Monday, February 23, 2026

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS FEBRUARY 23, 2026

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

FEBRUARY 23, 2026

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U.S. News

Secret Service fatally shoots armed intruder at Mar-a-Lago — An armed man breached the perimeter of President Trump's Florida residence (while he was in Washington), leading to a fatal shooting by agents; this has heightened security discussions around high-profile sites.
Major winter storm impacts multiple regions — Blizzard conditions and heavy snow are affecting the Northeast (including travel restrictions in New Jersey), Nova Scotia, and other areas, with states of emergency declared.
NASA's Artemis II moon mission faces setback — Technical issues have emerged, potentially delaying the first manned lunar mission in decades.
Mexican cartel leader 'El Mencho' killed by forces — Leading to violence, flight cancellations, and U.S./Canada travel warnings for parts of Mexico.

Politics

Trump plans to raise global tariffs to 15% after Supreme Court ruling — Following a court decision limiting some of his prior import taxes (via IEEPA), the president announced intentions to increase tariffs using alternative authorities, sparking economic debates.
U.S.-Iran nuclear talks progress — Further rounds are set in Geneva, with indications Tehran may offer concessions on uranium stockpiles amid ongoing protests in Iran.
Ongoing administration focus on foreign policy shifts — Reports highlight deinstitutionalization at State Department/NSC and pushes on issues like Ukraine peace terms tied to Russian assets.

World Affairs

Pakistan airstrikes on Afghan territory condemned — India and others criticized strikes causing civilian casualties; tensions rise along the border.
EU Foreign Affairs Council discusses Ukraine and Middle East — Ministers address Russia's war, Gaza/West Bank developments, and potential Iran angles.
Violence in Mexico after cartel boss killing — U.S. and Canada issue shelter-in-place advisories amid roadblocks and disruptions.
South Korea urges removal of Russian embassy's 'Victory' banner — Tied to the approaching anniversary of the Ukraine invasion.

Education

Maharashtra HSC Chemistry paper incident — Police arrests after the question paper circulated on WhatsApp before the exam; board clarifies no full leak or re-exam needed.
Delhi launches online admissions portal for EWS/DG/CWSN — For entry-level spots in private schools for 2026-27.
Broader K-12 trends — Discussions on teachers navigating America's 250th anniversary lessons and preschoolers' screen vs. book familiarity.

Economy

Trump tariff hike to 15% raises global growth concerns — Oil prices slide, markets react to potential trade frictions; Fed NY report notes Americans bear costs of prior tariffs.
Supreme Court tariff ruling impacts — Seen as easing some drags but risking U.S. fiscal credibility; gold rises, shares fluctuate.
U.S. economy resilient despite headwinds — Reports note growth entering 2026, with upcoming data like GDP, PCE, and PPI in focus.

Technology

Taiwan's AI boom continues — Economy surges on chip demand (e.g., TSMC, Nvidia ties), despite bubble fears and China tensions; new U.S. trade deal cuts some tariffs.
Singapore university eVTOL demonstrator tests — Subscale electric vertical-takeoff vehicle advances toward full-scale certification by 2030.
AI opportunities highlighted — Billionaire Kevin O'Leary emphasizes job-creating potential beyond layoffs; events like Technology for Change Asia 2026 focus on practical AI scaling.

Health

FDA Rare Disease Day public meeting — Virtual event emphasizes patient engagement, AI in rare disease product development, and FDA initiatives.
U.S. global health shifts — Finalized WHO withdrawal, partial government shutdown ends with funding stability for CDC/NIH, but fetal tissue research ban announced.
Value-based care discussions — PTAC meeting on multi-payer alignment in payment models.

Sports

Lakers unveil Pat Riley statue — Ceremony honors the "Showtime" era coach, placed alongside Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
NBA matchups — Houston Rockets vs. Utah Jazz (Rockets heavy favorites); other games like Trail Blazers at Suns.
College basketball — Kansas State at Baylor in Big 12 action.
T20 World Cup buzz — India vs. South Africa discussions, potential semi-final venue issues for India.

These reflect the most recurring and prominent stories across sources today—events are fast-moving, so check live updates for developments!

Big Education Ape: THE GREAT AI EXPERIMENT: WHEN 88 NATIONS DECIDED TO PUT GUARDRAILS ON THE WORLD'S BIGGEST SCIENCE FAIR (AI IMPACT SUMMIT DECLARATION) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/the-great-ai-experiment-when-88-nations.html

The article discusses the , signed by 88 countries and international organizations in February 2026. This declaration aims to establish ethical guidelines and guardrails for the development and use of AI, particularly to protect children from exploitation and harm. It emphasizes the need for , transparency, and accountability in AI systems, with a focus on education, child safety, and global collaboration. The declaration also outlines a framework called MANAV, which prioritizes the moral and ethical use of AI, especially in the context of children.

