THE TWO-HEADED DEMOCRATIC DONKEY
THE MERGING OF THE CENTRIST PROGRESSIVE SPLIT

The Democratic Party. Much like a mythical creature with two heads, one gazing longingly at the comforting embrace of the status quo, while the other passionately charges towards the horizon of change. This two-headed donkey, if you will, has become a symbol of the internal tug-of-war between the centrists and progressives. It's a tale as old as time, or at least as old as political parties trying to find their footing in a world that keeps changing faster than a toddler's mood.

The centrists, bless their hearts, cling to the status quo as if it's a life raft in a sea of uncertainty. They are the seasoned sailors of the party, navigating the treacherous waters of political funding with the skill and precision of a tightrope walker. Their funding, largely provided by libertarian or corporate Democrats, is akin to the golden goose that keeps laying eggs. But alas, it often shuts off the voices of the ever-growing youth movement within the progressive wing, much like a parent telling their teenager that they can't have dessert until they finish their vegetables.

On the other side of this donkey, we have the progressives. They are the dreamers, the visionaries, the ones who believe that change is not only necessary but inevitable. Armed with passion and conviction, they push for a future where ideals are not just aspirations but realities. Their rallies are filled with energy that could power a small city, and their speeches are enough to make even the most seasoned politician feel like they've just been hit by a tidal wave of enthusiasm.

But let's not forget that for all their differences, there's agreement on about 70% of the values within the Democratic Party. It's like siblings arguing over who gets to control the TV remote when they both want to watch the same show. The bickering may be loud, but underneath it all, there's a shared understanding that they're on the same team.

Enter David Hogg, with his metaphorical stick ready to shake things up. Promising to 'primary' centrists clinging to the status quo, Hogg is like a modern-day David challenging Goliath, albeit with more hashtags and fewer slingshots. His efforts have not gone unnoticed by Ken Martin, chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), who seems seriously agitated by this stick-wielding revolutionary. Martin's proposal for a neutrality pledge is akin to asking a cat to stop chasing mice—it's in their nature.

Yet, amidst all this internal drama, there's hope on the horizon. The 24 hours of Cory Booker and the thousands showing up for AOC Bernie concerts signal that progressives are ready for their run at the status quo. It's as if they've been waiting for their moment to shine, and now they're ready to take center stage.

As we look towards 2026, it's clear that this two-headed donkey needs to gallop towards a unified attack plan against the looming figure of Dictator Trump and his oligarchic supporters. The 30% disagreement must be thrashed out in favor of unity and strength—a strategy that would make even Sun Tzu proud.

But let's not forget the age-old issue of age itself within the party. While some argue that age brings wisdom, others believe it brings complacency. The election of 74-year-old Rep. Gerry Connolly over younger candidates raises eyebrows and questions about whether experience should outweigh innovation.

The Democratic Party's trajectory suggests a risk of long-term minority status due to ideological positioning. As young voters become more conservative, Democrats must navigate these demographic changes with finesse and adaptability.

In conclusion, this two-headed donkey is more than just a symbol of division—it's a reminder that within diversity lies strength. The challenge is not merely in reconciling differences but in harnessing them to create a future where both heads can work together in harmony. As we gallop towards 2026, let's hope this donkey finds its stride and leads us to victory against those who would prop up an oligarchic regime.

And remember, when it comes to politics, much like life itself, it's not either-or but both-and—a delicate dance between tradition and progress. Now that's something worth voting for

May Day 2025

https://www.mobilize.us/mayday/event/779515/

50 protests. 50 states. 1 movement.

www.fiftyfifty.one

Join us in the fight to uphold the Constitution and end executive overreach.

50501 is a peaceful movement.

Violence of any kind will not be tolerated.

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
 4-26-25

Federal Judges Order Pentagon to Resume Gender-Affirming Care for Transgender Troops https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/25/federal-judges-order-pentagon-to-resume-gender-affirming-care-for-transgender-military-members/ via @dianeravitch 

### Key Points

- Federal judges block Trump's executive order banning transgender troops from military service and receiving gender-affirming care. 

- Pentagon memo reveals return to Biden-era medical policy for transgender service members due to court order. 

- Courts ruled the policy as unconstitutional, preventing the removal of transgender troops and restricting their medical care. 

- U.S. District Judge Benjamin Settle ruled there is no evidence that transgender troops harm military readiness. 

- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized judges for their orders, labeling Judge Ana Reyes pejoratively. 

