JANUARY 22, 2026
### Key Points
- A study published by the Kiel Institute reveals that U.S. consumers, not foreign nations, are primarily bearing the cost of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, contradicting claims that other nations are paying these costs.
- The research analyzed $4 trillion worth of shipments between January 2024 and November 2025, showing that American consumers and importers absorbed 96% of tariff costs, while foreign exporters only bore 4%.
- The findings indicate that tariffs lead to higher consumer prices and inflation in the U.S., challenging their effectiveness as a revenue-raising and foreign policy tool.
- German exports to the U.S. have declined significantly due to tariffs, suggesting broader economic implications for international trade.
- The study aligns with prior research from Yale and Harvard, reinforcing that tariffs disproportionately impact American consumers rather than foreign producers.
Massachusetts Rebuffs RFK Jr., Adopts Its Own Vaccination Schedule for Kids https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/21/massachusetts-rebuffs-rfk-jr-adopts-its-own-vaccination-schedule-for-kids/ via @dianeravitch
Massachusetts has rejected the federal vaccine schedule changes introduced by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services under the Trump administration, and has implemented its own vaccination guidelines. Kennedy's controversial decisions, including reducing recommended vaccines and replacing advisory committee members, have sparked backlash from medical professionals and state health officials.
### Key Points
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as Secretary of Health and Human Services, altered the federal childhood vaccine schedule, reducing the number of recommended vaccines.
- Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey countered by releasing the state's own vaccination guidelines, maintaining recommendations for vaccines like hepatitis B, rotavirus, flu, COVID, and RSV.
- The federal changes were criticized for lacking scientific evidence and occurring during a severe flu season, leading to outrage among health experts.
- Massachusetts health officials condemned the federal changes as reckless and emphasized the importance of evidence-based vaccine guidance.
James Fallows: A Primer on Greenland https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/21/james-fallows-a-primer-on-greenland/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- James Fallows argues that the U.S. has no strategic or economic need to "own" Greenland, as existing treaties allow sufficient access to military bases.
- He criticizes the Trump administration's interest in Greenland as driven by personal psychological motives rather than rational policy considerations.
- Greenland's harsh environment and lack of infrastructure make resource extraction and development highly impractical.
- Greenlanders oppose U.S. control and value their semi-autonomous status under Denmark, which already manages the territory's challenges.
Shadowing Students To See How Teachers Taught: Las Montanas High School* https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/01/21/shadowing-students-to-see-how-teachers-teach-las-montanas-high-school-2/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- Larry Cuban shadowed students at Las Montanas High School to study how laptops were used in teaching and learning.
- Students' daily schedules included eight periods, navigating crowded hallways, and using laptops for schoolwork.
- Cuban observed a biology class where students worked on assignments involving organ systems, with laptops playing a minor role in the lesson.
- The study reflects on student engagement, teaching methods, and the integration of technology in classrooms.
Bullies ‘r Us (revised) STU https://bloom2.substack.com/p/bullies-r-us-revised
- The article discusses an email exchange with Indiana’s third district Representative, Marlin Stutzman, regarding the U.S. President’s policy on Greenland, suggesting the idea of owning Greenland was raised to spark discussions about U.S. strategic interests in the Arctic.
- Stutzman acknowledges that the U.S. already plays a significant role in Greenland's defense through Pituffik Space Base, which supports missile warning and space surveillance for national security.
- He highlights Greenland's rich deposits of rare earth minerals and other resources essential for defense systems, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technologies, emphasizing the strategic importance of these materials for American supply chains.
- The author criticizes the notion of acquiring Greenland for its resources, comparing it to similar actions by other nations like China or Russia, and accuses Stutzman of endorsing bullying tactics under the guise of national interest.
- The article includes a sarcastic remark about sending a roll of toilet paper to Stutzman, indicating the author's disdain for his stance and alignment with MAGA policies.
glen brown: "A fundamental safeguard against abuse of power" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-fundamental-safeguard-against-abuse.html
### Key Points
- The article critiques Donald Trump's policies, particularly his disregard for international norms and sovereignty, framing his actions as a return to imperialism.
- It emphasizes the importance of constitutional safeguards like the Twenty-Fifth Amendment and impeachment as mechanisms to address dangerous leadership.
- The piece highlights the broader implications of normalizing coercive statecraft and governance by intimidation or force.
- It discusses various political and social topics, including social justice, healthcare, education reform, environmental issues, and systemic oppression.
- The author reflects on the role of writers in resisting oppression and maintaining independence from political and social doctrines.
Recycled tire Rubber used in playgrounds and sports fields may release toxic chemicals, Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Recycled tire rubber used in playgrounds and sports fields may release harmful chemicals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and toxic metals like zinc and copper, especially from fine particles. These chemicals pose risks to ecosystems and human health.
