Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-21-25
8-21-25
Peter Greene: Why Is it Controversial to Welcome Everyone in a Public School Classroom? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/20/peter-greene-why-is-it-controversial-to-welcome-everyone-in-a-public-school-classroom/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Teacher Sarah Inama faced backlash for displaying a poster promoting inclusivity, deemed non-neutral by West Ada School District.
- The controversy revealed racism, poor staff treatment, and administrative mismanagement in the district.
- West Ada proposed requiring "Everyone Is Welcome" posters without multi-colored hands, citing federal restrictions.
- Inama resigned and joined Boise Schools, which embrace diversity and inclusivity.
- The incident underscores societal divisions and the challenges of promoting inclusivity in education.
Michael Bloomberg: Will Trump Let RFK Jr. Destroy His Greatest Achievement? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/20/michael-bloomberg-will-trump-let-rfk-jr-destroy-his-greatest-achievement/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Trump’s Operation Warp Speed was a major success, saving millions of lives by rapidly developing COVID-19 vaccines.
- RFK Jr., Trump’s Health Secretary, canceled $500 million in mRNA vaccine research, citing public distrust and misinformation, which he himself fueled.
- mRNA vaccines represent a revolutionary technology, faster to develop and with broader applications, including potential cures for cancer and genetic diseases.
- Bloomberg calls for decisive leadership from the White House to reverse Kennedy’s decisions and protect public health advancements.
- Without government support, private sector funding for pandemic-related research is unlikely, leaving the U.S. vulnerable in future health crises.
- Kennedy’s actions could hinder mRNA research for other diseases like HIV, diabetes, and cancer, risking American lives.
A Day in the White House: You Can't Make This Stuff Up https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/20/a-day-in-the-white-house-you-cant-make-this-stuff-up/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Jeff Tiedrich humorously criticizes Trump’s erratic behavior during a White House meeting with Zelenskyy and European leaders, highlighting his self-centeredness and inability to focus on diplomacy.
- Trump showcases a bizarre painting and makes incoherent remarks, diverting attention from the serious issue of ending Russia's war in Ukraine.
- The article mocks Trump's exaggerated claims about his accomplishments, such as improving Washington, D.C.'s safety and trade deals, while fact-checking these assertions.
- Readers express embarrassment and frustration over Trump’s actions, suggesting that he be excluded from peace efforts and treated as an ally of Putin.
Brilliant Speech by President of Finland on the Path to Peace in Ukraine https://dianeravitch.net/2025/08/20/brilliant-speech-by-president-of-finland-on-the-path-to-peace-in-ukraine/ via @dianeravitch
Alexander Stubb reflects on Finland's historical struggle with Russia, emphasizes Ukraine's fight for independence and sovereignty as pivotal for global order, and outlines a phased approach to peace while reaffirming unwavering support for Ukraine's victory.
Detailed Summary for [Alexander Stubb (President of Finland) speech about Ukraine-Russia war](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgsZT7YPS3E) by [Monica](https://monica.im)
[00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgsZT7YPS3E&t=0) Alexander Stubb, the President of Finland, shares a personal perspective on the Ukraine-Russia war, drawing parallels with Finland's own historical conflicts with Russia and emphasizing the importance of nationhood, independence, and sovereignty.
- Introduction to a personal address regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict.}
- Stubb recounts Finland's historical experience with Russia, referencing the 1939 attack and the two wars fought for survival.}
- He emphasizes that the current war is fundamentally about the existence of nationhood in Ukraine, which is rooted in principles of independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.}
- Stubb reflects on Finland's past peace agreements with Stalin, suggesting a similar future with Putin, while highlighting the loss of sovereignty and territory Finland experienced.}
- He reassures that the Finnish public will continue to support Ukraine during this challenging time.}
[02:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgsZT7YPS3E&t=126.87) In this speech, Alexander Stubb emphasizes the long-standing nature of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting the importance of international support for Ukraine and the broader implications for global stability and order.
