May Day 2026 Toolkit | NEA
https://www.nea.org/mayday-toolkit
TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
APRIL 26, 2026
Here are the top 3-5 news stories as of April 26, 2026, grouped by category. These draw from breaking reports and major headlines.
U.S. NEWS
- Shooting incident at White House Correspondents' Dinner: A man armed with guns and knives stormed the lobby at the Washington Hilton during the annual event attended by President Trump and other leaders. Secret Service quickly apprehended the suspect (identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California), described by Trump as a "lone wolf" or "sick person." Trump was evacuated unharmed and later held a press conference from the White House. No injuries reported among attendees.
- Ongoing wildfires and severe weather: Historic wildfires continue burning in parts of the U.S. (including Georgia), with tornadoes reported across the middle of the country in recent days.
- Death penalty developments: The Justice Department has adopted firing squad as a permitted method for federal executions under the Trump administration. Pope Leo reiterated opposition to the death penalty in response.
POLITICS
- Trump evacuated from WHCD amid security scare: The incident dominated coverage, with Trump addressing the nation afterward and emphasizing Secret Service actions. It overshadowed the dinner itself, which Trump was headlining as president.
- Trump's approval and economic concerns: Polling shows disapproval ratings at a new high (around 58%), largely tied to economic worries amid the Iran situation and other pressures.
- Congress and executive power: Discussions continue on whether Congress will push back on Trump's use of presidential power, especially regarding military actions and deadlines related to the Iran conflict.
WORLD AFFAIRS
- U.S.-Iran tensions and Strait of Hormuz: Peace talks (including planned meetings in Pakistan or Oman) have faced collapses or uncertainty, with the U.S. Navy actively hunting mines and enforcing a blockade. Iran has reversed some restrictions but tensions persist, impacting global oil flows. Israel has resumed or continued related strikes (e.g., in Lebanon).
- Broader Middle East developments: Ceasefire strains in Lebanon, attacks in Mali (claimed by al Qaeda-linked groups), and other regional instability (e.g., Gaza elections). Russia has criticized U.S. actions as driven by "oil greed."
- Ukraine support: The EU approved a major loan package for Ukraine's economic and military needs.
EDUCATION
- Governors prioritize K-12 academics and funding: In 2026 state addresses, at least 35 governors highlighted foundational skills/achievement (a top priority this year), while 32 addressed funding and many pushed workforce alignment via apprenticeships and career-technical education.
- Accreditation reforms: The U.S. Department of Education issued a rule to reduce barriers for new and emerging accrediting agencies, aiming to increase competition and focus on student outcomes.
- Data and higher ed challenges: Ongoing efforts to rebuild education data systems post-cuts, plus debates over new institutions emphasizing free inquiry (e.g., University of Austin).
ECONOMY
- Markets react to Iran jitters and earnings: Stocks have shown volatility but resilience (S&P 500 hitting highs earlier in April), with oil prices elevated due to Hormuz disruptions. Berkshire Hathaway lags the S&P; Walmart surpassed it in market value. Intel and other tech earnings in focus.
- Global growth warnings: The IMF downgraded forecasts amid geopolitical risks from the Middle East conflict, though long-term investors have largely ignored short-term war impacts.
- U.S. economic indicators: Recent jobs data showed stronger-than-expected hiring; personal income and consumption reports released, with services sector growth continuing but inflation signals noted.
TECHNOLOGY
- AI advancements and societal impacts: Leaders like Elon Musk signal support for universal basic income amid AI-driven layoffs. New models (e.g., OpenAI developments) and agentic AI features emerge, alongside debates on regulation and public opinion shifts.
- Hardware and connectivity trends: Anticipation around foldables, 6G enabling advanced robotics, and other CES-predicted shifts. Apple strategy updates under new leadership.
- Cyber and surveillance issues: Reports on rising malicious traffic linked to conflicts, Telegram tools bypassing KYC, and facial recognition controversies.
HEALTH
- New Medicare device coverage pathway: FDA and CMS launched the "RAPID" program to accelerate access to breakthrough medical devices for beneficiaries. CMS also directed states to revalidate high-risk Medicaid providers.
- Gut health and mental links: Research links specific gut bacteria to depression via inflammation triggers.
