May Day 2026 Toolkit | NEA
https://www.nea.org/mayday-toolkit
TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
APRIL 22, 2026
- Wildfires ravage the Southeast: Fast-moving wildfires have forced evacuations and destroyed dozens of homes in Georgia and Florida, with additional red flag warnings for severe fire weather extending from Texas to the Dakotas amid a new Heartland weather outbreak.
- Deadly chemical leak in West Virginia: A chemical incident at a plant killed at least two people and sent more than two dozen others to hospitals for treatment.
- U.S.-registered cargo ship incident: One crew member was found dead and five remain missing after a U.S. cargo ship overturned (linked to broader maritime disruptions).
- Virginia voters approve new congressional map: Voters backed a redistricting measure that could favor Democrats, though legal challenges and Trump claims of rigging have emerged.
- Trump extends Iran ceasefire indefinitely but maintains naval blockade: The president extended the truce with no fixed timeline for peace talks, amid ongoing U.S. blockade efforts and mixed signals from Tehran; Navy Secretary John Phelan was ousted amid the crisis.
- RFK Jr. (Health Secretary) defends controversial changes: Kennedy testified on Capitol Hill, facing pushback over vaccine guidance revisions, health spending cuts, and Medicaid alterations (with estimates of up to $1 trillion in reductions over a decade).
- Virginia redistricting battle: Democrats scored a win with voter approval of a new map potentially shifting House seats; legal challenges and partisan tensions continue.
- Trump Media shakeup: The company replaced Devin Nunes as Truth Social CEO following a major stock plunge that erased billions in value.
- Iran seizes ships in Strait of Hormuz: Iranian forces boarded and seized vessels (including dramatic video of masked soldiers) shortly after Trump's ceasefire extension, firing on others and complicating shipping lane reopening; the U.S. has turned away dozens of vessels in its blockade.
- Tensions in Lebanon-Israel ceasefire: The fragile truce shows signs of fraying, with Hezbollah firing rockets/drones at Israeli forces and attacks straining talks ahead of Washington meetings.
- Ongoing U.S.-Iran diplomacy: Pakistan is facilitating potential talks (with mixed Iranian signals and U.S. insistence on no deadline), while the Pentagon notes months needed to clear any mines; broader regional impacts include energy supply shocks.
- West Bank violence: An Israeli army reservist killed two Palestinians in a settler-related attack near a school.
- Efforts to dismantle the Department of Education: Linda McMahon is leading initiatives under the Trump administration to overhaul or reduce the federal role in education.
- NEET UG 2026 updates (India, with global student interest): Over 99% of candidates received preferred exam centers; admit cards are expected soon, alongside international scholarship news like UNSW Sydney offerings.
- Governors prioritize K-12 academics and workforce alignment: In 2026 state addresses, many emphasized foundational skills, teacher retention, early education, and career-technical training to boost achievement and economic ties.
- Foreign funding transparency at U.S. universities: Ongoing disclosures highlight billions in reportable foreign gifts/contracts, tied to earlier executive actions on influence.
- Markets react to Iran ceasefire extension: Stocks rose (with S&P 500 and Nasdaq gains) following the indefinite truce announcement, though broader geopolitical risks linger; corporate earnings (e.g., banks) show resilience amid AI and capex strength.
- Tesla earnings beat but signals caution: The company exceeded Q1 estimates but projected negative cash flow from heavy 2026 capex, with optimism around Optimus robots and AI.
- U.S. GDP and personal income data: Recent BEA reports show modest Q4 2025 growth (0.5% annualized) and slight February 2026 personal income declines, with consumer spending up modestly.
- Commercial loan growth surges: U.S. banks reported strong increases in corporate borrowing (e.g., 12-18% at major lenders), signaling business resilience despite consumer caution and inflation concerns.
- Tesla highlights robotics and AI ambitions: Elon Musk emphasized Optimus humanoid robots as a potential "biggest product ever," with production ramps planned; earnings call focused on long-term capex in AI/tech.
- Broader AI and emerging tech trends: Discussions around 2026 priorities include physical AI/robotics for labor solutions, with ongoing market boosts from AI-driven spending (e.g., ASML outlook lifts).
- House lawmakers demo 'jailbroken' AI risks: Congress received demonstrations highlighting safety concerns with advanced AI chatbots.
- Trump Media/Truth Social leadership change: Shift follows stock plunge, reflecting volatility in social/tech platforms tied to politics.
