The framework uses children as instruments for social engineering, conditioning support on adult behavior compliance, which harms children during critical developmental periods.
- A genuinely child-centered policy would provide universal and predictable support for children, prioritize their safety and well-being, and avoid penalizing children for their parents' circumstances.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, January 22, 2026, President Donald Trump is dominating international headlines from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he has officially launched a new international body and addressed ongoing tensions regarding Greenland and global trade.
🌍 Davos: Launch of the "Board of Peace"
In a major ceremony at the World Economic Forum, President Trump signed the charter formally establishing the Board of Peace.
Purpose: Originally conceived to oversee post-war governance and reconstruction in Gaza, Trump has expanded its mission to "resolving international conflicts," suggesting it could eventually make the United Nations "obsolete."
Key Members: Approximately 35 countries have joined so far, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan.
The Holdouts: Notable nations including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany have declined to join, while India and China remain noncommittal.
Trump’s Role: The President will serve as the board's chair indefinitely and holds veto power over its decisions.
❄️ De-escalation on Greenland
After days of heightened tensions and market volatility, Trump appeared to back down from threats of a forced acquisition of Greenland.
The "Future Deal": Trump announced a "framework of a future deal" with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.While details are private, Trump noted it involves the U.S. securing mineral rights and space for his proposed "Golden Dome" missile defense system.
Tariff Relief: He signaled a pause on his threats to impose retaliatory tariffs on Denmark and other European allies who had opposed his Greenland plans.
⚖️ Supreme Court Battle: Trump v. Cook
Back in Washington, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments today in a case critical to the independence of the Federal Reserve.
The Dispute: The administration is attempting to remove Fed Governor Lisa Cook, alleging "gross negligence" regarding past mortgage applications.
Legal Stakes: Critics argue that if the President can fire Fed governors for causes he determines alone, it would "shatter" the independence of the nation’s central bank. Early reports from the courtroom suggest the Justices may lean toward preventing the removal.
🧱 Domestic Policy & Border Security
Human Trafficking Crackdown: Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem declared January 2026 "National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month," highlighting new DHS initiatives to dismantle cartel-led trafficking networks.
"One Big Beautiful Bill": Custom and Border Protection (CBP) began installing new waterborne barriers in the Rio Grande Valley this week, funded by the "One Big Beautiful Bill" Act passed last year.