- Broader policy notes: AMA urges stronger AI chatbot safeguards; concerns over CDC advisory changes and scope-of-practice legislation in states.
SPORTS
- Soccer/football action: Matches including Nice vs. Olympique Marseille (Ligue 1), Motherwell vs. Rangers (Scottish Premiership), and Premier League highlights (e.g., Arsenal vs. Newcastle).
- MLB and other leagues: Highlights from games like Cubs vs. Dodgers; ongoing NFL draft aftermath and prep rankings in various sports.
- Golf and events: PGA Professional Championship coverage; various weekend tournaments and local prep athletics.
News evolves quickly—especially around the D.C. incident and Middle East developments—so check reliable sources for the latest updates.
FBI Raids Home of Former Capitol Police Officer, Based on Tip from Rightwing Website https://dianeravitch.net/2026/04/25/fbi-raids-home-of-forner-agent-based-on-tip-from-rightwing-website/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- FBI raided Shauni Kerkhoff's home based on a conspiracy theory from The Blaze.
- The allegations were based on a flawed "gait analysis" and were later retracted.
- Kerkhoff, a former Capitol Police officer and CIA employee, was falsely accused of being the January 6th pipe bomber.
- The raid involved bomb-sniffing dogs, tactical agents, and a helicopter, causing significant distress to Kerkhoff and her boyfriend.
- Kerkhoff underwent a polygraph and was placed on administrative leave but later proved her alibi with video evidence.
- The real bomber, Brian Cole Jr., was arrested and confessed, while The Blaze fired the reporter responsible for the story.
- Kerkhoff filed a defamation lawsuit against The Blaze, seeking damages for reputational harm and emotional distress.
Big Education Ape: COFFEE WITH SPACEMEN: WHAT ROCKET JOCKEYS TAUGHT ME ABOUT THE WAR ON PUBLIC SCHOOLS #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #PublicSchoolsProducedAstronauts #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/coffee-with-spacemen-what-rocket.html
The article discusses the importance of public schools in producing scientific talent and astronauts, highlighting the role of public education in significant achievements like the Space Age. It criticizes current trends in education, such as the focus on standardized testing, the impact of school choice on resources, and the increasing reliance on AI in classrooms, arguing that these trends undermine the quality of science education. The article calls for action to prioritize public education and protect it from privatization.
### Key Points
- Public schools have historically produced astronauts and scientific talent, as demonstrated by the backgrounds of the original Mercury 7 astronauts.
- The article criticizes the current educational focus on standardized testing, which has reduced science instruction time in schools.
- School choice is draining resources from public schools, affecting the quality of science education, especially in rural areas.
- The reliance on AI in classrooms is problematic, as it prioritizes data over genuine learning experiences and innovation.
- The article emphasizes the need to listen to educators and experts rather than those with financial interests in educational technology.
- A national day of action, May Day 2026, is planned to demand better funding and support for public education.
- The article reflects on the author's personal experiences with astronauts and the significance of public education in their achievements.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 4-19-26 TO 4-25-26 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-top-news-stories-this-week-4-19-26.html
The article provides a comprehensive roundup of the top news stories as of April 25, 2026, across multiple categories, including U.S. news, politics, world affairs, education, economy, technology, health, and sports. Among the highlights are geopolitical tensions involving the U.S. and Iran, developments in education policies, advancements in technology such as AI and space exploration, economic challenges like inflation and stagflation fears, and updates on sports events. It also addresses several domestic policy changes under the Trump administration, including civil rights issues, budget proposals, and international trade disputes.
### Key Points
- Morning news update for April 25, 2026, covers top stories across various categories.
- Literacy efforts in Oklahoma highlighted with funding for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
- Lower Merion School District criticized for ignoring its own technology policy.
- A fragile ceasefire in the Middle East dominates the news cycle from April 19–25, 2026.
- U.S. top news includes President Trump’s announcement of a successful hostage rescue in Iran, and various federal policy shifts such as the reinstatement of firing squads for federal executions and Jones Act waivers.
- Political highlights include Islamabad peace talks on Iran, debates over executive power, and the launch of the TrumpRx site for prescription drugs.
- Global affairs focus on the fragile Iran ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes in Beirut, Saudi oil infrastructure attacks, and cybersecurity threats.
- Education news includes California Adult Education Week, AI in classrooms, play-based learning advocacy, literacy crisis initiatives, and new policies for charter school funding audits.