- RFK Jr. testifies on vaccine and spending changes: As Health Secretary, he defended revisions to vaccine recommendations, health budget cuts, and Medicaid adjustments amid congressional clashes over rural hospital impacts and fraud controls.
- Global aid cuts linked to disease spikes: Reports from Uganda highlight rising disease-related deaths following Trump administration reductions in international health funding.
- Chemical leak health impacts: The West Virginia incident sent dozens to medical treatment, underscoring industrial safety risks.
- Ongoing public health debates: Broader discussions include measles cases earlier in 2026, Long COVID diagnostic gaps, and shifts in federal health policy priorities.
- 2026 NFL Draft approaching (April 23-25): Buzz around team needs, picks (e.g., Houston Texans analysis), and fan interest; related events include Bill Clinton appearing at a Cowboys news conference.
- NBA and NHL playoff action: Oklahoma City Thunder begin title quest; Philadelphia Flyers take stranglehold in series vs. Penguins with strong goaltending.
- MLB highlights: Recent top plays include spectacular catches and home run robberies; ongoing season storylines.
- College and other buzz: Alabama extends coach in basketball; UFL power rankings shift; governors' addresses touch on education-workforce ties potentially impacting athletics.
Oklahoma: Where Laws and Court Decisions are Bought by the Richest https://dianeravitch.net/2026/04/22/oklahoma-where-laws-and-court-decisions-are-bought-by-the-richest/ via @dianeravitch
- Oklahoma's political climate is heavily influenced by reactionary institutions and Trump-aligned policies, aiming to undermine democratic norms.
- Gov. Kevin Stitt and the Republican-controlled legislature have utilized tactics like shifting voting dates to favor conservative outcomes and restricting voter ballot initiatives.
- Oklahoma's per-pupil spending ranks 49th in the U.S., and adjusted spending has declined since 2008. Proposed property tax cuts could further reduce funding for public schools.
- A proposed ballot measure aims to limit initiative signatures from populous counties, favoring rural conservative areas.
- Gov. Stitt awarded a lucrative state contract to a company owned by his former chief of staff, raising concerns about conflicts of interest.
- SB 1439 protects fossil fuel entities from legal actions related to climate change and emissions, while other legislative measures target marginalized groups, including immigrants, and enforce biological sex segregation in public facilities.
- The legislative session has seen numerous bills that prioritize the interests of elites and promote divisive policies to sway low-turnout elections.
Texas: Why Is ICE Deporting This Woman? https://dianeravitch.net/2026/04/22/texas-why-is-ice-depirting-this-woman/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Meena Batra, a court interpreter for over 20 years specializing in Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu, was detained by ICE despite her long-standing legal work permit.
- Batra had been granted "withholding of removal" status decades ago, which does not provide a green card but protects against deportation to her home country, India, where she faced persecution as a Sikh.
- On March 17, 2026, ICE agents detained her at Harlingen International Airport, claiming she had a deportation order since 2000, despite her valid work authorization.
- Batra was held for 24 hours without food or water, transferred between detention facilities, and denied medical care despite her health issues.
- Her attorneys argue her detention violated due process and submitted a habeas petition with community support letters, while DHS maintains she is subject to removal.
- Batra has dedicated her career to assisting immigrants in court and now sees firsthand the harsh treatment of detainees, many of whom lack resources or language skills.
Senator Kelly Introduces Bill to Roll Back Federal Vouchers https://dianeravitch.net/2026/04/22/senator-kelly-introduces-bill-to-roll-back-federal-vouchers/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Senator Mark Kelly and 30 senators introduced the "Keep Public Funds in Public Schools Act" to eliminate the federal school voucher program from Trump's legislation.
- The voucher program allows taxpayers to claim tax credits by redirecting payments to private scholarship-granting organizations, which critics argue harms public education funding.
- In Arizona, universal vouchers have reportedly cost taxpayers nearly $1 billion annually, leading to misuse of funds and negative impacts on public schools.
- Critics, including Kelly, argue the program creates a parallel education system lacking transparency and accountability, while proponents claim it brings private money into education.
- The Kentucky Supreme Court previously ruled against a similar voucher program, stating that the funds represent tax liabilities, not private money.
- The federal government’s voucher program could cost $25.9 billion over a decade, further increasing the federal deficit.
- Several senators co-sponsor the bill, including Mazie Hirono, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, and Chuck Schumer.