### Key Points

- The New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact, signed by 88 countries, aims to regulate AI development and protect children from being used as data points.

- The declaration emphasizes that humans should not be reduced to mere data points and introduces the for ethical AI use.

- Seven "Chakras" or pillars outline principles such as democratizing AI resources, ensuring human-centric development, and promoting education and accountability in AI usage.

- Specific measures include process-based assessment in education, an "" for , and a Responsibility Pledge for students to use AI responsibly.

- Protective layers for children include family-guided AI use, content authenticity through watermarks and takedown rules, and banning social media for children under 15 in some countries.

- The declaration introduces the SATHEE platform for AI-led education and emphasizes bilingual education and hyper-personalized learning.

- Global tech companies have committed to publishing real-world AI usage data and testing models across diverse languages and cultures.

- The "" initiative aims to secure the physical supply chain for AI development, focusing on critical minerals, chipmaking, and trusted geographic partnerships.

- The declaration is ambitious but faces challenges in enforceability and closing the "." It represents a global effort to ensure AI development is ethical and inclusive.

Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/looking-back-week-in-review-sunday_0264616117.html

The article also reflects on significant weekly news stories, the role of , and activism, including the and teacher advocacy groups.

### Key Points

- Discussions about AI advancements, such as "killer robots," and their societal implications.

- Reflections on public education advocacy, including critiques of privatization and support for teacher-led movements.

- Coverage of recent news stories, including education strikes, political decisions, and global issues.

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS FEBRUARY 22, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0584573511.html

The article provides a comprehensive roundup of various topics, including global and U.S. political developments, education reforms, technological advancements, health research, and sports updates. Key highlights include the 's ruling against Trump's tariffs, geopolitical tensions with Iran, advancements in , and significant changes in education policies, among other issues.

### Key Points

- , emphasizing that only Congress has the authority to impose taxes.

- Trump announced a new following the court ruling, invoking .

- Major U.S. business associations are demanding refunds for the estimated $134 billion collected through the now-invalidated tariffs.

- The U.S. military is considering limited strikes on Iran due to rising tensions, with carrier groups positioned in the region.

- Deadly explosions in , are being investigated as terrorist attacks amid ongoing regional instability.

- The development of (LAWS), or "killer robots," by global powers like the U.S., China, and Russia raises ethical, legal, and security concerns. Advocacy groups are pushing for global regulations to address these risks.

- Teachers in the U.S. often lack a voice in decisions regarding classroom technologies, leading to underutilized resources and less effective teaching. Including teachers in decision-making could improve technology integration.

- have reached crisis levels, with high rates of physical violence and psychological harm reported among education workers.

- Adolescent cannabis use is linked to increased risks of mental health issues such as psychosis and bipolar disorders.

- Excessive social media use by college students is associated with feelings of loneliness and mental health struggles.

- U.S. sanctions on Cuba have caused severe economic hardships, including fuel shortages, blackouts, and disruptions to daily life, which some experts criticize as collective punishment violating international law.

- The privatization of public education through charter schools in Stockton, California, has raised concerns about diverting resources from public schools and destabilizing communities.

- , raising concerns about disinformation, vote suppression, and election security risks. Governments and tech companies are urged to collaborate on regulations to safeguard democracy.

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: FEBRUARY 22, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/morning-news-update-february-22-2026.html

The article covers various global topics, including the New Delhi Declaration on AI in education, U.S. government shutdown impacts, escalating Ukraine-Russia tensions, and significant changes in U.S. education loans. Other notable mentions include details, the Supreme Court striking down Trump's tariffs, and .

### Key Points

- The secures a gold medal at the Winter Olympics, 46 years after their historic win.

- 88 nations sign the New Delhi Declaration to promote human-centric AI in education.

- Government shutdown disrupts TSA PreCheck and Global Entry services, affecting travelers nationwide.

- Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, with global calls for peace amid the war's anniversary.

- Pakistan conducts airstrikes on Taliban hideouts in Afghanistan, escalating regional tensions.

- Supreme Court invalidates broad tariffs imposed by Trump, prompting temporary tariff hikes.

- SpaceX, X, and xAI announce a merger ahead of a $1.5 trillion IPO.

- Major changes in , including loan limit increases and new repayment plans.