North Dakota Becomes 47th State to Authorize Charter Schools  Despite Decades of Broken Promises https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/25/north-dakota-becomes-47th-state-to-authorize-charter-schools/ via @dianeravitch 

North Dakota has become the 47th state to authorize charter schools, despite historical evidence suggesting that charter schools have not fulfilled their initial promises of higher test scores, cost savings, or innovation. Critics argue that charter schools often exclude the most challenging students, lack accountability, and have been involved in numerous instances of fraud and financial mismanagement. Governor Kelly Armstrong signed the bill, promoting the potential for innovation and improved student outcomes, although skeptics see this as aligning with a political agenda against public education.

### Key Points

- North Dakota became the 47th state to authorize charter schools, with only Nebraska, South Dakota, and Vermont lacking such laws. Kentucky's law was deemed unconstitutional. 

- Charter schools were initially promised to improve education but have not delivered on those promises, often showing no better results than public schools and sometimes worse. 

- Charter schools have been criticized for selecting students, avoiding accountability, and being involved in fraud and financial mismanagement. 

- Despite these issues, North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong signed a bill allowing charter schools, citing potential benefits, though critics view this as politically motivated. 

Wisconsin: State Superintendent Underly Hails Two Court Decisions Undercutting Trump DEI Ban https://dianeravitch.net/2025/04/25/wisconsin-state-superintendent-underly-hails-two-court-decisions-undercutting-trump-dei-ban/ via @dianeravitch 

### Key Points

- Jill Underly, Wisconsin's State Superintendent, supports court rulings against Trump's DEI funding threats. 

- The rulings declare the USDE's certification process likely unlawful and vague, benefiting schools. 

- Underly emphasizes the role of schools and families in decision-making over federal mandates. 

- Public comments praise Underly's leadership and highlight experiences of tolerance in Wisconsin. 

### Key Points

- Alex Kuhn, a choir director in Greenwich, Ohio, faced non-renewal of his contract amid controversy over his sexual orientation. 

- The school board limited public comments and avoided direct discussion of the issue, contributing to community tension. 

- Supporters of Kuhn argue against discrimination and have gathered signatures in his defense, while opponents cite conflicting values. 

glen brown: Darya Kozyreva, 19 Years Old, Imprisoned for Quoting a Poem https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/04/darya-kozyreva-19-years-old-imprisoned.html 

### Key Points

- Glen Brown discusses the nobility of writing in resisting oppression and embracing isolation. 

- Darya Kozyreva was sentenced in Russia for quoting a poem against Putin’s war, highlighting the suppression of free speech. 

- The article critiques Putin’s actions in Ukraine and dismisses Western media’s attempts to rationalize his motives. 

- The blog defends public pensions and critiques political figures like Trump for their oppressive policies. 

- The article emphasizes the importance of organized defiance in the face of democracy's slow erosion. 

- Various social justice issues, including the political weaponization of clean air and mass deportations under Trump, are discussed. 

Teacher Tom: What are Your Goals for Your Child? https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/04/what-are-your-goals-for-your-child.html 

### Key Points

- Teacher Tom explores parents' goals for their children, often revolving around happiness and a love for learning. 

- He notes that children are naturally inclined to love learning, and a play-based curriculum supports this. 

- The pursuit of happiness is emphasized as a lifelong project, aligning with self-directed learning. 

- Teacher Tom advises that happiness and a love for learning should be ends in themselves, not means to other achievements. 

- He encourages parents to trust their children with the freedom to pursue their interests. 

### Key Points

- The federal government sent a "Dear Colleague" letter threatening to cut funding for schools addressing human rights and history, establishing a snitch line for parents. 

- Music education is portrayed as a vital cultural learning tool, not just a "frill," and can reflect societal issues. 

- Concerns about choosing politically sensitive music pieces are discussed, with examples of music representing political events. 

- Cancellation of the Marine Band's concert program due to political pressures highlights the challenges faced by music educators. 

- The article calls for educators to stand against governmental threats to preserve American culture. 

RFK Jr., Autism, and Education: The Wrong Person for Progress - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2025/04/25/rfk-jr-autism-and-education-the-wrong-person-for-progress/ 

### Key Points

- RFK Jr.'s comments on autism are controversial and reminiscent of outdated stigmas. 

- Concerns about potential policy changes affecting the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 

- RFK Jr.'s association with debunked vaccine theories and controversial figures. 

- Emphasis on the importance of inclusive education and credible research for autism. 

A Week's Worth of Rumination https://norinrad10.com/2025/04/25/a-weeks-worth-of-rumination/ via @norinrad10 

### Key Points

- TC Weber reflects on the challenges of parenting and the need to adapt strategies to meet children's needs. 

- The importance of maintaining open communication with children to guide and influence them effectively. 

- Metro Nashville Public Schools denied all charter school applications, citing unclear differentiation from existing schools. 

