TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
MARCH 26, 2026
Here are today's top news stories (as of March 26, 2026) in each requested category, based on the most prominent ongoing developments from major outlets.
U.S. News
- Ongoing U.S.-Israel military involvement in Iran conflict: The U.S. is deploying additional troops, including up to 1,500–3,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division, to the Middle East amid escalated strikes. Casualties include reports of U.S. service members killed, with the conflict entering its fourth week.
- Partial DHS/government shutdown impacts: Long TSA lines persist at airports despite ICE deployments; leaders from TSA, Coast Guard, and FEMA testified on effects, with negotiations for a potential deal ongoing amid broader funding disputes.
- Signal chat scandal fallout: Top national security officials (including references to Mike Waltz, Pete Hegseth, and others) faced grilling over a leaked group chat on the Signal app that inadvertently included a journalist and revealed operational military details. Democrats demanded full release of texts; Trump stood by his advisors.
- Trump executive actions on elections and immigration: An order requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration and directing DHS/Elon Musk’s DOGE access to voter rolls drew criticism over potential disenfranchisement.
Politics
- National security officials questioned on Signal leak: Senate Intelligence Committee hearings highlighted tensions, with officials denying classified info was shared while shifting responsibility; broader scrutiny of Trump administration's handling of Yemen/Iran-related plans.
- Trump addresses House Republicans: The president spoke at the NRCC fundraising dinner amid ongoing Iran war debates and domestic policy pushes.
- DHS funding and shutdown talks: Senate GOP-backed deals faced fire from both sides; links to voter ID requirements and broader Trump agenda items like tariffs on imported autos.
- Election-related moves: Trump's order on proof-of-citizenship voting requirements and DOGE involvement in voter rolls sparked partisan debate.
World Affairs
- U.S./Israel vs. Iran war escalates: Iran rejected Trump's ceasefire proposal (including a 15-point plan demanding nuclear dismantlement and Strait of Hormuz access), vowing to fight on; Israeli strikes continued in Tehran and elsewhere, with U.S. troop deployments. Death toll estimates vary widely (hundreds in Iran). Iran denied radiation release from Natanz strike.
- Strait of Hormuz disruptions: Iran's actions closed or restricted the key oil route to "enemies," causing global energy concerns; U.S. pressured allies (e.g., Japan) for naval support.
- Broader regional fallout: Reports of attacks on Israel, Lebanon involvement, and Gulf states; Russia launched major attacks on Ukraine separately.
Education
- Limited major breaking stories today; coverage focused on ongoing federal pressures on higher education governance, accountability, and student loan regulations (e.g., comments on RISE rulemaking for graduate loans).
- K-12 and higher ed discussions around potential strikes (e.g., LAUSD) and policy pushes like immigration status reporting in some states, but no dominant national headline on March 26.
Economy
- Oil prices and market reaction to Iran war/ceasefire hopes: Brent crude eased slightly (~$98/bbl) amid truce speculation, but disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz kept pressure high; U.S. crude around $88. Stocks rose on optimism (Dow up, S&P/Nasdaq gains).
- Trump tariffs push: Proposals for tariffs on imported autos highlighted in reports.
- Mixed economic signals: Private sector job adds (ADP data) and nonmanufacturing growth noted recently, but wartime uncertainty, inflation concerns, and Trump's low economic approval (29% in one poll) weighed in.
Technology
- Meta and YouTube face legal reckoning: Landmark trial/charges over platforms allegedly endangering children and teens via addiction and safety issues; ongoing scrutiny of social media's impact.
- Broader tech developments: Coverage of AI advancements, but overshadowed by regulatory and safety headlines; no single massive product launch dominating March 26.
Health
- Limited standout breaking stories on March 26; recent coverage included new dyslipidemia guidelines (earlier screening/treatment for cholesterol) and studies on loneliness/social isolation linked to cognitive decline in menopausal women.
- General medical updates (e.g., metformin brain pathway research or radiation damage insights) appeared in scientific outlets but did not drive major headlines today.