- Economic updates highlight rising inflation, oil supply issues, emergency energy stock releases, and the Federal Reserve holding interest rates steady.
- Technological advancements include NASA’s Artemis II moon mission, breakthroughs in nuclear batteries, foldable iPhones, and industrial AI deployment.
- Health updates feature Medicare Advantage reform, new AIDS therapies, AI in healthcare, and studies on early childhood screen time effects.
- Sports news includes Michigan winning the NCAA men’s basketball championship and UCLA advancing in the women’s tournament, along with updates on MLB, NBA, NHL, and WNBA events.
- The Trump administration faced significant domestic and international challenges, including U.S.-Iran ceasefire negotiations, trade disputes with the UK, NATO tensions, and civil rights policy reversals.
- Education policy updates include FERPA violations in Kansas, "Three-Cueing" bans in literacy instruction, and state-level debates on phone bans in schools.
- Global education news highlights include a slowdown in EdTech investments, vocational pivots in South Asia, and UNESCO’s focus on foundational literacy in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- The EU is moving toward standardizing micro-credentials for professional recognition across borders.
- AI ethics in classrooms gain prominence with new guidelines requiring human oversight in AI grading.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS APRIL 25, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0136108029.html
The article provides an extensive roundup of recent news, covering a variety of topics including education, politics, international affairs, technology, health, and social issues. Key highlights include U.S.-Iran tensions, education reforms, AI advancements, and controversies surrounding political initiatives and policies. The article also delves into significant events such as May Day 2026, legal battles, and public education challenges.
### Key Points
- Wildfires in the Southeast have caused evacuations and property damage, with one firefighter losing their life.
- A violent tornado damaged 40 homes in Oklahoma but resulted in no fatalities.
- A chemical leak in West Virginia caused two fatalities, and searches continue for missing University of South Florida students.
- Diplomatic efforts are underway to ease U.S.-Iran tensions, with delegations meeting in Pakistan despite Iran's resistance to direct talks.
- Israel-Lebanon ceasefire was extended by three weeks, though regional tensions remain high.
- April 2026 was declared National Community College Month to highlight workforce preparation and economic roles.
- Federal school funding cuts, AI impacts on education, and debates about religious influences in public schools are ongoing.
- The markets are volatile due to geopolitical risks, oil price surges, and strong tech/AI earnings.
- Intel and Tesla reported strong AI-driven earnings, while Google announced a $40 billion investment in Anthropic.
- High healthcare costs remain a significant issue, with many Americans experiencing medical debt and cutting expenses to afford care.
- The Trump administration is working on marijuana reclassification and addressing healthcare affordability.
- The NFL Draft and NBA playoffs are key sports highlights, with updates on trades, injuries, and upcoming games.
- Donald Trump has sought to rebrand public assets with his name, sparking significant criticism for self-aggrandizing actions.
- Jared Kushner's wealth grew significantly through real estate depreciation rules and investments from Gulf countries, raising ethical concerns about conflicts of interest during his tenure as a White House advisor.
- A for-profit charter school firm, Academica, is leveraging legislation to secure more public school funds, raising ethical concerns.
- The U.S. education system's focus on standardization has led to inequities and a push for profit-driven AI solutions, prompting calls for human-centered reforms.
- A teacher in Ohio is suing a school district for removing a "Hate Has No Home Here" poster, citing First Amendment violations.
- LAUSD passed a resolution to reduce student screen time, citing concerns over its impact on mental health and academic performance.
- NYC passed a multi-year strategic plan to reduce class sizes and address overcrowding, but space and funding challenges remain.
- The California Department of Education updated income eligibility guidelines for free and reduced-price meals for the 2026–27 school year.
- School Lunch Hero Day 2026 celebrates nutrition professionals for their contributions to student health and academic success.
- May Day 2026 events focus on workers' and immigrant rights, with rallies planned across California.
- The anti-property tax campaign in Ohio faces criticism for its unrealistic proposals and misleading claims.
- Seattle Public Schools is collaborating with Seattle Parks & Recreation to build an athletic field for Lincoln High School, but progress has been delayed.
- President Trump will attend the White House Correspondents' Dinner for the first time as president, signaling a change in his relationship with the press.
