TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
MAY 7, 2026
Top news stories for May 7, 2026 (based on reports from May 6-7). The dominant global story is the US-Iran conflict de-escalation efforts following recent Strait of Hormuz tensions.
U.S. NEWS
- Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship (MV Hondius): A deadly cluster (at least 7 cases, 3 deaths confirmed/suspected) has led to evacuations of sick passengers (including to Europe/Netherlands). The ship, with ~147 people aboard (including Americans), is heading to Spain's Canary Islands. Concerns include possible human-to-human transmission of Andes virus.
- Ted Turner (CNN founder) dies at 87: Tributes highlight his role in creating 24-hour news and revolutionizing media.
- Severe weather: Tornadoes and storms reported (e.g., Mississippi), with ongoing tracking from Texas to Georgia.
- Other mentions: Jeffrey Epstein-related documents (purported suicide note) unsealed; UPS plane crash survivors' accounts.
POLITICS
- Trump administration pushes Iran deal: Trump touts productive talks, threatens more attacks if no agreement, pauses "Project Freedom" operations in the Strait of Hormuz, and notes progress toward a potential one-page memo (Iran to halt enrichment; US to lift sanctions).
- Redistricting battles: Southern states (e.g., Texas) scramble for House map changes ahead of midterms; Trump backs primary challengers to GOP opponents.
- Texas Republicans target Muslim community: Campaigns ramp up against growing Muslim population.
- Other: Senate GOP immigration package includes funding tied to Trump's White House ballroom project; Education Dept. actions (e.g., investigating Smith College on Title IX).
WORLD AFFAIRS
- US-Iran tensions de-escalate: US struck/disabled an Iranian-flagged tanker; exchanges of proposals ongoing, with Iran reviewing a US offer. Oil prices dropped on deal hopes. Broader context includes recent fighting (US claims sinking boats) and regional involvement (e.g., China).
- Hantavirus cruise ship international response: Multi-country effort with evacuations and WHO monitoring.
- Other: Solomon Islands parliament no-confidence debate; ongoing Middle East issues (Gaza, Lebanon); Ted Turner legacy coverage.
EDUCATION
- Dept. of Education actions: Investigations (e.g., Smith College on admitting biological males to women-only spaces) and history-focused initiatives like the 1776 Award.
- Broader policy: Discussions on returning education to states; governors' focus on K-12 achievement/academics.
- Limited major breaking stories today; ongoing state board meetings and workforce topics.
ECONOMY
- Markets react to Iran news: Oil and gas prices plunge on US-Iran deal hopes; stocks climb with record highs (S&P nearing highs).
- Strong US economy signals: Solid Q1 2026 GDP growth (~2%); AI and tax cuts cited as drivers; national debt surpasses GDP for first time since WWII.
- AI boom: Continued optimism around infrastructure, chips, and growth.
TECHNOLOGY
- AI and semiconductors surge: Chip stocks rally (e.g., AMD beats earnings with strong AI outlook); Big Tech demand for HBM/SSDs; debates on bubbles vs. infrastructure plays ("Air 7" vs. Mag 7).
- Data centers: Nationwide boom sparks local resistance over environment/costs.
- Other: AI spending by Big Tech; startup valuations (e.g., Lovable).
HEALTH
- Hantavirus cruise ship outbreak: Primary story (details above) — rare rodent-borne virus with suspected human transmission; WHO involved; three evacuations reported.
- Limited other major US/global health breaking news dominating headlines today.
SPORTS
- NBA Playoffs: Knicks lead 76ers series (Game 2 highlights; Joel Embiid out with injury); other series action (e.g., upcoming games).
- NHL Playoffs: Ducks vs. Golden Knights, other second-round matchups (e.g., Canadiens-Sabres).
- Ongoing coverage of injuries and series developments.
News evolves quickly—especially around Iran talks and the cruise ship situation. Check major outlets (e.g., CNN, PBS, Reuters, WHO) for updates.