Sports
- NCAA March Madness ongoing: Women's and men's tournament action continued, with highlights like standout performances (e.g., USC's Jazzy Davidson) and debates over Final Four contenders (Iowa State, Tennessee, etc.). Voice issues affected some broadcasts.
- MLB season preview/anticipation: Opening Day approaches (e.g., Mets vs. Pirates); team outlooks for Yankees, Mets, and others discussed.
- NBA and other schedules: Regular games (e.g., Knicks vs. Hornets) listed; broader league previews.
The Iran conflict dominates much of U.S., political, and world coverage today, with ripple effects on energy markets. Stories evolve quickly—check live sources for updates.
My Views on Mayoral Control of Public Schools in NYC https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/25/my-views-on-mayoral-control-of-public-schools-in-nyc/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- "The Pitt," an award-winning medical drama, showcases DEI through a diverse cast and emphasizes empathy and inclusivity in healthcare.
- The show is praised for its realism, with medically accurate procedures and expert oversight by an emergency room doctor and other specialists.
- The series is described as a "masterclass" in DEI and is commended for illustrating its practical benefits in saving lives and addressing societal challenges.
- The show is also seen as an exploration of human resilience, empathy, and the balance between expertise and creativity under pressure.
- Commentary suggests "The Pitt" serves as a reflection of broader cultural and political dynamics, including the impact of leadership and policies on everyday lives.
Peter Greene: Voucher Battle in Nebraska Sinks the State Budget https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/25/peter-greene-voucher-battle-in-nebraska-sinks-the-state-budget/ via @dianeravitch
- Nebraska voters repealed the state’s voucher program, but Republican lawmakers attempted to reintroduce vouchers by embedding them in the state budget.
- Arguments supporting vouchers were criticized as misleading, with claims that vouchers primarily benefit wealthy families and private schools, not disadvantaged students.
- The $3.5 million voucher allocation was removed from the budget by Senator Rob Clements, causing a standoff that led to the budget's collapse.
- Critics, including Nebraska State Education Association President Tim Royers, denounced the attempt to push unpopular voucher policies through the budget, emphasizing voter opposition.
- The controversy highlights the political challenges of advancing voucher programs despite public rejection.
Underground Railroad Museum Sues Trump Administration for Canceling Grant https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/25/underground-railroad-museum-sues-trump-administration-for-canceling-grant/ via @dianeravitch
- The Trump administration sought to eliminate federal grants supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, targeting programs acknowledging race, ethnicity, or gender diversity.
- The Underground Railroad Education Center in Albany, NY, filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for canceling a $250,000 grant, citing racial and viewpoint discrimination and violations of the First and Fifth Amendments.
- The lawsuit argues the grant cancellation is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to dismantle diversity-focused programs, as evidenced by an executive order issued in January 2025.
- The legal team representing the museum, including Lawyers for Good Government, claims that thousands of organizations have been similarly targeted under these policies.
- The blog post reflects on the broader implications of the Trump administration's actions, suggesting that such concentrated executive power exposes weaknesses in the U.S. system of checks and balances.
Big Education Ape: OPERATION EPIC FURY - THE REAL REASONS: A TOTALLY PERFECT, MAYBE THE BEST EVER, WAR (Satire) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/operation-epic-fury-real-reasons.html
The article is a satirical commentary on a fictional military operation called "Operation Epic Fury," led by former President Donald Trump. It humorously critiques the exaggerated justifications for the war, the reactions of Trump's supporters and critics, and the broader political and media landscape surrounding such a conflict. The piece highlights the absurdity of decisions made based on "fact-based feelings" and mocks the rhetoric used to justify military actions.
### Key Points
- The article is a satirical take on a fictional war initiated by Donald Trump, named "Operation Epic Fury," targeting Iran.
- The war is justified by Trump with exaggerated claims, such as Iran being on the verge of acquiring nuclear weapons and plotting to assassinate him.
- Trump lists several reasons for the war, including historical grievances like the 1979 hostage crisis and his belief that the Iranian people support him.
- Trump's supporters, including Senator Lindsey Graham and Fox News hosts, enthusiastically support the war, often using hyperbolic and patriotic rhetoric.
