Friday, March 6, 2026

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MARCH 6, 2026

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS

MARCH 5, 2026

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The top news stories for March 6, 2026 (based on ongoing developments as of late March 5 into March 6) are dominated by the escalating U.S.-Israel military campaign against Iran, now in its early days but with significant impacts across multiple sectors.

U.S. News

Escalating U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran continue, with airstrikes expanding, Americans evacuating the region amid chaos, and reports of high costs (potentially $1 billion per day for U.S. operations).
President Trump fires DHS Secretary Kristi Noem in a major administration shakeup, nominating Sen. Markwayne Mullin as replacement amid reported dissatisfaction.
Federal judge orders process for refunding up to $175 billion in illegally collected tariffs from prior Trump policies, with a closed-door settlement conference set for March 6.
Pentagon identifies U.S. troops killed in related regional incidents (e.g., Kuwait attack), highlighting spillover risks.
Broader domestic ripple effects, including potential surveillance and immigration enforcement concerns tied to the conflict.

Politics

Trump asserts U.S. role in selecting Iran's next leader post-strikes, amid claims Iran seeks a deal to end the conflict.
House rejects War Powers Resolution to limit Trump's actions in Iran, showing bipartisan but mostly partisan support for continuing operations.
Administration shakeup with Noem's firing and Mullin nomination, tied to border/security policy frustrations.
Ongoing debates over executive overreach in the Iran campaign, with critics questioning lack of clear plan.
Tariff refund rulings highlight legal challenges to past economic policies.

World Affairs

U.S. and Israel intensify airstrikes on Iran, with death toll rising (reports over 1,000+), missile attacks reduced by 90% after B-2 bomber strikes, and Iran retaliating (e.g., on Gulf targets, oil tankers).
Regional spillover widens, including attacks on infrastructure in Gulf states, evacuations, and involvement of other nations (e.g., naval assets to Cyprus).
Trump demands personal approval for Iran's new leadership as strikes target key figures and sites.
Global energy and supply chain disruptions from Strait of Hormuz issues and refinery damage.
Evacuation challenges for citizens (including half-empty repatriation flights from the region).

Education

Stories are quieter here amid global focus, but notable developments include:

U.S. Department of Education launches Title IX investigation into a Wisconsin school district over restroom policies.
Commitments from medical schools for better nutrition training in curricula.
Ongoing reforms emphasizing school choice and parental rights under the Trump administration.
Broader shifts in higher ed, like adapting to enrollment declines and workforce-focused credentials.
Pentagon-Ivy League tensions over military programs amid anti-"wokeness" efforts.

Economy

Oil and gas prices surge due to Iran conflict disruptions (e.g., Strait of Hormuz issues, refinery shutdowns), with gas averaging $3.25/gallon and potential for higher if prolonged.
Key U.S. jobs report (NFP, unemployment, earnings) due March 6, expected to show steady gains amid volatility from Middle East events.
Tariff refund process advances (up to $175B), following court rulings against prior collections.
Potential broader impacts like higher government debt, supply chain snarls, and consumer costs from energy spikes.
China's 2026 growth target (4.5-5%) and Five-Year Plan focus on tech self-reliance amid U.S. pressures.

Technology

Advancements in AI and hardware, including NVIDIA platforms reducing training costs and partnerships like Apple/Google AI integration.
China's push for tech independence (quantum, 6G, bio-manufacturing) in new Five-Year Plan to counter U.S. restrictions.
SoftBank seeks massive loan (up to $40B) for OpenAI investment.
Viettel High Tech alliances with Intel, AMD, Qualcomm for 6G development.
U.S. tech firms sign Ratepayer Protection Pledge (White House initiative).

Health

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month highlights rising cases/deaths in under-50s as leading cancer killer in that group.
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force meeting postponed again, delaying guidance on screenings/coverage.
Health policy battles loom under Trump admin, including potential shifts in preventive care and insurance mandates.
Medical schools commit to nutrition training via HHS/Education Dept. initiative.
Tobacco alternative gums market growth projected amid anti-smoking efforts.