Big Education Ape: THE SUPER SECRET SPIES EMBEDDED IN YOUR KID'S SCHOOL WEB PAGE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-super-secret-spies-embedded-in-your.html
Big Education Ape explores the pervasive issue of tracking pixels embedded in school websites, which collect data on students and parents without consent. These tiny, invisible codes gather information such as IP addresses, browsing behavior, and login statuses, often through third-party tools like Google Analytics and Meta pixels. This data is used by tech giants for profit, raising privacy concerns. The article highlights tools like Blacklight to detect these trackers and advocates for stronger enforcement of privacy laws and proactive measures by parents and educators.
### Key Points
- Tracking pixels on school websites collect data on students and families without consent, including IP addresses, browsing habits, and login statuses.
- These trackers are embedded through tools like Google Analytics, social media buttons, and EdTech vendor integrations, often without school administrators' awareness.
- Privacy laws like COPPA and FERPA exist but are poorly enforced, allowing tech companies to continue data collection practices.
- The article recommends using tools like Blacklight to identify trackers, advocating for privacy-focused browsing practices, and demanding transparency and action from schools and policymakers.
- The piece calls for collective action, such as supporting organizations like The Markup and participating in campaigns like #MayDayStrong, to protect student data and hold tech companies accountable.
Big Education Ape: FROM CITIZENS UNITED TO NEO-FEUDALISM: WHY MAY DAY 2026 IS THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY YOU'RE NOT TALKING ABOUT #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #ProtectStudentData #BreakUpBigTech #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/from-citizens-united-to-neo-feudalism.html
The article explores the transformation of democracy into corporate oligarchy, emphasizing the role of Citizens United, AI privatization, and the systematic erosion of public services. It highlights May Day 2026 as a pivotal moment for organized resistance against corporate dominance, advocating for both immediate reforms and long-term systemic redesigns to restore democratic accountability and equity.
### Key Points
- Citizens United ruling merged economic and political power, enabling corporations to dominate democracy.
- AI privatization accelerates neo-feudalism, locking public knowledge behind paywalls and benefiting tech monopolies.
- Public education faces a two-tier system: AI-driven instruction in public schools versus human-centered learning in private schools.
- May Day 2026 calls for nationwide action to demand reforms like taxing the wealthy, restoring labor rights, and ending ICE raids.
- Proposed solutions include breaking up tech monopolies, campaign finance reform, modernized labor laws, and universal basic services.
- Advocates urge the creation of a public option for AI, modeled on public libraries, to ensure equitable access and transparency.
- Action toolkit includes signing pledges, contacting legislators, tracking political donations, and participating in local elections.
- Historical parallels are drawn between monopolistic control in colonial times and today’s corporate dominance, emphasizing the need for organized resistance.
- The article provides resources for understanding Citizens United, AI regulation, and public education privatization.
- May Day organizing resources and legislative tools are highlighted to empower grassroots activism.
Big Education Ape: SPILLING THE TEA ON TECH MONOPOLIES: A REVOLUTIONARY'S GUIDE TO DIGITAL COLONIALISM #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #ProtectStudentData https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/spilling-tea-on-tech-monopolies.html
The article draws parallels between historical monopolies, like the East India Company, and modern tech giants such as Google, Meta, and Microsoft, emphasizing the political and economic consequences of monopolistic power. It also highlights the May Day 2026 movement, which calls for collective action against corporate overreach and advocates for reforms in public education, labor rights, and democratic accountability.
### Key Points
- The article draws a historical parallel between the East India Company’s tea monopoly and modern tech monopolies like Google, Meta, and Apple, which exploit users' data and dominate markets.
- Modern tech companies are using school-issued devices and platforms to collect and monetize student data without consent, raising concerns about digital surveillance.
- Several monopolistic practices by tech giants in education, such as ecosystem lock-ins and data extraction, are highlighted, alongside their legal scrutiny and antitrust issues.
- Despite existing laws like the Sherman Antitrust Act and COPPA, enforcement against tech monopolies remains weak due to their immense legal and lobbying power.
- The May Day 2026 movement calls for national action to address issues like wealth taxation, labor rights, public education funding, and corporate accountability.
- The article emphasizes the need for collective action, voting, and advocacy to combat corporate monopolies and restore democratic processes.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS APRIL 22, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01452823060.html
The article compiles a variety of news updates and analysis across topics such as education, politics, technology, health, and global affairs. It highlights key developments, controversies, and implications in these areas, with a particular focus on U.S. policies, international relations, and education reforms.
