Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-14-25
NEA: Trump Slashes Education Budget, Encourages Privatization of Public Schools https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/13/nea-trump-slashes-education-budget-encourages-privatization-of-public-schools/ via @dianeravitch
The article discusses the National Education Association's (NEA) analysis of President Trump's proposed FY2026 budget, which significantly reduces funding for education and promotes the privatization of public schools. The budget proposes converting Title I and IDEA funding into block grants, potentially diverting funds to private school vouchers, and includes a $12 billion cut to the Department of Education. Additionally, the budget increases funding for charter schools by $500 million, further straining public school resources.### Key Points
- The NEA criticizes Trump's budget for deep cuts and promoting privatization through vouchers and charter schools.
- The proposed budget cuts non-defense domestic spending by 22.6%, with a $12 billion reduction in the Department of Education budget.
- Title I and IDEA programs are converted into block grants, potentially reducing funding and accountability for vulnerable students.
- The budget shifts costs to states and reduces federal investment, affecting programs like English Language Acquisition and Teacher Quality Partnership.
- An increase of $500 million is proposed for expanding charter schools, which could drain resources from public schools.
NEA: The Purpose of Block Grants is to Diminish Federal Responsibility for Education https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/13/nea-the-purpose-of-block-grants-is-to-diminish-federal-responsibility-for-education/ via @dianeravitch
The article discusses the proposal by Project 2025 to convert major U.S. Department of Education funding streams, such as Title I and IDEA, into block grants with minimal oversight. This change could lead states to redirect funds away from low-income students and those with disabilities, potentially converting them into vouchers. The National Education Association (NEA) argues that block grants reduce federal responsibility, leading to less funding and fewer programs for students who need them most. The article criticizes the Trump administration's budget cuts, which are seen as benefiting the wealthy at the expense of public education and vulnerable students.### Key Points
- Project 2025 proposes turning major federal education funding into block grants, reducing oversight.
- Block grants often result in less funding and fewer programs for students, despite increased state flexibility.
- Title I and IDEA ensure equal educational access for all students, regardless of income or disability.
- The Department of Education acts as a civil rights agency to protect students' access to education.
- Criticism of Trump's budget cuts, seen as prioritizing wealthy interests over public education.
- Concerns about Trump's budget cuts affecting education and other social programs.
Marc Elias's Democracy Docket: Sign up https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/13/marc-eliass-democracy-docket-sign-up/ via @dianeravitch
Marc Elias’s Democracy Docket: Sign up By dianeravitch May 13, 2025 // 0 This is a website that will keep you informed about the ongoing struggle to preserve our democracy. It’s called Democracy Docket, and it is led by lawyer Marc Elias. Marc is a fearless defender of the rights of all citizens. He reports on threats to democracy and victories for democracy. Open the link to sign up . Here is the latest: Trump administration proposes more drastic election security cuts The Trump administration introduced a new budget proposal calling for a near $500 million cut to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the nation’s top federal entity responsible for protecting elections from hacking. Trump ‘looking at’ suspending Habeas Corpus, Stephen### Key Points
- Marc Elias's Democracy Docket is a platform to stay informed about democracy-related issues, led by lawyer Marc Elias.
- The Trump administration proposed significant budget cuts to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, impacting election security.
- There is consideration within the Trump administration to suspend Habeas Corpus to facilitate mass deportations.
- A lawsuit challenges Wyoming's citizenship requirement for voter registration, citing constitutional violations.
- The article emphasizes the power of citizens to oppose Trump and protect democracy, listing actions to take.
The Book of Unity https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/the-book-of-unity?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false
The article discusses the dissatisfaction with the Unity Caucus, particularly in their handling of healthcare plans for retirees and union politics. The author criticizes Michael Mulgrew for his role in pushing an inferior Medicare Advantage plan and highlights the Unity Caucus's failure to support members effectively. The article outlines the ongoing conflicts within the union, the lack of progress on online voting, and the lobbying against beneficial healthcare legislation. It also mentions the electoral losses faced by Unity and the internal strife, including personal attacks and misinformation.### Key Points
- Michael Mulgrew regrets supporting Medicare Advantage late, causing anxiety among members, and losing retiree and paraprofessional elections.