- A U.S. court ruled that President Trump's asylum ban was illegal, stating it violated congressional mandates.
- The FDA announced regulatory actions to accelerate the development of psychedelic therapies for PTSD and depression.
- The Trump administration is moving forward with reclassifying civil servants to make them "at-will" employees, sparking controversy.
- The White House highlighted its "365 Wins in 365 Days" campaign, focusing on immigration and border control achievements.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: APRIL 25 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/morning-news-update-april-25-2026.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent events and developments across various domains, including education, politics, global affairs, economy, technology, health, and sports. It discusses key policy changes, major global incidents, technological advancements, and updates on education reforms, among other topics.
### Key Points
- The article highlights literacy efforts in Oklahoma, with $840,000 allocated in the 2027 budget for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
- Severe weather, including EF4 tornadoes and wildfires, has caused widespread damage and injuries in the U.S. Midwest and Southeast regions.
- A deadly mall shooting occurred in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with multiple suspects arrested.
- Updates on the disappearance of two University of South Florida students include the discovery of remains and the arrest of a roommate.
- Texas officials have issued summer camp safety protocol mandates following recent deadly floods.
- President Trump attended the White House Correspondents' Dinner for the first time as president, drawing media attention.
- Congressional debates are ongoing about the GENIUS Act to regulate digital assets and address their misuse by criminal networks.
- The Department of Justice is considering the reinstatement of firing squads for federal executions.
- U.S.-Iran tensions continue, with peace talks underway in Pakistan, though direct negotiations have been ruled out by Iran.
- Russia-Ukraine conflict escalates with major Russian attacks in Ukraine, causing casualties and injuries.
- Mali experiences one of the largest jihadist attacks in years, targeting military bases and cities.
- The FDA has approved Idvynso, a new HIV treatment offering a safer alternative to existing regimens.
- The CDC reports that antibiotic-resistant infections cost the U.S. economy over $4.6 billion annually, urging Congress to pass the PASTEUR Act.
- The U.S. government begins the process of closing the Department of Education, shifting policy control to states and cutting federal education funding.
- National school choice initiatives are expanding, including tax credit programs and education-specific 529 accounts for private schooling.
- The 2026 UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report warns that without increased equity-focused funding, global education goals will not be met by 2030.
- European and East Asian education systems are transitioning to skills-based models to address labor market demands.
- Nigeria's shift to English-only education sparks debate over balancing indigenous heritage with global integration.
- The IMF projects a slowdown in global economic growth to 3.1% for 2026 due to war and increased defense spending.
- A "Black Swan" event in decentralized finance led to a $290 million hack on major lending platforms, causing a "bank run" on stablecoins.
- AI advancements are reshaping industries, with massive investments from companies like Google, Intel, and Tesla. Concerns about AI misuse, deepfakes, and cybersecurity threats are rising.
- The Department of Education proposed new accountability rules tying federal student aid to graduate earnings outcomes.
- The U.S. government has begun cutting funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in schools, citing them as "anti-American indoctrination."
- Sports updates include MLB games, NBA/NHL playoffs, NFL Draft highlights, and MLS matches.
Big Education Ape: J-RAD THE DEALMAKER: A Satirical Parody Song — Introduction "Inspired by the fearless work of Diane Ravitch https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/j-rad-dealmaker-satirical-parody-song.html
### Key Points
- Diane Ravitch, a renowned advocate for exposing corruption in public education, highlights Jared Kushner's transformation into a billionaire through alleged nepotism and undisclosed dealings with Gulf monarchies while serving as a White House advisor.
- Kushner leveraged his White House connections and lack of official title to build a $4.8 billion private equity empire, funded significantly by sovereign wealth funds from Gulf states.
- The article uses satire to critique Kushner’s actions, likening his dealings to a parody of Ray Stevens’ song “Ahab the Arab,” with humorous depictions of his interactions with Gulf leaders and sovereign wealth funds.
- The parody underscores themes of conflict of interest, lack of transparency, and exploitation of public trust for personal gain.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS APRIL 24, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01865001108.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of various current events, including education reforms, political developments, international affairs, economic updates, technological advancements, health-related issues, and social movements. Key highlights include escalating U.S.-Iran tensions, May Day 2026 activism, critiques of the U.S. prison system, and concerns about education standardization and data privacy.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: APRIL 24 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/morning-news-update-april-24-2026.html
The article provides a roundup of recent news, including global and U.S. education trends, geopolitical developments, economic updates, and advancements in technology and health. Highlights include federal school funding uncertainties, climate action in schools, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and the growing role of AI in technology and education.