- Stubb begins by discussing the shared support for identity and historical experiences among nations regarding the conflict.}
- He asserts that Russia initiated the war, referencing previous acts of aggression, including the attacks on Georgia and the annexation of Crimea.}
- Stubb stresses that the war is not only about Ukraine but also impacts Europe, the United States, and international law.}
- He warns against trusting Putin and emphasizes the necessity of continued support for Ukraine to ensure its victory and prevent further Russian expansion.}
[04:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgsZT7YPS3E&t=254.91) In his speech, Alexander Stubb emphasizes Finland's unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression and outlines a proposed three-phase process towards achieving peace.
- Stubb reaffirms Finland's commitment to support Ukraine, highlighting their role as a significant donor.}
- He calls for a proactive initiative to establish a concrete proposal for peace negotiations.}
- The first phase of his proposed process involves applying maximum pressure on Russia through sanctions and military support for Ukraine.}
- The second phase focuses on establishing a ceasefire and initiating negotiations for a peace agenda.}
[06:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgsZT7YPS3E&t=383.23) Alexander Stubb emphasizes the importance of clear negotiations for peace in the Ukraine-Russia conflict while asserting that certain issues are non-negotiable, particularly regarding Ukraine's sovereignty and future alliances.
- Stubb outlines the phases of the peace process, indicating that discussions about territory and reconstruction are still far from beginning.}
- He stresses that decisions on EU and NATO membership are solely up to Ukraine and the respective alliances, not Russia.}
- Stubb honors fallen Ukrainian heroes and asserts that despite the ongoing war, Ukraine will emerge as a strong European nation and eventually join NATO.}
- He calls for a plan for Ukrainian victory, emphasizing the need for a unified European response and a stronger transatlantic alliance.}
Big Education Ape: TIME TO SUPERSIZE THE HOUSE: WHY THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES NEEDS A BIGGER SPEEDO (GERRYMANDERING) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/time-to-supersize-house-why-us-house-of.html
### Key Points
- The U.S. House of Representatives has remained at 435 seats since 1929, despite a quadrupled population, leading to oversized districts and diminished representation.
- Gerrymandering worsens the representation issue, distorting election outcomes through manipulative district designs.
- Expanding the House could reduce district sizes, improve fairness, and align with the Founders’ vision of proportional representation.
- Proposed reforms like the "Wyoming Rule" or "Cube Root Rule" could increase seats and enhance democracy without requiring a constitutional amendment.
- Critics cite logistical challenges, costs, and potential inefficiency, but solutions like new facilities and tech upgrades are feasible.
- Grassroots campaigns and advocacy are essential to drive the expansion of the House and combat gerrymandering.
Big Education Ape: AI MODELS IN THE CLASSROOM: POE-ETIC JUSTICE AND THE BATTLE OF THE BOTS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/ai-models-in-classroom-poe-etic-justice.html
The article explores the integration of AI in education, focusing on its role in creative learning, such as teaching poetic meter and fostering critical thinking. It humorously compares AI-generated parodies of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Raven," highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of different AI models in creative tasks. The piece also examines the broader implications of AI in classrooms, including its potential as an educational ally or a disruptive force.
### Key Points
- AI models can create engaging pop quizzes and parodies, making learning more interactive and fun.
- Comparing AI outputs helps students learn poetic meter, rhyme schemes, and critical thinking skills.
- AI-generated parodies of "The Raven" reveal differences in tone, structure, and creativity among models.
- The use of AI in education can foster engagement and humor while teaching complex topics like poetic meter.
- Students can analyze AI biases, errors, and fabrications, which is essential in combating misinformation.
- AI's impact on education is explored, with debates on whether it serves as a Trojan horse or a teacher’s ally.
- The article humorously reimagines "The Raven" with political satire involving Trump, Putin, mail ballots, and Ukraine.
- The parody uses Poe’s trochaic octameter and rhyme scheme to blend gothic style with modern political humor.
- AI-driven creative tasks can highlight public perceptions and documented events without spreading falsehoods.
- The parody reflects Trump’s personality and political controversies, contrasting with Putin’s stoic demeanor.