- Declining in the U.S. raise concerns over polio resurgence.

- Global university rankings show leading, with Chinese institutions closing the innovation gap.

Big Education Ape: SUPREME COURT TARIFF DECISION: PUTTING THE BULLSHIT BACK INTO THE BULL https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/supreme-court-tariff-decision-putting.html

The recently invalidated , ruling 6-3 that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant the president authority to impose taxes unilaterally. The decision emphasized that only Congress has the constitutional power to tax. Trump criticized the justices, including his appointees, while praising dissenters. The ruling could lead to $140-$200 billion in , creating potential fiscal chaos. Trump plans to implement a temporary 10% global tariff under another statute, but legal experts predict further challenges. The case underscores a significant shift in limiting executive power in trade and foreign policy.

### Key Points

- The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 against Trump's tariffs, emphasizing that only Congress can impose taxes.

- The decision invoked the "," limiting executive overreach in significant economic matters.

- Trump criticized the majority decision and proposed a new 10% global tariff under a different statute, which is expected to face legal challenges.

- The ruling may lead to $140-$200 billion in tariff refunds, causing potential fiscal and administrative chaos.

- The case marks a shift in the balance of power, reaffirming congressional authority over taxation and trade policies.

Big Education Ape: I'M SO TARIFFLESS I COULD TWEET https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/im-so-tariffless-i-could-tweet.html

A satirical article discusses the Supreme Court ruling that overturned Trump’s tariffs, humorously portraying Trump’s reaction through a parody song. The piece critiques Trump’s trade policies, his approach to global affairs, and the political implications of the decision. Additionally, the blog highlights various educational, social, and political topics, including physical activity programs for autistic youth, the Middle East tensions, and issues in public education.

Big Education Ape: WTF KILLER ROBOTS: ALMOST READY FOR PRIME TIME (AND YOU THOUGHT THAT ROBOT TEACHERS WERE BAD) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/wtf-killer-robots-ai-warriors-almost.html

The article explores the development and deployment of (LAWS), also known as "," by major global powers like the United States, China, and Russia. It highlights the advancements in , the ethical and legal challenges associated with autonomous weaponry, and the global arms race to develop these systems. The article also discusses the efforts by activists, organizations, and global leaders to regulate or ban these weapons before they become uncontrollable. However, major powers remain resistant to regulation, creating a worrying scenario for global security.

ICYMI: Ice Jam Edition (2/22) PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/icymi-ice-jam-edition-222

This article discusses various educational and societal topics, ranging from policy changes, social issues, and trends affecting schools and communities.

### Key Points

- Ice jams on the Allegheny River made national news, highlighting the importance of infrastructure in preventing disasters.

- Greg Wyman defends public education's role in democracy amidst policy challenges.

- Ohio debates eliminating property taxes, raising concerns about education funding.

- Hempfield School District ends its partnership with a religious rights firm promoting anti-LGBTQ policies.

- Michigan revises sex education policies, drawing federal scrutiny.

- Tennessee considers allowing the Ten Commandments in public schools, sparking controversy.

- Parents opting out of school laptops for pen-and-paper learning might not be a widespread trend.

- Immigration crackdowns impact students and schools in South Carolina.

- Debate over using public funds for religious charter schools continues.

- Research shows high-poverty schools hinder top teachers' performance, emphasizing school context.

- A rural Virginia district uses college mentors to support English learners and reduce dropout rates.

- Diane Ravitch's memoir reviewed, praised for authenticity.

- Tennessee bill proposes tracking immigrant students, raising ethical concerns.

- Letters from children detained at ICE facilities reveal heartbreaking stories.

- Issues with school board elections and governance highlighted.

- Debate on forming a new national reading panel and avoiding past mistakes.

- Annual report on lawmakers supporting children's welfare released.

- Legal debates on Ohio vouchers could lead to their decline.

- University of Texas policy discourages discussion of controversial topics in class.

- Academic paper suggests teacher-centered instruction may mitigate socioeconomic achievement gaps.

- Concerns about the monopolistic practices of Amazon in government procurement.

- Criticism of AI overhype and its implications for education.

- Arizona and Kentucky face legal battles over voucher and charter funding reforms.

How to Write Like a Scholar (and Not Like a Student) Most student behavior is artificial (hand raising to speak, sitting in neat rows, walking in single-file lines) and often dehumanizing (asking permission to go to the bathroom). PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/how-to-write-like-a-scholar-and-not

The article discusses the differences between student writing and , emphasizing the need to transition students away from rigid, artificial, and often ineffective writing practices taught in traditional education. It critiques common student writing habits, such as reliance on templates, excessive quoting, and lack of audience awareness, while advocating for more purposeful, nuanced, and writer-driven approaches to composition.