- Unity Caucus prioritizes "union interference" over member support, criticizing those opposing them as anti-union.
- Unity has stalled online voting progress and faced legal defeats from NYC Retirees over healthcare plans.
- Unity uses personal attacks against dissenters and lobbies against restoring previous health insurance policies.
- Conflict within the union includes disputes over affiliations and leadership support, with misinformation spread by Unity members.
- Unity falsely claims support for the NY Health Act and pushes for retiree premiums, contradicting their public stance.
- Unity's agreement to healthcare changes contradicts their claims of protecting members' interests, raising concerns about future costs.
- Unity's historical actions and rhetoric are questioned, with calls for members to vote for change.
- Bennett Fischer clarifies he independently supported Winderbaum, highlighting internal union dynamics.
One Way President Trump Is Trying to Weaken Civil Rights Protection in Public Schools https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2025/05/13/president-trump-tries-to-weaken-civil-rights-enforcement-in-public-school-discipline/ via @janresseger
The article discusses the implications of President Donald Trump's executive order issued on April 23, 2025, which aims to eliminate the use of "disparate impact" in civil rights investigations by the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. The concept of disparate impact has been crucial in identifying racial discrimination in school discipline policies that disproportionately affect students of color, even when policies appear neutral. The order could weaken civil rights protections, as disparate impact has been a vital tool in enforcing the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The article also highlights past efforts by the Obama and Trump administrations regarding civil rights enforcement and the potential legal challenges Trump's order might face.### Key Points
- President Trump's executive order aims to ban the use of disparate impact in civil rights investigations, potentially weakening protections against discrimination.
- Disparate impact allows officials to document discrimination by analyzing the effects of school discipline on different demographic groups, even without explicit intent.
- The order has sparked concerns among civil rights advocates who view disparate impact as essential for enforcing the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
- Previous administrations had differing approaches to civil rights enforcement, with Obama supporting disparate impact and Trump attempting to roll it back.
- Legal challenges are expected against Trump's executive order, as disparate impact has been upheld by the Supreme Court and codified by Congress.
Teaching and learning from preschoolers emphasizes the importance of using non-directive language to foster independence and community in preschool settings. Teacher Tom shares strategies for encouraging children to participate in clean-up activities without resorting to commands, instead using informational statements to create decision-making opportunities and community involvement.
### Key Points
- Teacher Tom discusses moving away from command-based language with children, focusing on clean-up time as a key example.
- Emphasizes the importance of children taking care of their own school environment to foster a sense of ownership and community.
- Uses songs and informational statements to encourage children to think independently and participate in clean-up activities.
- Highlights the effectiveness of creating a decision-making space for children, avoiding power struggles.
- Discusses the role of adults in supporting children during clean-up by making observational statements and maintaining patience.
- Encourages planning "big project" clean-up activities to engage children and build teamwork.
- Reinforces the idea that consistent use of informative language leads to greater child involvement over time.
Vote For Shannon Troncoso In The Christina School District
https://exceptionaldelaware.com/2025/05/13/vote-for-shannon-troncoso-in-the-christina-school-district/ via @ExcptlDelaware
Exceptional Delaware Education News discusses the school board elections in Delaware, specifically endorsing Shannon Troncoso for the Christina School District. The article highlights the need for change due to past issues with the previous board members, known as the "Christina 4," and emphasizes Troncoso's potential positive impact on the district.
### Key Points
- The article endorses Shannon Troncoso for the Christina School District board elections, emphasizing her potential to bring positive change.
- The "Christina 4" previously caused issues on the board, leading to a lawsuit involving the former Superintendent.
- Troncoso is portrayed as an advocate for children and a knowledgeable candidate who can lead the district to improvement.
- The article suggests that Troncoso's election could lead to a new, more effective board dynamic, possibly including a former member who recently supported a good Superintendent.
The article discusses the upcoming Seattle School Board elections, emphasizing the large number of candidates and the challenges of tracking their platforms. It highlights issues such as voter engagement, the role of the school board, and the influence of recent district controversies on voter decisions. The article also addresses the problem of nepotism within the district and the potential closing of schools as cost-saving measures.