Sports

Arsenal and Manchester City chase potential quadruple in English football, with key Carabao Cup final looming and strong positions in Premier League/Champions League.
Wrexham vs. Chelsea FA Cup tie draws attention due to ownership stories and Hollywood glamour.
IndyCar Series practice/qualifications at Phoenix Raceway.
Ongoing NBA/NHL/MLB action, with Clippers recent wins and spring training notes (e.g., Reds exhibition).
Historical milestones recalled (e.g., Messi records), but current focus on cup competitions and league races.

The Iran conflict is the overriding story influencing many categories. For real-time updates, check major outlets like ABC, CNN, Reuters, or Al Jazeera.

When a U.S. Citizen Was Wrongly Arrested by ICE... https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/05/when-a-u-s-citizen-was-wrongly-arrested-by-ice/ via @dianeravitch

This article recounts the harrowing experience of , a U.S. citizen and Army veteran, who was wrongfully detained by despite complying with their orders and proving his citizenship. The article highlights the abuse of power, lack of accountability, and systemic challenges in holding federal officials responsible for . Retes is pursuing legal action to demand accountability and advocate for legislative changes to ensure federal officials can be held to the same standards as state officials.

### Key Points

- George Retes, a U.S. citizen and Army veteran, was wrongfully detained by ICE agents, subjected to excessive force, and held in deplorable conditions without charges or explanation.

- Retes faced public defamation by DHS officials, who spread false information to justify his detention.

- Legal barriers, such as the and , make it difficult to hold federal officials accountable for rights violations.

- Retes advocates for legislative reforms to allow lawsuits against federal officials for constitutional violations, similar to existing laws for state officials.

- Retes attended the State of the Union as a guest to highlight government overreach and the need for accountability in federal law enforcement.

- Retes emphasizes that his case is about power without accountability and calls for systemic change to protect civil rights.

The Very Important Texas Primaries: What's Next? https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/05/the-texas-primaries-whats-next/ via @dianeravitch

The article discusses the and the potential for Texas to turn blue in the upcoming elections. It highlights the victories of James Talarico for Senate and Gina Hinojosa for Governor in the Democratic primaries, their backgrounds, and their campaign strategies. The article also critiques the influence of , particularly the (NAR), and its impact on politics and society. The piece emphasizes the importance of voter turnout and reducing the influence of big money in politics to bring about change in Texas.

### Key Points

- James Talarico won the Democratic primary for Senate, and Gina Hinojosa won the Democratic primary for Governor in Texas.

- Gina Hinojosa will face incumbent Governor Greg Abbott, who is described as an extreme MAGA Republican seeking a fourth term.

- Talarico, a former teacher, focuses on education and fair funding, while Hinojosa prioritizes strengthening public schools.

- The article criticizes the rise of Christian nationalism, particularly the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), which promotes a controversial "Seven Mountains Mandate" to take over societal institutions.

- The outcome of the Texas elections depends on voter turnout and the ability to engage non-MAGA Republicans and Hispanic voters.

Florida Legislature Planning a New Cash Subsidy for Charter Schools https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/05/florida-legislature-planing-a-new-cash-subsidy-for-charter-schools/ via @dianeravitch

Florida's Republican-led legislature, under Governor Ron DeSantis, is advancing policies to financially favor over public schools. A new proposal requires public school districts to share local property tax revenue with charter schools authorized by state colleges or universities, bypassing local school boards. This initiative, coupled with expanded "Schools of Hope" incentives, aims to accelerate the growth of charter schools statewide, particularly in Miami.

### Key Points

- Florida Legislature proposes public school districts share funds with charter schools they did not approve.

- State colleges and universities can authorize charter schools, bypassing local school boards.

- Miami Dade College is actively increasing the number of state-imposed charter schools.

- "Schools of Hope" program expansion incentivizes charter school growth, especially in Miami.