- Criticism of board members' blanket opposition to charter schools, suggesting ulterior motives. 

- Tennessee General Assembly passed a bill allowing charter operators to apply directly to the state, bypassing local processes. 

- The Tennessee Achievement School District was dissolved after failing to improve low-performing schools, costing over a billion dollars. 

- Tennessee lawmakers introduced legislation for state intervention in Memphis schools, inspired by a similar takeover in Houston. 

- Tennessee ranked among the worst states for teachers, with low salaries and inadequate spending per student. 

### Key Points

- School Lunch Hero Day 2025 celebrates nutrition professionals for their commitment to providing healthy meals using fresh, locally grown ingredients. 

- Suggestions for celebrating include creating thank you cards, posters, serving meals to nutrition professionals, sharing stories, and setting up a Hero Wall. 

- Schools can host special events like lunches or talent shows to further honor these professionals. 

- The article provides contact information for the Nutrition Services Division and mentions related content like Farm to Summer Celebration Week and nutrition resources. 

- Recent updates include policy changes and rescheduling of the SUN Bucks Webinar. 

### Key Points

- The Seattle School Board meeting discussed enrollment planning, revealing changes in presentation materials, indicating a preference for staff's agenda over parents' concerns. 

- The district's approach to enrollment is criticized for not empowering parents and for manipulating school enrollments to fit their plans, which may lead to school closures. 

- Popular schools with waitlists are not supported by the district, leading to frustration among families and potentially influencing their decision to leave the district. 

- Dr. Marni Campbell explained the district's enrollment projections and the factors considered, such as neighborhood assignments and tiebreakers, but lacked clarity in some explanations. 

- Questions from board members highlighted issues such as the lack of rationale provided for enrollment decisions and the impact of enrollment manipulation on school resources. 

- The discussion raised concerns about the district's approach to stability versus choice and the potential impact of school closures on educational quality. 

- The article also references past discussions about school closures and the district's hesitation to openly address these plans, suggesting possible financial motives behind them. 

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 4-25-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/04/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_25.html 

This article is a roundup of various educational, political, and social issues in the United States, covering topics such as Trump's policies, environmental challenges, school funding, charter schools, and the role of media and activism in addressing these issues. It also highlights the impact of AI, societal changes, and community engagement in tackling contemporary problems.  

### Key Points  

- Trump's proposed "peace plan" for Ukraine aligns with Putin's demands, offering territorial concessions to Russia and lifting sanctions, which faces opposition from European leaders and Ukraine.   

- A U.S. Supreme Court case on religious charter schools could disrupt existing charter laws and funding, with concerns about separation of church and state.   

- The world's coral reefs are experiencing severe bleaching due to warming oceans, with criticism of Trump's climate policies and acknowledgment of Biden's climate initiatives.   

- A federal judge partially blocked Trump's DEI ban, emphasizing academic freedom and the importance of diversity.   

- The Trump administration's proposal to eliminate Head Start funding would impact over half a million children, increasing child care costs and harming low-income families.   

- Trump uses media manipulation and strategic chaos to redefine public education policies, threatening democratic ideals.   

- Unity Caucus leadership within the UFT is criticized for failing to protect members' health care and benefits, with calls for change in leadership.   

- School attendance issues significantly affect parents' mental health, highlighting systemic problems in the UK education system.   

- Furman University faculty reaffirm their commitment to academic freedom amidst political pressures.   

- Middle school students' disrespectful behavior is seen as communication of underlying issues, with societal and family dynamics playing a role.   

- Parent engagement in education is emphasized, with resources and strategies to improve involvement.   

- Ohio's education funding disproportionately supports private and charter schools, reducing public school resources and increasing taxes.   

- Environmental protections have become politicized, with rollbacks under Trump prioritizing profits over public health.   

- CBS's "60 Minutes" faces legal threats from Trump while defending democracy and the First Amendment.   

- NYC public schools face transparency issues regarding class size funding, with surveys encouraging feedback.   

- The USDA updated its nondiscrimination statement for Child Nutrition Programs, emphasizing equal opportunity.   

- Activists criticize Trump's second term as chaotic, marked by attacks on DEI and public education, and encourage resistance through May Day rallies.   

- Schools are encouraged to push back against Christian Nationalism by fostering inclusivity and respect.   

- The Christina School District faces a legal complaint over a board member's residency status, calling for a special election. 

Navigating Education and Policy: The Impact of Politics on Learning in America

May Day 2025

https://www.mobilize.us/mayday/event/779515/ 

50 protests. 50 states. 1 movement.

www.fiftyfifty.one

Join us in the fight to uphold the Constitution and end executive overreach.

50501 is a peaceful movement.

Violence of any kind will not be tolerated.