The Pandemic Reminds Us of the Value of Public Schools
The global coronavirus pandemic reminds us of the importance and value of strong, effective public institutions. We are all in this together. “Everyone for himself” is a recipe for disaster. None of us can solve the problems on our own. The only way to address the disease is by collective action and public leadership.
The widespread closure of schools has made parents and communities aware of the crucial importance of these institutions.
Donald Cohen of the nonpartisan “In the Public Interest” asks why school districts were reluctant to close the schools.
He answers:
It’s simple. Public schools are public goods. They provide basic educational, social, emotional, and even physical needs to not only students and families but also entire communities. Closing them has effects that ripple out beyond school doors. As Erica Green wrote in the New York Times, mass school closings could “upend entire cities.”
Just look at the numbers:
The nation’s public school system serves more than 50 CONTINUE READING: The Pandemic Reminds Us of the Value of Public Schools | Diane Ravitch's blog