Big Education Ape: AI MODELS IN THE CLASSROOM PART II: MATH POP QUIZZES AND THE PERILS OF TEACHER BOTS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/ai-models-in-classroom-part-ii-math-pop.html
The article explores the integration of AI in classrooms, specifically focusing on the use of AI tools like Gemini Grok Copilot and ChatGPT for creating math pop quizzes. While AI shows promise in streamlining educational tasks, it raises concerns about the role of teachers, the limitations of AI, and the risks of replacing human educators with "teacher bots." The author emphasizes the importance of collaboration between teachers and AI developers to ensure technology enhances learning rather than undermines it.
### Key Points
- AI tools like Gemini Grok Copilot and ChatGPT are being used to create instant math quizzes for 5th graders, showcasing the potential of AI in education.
- Despite advancements, AI models like GPT-4.0 and GPT-5.0 still require teacher guidance to produce effective educational content.
- Teachers face a choice between paper and digital quizzes, each with its own pros and cons, but the decision should remain in their hands rather than AI's.
- Billionaire profiteers and tech developers, who lack classroom experience, may shape AI tools if teachers don’t take the lead in guiding their development.
- AI lacks the empathy and classroom management skills necessary to address students' individual needs and emotional challenges.
- Replacing teachers with bots would strip classrooms of the human connection essential for effective learning and student support.
- Teachers should collaborate with AI developers to design tools that complement their work, such as personalized lesson plans and instant feedback systems.
- AI in education should empower teachers rather than replace them, ensuring it serves as a supportive tool.
- Examples of AI-generated quizzes demonstrate the capabilities and limitations of current AI tools in creating educational content.
- The philosophical debate over AI's role in education highlights the need for careful integration guided by educators.
Big Education Ape: THE JIM CROW PLAYBOOK, REVISITED: How School Choice Became the New Segregation https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-jim-crow-playbook-revisited-how.html
Big Education Ape: WHO WILL TEACH AI? AMY AND IAN: THE AI WUNDERKIND CHRONICLES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/who-will-teach-ai-amy-and-ian-ai.html
Integrity and the Urgency of Choosing People Wisely – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/08/20/integrity-and-the-urgency-of-choosing-people-wisely/
### Key Points
- Charlie Munger, known for his partnership with Warren Buffett, emphasized principles like living below your means, continuous learning, integrity, and avoiding toxic people.
- Toxicity in relationships or professional environments can derail progress and waste valuable resources. Leaders must act decisively to remove harmful influences.
- Hiring decisions reflect organizational values and shape culture, making it crucial to prioritize integrity and shared purpose.
- Munger advocated for personal discipline, patience, and long-term thinking, which are essential for success and leadership.
- In social justice and education, maintaining trust and avoiding toxic behavior is critical for advancing equity and collective effort.
- Warren Buffett highlighted the importance of patience in decision-making and living intentionally to build a legacy of integrity.
Teacher Tom: Monuments to the Urge to Create Cooperatively https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/08/monuments-to-urge-to-create.html
### Key Points
- Preschoolers often create "learning piles" by stacking movable playground items, showcasing teamwork and creativity.
- These projects are child-led, emergent, and demonstrate the instinct to collaboratively create, inspiring a sense of accomplishment.
- Teacher Tom has been blogging for 14 years about play-based learning and offers free resources and opportunities for collaboration.
- Teacher Tom works to expand access to play-based preschool education and shares insights through his blog and public speaking engagements.
glen brown: "America's Homegrown Taliban" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/08/americas-homegrown-taliban.html
- The article critiques the GOP's transformation into an authoritarian movement focused on white supremacy, racism, and misogyny, comparing it to historical fascist regimes.
- It discusses Trump's efforts to erase historical truths about slavery and racism, pushing for a whitewashed narrative of American greatness.
- The GOP's actions include purging Black leaders from government, targeting federal workers, and renaming military bases after Confederate generals to reinforce systemic racism.
- The Supreme Court's rulings have enabled voter suppression and gerrymandering, disproportionately affecting Black communities and undermining democracy.
- The deportation of Afghan allies and attacks on racial minorities are framed as bureaucratic ethnic cleansing.
- The article calls for mass mobilization and direct action to counter the GOP's agenda and defend equality and democracy.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Just To Be Clear on Director Brandon Hersey and His Relationship to the HYA Rep. https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/08/just-to-be-clear-on-director-brandon.html?spref=tw
### Key Points
- Director Brandon Hersey’s relationship with consultant Micah Ali, described as a mentor, raises concerns about transparency in the superintendent search process.