### Key Points
- Rev. Benjamin Cremer, raised in a fundamentalist household, transitioned to a compassionate Christianity focused on aiding the needy, inspired by Jesus' teachings.
- Cremer criticizes political leaders who use the Bible to justify harmful policies and actions, such as neglecting gun reform and dehumanizing immigrants.
- He highlights the hypocrisy of supporting the powerful while ignoring the vulnerable, calling this a distortion of Christianity.
- Cremer advocates for Christians to prioritize compassion, address climate change, and reject religious nationalism that conflates loyalty to God with political allegiance.
Big Education Ape: FROM GOLD RUSH TO GOLD BUST: HOW CALIFORNIA FUMBLED ITS EDUCATION CROWN IN 50 YEARS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/from-gold-rush-to-gold-bust-how.html
The article provides an in-depth analysis of the historical and current state of California's education funding system. It traces the decline of California's once-envied public school system due to systemic issues such as inequitable property tax-based funding, the Serrano v. Priest ruling, Proposition 13, and the rise of charter schools fueled by billionaire philanthropy. Despite recent improvements in education funding and teacher salaries, the article highlights significant challenges, including inflation, cost of living, and structural underinvestment relative to California's economic capacity. The upcoming November 2026 ballot measures are poised to have a critical impact on the future of education funding in California.
### Key Points
- California had one of the most well-funded and respected public school systems in the 1960s, ranking 5th in the nation for per-pupil spending.
- Inequities in the property tax-based school funding system led to the 1971 Serrano v. Priest ruling, which deemed the system unconstitutional and initiated a shift in funding models.
- Proposition 13, passed in 1978, capped property taxes and drastically reduced local property tax revenue, causing a significant decline in school funding and leading to state-level control of school finances.
- California's national education funding rank dropped from 5th in 1965 to 47th by 2011, reflecting decades of underfunding.
- Billionaire philanthropists like Bill Gates, Eli Broad, and Reed Hastings invested heavily in charter schools, promoting privatization and competition in public education, which led to mixed outcomes and further fragmentation of the education system.
- Poverty remains a major factor affecting educational outcomes in California, exacerbated by the historical reliance on property taxes for school funding.
- The Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), implemented in 2013, aimed to address funding inequities by providing more resources to high-poverty districts, leading to gradual improvement in California's education funding rankings.
- Despite nominal increases in per-pupil spending and teacher salaries, California's cost of living and inflation reduce the real impact of these improvements.
- California's education funding still lags behind its economic capacity, with the state spending less per student than New York despite having the 4th largest GDP in the world.
- Upcoming November 2026 ballot measures, including the "Save Prop 13" initiative and Initiative 1983, could significantly impact school funding by restricting revenue generation through property taxes and local special taxes.
- The Education Law Center's "Making the Grade 2025" report highlights California's progressive funding distribution but criticizes its overall funding effort relative to its wealth. The national trend in school funding equity is also deteriorating.
- The article concludes that California's historical and ongoing choices reflect a failure to prioritize investment in its children and their education, despite the state's significant economic resources.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 6, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01276263649.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of current global, political, educational, technological, and social issues as of May 6, 2026. Key topics include escalating U.S.-Iran tensions, economic challenges, education reforms, AI integration in schools, and the state of public education. It highlights the effects of these issues on energy markets, geopolitics, education equity, and societal inequalities while emphasizing the need for ethical governance and support for educators and students.
### Key Points
- Teachers are assigning in-class writing tasks to prevent AI-generated essays and are focusing on personal reflections to enhance critical-thinking skills.
- The UNESCO report "An Ed-Tech Tragedy?" critiques the over-reliance on education technology during the pandemic, which has led to inequality, exclusion, and diminished educational quality. It advocates for a humanistic approach to education.
- Parents and activists in NYC opposed the establishment of an AI-focused high school, raising concerns about AI's impact on critical thinking, data privacy, and transparency.
- Attacks on Randi Weingarten, president of AFT, are part of a broader campaign to undermine public education and organized teacher advocacy.
- Sweden and Norway are shifting back to traditional books and banning mobile devices in schools to address declining literacy rates and student focus.