Big Education Ape: THE STANDARDIZATION INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX: HOW BRILLIANT BILLIONAIRES TURNED YOUR KID INTO A DATA POINT #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #ProtectStudentData https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-standardization-industrial-complex.html
Education reform in the U.S. has been driven by a focus on standardization over the past four decades, led by billionaire philanthropists and corporate interests. This approach has emphasized standardized tests, data collection, and uniform curricula, often at the expense of personalized, relationship-based education. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the flaws in this system, leading to significant learning loss and exacerbating educational inequities, particularly harming low-income students. In response, some stakeholders are pushing AI-based personalized learning solutions, which are criticized for prioritizing profit over genuine student needs. Activists and educators are advocating for a return to human-centered education, increased funding for public schools, and an end to the privatization of education. A national day of action, May Day 2026, aims to address these systemic issues and demand reforms prioritizing equity and democratic accountability in education.
How to Manufacture Crisis with Line Charts: NAEP Reading Edition "Learn to be "see through" graphs to determine what information they actually contain." Gerald Bracey PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/how-to-manufacture-crisis-with-line?triedRedirect=true
- The article discusses the perceived crisis in education, particularly in reading and math scores, and how it is often attributed to factors like bad teachers, "kids today," or the overuse of technology in classrooms.
- It critiques the use of misleading line charts and distorted data to create a narrative of crisis, contrasting it with the more accurate and less alarming trends shown by NAEP reading scores.
- The article highlights that test scores were flat or rising before the "Science of Reading" (SOR) reform began around 2012-2014, but have declined since, with Covid disruptions also playing a role.
- It calls for ethical and fair use of educational data by media and policymakers to ensure valid claims and avoid manufactured crises.
- The author, Paul Thomas, is a professor and writer who critiques the misuse of research in educational policy, particularly regarding reading instruction programs like LETRS and the "Science of Reading" movement.
Ed Notes Online: UFT DA and RTC Back to Back Meetings: The Stockholm Syndrome https://ednotesonline.blogspot.com/2026/04/uft-da-and-rtc-back-to-back-meetings.html
### Key Points
- The blog "Ed Notes Online," managed by Norm Scott, focuses on educating, organizing, and mobilizing for public education in NYC and beyond.
- A recent UFT Delegate Assembly (DA) and Retired Teachers Chapter (RTC) meeting highlighted dissatisfaction among retirees regarding the union’s leadership and decisions.
- Retirees expressed frustration over copay increases, which they attribute to UFT President Michael Mulgrew, alleging that these were introduced to fund active worker raises at retirees' expense.
- A speaker at the RTC meeting advocated for voting against UFT-supported candidates in favor of those supporting traditional Medicare, which led to criticism from UFT leadership.
- There were allegations of UFT leadership suppressing dissent and labeling criticisms of their policies as personal attacks.
- The Unity Caucus, which dominates UFT leadership, was criticized for controlling the agenda, suppressing opposition voices, and prioritizing their interests over members.
- The article discusses the Unity Caucus’s use of loyalty oaths and centralized decision-making, which some members believe undermines democratic processes.
- A resolution on stopping the sale of bombs and bulldozers to Israel was discussed, showing a potential shift in UFT leadership’s stance on international issues.
- The article highlights internal divisions within the UFT, particularly between the ABC (broad coalition) and ARISE (leftist legacy caucus) groups, with differing strategies on how to challenge Unity and win elections.
- The author criticizes the Retiree Advocate/RTC leadership for adopting Unity-like behaviors and for failing to address healthcare issues effectively, which may hinder their chances in future elections.
- The article discusses the concept of Stockholm Syndrome in the context of RTC’s perceived alignment with Unity leadership despite previous opposition.
- The UFT leadership’s alignment with corporate Democrats and its political maneuvers are questioned, with suggestions that their actions are more about political strategy than genuine support for leftist causes.
- The author emphasizes the importance of focusing on defeating Unity to bring meaningful change to the union, rather than just sending political messages.