- Critics of the war, including some of Trump's former supporters, accuse him of breaking his anti-war promises and starting a conflict for self-serving reasons.
- Alternative theories for the war include distracting from Trump's legal issues, potential real estate interests in Iran, and external influence from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
- The article mocks the idea that Trump's "gut feeling" and "fact-based feelings" were sufficient reasons to launch a military operation.
- The satirical piece highlights the economic and geopolitical fallout of the war, including rising oil prices and missile strikes on U.S. bases.
- The media's reaction to the war is parodied, with Fox News hosts either praising Trump or questioning the motives behind the conflict.
- The article concludes with a humorous depiction of the ongoing war and the reactions of various political figures, emphasizing the absurdity of the situation.
Big Education Ape: THE BILLIONAIRE'S CLASSROOM: HOW CALIFORNIA BECAME THE PROVING GROUND FOR THE GREAT PUBLIC SCHOOL HEIST https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/the-billionaires-classroom-how.html
The article examines how California has become a testing ground for the privatization of public education, driven by billionaires investing over $250 million to reshape the state's educational system. Through strategic funding, political influence, and selective research, these wealthy individuals have advanced charter schools while undermining traditional public schools, exacerbating inequality and creating a system that favors advantaged students.
### Key Points
- California has been targeted by billionaires as an opportunity to privatize public education under the guise of social justice.
- Between 2015 and 2025, over $250 million was spent by wealthy individuals to influence school board elections and reshape the educational landscape.
- Major donors like Reed Hastings, Walton Family, Doris Fisher, Eli Broad, and Michael Bloomberg have led efforts to promote charter schools through PACs, lobbying, and research funding.
- Los Angeles Unified School District's 2017 school board election became the most expensive in history, with over $15 million in outside spending to secure a pro-charter majority.
- Charter schools use strategies like selective lotteries, counseling out high-need students, and focusing on less expensive demographics to achieve better results compared to traditional public schools.
- Charter schools serve fewer English learners, low-income students, and students with disabilities compared to traditional public schools, creating demographic disparities.
- Budget cuts to traditional public schools have worsened their ability to serve high-need students, while charter schools draw funding away despite serving less expensive populations.
- Charter schools gained 168,000 students over a decade while traditional public schools lost 582,000 students, intensifying financial crises in districts like Oakland Unified.
- Research supporting charter schools, such as Stanford’s CREDO and PPIC, is funded by the same foundations promoting charter expansion, raising questions about bias.
- Metrics showing charter schools' advantages often omit the role of demographic selection bias, which accounts for 40% of their reported gains.
- The achievement gap between wealthy and low-income students persists, with minimal improvement in English learner outcomes and math proficiency for the bottom quartile.
- Despite billions spent on privatization efforts, California’s educational inequities remain largely unchanged.
Big Education Ape: COOKIES & PIXELS: NOT A DISNEY MOVIE — THEY'RE WATCHING YOUR EVERY CLICK https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/cookies-pixels-not-disney-movie-theyre.html
The article also delves into digital privacy concerns, focusing on cookies and tracking pixels, their functions, and methods to block them. It provides practical tips for improving online privacy and highlights tools and settings for browsers and email platforms to combat digital surveillance.
### Key Points
- Seattle Schools Community Forum promotes a free online Civics & Debate Club for teens to discuss various topics.
- Criticism of book banning and anti-diversity policies driven by far-right organizations in Pennsylvania.
- Exploration of how California became a testing ground for privatization in public education.
- Digital surveillance through cookies and tracking pixels is explained, including their mechanisms and implications for privacy.
- Practical steps to block cookies and tracking pixels are provided, such as browser settings, privacy extensions, and privacy-first browsers like Brave and Firefox.
- The importance of protecting personal data online through tools like uBlock Origin, DNS-level filtering, and email settings is emphasized.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MARCH 25, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01059730271.html
The article provides a wide range of topics covering education, politics, technology, health, and cultural issues. Key themes include the impact of federal policies on democracy, the challenges in public education, the role of AI in schools, geopolitical tensions, and the resilience of Black culture. It also highlights grassroots movements like "No Kings" and critiques harmful practices such as grade retention, school vouchers, and privatization efforts.