Big Education Ape: NOTHING SAYS 'WE CARE ABOUT TEACHERS' LIKE A GALLUP POLL FUNDED BY THE FAMILY THAT PERFECTED UNION-BUSTING https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/nothing-says-we-care-about-teachers.html

Two contrasting reports highlight the challenges faced by teachers: the California Teachers Association (CTA) emphasizes systemic underfunding and burnout in public schools, advocating for collective action and reinvestment, while the -Gallup report promotes innovation, technology, and school choice as solutions. Both reports agree on teacher financial struggles and burnout but diverge on the root causes and solutions. The Walton Foundation's involvement in education raises concerns about privatization and corporate influence, contrasting with the CTA's focus on public education as a community-driven right. The debate ultimately questions who should shape the future of American education—local communities or wealthy foundations.

### Key Points

- lack dropouts but operate with reduced accountability.

- CTA report highlights underfunding, teacher burnout, and systemic neglect in public schools, advocating for strikes and collective action.

- Walton Family Foundation-Gallup report promotes innovation, AI, and school choice, emphasizing market-driven solutions.

- Both reports agree on teacher financial struggles and burnout but differ in their proposed solutions.

- Walton Foundation's privatization efforts raise concerns about corporate influence in education.

- Debate centers on whether education should be driven by communities or billionaires.

Big Education Ape: : BECAUSE NOTHING SAYS 'PUBLIC EDUCATION' LIKE PRIVATE EQUITY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/xq-institute-because-nothing-says.html

The article critiques billionaire-led education reform initiatives in California, particularly focusing on the and . It highlights the risks of privatization, , and the undermining of public education through vague metrics, lack of accountability, and profit-driven motives. The piece calls for grassroots action to defend public schools, support teachers, and push for adequate funding and democratic oversight.

Big Education Ape: THE 2026 BILLIONAIRE"EDUCATION OLIGARCHY’S" PLAYBOOK : HOW JUST HANDED SILICON VALLEY THE KEYS TO YOUR CLASSROOM https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/the-2026-billionaireeducation.html

Big Education Ape: A DEEP DIVE INTO AND THE BATTLE FOR YOUR CHILD'S CLASSROOM (PART 1) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/a-deep-dive-into-silicon-valleys.html

A detailed exploration of the influence of on and their ethical implications, particularly in education and societal impacts. The article critiques the motivations and actions of key players like , , , and Meta, highlighting the tension between progress, profit, ethics, and societal consequences. It also examines the role of and the challenges it poses to traditional teaching methods, as well as the broader implications of AI's integration into daily life.

Big Education Ape: SILICON VALLEY'S DIGITAL GODS AND THE BATTLE FOR YOUR CHILD'S CLASSROOM: PART 2 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/silicon-valleys-digital-gods-and-battle.html

Big Education Ape's article delves into the increasing influence of billionaires on global education systems, particularly focusing on the controversial implementation of AI in classrooms. The piece critiques the ethical implications of replacing traditional education with AI-driven systems, highlighting the risks to children’s safety, data privacy, and educational autonomy. It emphasizes the divide between countries adopting different AI philosophies—Accelerationists, Pragmatists, and Safety-Firsters—and questions the accountability of billionaires like in shaping the future of education.

Big Education Ape: SILICON VALLEY'S DIGITAL GODS AND THE BATTLE FOR YOUR CHILD'S CLASSROOM (PART 3): When the Algorithm Becomes the Curriculum https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/silicon-valleys-digital-gods-and-battle_01997387917.html

The article discusses the growing influence of AI-driven education in 2026, particularly focusing on the role of algorithms in shaping students' learning and value systems. It highlights the challenges and ethical implications of integrating AI into classrooms, including concerns about bias, the loss of critical thinking, and the potential for corporate or national indoctrination. The article also emphasizes the need for governance, transparency, and the active role of teachers and students in navigating the use of AI in education.

: FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA: THE BILLIONAIRE OLIGARCHY EDUCATION REFORM CESSPOOL https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/from-sea-to-shining-sea-billionaire.html

The article discusses the ongoing scandals and corruption within the (), highlighting the influence of billionaire donors on , the misuse of public funds, and the revolving door of scandal-plagued superintendents. It critiques the and the corporate-style management of school districts, arguing that these practices have led to dysfunction, wasted taxpayer money, and compromised educational outcomes for students.

Strategizes and State Legislatures Propose Laws to Deny Free Public Schools to Undocumented Children | janresseger https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/03/05/heritage-foundation-strategizes-and-state-legislatures-propose-laws-to-deny-free-public-schools-to-undocumented-children/

The article discusses the ongoing efforts by the Heritage Foundation and certain state legislatures to challenge and potentially overturn the 1982 Supreme Court decision in , which guarantees the right to free public education. It highlights specific proposed laws in states like Ohio, New Jersey, and Tennessee that aim to collect immigration data on students, potentially violating the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The article also emphasizes the broader implications of denying education to children based on immigration status, as outlined by in the Plyler decision.

### Key Points

- The Heritage Foundation is strategizing to overturn Plyler v. Doe, a 1982 Supreme Court decision guaranteeing free public education for undocumented children.

- Several state legislatures, including Ohio, New Jersey, and Tennessee, are considering laws to collect immigration data on students, which could lead to denying undocumented children access to public education.

- The Plyler v. Doe decision, written by Justice William Brennan, declared that denying education to undocumented children violates the Equal Protection Clause and harms their social, economic, and intellectual well-being.

- Ohio House Bill 42 proposes collecting and reporting immigration data on students, which has been deemed unconstitutional under Plyler. The bill is part of a broader effort to challenge the Plyler decision.

- Some states, like Illinois and Massachusetts, have passed laws affirming the rights of immigrant students, while others have defeated attempts to undermine these rights.

: teen research Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/

This article discusses various research findings related to education, adolescent behavior, early intervention programs, and societal challenges. Topics include the impact of loneliness on teens, peer influence, teacher morale, early intervention benefits, autism and suicide prevention, and the rising cases of child exploitation. Each study highlights critical insights and recommendations for addressing these issues effectively.

### Key Points

- Loneliness in teens is linked to fear of embarrassment, leading to social avoidance and reduced trust in friendships. Teens who seek popularity may experience less loneliness if they form mutually supportive relationships. Parents and teachers can help teens connect safely and develop social courage.

- Peer influence varies by type: best friends shape emotional and academic behaviors, while popular peers influence public image and social media. Adolescents use different strategies to navigate their social world, and interventions must target specific peer dynamics.

- U.S. teacher morale slightly declined in the 2025-26 school year, with factors like student behavior, budget cuts, and political disagreements affecting attitudes. The report emphasizes the need for smarter policies to improve teacher satisfaction and retention.

- Early Intervention (EI) services for children under age three significantly improve their academic outcomes in math and English by third grade. EI programs are particularly beneficial for children with developmental delays and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

- Suicide among autistic individuals stems from societal inequalities, including inadequate educational, employment, and healthcare support. Researchers call for a cross-sector Autism Strategy to provide lifelong support and prevent suicides.

- Cases of child exploitation have surged, with victims becoming younger. Effective prevention requires better training for healthcare and school professionals, specialized law enforcement techniques, and evidence-based solutions tailored to at-risk children.

glen brown: “The Sri Lanka Navy was left to pull the dead bodies from the water" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/03/the-sri-lanka-navy-was-left-to-pull.html

The article discusses various topics, including the controversial sinking of an Iranian military ship by a U.S. submarine, criticism of U.S. military actions, and related political and international reactions. It also touches on broader themes such as social justice, political corruption, and global conflicts.

### Key Points

- The in international waters near Sri Lanka, which was reportedly unarmed and participating in a multinational naval training exercise.

- The U.S. did not assist the shipwrecked crew, leaving the Sri Lankan Navy to recover the bodies, leading to widespread condemnation of the act as a war crime.

- Indian politicians, including opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and former Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal, criticized Prime Minister Modi for his silence on the incident and highlighted its implications for India's strategic autonomy.