- Smaller rubber particles contain higher concentrations of PAHs and release more bioavailable toxic compounds, causing adverse effects on plants, soil invertebrates, and aquatic bacteria.
- Researchers recommend regulating fine rubber granulates and developing safer alternatives to minimize environmental and public health risks.
- A national poll suggests parents are becoming more relaxed about children swearing, with friends and media being major sources of profanity exposure. Context, age, and intent influence parents’ responses.
- Moral courage, a deliberate decision-making process, is linked to prosocial defending behaviors in school bullying situations. It is more prominent in younger children and boys, and training can enhance students' awareness and actions in bullying scenarios.
- Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) graduates earn more than Associate’s degree holders but slightly less than traditional Bachelor’s degree holders. CCB programs are cost-effective and beneficial in fields like Nursing, Business, and Criminal Justice.
- Gender bias in math education influences how children trust and process numerical information, with boys and girls favoring incorrect answers from male figures over correct ones from females. This highlights the impact of stereotypes on learning.
- Recreational physical activity during adolescence may reduce breast cancer risk by altering breast tissue composition and stress-related biomarkers. The study emphasizes the importance of promoting physical activity among adolescents, especially underrepresented groups.
CURMUDGUCATION: The Fight For Cursive (Back In My Day) PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/the-fight-for-cursive-back-in-my
The article discusses the recent decision by New Jersey to mandate cursive instruction in schools, joining 25 other states in the U.S. The author critiques the rationale behind the decision, arguing that the justifications provided—such as the ability to read historical documents, cognitive benefits, and fine motor skill development—are weak and outdated. The author also highlights the influence of nostalgia in educational policy decisions, where some people advocate for practices from their own school days without considering modern needs. The piece concludes by questioning the trade-offs involved in reintroducing cursive instruction, suggesting that it may come at the expense of more relevant educational content.
### Key Points
- New Jersey has mandated cursive instruction in schools, citing benefits like reading historical documents, cognitive development, and maintaining a connection to written communication.
- The author criticizes the arguments for cursive instruction as outdated and not strongly supported by evidence, pointing out that many traditional skills are no longer as relevant.
- The article explores how nostalgia influences educational decisions, with some policymakers wanting to return to practices from their own school experiences, regardless of their current relevance.
- The author emphasizes the trade-offs in education, arguing that adding cursive instruction could mean less time for other, more useful subjects.
Greenland at Davos? Why Greenland. – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/01/21/greenland-at-davos-why-greenland/
### Key Points
- Right-wing governments often attack the liberal arts and humanities because these fields equip people to recognize power dynamics, resist manipulation, and understand historical patterns.
- Studying history reveals how societies normalize dangerous rhetoric and actions, as seen in the lead-up to World War II with the annexation of Poland.
- Adolf Hitler's rise and aggression were facilitated by the normalization of dangerous rhetoric, which went unchecked and led to catastrophic consequences.
- Donald Trump’s remarks about annexing Greenland echo historical patterns of reframing sovereignty as negotiable and using ambiguous language to signal potential aggression.
- Europe’s firm rejection of Trump’s rhetoric contrasts with the appeasement approach of the 1930s, highlighting the importance of drawing clear boundaries early.
- The article emphasizes the critical role of the humanities in fostering critical thinking and resisting dangerous ideologies by teaching historical context and the power of language.
- Denial or distortion of historical truths, such as the Holocaust, erases real suffering and makes societies vulnerable to repeating past mistakes.
- Democracy thrives on education, mutual respect, and moral principles, which help prevent crises and uphold dignity.
Apologies needed https://rlratto.wordpress.com/2026/01/21/apologies-needed/ via @ratto_rr
### Key Points
- The author criticizes Trump's speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, describing it as rambling, insulting, and filled with fabrications.
- The speech is viewed as a global embarrassment and a threat to international stability, with concerns raised about the role of Trump’s advisors.
- The author believes the U.S. has lost its global standing and is now seen as a pariah due to Trump’s leadership.
- The proposed solution includes impeaching Trump, prosecuting those responsible for alleged wrongdoings, releasing the Epstein files, and voting out Trump supporters to restore the nation’s image.
Teacher Tom: A Strong, Natural, Healthy Need for Autonomy https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-strong-natural-healthy-need-for.html
### Key Points
- A four-year-old boy, expelled from his previous preschool for behavioral issues, joined a new preschool where the teacher used observation and non-confrontational methods to build trust.
- The teacher employed a "Yes, and..." approach, inspired by Barb O'Neill, to validate the child's feelings and provide alternatives to conflict, fostering a sense of autonomy.