- The Trump administration proposed $12 billion in education cuts, promoting privatization and school choice, which critics argue exacerbate educational inequities.
- AI-driven education systems are criticized for creating a two-tier structure favoring wealthy students, raising ethical concerns about "algorithmic colonialism."
- Parents in Lower Merion Township, Pennsylvania, raised concerns over a mandatory laptop program, citing distractions and lack of control. A petition for a lower-tech alternative was signed by 430 parents.
- Education Secretary Linda McMahon faced criticism for prioritizing workforce preparation over broader educational goals and dismantling the Department of Education.
- Older college students (over 25) bring advantages like self-discipline and life experience but face challenges in retention and graduation rates, requiring tailored institutional support.
- Teacher Tom critiques the notion of a definitive "science of learning," advocating for play-based education and adaptable teaching methods.
- The debate over using excerpts versus whole books in reading instruction continues, with a balanced approach suggested to improve literacy.
- Teachers are combating AI reliance in writing by returning to traditional in-class exercises and focusing on developing writers, not just writing skills.
- Corporate school reform has undermined the teaching profession, emphasizing profits over effective teaching and student learning.
- The Trump administration faces record disapproval ratings due to domestic gas prices and escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 6, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-6-2026.html
Big Education Ape provides a roundup of top news and blog posts from May 6, 2026, covering various topics including education, politics, world affairs, economy, technology, health, and sports. Key stories include the global energy crisis due to the Strait of Hormuz blockade, advancements in education policies like AI integration and foundational skills mandates, and updates on political and economic developments.
### Key Points
- The Strait of Hormuz crisis has led to a surge in gas prices and global energy concerns.
- The U.S. pauses its naval operation in the Strait amid ceasefire talks with Iran; Trump threatens military action if the strait remains closed.
- Education reforms include state-level initiatives for improving literacy and math, AI integration in classrooms, and stricter phone usage policies.
- Global energy markets are reacting to the Iran situation, with oil prices spiking and AI investments driving tech market rallies.
- A rare hantavirus outbreak on a luxury cruise ship is under investigation for potential human-to-human transmission.
- SUNY implements a new AI systemwide policy for research and education.
- Micro-credentials gain global traction as a flexible alternative to traditional degrees, addressing workforce demands in tech and green energy.
- The "RAMageddon" memory chip shortage is driving up electronics prices, with affordable options becoming scarce.
- The U.S. sees a shift in education focus, with governors prioritizing K-12 academic achievement and addressing challenges in higher education funding.
- Political updates include Trump’s continued influence in Midwest primaries, heated California governor debates, and midterm election momentum shifts.
Big Education Ape: THEY'RE AT IT AGAIN: THE NEVER-ENDING RIGHT-WING CRUSADE AGAINST RANDI WEINGARTEN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/theyre-at-it-again-never-ending-right.html
### Key Points
- The article discusses the ongoing attacks on Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), by right-wing media and organizations, accusing her of issues like school closures during the pandemic and political bias.
- The article highlights Weingarten's background as a public school teacher and her advocacy for "community unionism," which seeks to position schools as hubs for democracy, healthcare, and civic life.
- It critiques the right-wing narrative that blames Weingarten for pandemic-era school closures, emphasizing her calls for a science-based approach to reopening schools.
- Conservative groups like the Heritage Foundation accuse Weingarten of using the AFT as a political tool, citing its support for Democratic candidates and activism.
- Weingarten's book, "Why Fascists Fear Teachers," explores the connection between public education and democracy, sparking backlash from right-wing media.
- The article argues that attacks on Weingarten are part of a larger, coordinated campaign to undermine public education and organized teacher advocacy.