- Critics, including journalists and international organizations, labeled the U.S. action as premeditated, illegal, and a violation of international law, drawing comparisons to historical war crimes.

- The article also reflects on the broader themes of political corruption, social justice, and the moral implications of military actions.

: "The war was unpopular with Americans before Trump started bombing Iran" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/03/the-war-was-unpopular-with-americans.html

The article discusses various topics, interweaving commentary on political, social, and historical issues with a focus on U.S. politics, particularly during 's presidency. It critiques the lack of planning and justification for the Trump administration's military actions, especially regarding the war on Iran, while also touching upon broader themes like social justice, environmental policies, and cultural reflections.

### Key Points

- The Trump administration's military actions against Iran lacked clear justification and planning, leading to widespread criticism and unpopularity among Americans.

- Senate Republicans declined to pass a resolution to halt Trump's war on Iran, citing support for troops despite concerns about the war's planning and goals.

- The U.S. military depleted a significant portion of its munitions stockpile during operations in Iran and Yemen, raising concerns about resource availability.

- Commentary on Trump's claims about rebuilding the military and his stance on ammunition distribution, including criticisms of prior administrations.

- Broader reflections on political, social, and cultural issues, including environmental policies, healthcare, social justice, and the role of writers in addressing oppression.

glen brown: Questions Need to be Answered https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/03/questions-need-to-be-answered.html

### Key Points

- The article discusses the moral and ethical dilemmas surrounding the involvement of Jared Kushner and Benjamin Netanyahu in U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations, suggesting potential ulterior motives for the talks.

- It raises questions about the legitimacy of the Geneva talks, implying they may have been a setup to target Iranian leadership during a critical moment of negotiation.

- The article draws parallels between the current situation and historical events, such as Henry Kissinger’s actions during the Vietnam War and Ronald Reagan’s alleged backchannel dealings with Iran in the 1980s.

- It highlights the potential long-term damage to U.S. credibility in future diplomatic efforts due to the perceived misuse of negotiations as a military strategy.

- The author calls for Congressional investigations into Kushner and his associates to uncover their knowledge and involvement in the events leading to the military strikes on Iran.

glen brown: "Donald Trump is waging an illegal war" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/03/donald-trump-is-waging-illegal-war.html

This article is a collection of blog entries and commentary by Glen Brown, covering a wide range of topics, including political criticism, social justice issues, historical reflections, and personal anecdotes. The main focus is on the critique of Donald Trump's administration, particularly its foreign policy decisions, such as the alleged illegal war against Iran, and broader social and political issues like healthcare, climate change, and systemic injustices.

### Key Points

- The article includes quotes from writers and thinkers like Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus, emphasizing the role of writers in resisting oppression and maintaining independence.

- Criticism of Donald Trump's administration, particularly regarding an alleged illegal war against Iran, with U.S. senators expressing concerns over the lack of justification, strategy, and coherence in the administration’s actions.

- Discussion on broader socio-political issues such as MAGA Christian nationalism, healthcare reforms, climate change policies, and systemic racism during Trump's presidency.

- References to historical events, cultural figures, and personal reflections, including mentions of Gordon Lightfoot, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the invasion of Ukraine.

- A taxonomy of topics frequently discussed in the blog, such as pensions, social justice, education reform, domestic terrorism, and environmental issues.

When Inspiration Brings Tears – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/03/05/when-inspiration-brings-tears/

When Inspiration Brings Tears

### Key Points

- The author reflects on a journey across Southern California and Nevada, where the landscapes and communities inspired thoughts on democracy, civic responsibility, and human connection.

- Democracy is lived and shaped by communities through shared experiences, relationships, and responsibilities, rather than being an abstract concept.

- A dinner in Las Vegas emphasized the importance of human connection and relationships over professional achievements.

- A keynote speech in Palm Desert highlighted the role of citizens in sustaining democracy, emphasizing values, culture, and grassroots engagement.