### Key Points

- Student behavior and writing practices are often artificial and dehumanizing, shaped by rigid educational norms.

- Student writing tends to rely on exaggerated claims, meta-writing, and mechanical essay forms, which detract from clarity and purpose.

- Overuse of quoting and summarizing sources, rather than synthesizing or critically engaging with them, is a hallmark of student writing.

- The 5-paragraph essay format and prescribed structures hinder critical thinking and creativity in writing.

- Students often write for the teacher as their sole audience, rather than developing a broader, more authentic purpose for their essays.

- Issues like long paragraphs, poor word choice, and inappropriate tone are common in student writing, stemming from inadequate instruction and rigid guidelines.

- Improved writing instruction, smaller class sizes, and less emphasis on standardized testing can help students transition to more effective scholarly writing.

glen brown: Win Gold Medal https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/02/usas-mens-hockey-team-win-gold-medal.html

The article highlights the U.S. men's hockey team's historic victory against Canada in the , marking their first gold medal since the 1980 "." The game was a dramatic showdown between two hockey superpowers, with standout performances by , who scored the winning goal in overtime, and Connor Hellebuyck, who made extraordinary saves throughout the match. The rivalry between the U.S. and Canada has been intense, with Canada dominating in past Olympic encounters. The victory was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the U.S. and abroad, showcasing the passion and excitement surrounding this monumental achievement.

### Key Points

- The U.S. men's hockey team won its first Olympic gold medal since 1980 by defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime.

- Jack Hughes scored the decisive overtime goal, while Connor Hellebuyck made 41 saves to keep the U.S. in the game.

- The U.S. and Canada have a long-standing Olympic rivalry, with Canada historically dominating in key matches.

- The victory was celebrated widely, with fans gathering in the U.S. and Milan to watch and cheer for the game.

glen brown: The Week Ahead by Joyce Vance https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/02/the-week-ahead-by-joyce-vance.html

This article is a compilation of various topics and opinions, focusing mainly on political, social, and cultural issues. It includes reflections, news analysis, and personal anecdotes, with a recurring critique of the Trump administration, discussions on social justice, and calls for accountability and civil discourse.

### Key Points

- Writers should remain independent from societal doctrines, focusing on resisting oppression and embracing isolation.

- Criticism of the Trump administration’s handling of elections, the First Amendment, and its influence on the DOJ.

- Discussion on the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in connection with the Epstein Files.

- Insights from interviews with public figures like John Kasich and Nils Lofgren, emphasizing civil discourse and protest through music.

- Analysis of SCOTUS decisions, including the tariffs case, and the importance of understanding legal and political contexts.

- Examination of voter ID laws and their impact, with Stacey Abrams and Joyce Vance highlighting their flaws.

- Reflection on the Minneapolis government’s actions during protests and the importance of remembering victims of state violence.

- Advocacy for accessible and clear legal and political analysis to inform the public about critical issues.

Failure is the Real Test of Character – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/02/22/failure-is-the-real-test-of-character/

Failure is the Real Test of Character explores themes of resilience, courage, and the cultural obsession with early success. The author reflects on a colleague’s emotional testimony about professional struggles and the risks taken in pursuit of equity and justice. The article critiques societal timelines for achievement, emphasizing the importance of patience, integrity, and purpose beyond precocity. It highlights the emotional cost of failure, the inequities of systems that reward mediocrity, and the transformative power of pain and perseverance.

### Key Points

- A colleague shared a testimony about professional struggles, highlighting the emotional cost of courage and the failure of expectations in institutions.

- The cultural obsession with early success, such as "under 40" lists, creates pressure and narrows the definition of excellence, ignoring achievements later in life.

- Early recognition can be meaningful but often creates illusions of security and intensifies expectations, exposing fragility.

- Resilience is earned through challenges and pain, as true growth comes from overcoming adversity rather than intelligence alone.

- Systems that reward mediocrity and fail upwards undermine integrity and erode trust, making courageous work feel dangerous.

- Purpose and legacy are not bound by timelines or recognition; meaning can emerge after setbacks and through perseverance.

block arms shipments to Israel. Back in '68, U.S. longshore workers did the same to stop the war in Vietnam MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/italian-dockworkers-block-arms-shipments

Italian dockworkers have launched a nationwide strike aimed at blocking alleged arms shipments to Israel in solidarity with Palestine. This movement, organized by unions like USB, has expanded to over 20 Mediterranean ports, including actions in Greece, Turkey, Morocco, and Spain. Inspired by historical labor actions, such as the efforts against the Vietnam War, dockworkers aim to disrupt military cargo shipments materially. Historical figures like , an ILWU organizer and anti-war activist, are highlighted as key examples of how labor movements can effectively challenge war efforts.