### Key Points
- Senator Kelly introduced a bill to roll back federal voucher programs initiated under the Trump administration.
- The Institute of Education Sciences released a report on revenues and expenditures for public elementary and secondary education for the 2023–24 school year.
- President Trump extended the U.S.-Iran ceasefire indefinitely, citing Pakistan's request and Iran's internal instability.
- The Federal Reserve nominee Kevin Warsh emphasized independence from White House pressure during confirmation hearings.
- The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a Texas law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, raising concerns about the separation of church and state.
- The Trump administration has removed federal guidance and dissolved the Department of Education's Office for K-12 English Language Teaching, impacting support for English language learners.
- Indianapolis Public Schools lost democratic control to the Indianapolis Public Education Corporation (IPEC), which is heavily influenced by the charter school industry. This has raised concerns about privatization and the erosion of democratic governance in public education.
- Arkansas's LEARNS Act allocated significant public funds to private schools, many of which have discriminatory policies against LGBTQ students, raising equity concerns.
- Allegations of insider trading during Trump’s administration have surfaced, with unusual trading patterns tied to major announcements.
- The Trump administration has faced criticism for its handling of the Iran conflict, climate change, and economic policies, with parallels drawn to King George III's inability to recognize errors.
- A growing backlash against technology in schools has led some institutions to restrict the use of devices like Chromebooks and cell phones in favor of traditional learning methods.
- The May Day Strong movement, planned for May 1, 2026, advocates for systemic reforms, including campaign finance transparency, labor rights, and economic equity.
- The Supreme Court's 2010 Citizens United ruling has allowed for significant influence of dark money in politics, affecting elections at all levels.
- Teacher Tom highlighted the importance of play-based and self-directed learning through examples of children learning collaboratively and creatively.
- Vaccination rates are declining in the U.S. and the UK, raising concerns about the resurgence of diseases like measles. A mother shares her story to emphasize the importance of vaccination.
- A historical study found that increased access to education from 1850–1910 boosted women's workforce participation but widened racial and class inequalities.
- A Finnish study revealed that earlier ADHD diagnoses improve academic outcomes, while late diagnoses lead to poorer results, particularly for adolescents.
- The Trump administration redefined "educational equity," cutting funding for programs serving vulnerable students and emphasizing state control over federal oversight.
- The Seventh Circuit reinstated Indiana's student ID voting ban, raising concerns about voter suppression and age-based discrimination.
- The Trump administration's policies on AI and deregulation have been linked to job displacement, ethical concerns, and environmental impacts while benefiting industries like fossil fuels.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: APRIL 22, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/morning-news-update-april-22-2026.html
Various current events and issues, including education policies, political developments, international affairs, economic updates, technological advancements, and health and sports news. Key topics include efforts to eliminate federal voucher programs, U.S.-Iran relations, education policy changes, and global trends in education and technology.
### Key Points
- U.S. extends the ceasefire with Iran while maintaining a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
- FAA investigates near-miss incidents at JFK Airport, raising concerns about air traffic safety.
- Legal and ethical challenges arise over displaying the Ten Commandments in Texas classrooms.
- Trump's executive order against DEI activities in colleges faces a lawsuit from higher education groups.
- The global shift to AI in education focuses on governance and interoperability standards.
- Decline in global first-time undergraduate enrollment sparks institutional mergers.
- Rise in skills-based digital credentials as adults seek non-traditional education pathways.
- Mental health initiatives gain momentum under the Trump administration, with a focus on serious mental illness care.
- Reports highlight teacher burnout and challenges with AI-driven distractions in classrooms.
Big Education Ape: THE SUPREME COURT RULED THAT MONEY TALKS. TURNS OUT IT ALSO VOTES, LOBBIES, AND RUNS FOR SCHOOL BOARD #MayDayStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-supreme-court-ruled-that-money.html
Big Education Ape discusses the profound impact of the 2010 Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. FEC, which redefined "corruption" in American law and unleashed a flood of dark money into politics. The article explores how this ruling has influenced elections at every level, from presidential campaigns to local school boards, and the systemic corruption it has enabled. It also highlights ongoing reform efforts, including the DISCLOSE Act, Democracy Vouchers, and a proposed constitutional amendment to combat the influence of money in politics. The piece concludes with a call to action for citizens to participate in the May Day Strong movement on May 1, 2026, to demand systemic change.
### Key Points
- The 2010 Citizens United ruling allowed unlimited corporate spending in elections, fundamentally altering the definition of corruption in U.S. law.