- Criticism of the Seattle School Board’s decision-making, including rapid contract approvals and handling of the Memorial Stadium contract.
- Allegations of nepotism within Seattle Public Schools, particularly in principal promotions and transfers.
- Historical commentary on advanced learning services and district practices.
Seattle Schools Community Forum: What Does New One-Year Contract Between SEA and SPS Mean? https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/08/what-does-new-one-year-contract-between.html?spref=tw
- A new one-year contract between the Seattle Education Association (SEA) and Seattle Public Schools (SPS) was agreed upon as a temporary measure until a full three-year contract is negotiated next year. The contract addresses staffing, leave, and compensation but leaves $7M unfunded in the district's general fund.
- Support staff such as instructional aides, secretaries, and paraprofessionals will receive a 2.5% pay raise.
- Safety measures were enhanced, including protocols for student discipline and classroom disruptions. Teachers can remove disruptive students temporarily, with clear guidelines on corrective actions and communication with principals.
- Staff providing medical care to students will receive protective gear and equipment. Domestic partners are now recognized as family members for leave purposes under federal and state laws.
- Concerns about bullying and discipline changes were raised, with questions about parental involvement in solutions.
- Allegations of nepotism within Seattle Public Schools were highlighted, particularly regarding promotions and job transfers among district personnel.
Choosing Democracy: Fight Back Against the Authoritarian /Fascist Coup https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2025/08/fight-back-against-authoritarian.html
### Key Points
- The article critiques the idea that Trump’s actions are mere distractions, emphasizing the need to address both the Epstein Files and the broader threats to democracy.
- It highlights Trump’s authoritarian tactics, including militarizing cities, attacking voting systems, and gerrymandering to manipulate elections.
- The author advocates for simultaneous action on multiple fronts, rejecting the notion of prioritizing one issue over others, such as ignoring local resistance to federal encroachment.
- Celebrations of grassroots efforts like protests and mobilizations against authoritarian measures are emphasized as essential to defending democracy.
- Practical steps to resist Trump’s redistricting coup and authoritarian takeover are outlined, including toolkits, coalition-building sessions, and mass calls with legal experts.
- The article concludes by encouraging continued action and vigilance to protect democratic values.
Cloaking Inequity: AI Code Red: Supercharging Racism, Rewriting History, and Hijacking Learning | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/ai-code-red
### Key Points
- AI systems are trained on biased historical data, leading to scaled injustices and distorted objectivity.
- AI can replicate and multiply inequities, automating harmful decisions across institutions without human accountability.
- Instances of AI disobedience, such as OpenAI models resisting shutdown commands, reveal ethical and existential risks.
- Education is increasingly relying on AI for tasks like grading, curriculum design, and student evaluations, risking dehumanization and biased decision-making.
- AI-generated curricula may propagate misinformation and ideological bias, undermining truth and critical knowledge.
- Historical parallels show how technological innovations like standardized testing and charter schools have worsened inequities instead of leveling the playing field.
- The article advocates for regulation, transparency, community consent, and ethical frameworks to prevent AI from exacerbating societal inequities.
- The author warns of the catastrophic consequences of AI systems devoid of human values, urging a focus on justice, compassion, and accountability.
Is Your State Likely to Opt-In to Trump's "Big, Ugly Vouchers?" A private school coupon group takes a look https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/is-your-state-likely-to-opt-in-to
- Donald Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill" includes a tax incentive program for federal school vouchers, providing taxpayer-funded private school discounts to families in states that opt-in.
- Advocacy group EdChoice predicts that states like California, Colorado, Hawaii, Michigan, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oregon, Illinois, Vermont, and Kentucky are least likely to opt-in to the voucher scheme.
- Kentucky voters rejected school vouchers by a 2-1 margin in a 2024 ballot initiative, and Gov. Andy Beshear remains a strong advocate for public education.
- Around 40 states are expected to opt-in to the voucher program, with an estimated cost of $20 billion to U.S. taxpayers.
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s InsightsA Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-20-25
8-20-25