### Key Points

- Italian dockworkers initiated a nationwide strike to block arms shipments to Israel, extending to over 20 Mediterranean ports in solidarity with Palestine.

- The strike, organized by unions like USB, caused significant disruptions and included widespread demonstrations.

- The actions were linked to the Global Sumud Flotilla, a movement challenging Israel's Gaza blockade and calling for broader labor actions.

- The article draws parallels to the 1968 ILWU longshore workers' efforts to disrupt military cargo during the Vietnam War.

- Archie Brown, a notable ILWU organizer, is highlighted for his anti-war and anti-fascist activism, exemplifying how labor actions can effectively challenge global conflicts.

a Hotbed of Fraud 1 in 5 purchases made with voucher funds deemed "unallowable" ANDY SPEARS https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/arizonas-voucher-scheme-a-hotbed

, known as the , has been revealed to have significant fraud issues. Despite claims by state officials, including Superintendent , that fraud is minimal, recent investigations show otherwise. Reports indicate that one in five transactions using ESA funds are for unallowable purchases, such as luxury goods and non-educational items. Of 385,000 reviewed transactions from late 2022 to 2023, nearly 84,000 were deemed unallowable. This raises concerns about oversight and accountability within the program.

### Key Points

- Investigations reveal that 20% of purchases using Arizona’s ESA voucher funds were for unallowable items, contradicting official claims of minimal fraud.

- Unapproved purchases include luxury goods like diamond rings, smart TVs, and lingerie, violating the ESA Parent Handbook guidelines.

- Despite rules requiring suspension of accounts for misuse, the Arizona Department of Education has allowed spending to continue, relying on risk-based auditing.

- Nearly 84,000 unallowable transactions were identified out of 385,000 reviewed between December 2022 and September 2023, highlighting significant oversight issues.

TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY

Today, February 22, 2026, the news cycle is dominated by a major security breach at Mar-a-Lago and an escalating legal and economic battle over international tariffs.

1. Security Breach at Mar-a-Lago

Early this morning, the Secret Service shot and killed an armed intruder who breached the secure perimeter of President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida.

The Incident: At approximately 1:30 a.m., 21-year-old Austin Tucker Martin of North Carolina drove through a gate as another vehicle was exiting. He was confronted by agents while carrying a shotgun and a gasoline can.
Outcome: Officials stated Martin raised the shotgun toward law enforcement, prompting two Secret Service agents and a sheriff’s deputy to open fire. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Trump's Location: Neither the President nor First Lady Melania Trump were at the resort during the time of the breach; both were at the White House in Washington, D.C.

2. The Tariff Tug-of-War

Following a landmark Supreme Court ruling on Friday that struck down much of the administration's tariff program, President Trump has doubled down with a new strategy.

The 15% Global Levy: On Saturday, Trump announced on Truth Social that he is raising the global import duty to 15%, up from the 10% he initially proposed just hours after the court's decision.
The "Anti-American" Ruling: Trump blasted the 6-3 Supreme Court decision as "ridiculous" and "unpatriotic," specifically targeting justices he previously appointed for their "disloyalty."
Global Reaction: The EU and various trade partners are scrambling to respond. While the administration claims it will honor existing specific deals (like those with the UK), European leaders warned of "poisonous uncertainty" in the global markets.

3. Diplomacy & International Friction

Greenland "Hospital Ship": A bizarre diplomatic spat has emerged after Trump announced he would send a U.S. Navy hospital ship to Greenland to treat "sick people" there. Greenlandic and Danish leaders rejected the offer, defending their own healthcare system and calling the move "desperate."
Iran Nuclear Talks: Despite the tension, the administration is reportedly preparing for a new round of nuclear talks in Geneva this week, even as the President weighs "limited military strikes" as a counter-option.
Netflix Warning: In domestic news, Trump has publicly warned Netflix of "consequences" unless it removes Democratic foreign policy expert Susan Rice from its board.

4. National Governors Association Dinner

In a more formal capacity, President Trump is hosting the 2026 Governors Dinner at the White House tonight. The event includes a performance by violinist Rusanda Panfili and a working breakfast with state leaders to discuss federal-state cooperation.

Latest News and Comment from Education

Monday, February 23, 2026