### Key Points
- The Independence Law Center pushes anti-LGBTQ and anti-diversity policies in Pennsylvania, reflecting broader concerns about book bans and censorship.
- California is highlighted as a testing ground for privatization in public schools, driven by billionaire interests and propaganda.
- Paul Krugman criticizes insider trading in oil markets, calling it treasonous.
- Ongoing government shutdown disrupts TSA operations, causes airport delays, and impacts federal programs.
- Deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport prompts safety system investigations.
- Trump signs an executive order overhauling U.S. elections, mandating stricter voter ID requirements.
- U.S.-Iran conflict escalates with missile exchanges and broader Middle East tensions, including drone attacks in Kuwait.
- Grade retention policies harm students' self-esteem, increase dropout rates, and disproportionately affect students of color. Alternatives like tutoring and summer school are advocated.
- Nebraska voters resist school voucher programs despite repeated legislative attempts to implement them.
- Robot teachers fail to replace human educators, demonstrating the irreplaceable value of adaptability and empathy in teaching.
- The "No Kings" movement protests authoritarian policies, advocating for democracy and resisting privatization efforts.
- The Founding Fathers warned against mixing religion with state funding, critiquing modern school voucher systems for fostering inequality and religious favoritism.
- Concerns about AI in NYC schools include risks to privacy, equity, and mental health, leading to calls for a two-year moratorium on its use.
- Free-market principles in school choice exacerbate inequalities, and alternative approaches within public education are suggested.
- A federal court blocks RFK Jr.'s anti-vaccine agenda, reinstating previous federal recommendations and highlighting the importance of scientific decision-making.
- Robert Mueller, former FBI director, passes away at 81, leaving a legacy of integrity and dedication to public service.
- The Mueller investigation revealed Russian interference in the 2016 election and obstructive actions by Trump but was limited by DOJ policies.
- Teacher Tom emphasizes the importance of collaboration and play-based learning over traditional competitive education models.
- Educational technology decisions should prioritize teacher and student needs rather than administrative convenience.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MARCH 25, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/morning-news-update-march-25-2026.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of current events spanning education, politics, global conflicts, technology, health, and sports. Key topics include the U.S.-Iran conflict, education policy shifts, legal battles over curriculum, AI integration in classrooms, and major developments in technology and health.
### Key Points
- Seattle Schools Community Forum promotes free online civics and debate programs for teens.
- Far-right policies in Pennsylvania target anti-LGBTQ and diversity efforts in education.
- California's education system has become a testing ground for oligarchic influence in public schools.
- Teachers often act as improvisers in their roles due to unexpected challenges.
- Paul Krugman highlights "treasonous" speculation in oil markets.
- The U.S.-Iran conflict escalates with ceasefire diplomacy, troop deployments, and international reactions.
- A tragic LaGuardia airport collision involving pilots and a fire truck is under investigation.
- New Mexico jury rules against Meta for harming children's mental health and concealing exploitation risks.
- Federal budget impasse disrupts Homeland Security operations.
- Bright green meteor sightings captured across the Pacific Northwest.
- Democrat Emily Gregory flips a Florida district including Mar-a-Lago in a special election.
- Global reactions to the Iran war include energy crises and political condemnation.
- European initiative promotes rail travel as an alternative to aviation.
- AI integration in education sparks debates over oral exams and union protections.
- William & Mary expands financial stipends for student teachers.
- Fulbright awards and international education partnerships enhance global collaboration.
- Oil price volatility and import/export surges linked to Iran war impacts.
- Sony-Honda cancels electric vehicle models amid strategic shifts.
- Amazon acquires robotics company Fauna Robotics for warehouse automation.
- Telehealth increases for at-home abortions, reducing cross-state travel.
- Rising colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50 prompt health warnings.
- Student debt and education funding cuts fuel protests under the "No Kings" movement.
- U.S. Department of Education programs face restructuring and interagency shifts.
- Legal battles challenge restrictive classroom laws on race and gender discussions.