- The rise of Super PACs and dark money has created a system where anonymous donors heavily influence elections, undermining democratic principles.
- Dark money has infiltrated all levels of government, from presidential elections to local school board races, enabling outsized influence by wealthy donors.
- Corruption exists on a spectrum, from illegal activities like bribery to legalized systemic issues such as dark money influence and regulatory capture.
- Reforms are being pursued through transparency measures (DISCLOSE Act), public funding initiatives (Democracy Vouchers), and a constitutional amendment to limit money's role in politics.
- The May Day Strong movement calls for collective action on May 1, 2026, to advocate for economic and political reforms, including campaign finance transparency and labor rights.
RASHID and ANGELA | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2026/04/22/rashid-and-angela/
### Key Points
- A virtual event titled "Envisioning Return Amid Genocide" is scheduled for May 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM Pacific Time, featuring Angela Davis and Rashid Khalidi in conversation with Zochrot about the vision of Palestinian Return.
- The event requires registration, where participants need to provide their name, email, city, country/region, and organization, with the information shared per the host's Terms and Privacy Policy.
- The event time is listed across multiple time zones: PT, ET, CEST, EEST, and IDT.
“What Drains Teachers’ Energy and How to Stop It? ‘It Was Never the Kids'” Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
- The blog provides resources, tools, and ideas for educators, focusing on topics like historical games, AI tools for lesson planning, and educational policy.
- Recent posts include resources for National Shakespeare Day, effective ninth-grade programs, and weekly updates on AI tools for classrooms.
- Highlighted educational content includes a "Daily News Lesson" by PBS NewsHour and teaching resources for the American Revolutionary War.
- The author has published books and resources offering research-based instructional strategies across various subjects, including Social Studies, English, Math, and Science, as well as tips for student motivation and parental involvement.
- Additional contributions include a blog supporting parental engagement, posts for Education Week Teacher, and articles for The New York Times’ Learning Network.
- The blog has garnered significant attention, with over 122,000 page views in a month.
glen brown: Trump’s hyper-imperialism https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/04/trumps-hyper-imperialism.html
### Key Points
- Ambrose Bierce's perspective on the writer’s role in understanding the flaws of the world and resisting doctrines and politics.
- Albert Camus emphasizes the nobility of writers in resisting oppression, even at the cost of isolation.
- Trump's foreign policy actions against Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba signify a new stage of "hyper-imperialism," involving military force and economic sanctions.
- The concept of "hyper-imperialism" is based on the United States’ role as the dominant capitalist superpower, employing tactics like hybrid warfare and hyper-sanctions.
- Trump's military interventions and sanctions have devastated nations like Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba, causing significant economic and social hardships.
- The U.S. sanctions regime is highly effective and harmful, with measures like oil quarantines and overcompliance campaigns causing severe consequences.
- In Venezuela, U.S. sanctions and the abduction of President Maduro reflect Washington’s intent to dismantle governments opposing its interests.
- The Left faces challenges in addressing undemocratic practices in nations under imperialist siege, such as Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran.
- Sanctions exacerbate economic and social crises, creating a symbiotic relationship with existing structural weaknesses in countries like Iran.
- The July 28, 2024, Venezuelan elections were heavily influenced by U.S. sanctions, which pressured voters and undermined the democratic process.
- Criticism of governments in countries under imperialist aggression, such as Venezuela and Cuba, should be framed with an understanding of the external pressures they face.
- The Left is urged to defend democracy while recognizing that imperialism plays a significant role in undermining democratic practices in vulnerable nations.
- The article critiques the demonization of leaders like Maduro and Khamenei, suggesting it often involves misinformation and sets the stage for military intervention.
- The Trump administration’s policies have fostered anti-imperialist sentiment even within the U.S., as public opposition to interventionism grows.
Teacher Tom: To Live With Our Heads on a Pivot https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/04/to-live-with-our-heads-on-pivot.html
- The author reflects on how smartphones have replaced the sense of wonder and engagement during travel, particularly in airports, where people are more focused on screens than their surroundings.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends minimal screen time for young children, emphasizing co-viewing and ensuring screen time does not replace play, sleep, movement, or social interaction.
- The author highlights the negative impact of excessive screen use on physical and mental health, replacing real-life experiences and wonder with screen distractions.
- A study by the World Health Organization shows that limited screen time, active play, and sufficient sleep in early years lead to a more active lifestyle in later years, emphasizing the importance of reducing screen time for children.