### Key Points
- The author plans to post information about school board candidates and requests readers to share any new candidate websites or forum insights.
- Suggestions are made to interview parents and teachers about their knowledge and opinions of the school board.
- There is a concern about the lack of direct communication between board members and parents, and the low voter turnout in school board elections compared to other major races.
- The article notes that current board elections are unusual due to appointed incumbents and recent district controversies, which might influence voter turnout and decisions.
- There is a discussion on the balance of power on the board, with some members supporting SOFG and the potential impact of new elections on board direction.
- An anonymous comment speculates on the demographics and motivations of school board voters.
- The article touches on issues of nepotism within the district and the potential closing of schools, questioning the district's transparency and decision-making.
Congratulations to Zohran Mamdani and Rama Suwaji on their marriage. The article discusses Zohran Mamdani's candidacy for New York City Mayor and his progressive campaign initiatives. It highlights the sensationalized coverage by the New York Post of Mamdani's Muslim wedding, criticizing it as a non-scandal. The article contrasts this with more serious political scandals and wishes the couple well.
### Key Points
- Zohran Mamdani is a progressive candidate for New York City Mayor, running in the upcoming Democratic primary.
- Eric Adams has dropped out of the primary and will run as an independent in November.
- Mamdani's campaign focuses on making New York affordable, including free buses and rent freezes.
- The New York Post sensationalized Mamdani's Muslim wedding, portraying it as a scandal.
- The article criticizes the focus on Mamdani's wedding as trivial compared to other political scandals.
The California Department of Education (CDE) has announced that participating agencies must update and submit their School Year 2025–26 Food Distribution Program (FDP) contract in the Child Nutrition Information and Payment System (CNIPS) by July 31, 2025. Failure to meet this deadline may result in agencies being ineligible to receive USDA Foods. The contract packet includes sections on FDP contract, agency information update/certification, and program, ordering, and billing contacts. Agencies can find guidance on completing the contract through an instructional video and can contact the Food Distribution Program for further assistance. The article also highlights other resources and updates related to nutrition and school programs.
### Key Points
- The CDE requires agencies to submit their 2025–26 FDP contract in CNIPS by July 31, 2025, to remain eligible for USDA Foods.
- The contract packet includes sections on FDP contract, agency information, and contact updates.
- Agencies can access the contract packet via the CNIPS website and must ensure all information is accurate.
- An instructional video is available to assist in completing the FDP Contract Packet.
- The article provides additional resources and updates on nutrition-related programs and policies.
The article provides updates on the SNP-11-2024 Final Rule regarding fluid milk substitutions in School Nutrition Programs (SNP) and related regulatory changes. It highlights the acceptance of medical statements from registered dietitians for milk substitutions and offers contact information for inquiries. Additionally, it covers various aspects of Child Nutrition Programs, including meal pattern requirements, plant-based meal options, and trending items in nutrition.
### Key Points
- The SNP-11-2024 Final Rule updates regulations on fluid milk substitutions in School Nutrition Programs, allowing medical statements from registered dietitians.
- The article provides details on milk requirements, meal patterns, and plant-based meal options in Child Nutrition Programs.
- Recent updates include the FDP contract deadline and the availability of a webinar recording on SUN Bucks.
- School Lunch Hero Day is recognized on May 2, 2025, celebrating food service professionals' contributions.
The article examines the impact of vouchers on student achievement in Ohio, highlighting a significant decline in proficiency for students using vouchers over three years. Despite these findings, the state continues to increase funding for vouchers while cutting public school budgets. The author questions the motivations of parents choosing vouchers, suggesting they may prioritize financial assistance over educational quality.
### Key Points
- The article discusses the decline in proficiency of Ohio students using vouchers, noting a drop from 75% to 54% over three years.
- Voucher students’ performance initially compares to upper middle-class students but declines to the level of economically disadvantaged students after three years.
- High school voucher recipients show a 41% drop in math and 31% in reading proficiency. K-8 students also show significant declines across subjects.
- Despite these results, the state increases voucher funding by 17% while cutting $100 million from public school budgets.
- The author questions whether parents choosing vouchers are seeking better opportunities or simply government handouts, given the lack of academic improvement.