- Global universities pivot to oral exams to address AI-generated assignments.
- Meningitis outbreak in UK universities spurs vaccination drives.
- Students lead protests against immigration enforcement near schools.
- Mikaela Shiffrin secures her sixth World Cup skiing title.
- NBA expansion plans may introduce teams in Las Vegas and Seattle.
Big Education Ape: ROBOT TEACHER GOES NUCLEAR: THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION IS HERE (AND IT'S ALREADY BROKEN) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/robot-teacher-goes-nuclear-future-of.html
The article humorously critiques the overzealous implementation of robot teachers in education, highlighting their limitations compared to human educators. It narrates the story of eighth graders creatively sabotaging a robotic teacher system, illustrating the irreplaceable value of human teachers in fostering meaningful learning experiences.
### Key Points
- Robots were introduced as educational tools to supplement teachers but quickly became a profit-driven initiative to replace them, leading to initial excitement followed by declining outcomes.
- Eighth-grade students creatively disrupted their robot teacher, exposing flaws in its functionality and demonstrating the importance of human adaptability and empathy in education.
- Human teachers, such as Ms. Okonkwo, Mr. Delgado, and Dr. Park, showcased their ability to connect with students, adapt to their needs, and foster genuine learning, highlighting the shortcomings of robotic systems.
- Research suggests robots should enhance educators rather than replace them, as human connection and adaptability remain crucial for effective learning.
Big Education Ape: THROWING DEMOCRACY OUT THE WINDOW — WITH THE BABY AND THE BATHWATER #NoKingsMar28 #NoKingsInAmerica #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/throwing-democracy-out-window-with-baby.html
Meanwhile, political and social issues dominate the U.S. landscape, including the dismantling of democratic infrastructure under the Trump administration's policies, such as immigration enforcement, healthcare cuts, voter suppression, restrictions on transgender care, and the privatization of public education. The "No Kings" movement is rallying nationwide on March 28, 2026, to protest these changes and advocate for the restoration of democratic principles.
### Key Points
- The Trump administration's immigration policies are causing fear and disruption in immigrant communities, leading to avoidance of essential services.
- Cuts to social safety nets like SNAP and Medicaid are leaving vulnerable populations without access to healthcare and nutrition.
- Restriction of gender-affirming care is creating a healthcare desert for transgender Americans, increasing mental health risks.
- Policies like Schedule F and the SAVE America Act are undermining democracy, turning civil servants into political pawns and suppressing voter rights.
- Universal school vouchers under the Educational Freedom Act of 2026 are draining resources from public education, harming special-needs students.
- States are resisting federal policies through legislation and litigation, such as protecting immigrant data and funding healthcare services.
- The "No Kings" movement is organizing protests on March 28, 2026, to defend democracy and oppose authoritarian policies.
"WE TOLD YOU SO": THE FOUNDING FATHERS ON SCHOOL VOUCHERS, RELIGIOUS STRIFE, AND THE SLOW-MOTION DEMOLITION OF AMERICAN DEMOCRACY #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/we-told-you-so-founding-fathers-on.html
A Federal Court Blocks RFK Jr.'s Anti-Vaccine Agenda – But the Threat to Children Is Not Over Immunization policy is, as they say at the movies, “One Battle After Another.” BRUCE LESLEY https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/a-federal-court-blocks-rfk-jrs-anti
The article discusses a recent federal court ruling that temporarily blocked significant changes to the U.S. childhood vaccination policy made by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. since taking office. The court found that the changes violated federal procedures and undermined the scientific integrity of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Despite this temporary victory, the article highlights ongoing challenges, including declining vaccination rates, vaccine misinformation, and gaps in federal public health infrastructure. It also emphasizes the critical role of state-level initiatives in safeguarding children’s health amidst federal policy setbacks.
### Key Points
- U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy issued a ruling on March 16, 2026, blocking major vaccine policy changes made by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
- The ruling reversed the administration’s actions, which had politicized children’s health and dismantled federal immunization guidance.
- Thirty states had already established their own vaccination schedules, rejecting federal changes.