- The screening of "John Lewis: Good Trouble" served as a reminder of the importance of courage and action in protecting democratic rights across generations.

- A father-daughter conversation during the screening illustrated how civic education and democratic values are passed down through generations.

- The journey underscored the importance of hope, community, and the active participation of citizens in preserving democracy for future generations.

glen brown: Questions Need to be Answered https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/03/questions-need-to-be-answered.html

The article discusses the controversial role of Jared Kushner in U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations, raising concerns about potential deceit, Israeli influence, and the implications for American diplomacy. It draws parallels to historical incidents of manipulated diplomatic efforts and their consequences.

### Key Points

- The article questions Jared Kushner's intentions during U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, suggesting that the negotiations may have been a ruse to target Iranian leadership.

- It highlights Netanyahu's influence on Kushner and potential coordination between the U.S. and Israel for military strikes on Iran.

- The collapse of the Trump administration's explanations for the strikes raises doubts about their transparency and legitimacy.

- Historical parallels are drawn to Kissinger's Vietnam peace talks and Reagan's alleged backchannel to Iran, emphasizing the long-term damage to U.S. diplomatic credibility.

- The article calls for Congress to investigate Kushner's role in the events and questions whether the Geneva talks were a deliberate setup.

Schools Matter: CBS Is No Longer a Reliable Source of News http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/03/cbs-is-no-longer-reliable-source-of-news.html

Republican Senator Tim Sheehy of Montana assisted Capitol Police in removing anti-war protester Brian McGinnis from a Senate Armed Services subcommittee hearing. McGinnis, a Marine veteran and Green Party Senate candidate, disrupted the session to protest U.S. and Israeli military actions in Iran. McGinnis claimed his arm was broken during the altercation, while Capitol Police accused him of assaulting officers. The incident has sparked controversy, with McGinnis' campaign denying any assault and accusing authorities of excessive force. McGinnis was arrested and faces multiple charges.

### Key Points

- Republican Senator Tim Sheehy helped remove Brian McGinnis, a Green Party Senate candidate, from a Capitol Hill hearing after he protested against U.S.-Israel war efforts in Iran.

- McGinnis claimed his arm was broken during the altercation, while Capitol Police stated he resisted and assaulted officers.

- McGinnis was arrested and charged with assaulting police officers, resisting arrest, and obstructing passageways.

- McGinnis’ campaign denies the assault allegations and accuses authorities of using excessive force.

- Protests are prohibited inside Congressional buildings, according to Capitol Police.

Seattle Schools Community Forum: AI Says SPS Budget is in Dire Straits https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/03/ai-says-sps-budget-is-in-dire-straits.html?spref=tw

Seattle Public Schools (SPS) is facing severe financial challenges, with an revealing insolvency, a significant rise in accounts payable, and ongoing deficits. The district has been relying on short-term financial fixes, such as draining reserves, borrowing internally, and deferring payments, which has created a precarious financial situation. The lack of transparency and accountability in financial reporting has raised concerns about the district's management and oversight. Comparisons to private sector standards highlight significant deficiencies in governance and financial responsibility. There are also mentions of nepotism and other systemic issues within the district.

### Key Points

- Seattle Public Schools is facing financial insolvency, with accounts payable increasing by 296% and a negative unassigned equity position of $57.7M.

- The district has been spending significantly more than it earns for years, relying on one-time fixes like draining reserves and borrowing internally, which has led to a "liquidity death spiral."

- Financial reports lack transparency, and the board is not receiving adequate information to fulfill its fiduciary responsibilities.

- Concerns about nepotism and questionable personnel decisions have also been raised, highlighting systemic issues within the district.

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Summer Opportunities for Teens https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/03/summer-opportunities-for-teens.html?spref=tw

Seattle Schools Community Forum provides updates on summer internship opportunities for high school students in Seattle Public Schools. These programs, offered by Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Seattle Skills Center, include hands-on learning experiences in various fields such as technology, education, and science, with compensation and academic credits.

### Key Points

- Seattle Public Schools are offering summer internship programs for high school students in collaboration with Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Seattle Skills Center.