- The article includes references to other educational blogs and resources for further reading on union organizing and education reform.
Research Studies Of The Week Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
- The blog provides the latest news and resources in education, including research studies, teaching methods, and interactive strategies for social studies classes.
- It highlights special days like World Penguin Day, World Book & Copyright Day, and the Day of Remembrance for Victims of Chemical Warfare, offering related teaching resources.
- A meta-analysis reviewed 44 studies on effective math instructional strategies, and Education Week published a survey on teaching English learners.
- Duolingo has made premium content free but is not suitable for schools due to privacy concerns.
- Innovative teaching ideas such as starting lessons with "micro-inquiry" and educational games like "Ripple" are shared.
- The author has written multiple books and resources for teaching social studies, English, math, and science, focusing on research-based strategies and student motivation.
- Additional resources include videos, blog posts, and contributions to platforms like Education Week and The New York Times.
Schools Matter: Why Is Lower Merion School District Ignoring Its Own Technology Policy? http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/04/why-is-lower-merion-school-district.html
- Lower Merion School District (LMSD), one of Pennsylvania's oldest and prestigious public school systems, has implemented a 24/7 computer access program for middle and high school students despite growing evidence of the negative effects of excessive screen time.
- Research, including a 2025 American Psychological Association (APA) meta-analysis, highlights the harmful socioemotional and behavioral impacts of excessive screen use on children, suggesting the need for a more cautious and balanced approach.
- The grassroots group "Pencils Over Pixels" (POP), supported by over 400 parents, is advocating for an opt-out option from LMSD's mandatory technology program, citing scientific evidence and district policy.
- LMSD Superintendent Dr. Frank Ranelli has dismissed the opt-out requests, stating that the curriculum is designed around electronic devices, raising concerns about potential legal and ethical implications for ignoring established policies and scientific findings.
America’s Students Need Great Public Schools for Science! - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2026/04/25/americas-students-need-great-public-schools-for-science/
### Key Points
- Public schools play a critical role in fostering scientific advancements, as many accomplished scientists and astronauts, such as those involved in NASA's Artemis II mission, are products of public education.
- The narrative of public schools as failing institutions, fueled by policies like "A Nation at Risk," "No Child Left Behind," and others, has undermined trust in public education and created challenges for science instruction.
- Access to quality science education is uneven, with many schools, especially in rural or underfunded areas, lacking necessary resources and support. This disparity limits opportunities for students interested in STEM fields.
- High-stakes standardized testing has prioritized reading and math over science, reducing time and resources for science education in elementary schools, which is critical for fostering early scientific curiosity.
- School choice initiatives and the rise of charter and private schools have raised concerns about inconsistent science education, particularly in religious and unregulated institutions.
- There is a shortage of qualified science teachers, with many schools relying on underpaid or uncertified educators. Investment in teacher training and certification is crucial for improving science education.
- Despite significant investments in technology, its impact on improving science instruction remains unclear. Overemphasis on digital tools may hinder creativity and innovation in science learning.
- Public schools must be prioritized and adequately funded to provide consistent, high-quality science education with well-trained teachers and sufficient resources.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Lincoln High School Community Meeting https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/04/lincoln-high-school-community-meeting.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- Criticism of Lincoln High School's field meeting, including poor live-streaming and lack of open Q&A.
- The district's preference for two similar field options and concerns about Memorial Stadium's role for sports games.
- Financial concerns regarding the $5M levy and the district's ability to fund projects.
- Mention of a joint use agreement between the district and the City requiring permitting for all options.
- Allegations of nepotism within Seattle Public Schools, particularly among principals and senior staff.
- Director Geary's comments on advanced learning services during a Board meeting.
glen brown: The Trump Regime’s Heinous Attack on a Legendary Civil Rights Organization https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-trump-regimes-heinous-attack-on.html
### Key Points
- The Trump administration indicted the SPLC, accusing it of fraud and secretly funding extremist groups, which the article claims is baseless.
- The SPLC has historically worked to dismantle white supremacy and collaborated with law enforcement, including the FBI, using informants to infiltrate hate groups.
- Critics argue the indictment is a politically motivated attack on civil rights organizations, part of a broader trend of weaponizing government authority.
- The article calls for public support of the SPLC and highlights its importance in combating racism and hate.