- Vaccination rates are dropping, and preventable diseases are causing child deaths due to misinformation and policy changes.
- The “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement seeks to eliminate the childhood vaccination schedule entirely.
- Judge Murphy ruled that HHS violated federal law by improperly reconstituting and bypassing ACIP, undermining its scientific expertise.
- The January 2026 memo reducing the childhood immunization schedule from 17 to 11 vaccines was issued without proper ACIP involvement or public review, violating the Administrative Procedure Act (APA).
- The court restored the pre-2025 vaccine recommendations, including the hepatitis B birth dose, and reinstated insurance coverage obligations tied to ACIP recommendations.
- States like Colorado have taken legislative steps to rely on independent scientific organizations for vaccine schedules, bypassing federal guidance.
- State-level actions reflect a broader trend of prioritizing children’s health over federal dysfunction, including Medicaid expansion, better Child Tax Credit policies, and universal childcare initiatives.
- Vaccine hesitancy and misinformation have led to significant declines in vaccination rates, with measles and other preventable diseases resurging.
- Public trust in the CDC has eroded, with polling showing strong support for evidence-based vaccine policies and scientific independence.
- Despite the court ruling and state efforts, the damage to public health infrastructure, vaccine coverage, and trust remains significant and challenging to reverse.
### Key Points
- Bobbi Boudman won a traditionally Republican district by centering her campaign on protecting public education and addressing local tax concerns.
- Boudman emphasized the real-life impacts of school vouchers and declining state funding, resonating with voters across party lines.
- She avoided ideological rhetoric, focusing on community issues and building relationships over years through local involvement.
- Her victory reflects backlash against Republican efforts to politicize education and dismantle public schools.
Curmudgucation PA: Book Banners Are Never Satisfied PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/pa-book-banners-are-never-satisfied
### Key Points
- The concept of school choice does not necessarily have to be tied to free market dynamics; public school systems can offer diverse educational paths under one framework, which could be more cost-effective and flexible.
- The belief in the free market as inherently good often drives school choice advocates, even when evidence shows it doesn’t improve educational outcomes or equity.
- Competition is mistakenly assumed to improve schools, but it often prioritizes marketing over excellence and creates tiers of privilege, which is counterproductive for education.
- Market-driven education assumes financial incentives are the primary motivators, neglecting the societal accountability needed in education.
- The notion of “foot-based accountability,” where parents choose schools by leaving poor ones, fails to exert meaningful market pressure and can lead to exclusionary practices.
- Some advocates resist public funding for education, seeing it as socialism, and prefer a system where educational quality depends on personal financial means.
- Culture warriors use school choice rhetoric to push specific agendas, like funding religious schools, which may conflict with broader educational goals.
- School choice can be implemented without free market frameworks, focusing instead on equitable access to quality education for all students.
Fred Klonsky in Retirement What an aggressively pro-worker mayor can do. FRED KLONSKY https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/what-an-aggressively-pro-worker-mayor
- Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani’s pro-worker governance led to enforcing Fair Workweek and Protected Time Off laws, ensuring predictable schedules, advance notice, and compensation for last-minute changes for fast food workers.
- Over 800 fast food workers received compensation, and an additional 830 workers gained $1.8 million in settlements due to violations of scheduling protections.
- Unpredictable work schedules and sudden hour cuts in industries like fast food and retail create hardships, making fair workweek laws essential for worker dignity and stability.
- The New York Post criticized the measures, but they provide much-needed stability and fairness for workers, showcasing the impact of a strong pro-worker city government.
Teacher Tom: Telling This Story of Life Itself https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/03/telling-this-story-of-life-itself.html
### Key Points
- A corpus callosotomy divides the brain into two separate minds, each with distinct personalities, perceptions, and purposes.
- The left hemisphere is a "baloney generator," creating plausible stories to explain actions initiated by other parts of the brain.
- Human cognition relies heavily on storytelling, often unconsciously constructing narratives to make sense of the world.
- Conscious thinking is limited to executive functions, while deeper problem-solving and creativity emerge from the unconscious mind.