- The author advocates for adults to take conscious control of their screen habits as a model for children, promoting a lifestyle of play, exploration, and interaction with the physical world.
- Fenced environments and screens are compared, both limiting the horizons of children, and the author highlights the need for children to have freedom to explore and play.
- The author emphasizes the importance of creating play-based environments without screens to foster children’s independence, resourcefulness, and curiosity.
- The author supports the AAP's guidelines on screen time and stresses the need to prioritize play, movement, and social interaction over screen use to maintain a sense of wonder and active living.
Teachers warn of changes in pupils' attention and thinking when learning with screen Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Low screen time alone is not associated with better language skills in young children unless paired with active conversation.
- A study of 448 Estonian children aged 30-48 months revealed that higher screen time correlated with lower language skills, while active child-adult conversations improved language outcomes.
- Three typical behavioral profiles in families were identified: "Screen-Saturated, Somewhat Talkative Families," "Low-Screen, Quiet Families," and "Parent-Screen, Talk-Rich Families," with the last group showing the best language outcomes for children.
- Simply reducing screen time is insufficient; active child-adult interaction, such as talking, reading, and shared play, is crucial for early language development.
- A study from Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that intensive use of digital platforms in secondary education can fragment knowledge, disrupt learning, and encourage multitasking, leading to reduced concentration and intellectual autonomy.
- Teachers expressed critical views on the effects of digitalization in classrooms, emphasizing the need for selective, regulated, and critically mediated use of technology.
- High school journalism students are learning financial literacy skills through experiential learning, such as selling ads and managing budgets, despite the lack of a formal curriculum on business topics.
- Financial pressures are a significant concern for high school journalism educators, with some programs running at a deficit and requiring grants or fundraising to sustain operations.
- Researchers recommend integrating business education into high school journalism programs to improve financial literacy and better prepare students for future careers.
- Gender-diverse adolescents face higher rates of bullying and psychological distress, which are compounded in states with unsupportive gender identity laws.
- A UCLA study found that bullying and unsupportive legislation have measurable neuropsychiatric consequences, such as increased psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) in gender-diverse youth.
- The proportion of U.S. adolescents identifying as transgender or gender-diverse doubled between 2017 and 2022, while anti-LGBTQ+ legislation increased significantly, contributing to mental health challenges.
- A free online tool called Project ABC UK, developed by the University of Bath, has been shown to improve hope and emotional wellbeing in teenagers after a single 15-20 minute session.
- The ABC UK tool is particularly appealing to underserved groups, like LGBTQ+ youth, and offers an accessible alternative to traditional mental health services.
- Researchers are expanding their study of ABC UK to include older participants and to assess its long-term impact on mental health.
- The NCES released a report on revenues and expenditures for public elementary and secondary education for the 2023–24 school year, providing detailed state-level data on school finances.
Curmudgucation LA: Betsy DeVos Would Be Pleased PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/la-betsy-devos-would-be-pleased
- The article discusses the push for block grants in education, a concept supported by right-wing advocates like Betsy DeVos, which would allow states to receive federal funds without restrictions on how they are spent.
- Louisiana’s Department of Education has requested a waiver to consolidate federal education funds into a single pool, granting the state and local districts more flexibility to allocate the money according to their priorities.
- The proposal includes goals such as improving student achievement in English Language Arts, math, and early childhood education, as well as promoting school choice through options like charters, non-public schools, and home-study programs.
- Critics argue that this approach undermines accountability, risks neglecting marginalized students, and aligns with policies that could dismantle public education.
Nancy Bailey's Education Website: Will School Choice Destroy Athletics as We Know It? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/will-school-choice
- The article discusses the impact of school choice policies, such as charter schools, vouchers, homeschooling, and open enrollment, on public school sports programs and community pride.
- Privatization of education leads to defunding public schools, resulting in the decline of sports programs and unequal access to athletic opportunities. Wealthier private schools dominate sports, creating an imbalance in competition.
- The closure of over 4,000 public secondary schools between 2010–2022 due to factors like declining enrollment, unaffordable housing, and defunding has further exacerbated the issue.
- Private schools often select students, prioritizing gifted athletes, leaving many talented but undiscovered students in underfunded public schools or schools with limited resources.
- Charter schools and homeschool programs often lack sufficient budgets and facilities for sports, while states allowing these students to participate in public school sports face controversies about fairness and community pride.
- Sports clubs and wealthy private schools increasingly dominate college recruitment, creating disadvantages for public school athletes. This trend raises concerns about equity in athletic opportunities.