- Internship options include Tech Quest (coding and tech careers for 9th graders), Education Quest (mentoring elementary students), and Open Science Quest (biology-focused intensive at the Allen Institute).

- Specific programs like Amazon Periscope and Career Quest provide mentorship, career exploration, and financial compensation for participants.

- Internships offer financial rewards such as gift cards, stipends, or hourly wages, along with CTE credits.

- Application deadlines and eligibility requirements vary by program, such as age, prior coursework, and documentation.

Teacher Tom: Children Must Bicker as They Play https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/03/children-must-bicker-as-they-play.html

Teacher Tom emphasizes the importance of for preschoolers, particularly the role of conflict and negotiation in fostering social and cognitive development. He critiques the limited recess time in schools and highlights how bickering during play is a necessary step toward cooperative and creative interactions. By allowing children to resolve conflicts, they learn critical skills such as listening, compromise, and collaboration.

### Key Points

- The 2015 Seattle teachers' strike secured a minimum of 30 minutes of recess, but this is still insufficient for meaningful play-based learning.

- Conflict and negotiation during play are essential for children's learning and development.

- Teachers should guide children through conflicts by reinforcing agreed-upon rules and encouraging conversation.

- The second phase of recess, often marked by bickering, helps children develop cooperation and creativity.

- Play-based curriculums prioritize self-directed and collaborative learning, which requires time and patience.

CURMUDGUCATION: Teach For Awhile For America https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2026/03/teach-for-awhile-for-america.html

Wendy Kopp, founder of Teach for America (TFA), reflects on the role of teaching as a "first job" for young graduates, focusing on how it provides exposure to social issues rather than fostering long-term teaching careers. Critics argue that TFA perpetuates elitism, undervalues career teachers, and prioritizes short-term experiences for graduates over meaningful, sustained contributions to education. Kopp suggests that early career exposure to social challenges shapes future leaders, but this approach raises concerns about the impact on students and the education system when teachers leave after brief stints.

### Key Points

- Wendy Kopp views teaching as a "first job" to expose young graduates to social issues, enabling them to transition into leadership roles later.

- Critics argue that TFA fosters elitism and undermines career teachers by implying that teaching is a temporary stepping stone rather than a long-term profession.

- TFA alumni often leave teaching after two years, claiming expertise in education despite limited experience, which raises concerns about their influence on education policy.

- Kopp highlights the declining trend of graduates from elite universities entering public service and suggests TFA offers a "prestigious" alternative to corporate careers.

- The essay reflects a broader issue of prioritizing the professional benefits for TFA members over the needs of the students they teach.

State Law: Ohio's Dropout Recovery Charter Schools don't actually need to have any "dropouts". What they do need, though, is less accountability. What started as a David Brennan scam in the early 2000s has graduated to full-on taxpayer theft STEPHEN DYER https://10thperiod.substack.com/p/state-law-ohios-dropout-recovery

, originally intended to help high school dropouts, have become a taxpayer-funded system with minimal accountability and questionable effectiveness. These schools, which often do not serve actual dropouts, allow for low graduation standards while receiving significant state funding. Critics argue they prioritize financial gain over student outcomes, spending less on pupil support and instruction compared to public schools. The article suggests redirecting funds from these schools to programs that genuinely address the needs of high school dropouts.

### Key Points

- Ohio's "Dropout Recovery" Charter Schools do not require students to be actual dropouts, and their performance is among the worst in the U.S.

- These schools have low accountability standards, allowing them to graduate only 8 out of 100 students in four years and still meet state requirements.

- The schools receive significant taxpayer funding ($293 million annually) despite poor performance and inefficient spending, including high administrative costs and minimal investment in pupil support.

- Public school districts with higher graduation rates and greater challenges receive less funding per student compared to many "Dropout Recovery" Charter Schools.

- The article advocates for closing these schools and reallocating funds to programs that genuinely address high school dropout issues.