- Traditional schooling focuses on conscious, linear thinking, neglecting activities like play and art that foster deep learning.
- Play creates optimal conditions for the entire brain to engage in the process of understanding and storytelling.
glen brown: Trump's war on Iran and its impact https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/03/trumps-war-on-iran-and-its-impact.html
- Federal Judge Raag Singhal dismissed Donald Trump's defamation lawsuit against CNN, ruling that the statements made by CNN were opinions, not false statements of fact, and therefore not defamatory.
- Trump claimed that CNN's use of the term "Big Lie" to describe his statements about the 2020 election associated him with Hitler and genocide, but the court found this argument unpersuasive and not actionable under defamation law.
- A three-judge panel of the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the dismissal, stating Trump did not adequately plead falsity, and that CNN's statements did not imply that Trump advocated genocide or persecution.
- The Eleventh Circuit denied Trump’s request for a full court review, reaffirming the dismissal of his case. Trump still has the option to petition the Supreme Court, but the chances of success are slim.
- The case highlights the strength of the First Amendment and the difficulty for public figures like Trump to win defamation cases in the U.S. legal system.
Teachers as Improvisers https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/03/25/teachers-as-improvisers-2/ via @CubanLarry
- Teaching, like many professions, requires constant improvisation to handle unexpected challenges and meet objectives.
- Barack Obama’s experience with political decision-making during his presidency, particularly with the Affordable Care Act, exemplifies the need for flexibility and improvisation, which parallels the teaching profession.
- Teachers make numerous on-the-fly decisions during lessons, managing both planned routines and unexpected events, such as student behavior, questions, or equipment failures.
- Studies from the 1970s and 1980s found that teachers make an average of 0.7 decisions per minute during interactive teaching, with elementary teachers engaging in 200-300 exchanges with students per hour.
- Teaching is described as an "opportunistic" profession, requiring spontaneity, immediacy, and the ability to improvise effectively to handle both routine and unforeseen situations.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Let's Debate https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/03/lets-debate.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- The O'Connor Institute Ambassadors Online Civics & Debate Club invites teens to engage in civic issues, build leadership skills, and compete for scholarships, with no prior debate experience required.
- An update on a Seattle School Board meeting highlights discussions about high school boundaries and zoning issues, with a focus on Green Dot resolution and Ballard High.
- Concerns about nepotism within Seattle Public Schools are raised, particularly regarding the promotion and reassignment of school principals and senior staff based on personal connections.
- Director Geary's comments on advanced learning services during a 2017 Board meeting are referenced, emphasizing her stance on the topic.
The Science of Reading Act of 2026 - H. R. 7890 Is Not Based On Science The U.S. Congress Science of Reading Act of 2026 - H. R. 7890 (March 12, 2026) is out of date and “old think” DENNY TAYLOR https://teachingindangeroustimes.substack.com/p/the-science-of-reading-act-of-2026
### Key Points
- The Science of Reading Act of 2026 (H.R. 7890) enforces early 20th-century phonics instruction, which the author argues is outdated and not scientifically valid.
- The Act prohibits the "three-cueing" system in literacy instruction, which the author claims eliminates opportunities for children to engage with meaningful texts and develop critical thinking skills.
- The NRP's "five pillars of reading instruction" are criticized as being unscientific and politically driven, with the research behind them being described as flawed and manipulated.
- The Act reflects a broader political agenda by right-wing organizations, such as the Heritage Foundation and Thomas B. Fordham Institute, to control reading instruction in U.S. public schools.
- The Act's focus on phonics and phonemic awareness neglects the importance of meaning-based learning and multiple-cue reading strategies, which are crucial for cognitive development and higher-order thinking.
- The author argues that the Act disregards the mental health crisis affecting children in the U.S., particularly those who have experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
- The Act may exacerbate structural racism in public schools by failing to account for linguistic diversity, such as African American Vernacular English (AAVE).
- The article criticizes the reductionist approach of the "Science of Reading," which is based on outdated methodologies and ignores interdisciplinary research.
- The author highlights the economic motivations behind the Act, noting how publishers of reading programs benefit financially from the mandated changes.