Problems with the NYC Dept. of Education’s AI Guidance | Parent Coalition for Student Privacy https://studentprivacymatters.org/problems-with-the-does-ai-guidance/
### Key Points
- The DOE's AI guidance lacks sufficient public input and transparency, as key stakeholders like parents, teachers, and students were not adequately consulted.
- The DOE has not disclosed which AI products are approved for use in schools, citing non-disclosure agreements with vendors, leading to concerns about data mining and privacy violations.
- The current privacy vetting process for AI tools is inadequate, as evidenced by data breaches and improper use of student data for commercial purposes.
- The guidance is confusing, contradictory, and fails to provide clear directions for teachers and students on the proper use of AI tools.
- The guidance does not address critical concerns such as AI’s impact on cognitive development, creativity, mental health, environmental effects, algorithmic bias, and factual inaccuracies (hallucinations).
- There is a call for a two-year moratorium on AI use in schools to establish robust protections and address these issues with public input.
Problems with the DOE’s AI Guidance | Class Size Matters | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/problems-with-the-does-ai-guidance/
### Key Points
- The DOE has not adequately involved parents, students, or teachers in the development of its AI guidance, despite claims to the contrary.
- There is a lack of transparency regarding which AI products are approved for use in schools, and the DOE has not disclosed the AI tools that have passed its privacy vetting process.
- The DOE's AI guidance does not sufficiently protect student privacy, as its vetting process is ineffective and has failed to prevent breaches of student data and misuse for commercial purposes.
- The guidance provides unclear and contradictory instructions on how teachers and students should use AI, leaving many critical questions unanswered.
- The guidance fails to address significant concerns about AI's impact on student cognitive development, creativity, mental health, and environmental sustainability, as well as issues like algorithmic bias and factual inaccuracies.
- Advocates are calling for a two-year moratorium on AI use in schools until proper safeguards are developed with public input.
If— – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/04/26/if/
- The article features Rudyard Kipling's poem "If," which emphasizes resilience, self-belief, patience, and maintaining virtue and humility amidst challenges.
- The poem encourages readers to balance ambition and humility, face triumph and disaster equally, and uphold integrity despite adversity or criticism.
- "Cloaking Inequity" is an online platform focused on justice, liberty, education, democracy, culture, and politics, offering reflections, analysis, and commentary.
- Readers are invited to subscribe to the platform for updates, with assurances of no spam and easy unsubscription.
- Contact information for "Cloaking Inequity" is provided, including an email address for communication.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, April 25, 2026, news is dominated by a major security incident involving President Trump at the White House Correspondents' Dinner (WHCD).
Here are the top 10 news stories regarding Donald Trump today:
1. Shooting at White House Correspondents' Dinner
A shooting occurred tonight at the Washington Hilton during the WHCD.
2. President Trump Reported Safe
The U.S. Secret Service confirmed that both the President and First Lady are uninjured.
3. Suspect in Custody
Law enforcement officials, including the FBI and D.C. Metropolitan Police, have confirmed that a suspect is currently in custody.
4. High-Level Evacuations
Vice President JD Vance and several cabinet members, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy, were also evacuated from the ballroom.
5. Chaos in the Ballroom
Witnesses described a scene of panic as hundreds of journalists and celebrities ducked under tables.
6. Trump Cancels Iran Ceasefire Envoy Trip
Earlier today, prior to the shooting, the administration announced the cancellation of a high-profile diplomatic mission to Pakistan aimed at negotiating a ceasefire with Iran.
7. Staff Turmoil at Department of Labor
Internal reports emerged today regarding "constant turbulence" within the Labor Department.
8. Potential AG Pick Todd Blanche Goes "All In"
Todd Blanche, a key legal figure for the administration, signaled his interest in the Attorney General position today, reportedly aligning himself closely with the President's "retaliation agenda" for the Justice Department.
9. New Tariffs Threatened on the UK
Trump made headlines earlier today by stating he would "probably put a big tariff on the UK" if they do not drop their digital services tax, heightening trade tensions with the ally.
10. Opposition Petitions from Journalists
On the eve of the WHCD, nearly 500 retired journalists signed a petition protesting the administration's treatment of the press, a story that gained significant traction just hours before the evening's security incident.
Note: As this is a breaking situation in Washington, D.C., details regarding the shooting and the suspect's motives are still developing.