Florida Once Rewarded Academic Success. Now It Prorates It. – Accountabaloney https://accountabaloney.com/florida-once-rewarded-academic-success-now-it-prorates-it/

Florida's education funding system has undergone significant changes. Previously, schools were rewarded with increased funding for each student success in Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment, and career certification programs. However, the new funding structure introduced in the 2025-26 budget replaces the open-ended incentive system with a fixed pool of money called the Academic Acceleration Options Supplement. While Florida students exceeded expectations in academic performance, the capped funding system led to proration, reducing the value of each achievement. Despite the demonstrated success, lawmakers have not proposed increasing the funding for the upcoming year, leaving schools to compete for limited resources.

### Key Points

- Florida previously rewarded schools for academic success with increased funding, incentivizing programs like AP and career certifications.

- A new funding system introduced in the 2025-26 budget caps the funding pool, leading to proration when student success exceeds projections.

- Florida students surpassed expectations in academic performance, but funding remained fixed, reducing the value of each achievement.

- Lawmakers have not proposed increasing the funding for the next year despite the proven success of students.

- Parents and educators are urging lawmakers to fulfill their promise to fund student success adequately.

March 6, 1970 | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2026/03/05/march-6-1970-2/

Today marks the 56th anniversary of a tragic explosion in a Greenwich Village townhouse on March 6, 1970, which claimed the lives of Diana Oughton, Ted Gold, and Terry Robbins. The article reflects on their courage and eternal legacy, while also mentioning related events and blog updates. It includes links to book recommendations and archives of past posts.

### Key Points

- Commemoration of the 56th anniversary of the Greenwich Village townhouse explosion, honoring Diana Oughton, Ted Gold, and Terry Robbins.

- Reflection on the courage and legacy of the individuals who lost their lives.

- Mention of book recommendations and pre-order links.

- Blog includes archives of posts spanning years from 2008 to 2026.

TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY

The news cycle for Thursday, March 5, 2026, is dominated by a major Cabinet shake-up and escalating legal battles over the administration's trade and foreign policy.

🏛️ Top News: Cabinet Shake-up

Kristi Noem Ousted: President Trump has fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem following intense bipartisan criticism of her department's handling of immigration and disaster response.
New Nominee: The President announced he will nominate Oklahoma Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin to lead the DHS.
New Role for Noem: In a pivot, Trump has appointed Noem as a "Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas," a new security initiative focused on the Western Hemisphere and dismantling cartels.

⚖️ Legal & Economic Conflict

Massive Tariff Lawsuit: A coalition of 24 states, led by Oregon and California, filed a lawsuit today in the U.S. Court of International Trade. They are seeking to block the administration’s new 15% global tariffs, which were imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 after the Supreme Court struck down previous tariff efforts.
Court-Ordered Refunds: A U.S. judge has ruled that companies are entitled to roughly $130 billion in refunds for tariffs previously overturned by the Supreme Court, creating a significant fiscal challenge for the administration.
Pardon Scrutiny: California Governor Gavin Newsom released an analysis today claiming that recent presidential pardons have wiped out nearly $2 billion in court-ordered restitution and fines, primarily in white-collar and Medicare fraud cases.

🌍 Foreign Policy & Security

Iran War Resolution: In the House of Representatives, a War Powers Resolution aimed at forcing the removal of U.S. forces from hostilities in Iran failed by a narrow vote of 212–219. The conflict, now nearing its first full week, has reportedly resulted in the deaths of six American servicemembers.
Hegseth at Southcom: Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is currently in the Caribbean for the "Americas Counter Cartel Conference," emphasizing the administration's focus on "existential threats" to the U.S. homeland from the southern hemisphere.

⚡ Domestic Policy Updates

Energy & Tech: The White House released a fact sheet today regarding the "Ratepayer Protection Pledge," an effort to stabilize electricity costs as the administration pushes for expanded nuclear capacity to fuel AI data centers.
Border Technology: Reports indicate ICE is moving forward with a $220 million plan to arm agents with over 17,000 new Tasers.

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Friday, March 6, 2026