- The article references the story of a child named Jameel to illustrate how children learn to read through writing, hypothesizing, and engaging with meaningful texts—practices that the Act would discourage.
- The author warns that the Act could lead to long-term cognitive and developmental harm, reducing children's ability to think critically and creatively.
- The article calls for a shift towards transdisciplinary and child-responsive educational approaches to better prepare children for the challenges of a digital and interconnected world.
Union Matters We Stand With NYC Retirees... in Albany yesterday--and wherever we need to go tomorrow. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/we-stand-with-nyc-retirees
- The author recounts their experiences attending events and meetings advocating for NYC retirees, including a trip to Albany to protest changes to Medicare Advantage plans.
- The proposed HERA bill aims to ensure real Medicare coverage for NYC retirees, eliminating co-pays and addressing healthcare concerns.
- Frustration is expressed with union leadership, particularly Michael Mulgrew, for allegedly prioritizing contracts over retirees' healthcare benefits and withholding transparency.
- The author highlights the sacrifices NYC teachers made, such as lower salaries and deferred pay, in exchange for promised healthcare benefits in retirement, which were later compromised.
- The article calls for continued activism, urging retirees to participate in future efforts to hold leadership accountable and secure promised benefits.
The Education Report Voucher Games in Nebraska Some lawmakers attempt to subvert the will of the voters ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/voucher-games-in-nebraska
- Nebraska lawmakers attempted to reintroduce taxpayer-funded school vouchers, previously rejected by voters in 2024, by embedding them in the state budget. This move caused significant controversy and ultimately derailed the state budget.
- The rejection of vouchers in Nebraska reflects a broader national trend, as voters in other states, including red and purple states, have also opposed such measures in recent years.
- The article highlights that despite persistent efforts by voucher advocates, taxpayer-funded school vouchers remain an unpopular political issue.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
The top news stories involving President Trump today, March 25, 2026, center on a mix of foreign military action, significant legal settlements, and ongoing controversy regarding classified documents.
Top National & Political Stories
Michael Flynn Settlement: The Department of Justice has settled a lawsuit with former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn for approximately $1.2 million.
The settlement resolves Flynn’s 2023 "malicious prosecution" claim regarding the Russia investigation. Attorney General Pam Bondi characterized the settlement as an "important step in redressing" a "historic injustice." Classified Documents Memo: Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD) released a letter alleging that newly disclosed records suggest Trump mishandled documents so sensitive they were accessible to only six people in the government.
The memo also claims Trump may have shown a classified military map to passengers on a private plane in 2022, including current White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. Hostage Release: The White House announced the release of Dennis Coyle, an American researcher held by the Taliban for over a year.
This marks the 105th detained American secured during this administration. Science & Tech Appointments: President Trump officially appointed the first members to the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST).
The council, co-chaired by David Sacks and Michael Kratsios, will focus on maintaining American leadership in AI and emerging technologies.
Foreign Policy & Military Action
Operation Southern Spear: U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) confirmed a lethal strike on a vessel in the Caribbean today, killing four people.
This is the 47th such attack in a campaign targeting alleged drug-trafficking "terrorist organizations." The administration maintains these kinetic strikes are necessary to combat the flow of drugs into the U.S. Iran War Developments: Tension remains high as the White House warns it will "unleash hell" if Iran does not agree to a deal.
Meanwhile, Michigan Senate Democrats passed a resolution today blaming the ongoing conflict with Iran for "skyrocketing" gas and fertilizer prices. China Visit Scheduled: Reports indicate Trump is set to visit Xi Jinping in China on May 14–15, a trip previously delayed by the conflict in Iran.
Domestic Policy & Economy
Summer E15 Sales: The EPA, led by Administrator Lee Zeldin, issued waivers allowing the year-round sale of E15 gasoline (15% ethanol) this summer.
The move is intended to provide a lower-cost fuel option as global crude oil markets remain volatile. Immigration Legal Battles: A federal judge has ordered the administration to return a DACA recipient who was recently deported to Mexico.
Simultaneously, the Supreme Court appears open to an administration request to block asylum seekers at the border.