- School choice programs have led to challenges for state athletic organizations and concerns about the future of public school sports. Some states, like Mississippi, have rejected school choice bills to protect public schools and their sports programs.
- Public school sports are seen as vital for physical, mental, and social development, as well as for building community identity. The decline of these programs could harm both students and communities.
- The article concludes with a call for Americans to support public schools and their sports programs to preserve democratic education and community values.
Republicans Attack Tenure: The Future Depends on these Cans of Help – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/04/22/republicans-attack-tenure-the-future-depends-on-these-cans-of-help/
- Tenure, once a cornerstone of academic freedom, has become a political battleground, with Republican lawmakers in states like Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma pushing to weaken or eliminate tenure protections in K–12 and higher education.
- Efforts to erode tenure include post-tenure review systems, shifting authority to governing boards, and reducing faculty control over curriculum and employment decisions. These changes are seen as part of a broader struggle over control of knowledge in education.
- Weakening tenure diminishes academic freedom, making faculty more vulnerable to external pressures and limiting the scope of research and discourse by shifting control from academic experts to political or administrative entities.
- Tenure ensures that knowledge is evaluated by disciplinary experts through peer review, fostering accountability and academic quality. Weakening tenure disrupts this system and centralizes decision-making in ideologically influenced hands.
- Political interference undermines the integrity of tenure decisions, as seen in cases where administrative decisions override unanimous departmental recommendations without clear academic justification.
- Scholarship on diversity, equity, and inclusion faces heightened political scrutiny, reflecting a broader trend of epistemic injustice, where certain knowledge is devalued for challenging dominant narratives.
- Protecting tenure is essential for safeguarding academic freedom, promoting rigorous scholarship, and ensuring universities remain spaces for independent inquiry rather than extensions of political power.
- Practical steps to protect tenure include reaffirming departmental primacy, ensuring unbiased external reviews, creating firewalls against political interference, and supporting public scholarship and academic freedom through enforceable policies.
Choosing Democracy: May Day Organizing. National Education Committee https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/04/may-day-organizing-national-education.html
- The article discusses the challenges facing democracy, particularly emphasizing the role of public schooling and community organizing.
- It highlights the National Education Association's (NEA) involvement in May Day organizing, focusing on solidarity and advocating for stronger, safer, and more equitable communities.
- The NEA Community Organizing Kit and Toolkit are mentioned as resources for mobilizing efforts.
- The blog post is part of a broader effort by Duane Campbell, Director of the Institute for Democracy and Education, to promote democratic values and activism.
- The blog includes a history of posts on topics such as immigration, labor rights, and pro-democracy movements, showcasing a long-standing commitment to these causes.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Seattle School Board Meeting, April 22, 2026 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/04/seattle-school-board-meeting-april-22.html?spref=tw
- The Seattle School Board meeting on April 22, 2026, included a performance by part of the Eckstein Jazz Band and discussions on student projects, board committee reports, and upcoming events.
- The Student-Based Project Board initiative was introduced, encouraging students to create and present projects on subjects they are passionate about.
- Board committee updates included discussions on pre-K assessments, budget issues, audit topics, policy reviews, and structural issues in HR investigations.
- A scholarship ceremony to honor students will take place at Franklin High School next month.
- Public testimony covered various topics, including high school boundaries and zoning issues related to Green Dot.
- Concerns about nepotism and personnel management within Seattle Schools were highlighted, with examples of promotions and job shifts based on personal connections.
Three Days Left To Get A Free Copy Of My Autobiographical E-book On Amazon! https://garyrubinstein.wordpress.com/2026/04/22/three-days-left-to-get-a-free-copy-of-my-autobiographical-e-book-on-amazon/ via @garyrubinstein
- Gary Rubinstein, a math teacher and blogger, is offering a free e-book on Amazon for a limited time. The promotion ends in three days, after which the price will revert to $0.99.
- The e-book is a collection of personal essays, some of which were previously published in "Chicken Soup for the Soul" books, along with writings on education and popular blog posts.
- Rubinstein shares his journey of aspiring to be a humor essayist, inspired by writers like David Sedaris, though his dream did not materialize as planned.
- The blog post encourages readers to download the e-book for free, share it with friends, and provides a direct link to access it on Amazon.