- Despite ongoing criticism, Weingarten continues to advocate for public education, labor rights, and democracy, maintaining her influence and the strength of the AFT.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS MAY 5, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01909477851.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of global, political, educational, technological, and social developments as of May 4-5, 2026. Key topics include U.S.-Iran tensions, economic challenges, educational reforms, AI integration in schools, public education privatization, and the erosion of civil rights. It highlights the impacts of these issues on energy markets, global geopolitics, and societal inequalities while emphasizing the need for ethical governance and educational equity.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: MAY 5, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/morning-news-update-may-5-2026.html
Big Education Ape's latest roundup for May 5, 2026, covers a range of topics including escalating Middle East tensions, U.S. domestic politics, education policy updates, and global news highlights. Key stories include U.S.-Iran conflicts in the Strait of Hormuz, new federal student loan regulations, and advancements in AI integration in education and healthcare. Economic concerns focus on oil price volatility and geopolitical impacts on trade. Education reforms and global initiatives, such as Egypt's academic expansion and UNESCO's higher education roadmap, also take center stage.
Big Education Ape: WILL THE REAL CALIFORNIA PROGRESSIVE PLEASE STAND UP? https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/05/will-real-california-progressive-please.html
The article delves into the upcoming California governor's race, highlighting three progressive candidates (Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, and Xavier Becerra) and their platforms, funding sources, and challenges. It warns about the risks of vote-splitting among progressives in California's "jungle primary," which could lead to two Republican candidates advancing to the general election. The piece emphasizes the importance of strategic voting to ensure a progressive victory.
The “Birth Lottery” Shows Your Possible Life Trajectory If You Were Born In A Different Country Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
- The blog provides a wide range of educational resources, including research studies, instructional strategies, and weekly round-ups on education policy.
- Highlights include resources for Social Studies, English Language Teaching, Math, Science, and strategies for student motivation and engagement.
- Special posts focus on events like Mother’s Day, Star Wars Day, and the 250th Anniversary of the U.S., offering themed educational materials.
- The author shares personal experiences, such as volunteering as a tutor in a juvenile facility, and insights from their published books on education.
- The blog features additional content like videos, webinars, and a radio show aimed at supporting educators and parents.
Union Matters Exercises in Ageism from Unity Caucus Much Ado About Delegates ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/exercises-in-ageism-from-unity-caucus
- The Unity Caucus is criticized for marginalizing retirees, imposing health cuts, additional fees, and making it difficult to claim reimbursements.
- Unity Caucus is accused of manipulating union elections and ignoring retirees' voices, with allegations of ageism and undemocratic practices.
- Unity allegedly shows favoritism to its members, with claims of replacing delegates without elections and ignoring others’ input.
- Allegations of unprofessional and disrespectful behavior by Unity members, including a misogynistic incident involving Amy Arundell, are highlighted.
- The article criticizes Michael Mulgrew and Unity’s leadership for prioritizing their own agenda over retirees' needs, including opposing legislative efforts that could benefit retirees.
- The author calls for retirees to unite, build a strong platform, and oppose Unity Caucus to reclaim their rights and secure better representation.
NAEP 2026: The Politics of Testing "Despite the best of intentions, however, in practice, reading assessments sometimes negatively impact students and their learning opportunities." Forzani, et al. (2022) PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/naep-2026-the-politics-of-testing
### Key Points
- Reading assessments, including NAEP, can unintentionally harm students, especially those from marginalized groups, due to biases in tests or misrepresentation of results.
- NAEP was originally designed as a low-stakes, curriculum-independent survey to track achievement trends without consequences for individuals or institutions.
- Over time, NAEP has evolved to include reading comprehension scores, but its achievement levels, especially "proficient," are often misunderstood and misrepresented, fueling claims of a "reading crisis."
- Media and political rhetoric have misused NAEP results to highlight a reading crisis, leading to policy changes that often do not improve educational outcomes but benefit publishers and other stakeholders.
- The 2026 NAEP Reading Framework revision process faced significant political interference, with opposition from a small, vocal minority of the Board and external conservative critics, compromising its development.
- Efforts to make the test more equitable and reflective of dynamic and multifaceted reading skills were overshadowed by political and ideological struggles.
- Standardized testing in the U.S. prioritizes political and market interests over addressing the actual educational needs of students.