The article criticizes a proposal by the GOP to prevent regulation of AI for a decade, arguing it prioritizes corporate profits over public safety and education. The author expresses concern about the potential negative impacts of unregulated AI, particularly in education, and the lack of clarity in the government's approach to integrating AI into schools.
### Key Points
- The GOP proposes a decade-long ban on AI regulation, prioritizing corporate profit over public safety and education.
- The executive order aims to integrate AI into education but lacks clarity on its implementation and impact.
- Concerns are raised about the potential negative consequences of unregulated AI, such as privacy issues and misuse.
Deja Vu all over again? by teacherken on Daily Kos reflects on the parallels between past civil rights struggles and current political dynamics in the U.S. The author draws comparisons between historical tactics used to suppress civil rights movements and contemporary political actions, particularly those associated with Donald Trump and his administration. The piece highlights concerns about racism, the erosion of democratic principles, and the concentration of power among a select few. The author also emphasizes the importance of speaking out against these issues and maintaining a commitment to non-violence.
### Key Points
- The author reflects on historical civil rights events and compares them to current political actions that suppress dissent, pointing out the racism and expedited citizenship for South African whites.
- Historical tactics of intimidation and suppression are paralleled with actions against Trump's perceived enemies, including legal threats and attempts to control educational institutions.
- The author criticizes the current administration's attempts to erase history and undermine democratic checks and balances, viewing this as a move to concentrate power and impose a narrow societal structure.
- The piece discusses the rise of groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, drawing parallels to past oppressive groups, and expresses concern over the potential for a dictatorship.
- The author, identifying as a Quaker, stresses the importance of non-violence and speaking out against injustice, drawing inspiration from historical figures like Patrick Henry.
The article discusses various topics, including technological scams in financial aid, the internal struggles within the Democratic National Committee (DNC), and other political and educational issues. It highlights the procedural issues and ideological clashes in the DNC, particularly involving activist David Hogg and his reformist agenda. The article also touches on recent developments in sports and historical decisions by MLB.
### Key Points
- Technological scams have emerged in financial aid, exploiting advances to commit fraud.
- The DNC faces internal divisions over the election of vice chairs, highlighting a clash between centrists and progressives.
- David Hogg and Malcolm Kenyatta's elections were voided due to procedural complaints, showcasing the DNC's struggle with inclusivity and reform.
- The DNC's decision-making process reveals tensions between embracing change and maintaining centrist ideals.
- The article also mentions other political issues, such as Trump's promises to HBCUs and MLB's decision to reinstate certain players.
Big Education Ape: TRUMP'S WHITE AFRIKANER REFUGEE MISSION
https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/trumps-white-afrikaner-refugee-mission.html
The article discusses Major League Baseball's (MLB) decision to remove deceased players, including Pete Rose and "Shoeless" Joe Jackson, from its permanently ineligible list. This decision opens the possibility for these players to be considered for induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. The article also explores the history of their bans, the implications of the decision, and the broader context of gambling in baseball.
### Key Points
- MLB commissioner Rob Manfred removed Pete Rose and "Shoeless" Joe Jackson from the permanently ineligible list, allowing them to be considered for the Hall of Fame.
- Manfred ruled that MLB's punishment of banned individuals ends upon their deaths, as they no longer pose a threat to the integrity of the game.
- Pete Rose was banned in 1989 for betting on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds, and Jackson was banned in 1921 for the Black Sox Scandal.
- The earliest Rose and Jackson could be enshrined is summer 2028 if elected by the Classic Baseball Era Committee.
- Rose's family and attorney are pleased with the decision and plan to petition the Hall of Fame for his induction.
- The decision affects 16 deceased players and one deceased owner, including Jackson's teammates involved in the Black Sox Scandal.
- Rose's gambling and legal issues have been a long-standing barrier to his reinstatement and Hall of Fame consideration.
- The Hall of Fame's board previously decided any player on MLB's permanently ineligible list would also be ineligible for election, known as "the Pete Rose rule."
- Rose's legacy is marred by gambling and legal controversies, including allegations of statutory rape.
- Some fans argue for Rose's forgiveness, especially as MLB embraces legalized gambling.
