After a good long run with the new release bearing installed the shifting became 100% better.

Now the damn thing is squealing. Is this normal?
How long does this last?

I know it's the release bearing because when I lightly rest my foot on the clutch pedal it stops.

 

When you rest your foot on the pedal and push slightly, the release bearing begins to turn. If it were the release bearing, it would make sounds at that time. Make sure the freeplay is correct. It not enough, it could be contacting the pp as it spins.