TISA and Tennessee’s Race to the Bottom – Tennessee Education Report https://tnedreport.com/2026/05/tisa-and-tennessees-race-to-the-bottom/
- Tennessee ranks last in the U.S. for school funding, with a 10% decrease in investment since the 2023-24 school year.
- Teacher pay in Tennessee is lower than neighboring states and has declined by 6.5% in real dollars over the past decade.
- Governor Bill Lee's administration prioritized a $300 million expansion of private school voucher programs over public school funding, benefiting wealthier families at the expense of public education.
- The article criticizes Governor Lee's education legacy, highlighting reduced public school investment and declining teacher morale.
glen brown: America's $39 trillion debt https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/05/americas-39-trillion-debt.html
### Key Points
- The U.S. has accumulated $39 trillion in debt due to wars, corporate bailouts, tax cuts, and an inefficient healthcare system.
- Comparison of the U.S. to countries like Mexico, Brazil, and China, highlighting their success in implementing social programs and infrastructure development.
- Criticism of the U.S. for prioritizing socialism for corporations and the wealthy while neglecting public welfare programs.
- Reflection on the writer's experience overhearing a conversation about capitalism and socialism at an airport.
Schools Matter: RETRACTION NOTICE: Peer-Reviewed Article on AI Learning Benefits Found to Be Bullshit http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/05/retraction-notice-peer-reviewed-article.html
- The article discusses the retraction of a paper titled "The effect of ChatGPT on students’ learning performance, learning perception, and higher-order thinking: insights from a meta-analysis," originally published on May 6, 2025, in *Humanities and Social Sciences Communications*. The retraction is due to discrepancies in the meta-analysis, which undermined the validity of the findings.
- The authors, Jin Wang and Wenxiang Fan, did not respond to correspondence regarding the retraction.
- The article is published under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License, allowing non-commercial use, sharing, and reproduction with proper credit, but prohibits modifications.
- Readers are informed about the rights and permissions associated with the article, including the need to obtain permission for certain uses not covered under the Creative Commons license.
- The retraction note was published online on April 22, 2026, and the DOI for the retraction is provided for reference.
SPI Tony Thurmond Hosts Literacy Leadership Summit - Year 2026 (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr26/yr26rel27.asp
- State Superintendent Tony Thurmond hosted a Literacy Leadership Summit to discuss achieving California's five-year literacy plan, aiming for all children to read by third grade and achieve biliteracy.
- The plan proposes a $1.5 billion investment over five years, building on the $1.2 billion already committed since 2019, which has led to the highest single-year increase in literacy rates since 2015.
- Key strategies of the plan include specialized professional learning, high-impact tutoring, family engagement in literacy, dyslexia screening, and mandatory kindergarten attendance (AB 1631).
- The initiative aligns with expanding the California Community Schools Partnership Program to provide students and families with access to essential resources.
- The summit emphasized the need for consistent focus and collaboration between educational and philanthropic partners to implement and fund the literacy plan effectively.
USDA Grants to Support Farm to School - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/usdagrantf2s.asp
- The USDA announced three grant opportunities to support Farm to School initiatives, available for school districts with a required 25% cash or in-kind contribution.
- The Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP) provides $13.84 million to support local and regional food business enterprises, such as food hubs and shared-use kitchens.
- The Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) offers $13.84 million to develop and expand direct producer-to-consumer markets, including farmers markets and agritourism activities.
- The Regional Food Systems Partnerships (RFSP) grant, with $4.71 million in funding, supports partnerships between local producers, processors, and institutional food services.
- Applications for these grants are available on Grants.gov and are due by June 5, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.
- The USDA provides equal opportunity for all applicants.
- Additional resources on Farm to School initiatives and child nutrition programs are available, including funding opportunities and compliance guidelines.
- Related updates include the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, KIT and R&R Grants, and regulatory updates on Fluid Milk Substitutions in School Nutrition Programs.
Updated Resources Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/wholemilkhealthykids.asp
The article discusses updates and resources related to the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, changes in fluid milk requirements for school nutrition programs, and highlights other nutrition-related initiatives and grants by the California Department of Education (CDE).
