SPECIAL ISPAC GUEST COLUMN:
An Important Letter From Education Research Professor, Diane Ravitch, to New Mexico Legislators - Florida Model Does NOT Work.
Dear State Legislators:
Friends in New Mexico have told me that your governor wants to import the so-called "Florida model" of education to New Mexico.
I urge you to oppose this effort.
Florida is not a good model for the nation. It is not even good for Florida.
The Florida model rests on two pillars: One is privatization, the other is incessant testing. Neither is good for children or for the future well-being of your state.
Privatization in the Florida model proceeds through privately-managed charter schools and vouchers. Neither of them improves education.
Florida has authorized many charters. Charters are not the answer to educational needs of children for the following reasons, a