Trump's recent actions towards Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) reveal a pattern of making public promises while privately reducing support. Despite claiming to have done more for HBCUs than any other president, Trump proposed cutting $64 million from Howard University's federal funding shortly after assuring their financial safety. This move is seen as part of a broader strategy of symbolic gestures without substantive support, as exemplified by his executive order that replaced Biden-era policies focused on equity with performative language. The article argues that what HBCUs need is genuine investment and empowerment, not superficial praise.
### Key Points
- Trump broke his promise to HBCUs by proposing significant budget cuts to Howard University shortly after public assurances of support.
- The proposed budget cut is part of a pattern of symbolic gestures without real commitment, as seen with a new executive order replacing previous equity-focused policies.
- The article criticizes Trump's approach as prioritizing optics over outcomes, urging for real investment in HBCUs rather than superficial gestures.
- The author calls for structural investment and genuine governance for HBCUs, emphasizing the need for real power and respect rather than symbolic inclusion.
The article discusses the importance of genre awareness and authentic writing practices in education, inspired by an interview with Matt Berninger, lead singer of The National. It emphasizes the distinction between songwriting and poetry, highlighting the need for students to understand different writing purposes, forms, and audiences. The author, a writing teacher, aims to engage students in genuine writing processes rather than traditional, rigid academic exercises. The article also critiques the role of AI in writing education, advocating for students to experience the full writing process themselves.
### Key Points
- The article emphasizes the lack of genre awareness among students and the need for authentic writing practices.
- Matt Berninger's interview serves as an example to discuss writing purpose and process, distinguishing between songwriting and poetry.
- The article highlights the importance of understanding different writing forms and the complexity of writing for various purposes and audiences.
- The author advocates for engaging students in genuine writing processes and criticizes the use of AI in writing education.
The article discusses the issue of "ghost students" in higher education, where scammers use fake identities or bots to enroll in colleges to fraudulently obtain financial aid. This problem is particularly prevalent in California community colleges due to their open enrollment policies and lack of stringent identity verification processes. The rise of online education during the pandemic has exacerbated this issue, making it challenging for educators to identify real students. Various colleges have faced significant challenges in detecting and preventing such scams, leading to financial losses and resource misallocation. Solutions like in-person meetings or video conferences are suggested to authenticate student identities, but these measures also introduce privacy concerns.### Key Points
- "Ghost students" are fake identities used by scammers to enroll in colleges and obtain financial aid, particularly affecting California community colleges.
- The problem has worsened with the shift to online education, making it difficult for educators to identify real students.
- Colleges are struggling with resource misallocation and financial losses due to fraudulent enrollments.
- Solutions like in-person meetings or video conferences are suggested, but they also raise privacy concerns.
Nichiren: and The Opening of the Eyes: Ultican, Thomas: 9783991306092: Amazon.com: Books
Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-12-25
The article is a compilation of various blog posts and articles covering topics such as education reforms, political activism, immigration issues, and systemic societal challenges. It highlights critiques of Trump administration policies, the influence of corporate interests in education, and grassroots efforts for reform and inclusivity.
### Key Points
- Bill Gates criticizes Elon Musk for cutting US development assistance, claiming it harms the world's poorest children.
- Texas is experiencing a major measles outbreak with over 700 cases, primarily among unvaccinated children.
- The article criticizes the Texas legislature's controversial bills, including one banning "non-human behaviors" in schools, which is based on unfounded rumors.
- Bill Kristol criticizes Trump's acceptance of a $400 million airplane from Qatar, highlighting its connections to Hamas and anti-Israel groups.
- Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested at a private immigrant detention center during a press conference, sparking concerns about the influence of for-profit prisons.
- Immigrant Ph.D. students in the U.S. often match with coethnic advisors, influenced by reputational spillovers, pre-Ph.D. contact, and shared backgrounds.
- The trend to ban smartphones and reduce digital technology in schools is critiqued as conservative and reactionary.
- President Trump initiated a mission to offer refuge to white South African farmers, citing racial discrimination and violence.
- Bill Gates’ education reforms, including Common Core and charter schools, have caused harm to public education, increasing segregation and inequality.
- The belief that smaller class sizes improve teaching practices and academic performance is widely held but not strongly supported by evidence.
