What Next for K-12 Schools Post-Election?
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Deborah Meier—visionary teacher and founder of successful small schools in New York City and Boston—and Pedro Noguera—author and director of the Metropolitan Center for Urban Education—debate issues relevant to schools, teachers, and students. |
Dear Pedro,
There were two post-election possibilities for me: I'd head off to visit friends and allies in Providence, R.I., and beyond to get some comfort, or to celebrate. But it's not an altogether comfortable celebration since President Obama faces more deadlock. Listening to CNN as I write this, I think how many commentators keep focusing on the deficit, living within our means, etc. They have bought into the conservative narrative that leads to austerity and that is poised to lead us all over the cliff. Enough!! Enjoy the moment.
Now, what next? By the time I get back home (Nov. 17) I'll have a little clearer set of ideas since I'll be seeing think-alikers at the Coalition of Essential Schools' Fall Forum and then I'm speaking several times in Illinois, including Chicago, and at a student conference in Massachusetts. I'll be seeing individuals whose opinions will be interesting to listen to, including Karen Lewis of the Chicago Teachers Union.
I have more sympathy than many of my dearest colleagues for the labor movement's reluctance to go on an all-
There were two post-election possibilities for me: I'd head off to visit friends and allies in Providence, R.I., and beyond to get some comfort, or to celebrate. But it's not an altogether comfortable celebration since President Obama faces more deadlock. Listening to CNN as I write this, I think how many commentators keep focusing on the deficit, living within our means, etc. They have bought into the conservative narrative that leads to austerity and that is poised to lead us all over the cliff. Enough!! Enjoy the moment.
Now, what next? By the time I get back home (Nov. 17) I'll have a little clearer set of ideas since I'll be seeing think-alikers at the Coalition of Essential Schools' Fall Forum and then I'm speaking several times in Illinois, including Chicago, and at a student conference in Massachusetts. I'll be seeing individuals whose opinions will be interesting to listen to, including Karen Lewis of the Chicago Teachers Union.
I have more sympathy than many of my dearest colleagues for the labor movement's reluctance to go on an all-