- The boy gradually integrated into the group, driven by his interest in meaningful conversations, such as a debate about superheroes, demonstrating the success of a non-controlling teaching method.
- The article critiques societal norms that prioritize controlling children over meeting their needs, arguing that this mindset leads to rebellion or compliance at the expense of autonomy.
- The teacher emphasizes the importance of transforming perspectives on challenging behaviors by focusing on helping children meet their needs rather than enforcing obedience.
"NO ICE" and the feckless Democrats. FRED KLONSKY https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/no-ice-and-the-feckless-democrats
- The article discusses the stance of Mayor Mamdani, who strongly supports abolishing ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), contrasting his position with that of other Democrats who favor continued funding or reforming ICE.
- Legislation to fund the government through September and avoid a government shutdown includes maintaining ICE funding at current levels, with debates among lawmakers on both sides regarding its approval.
- The article criticizes the lack of transparency and time given to lawmakers and the public to review the proposed legislation before the vote.
Davos: Where the elites and oligarchs try to stop themselves from blowing up the world. Laughs and gasps as Trump addresses the Davos elites. MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/davos-where-the-elites-and-oligarchs
### Key Points
- Davos 2026 is criticized as an elite gathering disconnected from the majority, with over 1,000 private jets symbolizing its exclusivity.
- Trump’s speech at Davos was marked by gaffes, including confusing Greenland with Iceland and making controversial statements, leading to audience laughter and walkouts.
- Trump’s attempt to assert control over Greenland through tariffs failed, highlighting U.S. isolation and diminishing global influence.
- Protests and speeches, such as those by Canadian PM Carney and French President Macron, emphasized the fracturing Western alliance and critiques of U.S. policies.
- Macron’s critique of Trump’s policies and the shift toward a lawless international order highlighted tensions between the U.S. and Europe.
- The Davos summit showcased deeper crises of capitalism, geopolitical instability, and ineffective diplomacy, leaving critical issues unresolved.
Bellwether and K12 Coalition Published Misleading Report | tultican https://tultican.com/2026/01/22/bellwether-and-k12-coalition-published-misleading-report/
### Key Points
- Bellwether and K12 Coalition’s report misrepresents a math crisis to promote private products.
- National math data shows consistent performance over decades, with absenteeism being the real concern post-pandemic.
- The report heavily markets private instructional materials and teacher training, which critics argue are unnecessary for public schools.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, January 21, 2026, President Trump’s activities at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, are dominating the news cycle. The day has been marked by a major reversal on trade threats and a push for Arctic territory.
Here are the top stories involving Donald Trump today:
1. The "Greenland Framework" and Tariff Reversal
In a dramatic shift, President Trump announced on Truth Social that he is canceling planned 10% tariffs on eight European nations.
The Deal: Following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump claimed they have formed the "framework of a future deal" regarding Greenland and the Arctic region.
No Force: During his speech in Davos, Trump explicitly ruled out using military force to acquire Greenland, stating, "I don't want to use force. I won't use force." However, he warned that if allies do not negotiate, "we will remember."
2. Davos Keynote Speech
Trump addressed global leaders and CEOs with a speech that mixed economic boasting with sharp criticism of European allies.
European Decline: He claimed parts of Europe are "unrecognizable" due to mass migration and environmental policies.
Ukraine Conflict: Trump stated that the Russia-Ukraine war "has to stop" and mentioned he is in talks with Vladimir Putin. He is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tomorrow.
The "Golden Dome": He briefly mentioned ongoing discussions regarding a "Golden Dome" defense system for the Arctic.
3. Executive Order on Housing
Back in Washington, the administration issued an Executive Order titled "Stopping Wall Street from Competing with Main Street Homebuyers."
The Goal: The order aims to prevent large institutional investors from buying single-family homes to make them more available for individual buyers.
Mechanism: It directs federal agencies to stop insuring or facilitating the sale of homes to these large firms and promotes "first-look" policies for owner-occupants.
4. Domestic "Year One" Reports
As the administration marks one year since the second inauguration, several cabinet members released "wins" reports:
Immigration: DHS Secretary Kristi Noem reported that nearly 3 million illegal aliens have left the U.S. in the last year, including 2.2 million self-deportations.
Infrastructure: Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy touted the removal of 11,500 truck drivers failing English proficiency standards and the hiring of more air traffic controllers.
5. Controversy over "DOGE" Data Access
Court filings revealed that employees of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reportedly accessed personal Social Security data. Critics and California Governor Gavin Newsom have used this to attack the administration's "fraud" claims, with Newsom updating a "Trump Criminals" tracker in response to recent presidential pardons.