Union Matters Unbelievable--April UFT Delegate Assembly Michael Mulgrew and his Unity ducklings instruct us on just what we are and are not allowed to know. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/unbelievable-april-uft-delegate-assembly
### Key Points
- The DOE expressed surprise at the size of the UFT negotiating committee, which included 500 members, but this was inconsistent with previous committee sizes of 400 and 300 members.
- UFT members are surveyed about their priorities, but the results are not shared with them, fostering indifference and cynicism among members, which benefits Unity leadership.
- Unity leadership is accused of restricting transparency and preventing negotiation on key issues like salary and health care.
- Criticism of Unity employee Stuart Kaplan's argument to stay "5 steps ahead" of DOE, comparing it to tactics used by Trump supporters.
- Mulgrew is criticized for offering no solutions to overcrowding issues in schools like Francis Lewis High School, despite acknowledging the problem.
- Concerns raised about trustees' independence, loyalty oaths to Unity, and the potential for purges if they displease Mulgrew.
- Discussion of the school calendar, budget constraints, and challenges in recruiting teachers due to lack of funding.
- Issues surrounding Tier 6 pension reform and its impact on members, including longer payment periods and delayed retirement age.
- Advocacy for reforming the foundation aid formula to include support for newcomers and unhoused students.
- Class size compliance remains a challenge, with some schools needing significant construction projects to meet requirements.
- Concerns about the DOE’s lack of readiness to address programming and class size issues. Programming skills among principals are highlighted as inadequate.
- Discussion on the use of AI by students and how to balance academic integrity with its use. Suggestions include presentations and organic learning methods.
- Teachers express frustration over curriculum decisions being outsourced to consultants and publishers rather than being created by educators themselves.
- Resolutions were proposed, including stopping the sale of bombs and bulldozers to Israel and honoring education efforts to combat the HIV epidemic.
- A resolution for member engagement in contract negotiations was supported, but an amendment for full transparency in survey results was rejected.
- Union leaders highlighted a successful arbitration case against a difficult principal, emphasizing the importance of standing together and defending union rights.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
The news cycle for April 23, 2026, is dominated by escalating tensions and diplomatic maneuvers in the Middle East, alongside significant domestic policy shifts.
Here are the top 10 news stories involving President Trump today:
Middle East Crisis & Diplomacy
Indefinite Ceasefire Extension: President Trump announced he is extending the ceasefire with Iran indefinitely to allow more time for a "unified proposal" from Tehran.
He noted that talks could potentially restart within the next 36 to 72 hours. Naval Blockade Maintenance: Despite the ceasefire, Trump confirmed the U.S. will maintain its naval blockade of Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz, stating he is "satisfied" with the current strategic pressure.
Strait of Hormuz Escalation: Reports indicate that Iran has seized two container ships and attacked a third in the Strait of Hormuz.
The White House responded by stating Iran is in a "very weak position" and the blockade will continue. Iranian Pushback: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rebuked Trump’s "hypocritical rhetoric," citing three main obstacles to genuine talks and denying that an official agreement on the ceasefire extension has been reached.
Domestic Policy & Economy
Slumping Approval Ratings: A new AP-NORC poll shows Trump’s economic approval has dropped to 30%, down from 38% in March.
Rising gas prices linked to the Iran conflict are cited as a primary driver for the decline, even among Republicans. Pharma Tariffs & Executive Orders: Trump issued a "Presidential Determination" aimed at adjusting pharmaceutical imports. The order imposes additional tariffs on imported ingredients, framing the move as a matter of national security to incentivize domestic production.
Federal Reserve Pressure: Trump has renewed threats to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, as he continues to push for lower interest rates to combat the economic cooling caused by the ongoing conflict.
Deportation Policy Scrutiny: Recent polling suggests a majority of Americans are becoming wary of Trump’s signature migrant deportation policies, with 52% saying they are less likely to support candidates backing his approach ahead of the midterms.
Administration & Appointments
Navy Leadership Shakeup: The Pentagon announced that the Navy’s top civilian official, Secretary John Phelan, is leaving his post "effectively immediately."
No specific reason was provided, but it comes amid the naval standoff in the Middle East. Health & Vaccine Debates: Following the nomination of Erica Schwartz to lead the CDC, the administration is facing intense scrutiny over the influence of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his stance on vaccine policy during recent oversight hearings.
Education Special Note
Given your focus on education policy at Big Education Ape, it’s worth noting that while national headlines are focused on Iran, the administration's "GUARD" and "GLOBE" model proposed rules—which have seen hundreds of stakeholder comments—are expected to reach a final rule stage soon, with an effective date of October 1, 2026.