- The CDE updated resources to comply with the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, including management bulletins and forms related to fluid milk substitutions and dietary accommodations.
- The updates clarify fluid milk requirements in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program, including meal patterns and milk substitutes.
- Information about federal grants supporting farm-to-school programs and updates on KIT and R&R grants are shared.
- The CDE provides various resources, including guidelines for dietary needs, nutrition programs, and compliance support for schools.
Teacher Tom: Heartbreak is Part of Both Friendship and Freedom https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/05/heartbreak-is-part-of-both-friendship.html
### Key Points
- The English word "free" originates from the same root as "friend," emphasizing the connection between freedom and friendship.
- Early childhood education should prioritize creating a loving, safe environment that encourages free play and fosters friendships.
- Even socially adept children experience rejection in friendship, highlighting that social rejection is a universal experience.
- Practical advice for children on making friends includes engaging directly in play rather than asking for permission.
- The concept of freedom in friendship includes the ability to commit and de-commit, reflecting the evolving nature of early friendships.
- Early friendships are built on informal, unspoken agreements and teach children about boundaries, emotional resilience, and reconciliation.
- A child's ability to form and navigate friendships often stems from practice and learning through experiences, including heartbreak.
- Boundaries are essential in friendships, as they help protect emotional well-being and allow for healthy relationships.
CURMUDGUCATION: For Retiring Teachers https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2026/05/for-retiring-teachers.html
### Key Points
- Celebrate your retirement with a memorable farewell, despite any hesitation or guilt.
- Engage in meaningful projects or activities to keep your mind active post-retirement.
- Adjust to the slower pace and new rhythm of retiree life compared to the fast-paced teacher schedule.
- Social dynamics change after retirement; deliberate effort is needed to maintain relationships.
- Share your wealth of teaching experience and knowledge with others or organizations.
- Reflect on the teaching profession: cherish its rewarding aspects while leaving behind bureaucracy and compliance culture.
How are teachers reckoning with AI in schools? Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Teachers in Aurora Public Schools, Colorado, are ambivalent about AI; they appreciate its potential to reduce workload but are concerned about its impact on the social aspects of teaching.
- AI's integration into schools can widen educational disparities, as affluent schools are better equipped to incorporate technology effectively.
- Teachers use AI to prevent burnout and for multilingual support, but worry about their professional identity and how students perceive AI use.
- Professional development and institutional support are crucial for effective AI integration in schools.
- A study in Qatar found that boys are more confident and perform better in AI classes than girls, highlighting the need for schools to help girls master AI.
- Older college students who work full-time have advantages such as self-discipline, but part-time status negatively impacts academic success.
- Schools need strategies to support nontraditional students, focusing on their strengths and offering flexible support options.
Paul Thomas: Misunderstanding and Misapplying "No Zero" Policies (and Why They Are Good) | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/misunderstanding
- The article discusses the controversy surrounding "no zero" grading policies, which eliminate the practice of assigning a grade of zero for incomplete or missing assignments.
- Opponents of "no zero" policies argue that they promote laziness and fail to prepare students for real-world challenges, as they believe it diminishes the accountability and accuracy of grades.
- The article highlights the statistical flaws in traditional grading systems, particularly the inequity of the 100-point scale, where the F range disproportionately affects overall grades compared to other grade ranges.
- Advocates for "no zero" policies argue that grades should be viewed as tools for feedback and learning rather than rewards or punishments. They emphasize the importance of requiring students to complete assignments with opportunities for revision.
- Research findings show that minimum grading policies can lead to higher student engagement, better test scores, and increased graduation rates, as they prevent students from becoming demoralized early in the term.
- The article critiques strict adherence to deadlines, noting that real-world deadlines are often flexible and that overly rigid enforcement can lead to stress and burnout.
Keeange at Haymarket!! | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2026/05/06/keeange-at-haymarket/
- A conversation event titled "Where Do We Go From Here?" featuring Bill Ayers and Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor will take place from May 15 to May 19, 2026, at Haymarket House in Chicago.
- Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor is a prominent scholar, author, and activist, known for her works including "From #BlackLivesMatter to Black Liberation," "Race for Profit," and the updated edition of "How We Get Free." She has received numerous accolades, including a MacArthur Fellowship.
- Bill Ayers, a retired professor from the University of Illinois at Chicago, is an author and activist whose work focuses on social justice, education, and democracy. His notable books include "Fugitive Days," "Teaching Toward Freedom," and "Demand the Impossible!"
- The event is hosted by Haymarket Books, which encourages solidarity donations to support their publishing and programming efforts.
Choosing Democracy: California Governor's Race https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/05/california-governors-race.html
- The California Governor's race is highly competitive, with Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra tied in polls with MAGA-backed Republican Steve Hilton, while another Republican, Chad Bianco, is close behind.
- Becerra warns that losing momentum before the primary could lead to both Republican candidates advancing to the general election, potentially locking Democrats out of the Governor's office.
- A Republican victory could result in policies that cut benefits for working families and align with Donald Trump's agenda.
- The blog post was shared on multiple platforms and includes labels such as "Becerra," "California," "elections," and "Governor."
- Polling data shows Becerra and Hilton tied at 18%, with Bianco at 14%.
Mike Klonsky's Edu/Pol Pressure builds for an end to the war. The U.S. is taking big political and military hits. Lindsey Graham’s gun-running regime-change fantasy MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/pressure-builds-for-an-end-to-the
### Key Points
- The U.S. faces military and political challenges in the war with Iran, leading Trump to pause "Project Freedom."
- Iran's attacks have damaged U.S. military structures and disrupted shipping routes in the Persian Gulf.
- China is pushing for a ceasefire and negotiated resolution, citing international law and Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy.
- Senator Lindsey Graham's suggestion to arm Iranian citizens for regime change has been criticized, referencing past failed attempts.
- The U.S. is the largest global arms exporter, raising questions about the role of weaponry in promoting democracy.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Based on the latest reports for Thursday, May 7, 2026, the news cycle is dominated by a potential ceasefire in the Middle East, domestic primary results, and significant federal funding freezes.
Top 10 Trump News Stories: May 7, 2026
Iran War "Pause": President Trump has officially paused "Operation Project Freedom" in the Strait of Hormuz, citing "great progress" toward a final deal with Tehran.
Iran Negotiations: In a phone interview with PBS, the President expressed optimism about a deal that could involve Iran exporting highly enriched uranium to the U.S., though he warned he would "resume bombing" if talks fail.
Education Funding Freeze: The administration is under fire after reports revealed the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is withholding over $2 billion in congressionally approved education grants for K-12 and higher education programs.
Midterm Primary Results: Trump-backed candidates saw significant victories in Indiana and Ohio yesterday, unseating several GOP incumbents and reinforcing the President's influence over the party ahead of the November midterms.
White House Ballroom Controversy: Senate Republicans have tucked $1 billion for a new White House ballroom and security upgrades into a recent immigration enforcement package, sparking a heated debate over federal spending priorities.
Approval Rating Polls: A new NPR/PBS/Marist poll shows the President’s approval rating remains in the high 30s, with 60% of Americans disapproving of his handling of the conflict with Iran.
Vatican Tensions: A "feud" has reportedly reignited between the President and the Pope just ahead of Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s scheduled visit to the Vatican.
Gas Prices & Economy: Dissatisfaction with the economy is rising as gasoline prices have surged nearly 50% since the start of the Iran conflict; the President has largely blamed the conflict for the spike.
China Trip Announcement: The White House confirmed the President is planning a high-stakes trip to China next week, with hopes that a Middle East deal can be finalized before his departure.
Trade War Escalation: The administration is moving forward with plans to hike tariffs on European Union luxury cars to 25%, a move experts warn will hit the high-end automotive market hardest.
Note: Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized today that while the "offensive stage" of the military operation is over, the U.S. continues to maintain a "security dome" over the Strait of Hormuz until a formal agreement is signed.
