In Vermont, a Brave Call for Public Education
I visited the great state of Vermont last week, and traveled through its rugged mountains. Today I read an editorial in a Vermont newspaper that reminds us why that state is a bastion of independence and democracy.
The editorial in the Valley News reviews the career and viewpoint of Diane Ravitch, and reaches this conclusion:
But of all the points Ravitch makes, we find most compelling her assertion that corporate money and power threaten the integrity and possibly the very existence of public education. Public schools uphold collective values, break down racial and religious barriers, and are integral to the concept of citizenship. Without them, democracy would be jeopardized. Local communities, not hedge fund managers and entrepreneurs, must remain financially and socially invested in public education. That's a back-to-basics lesson not to be forgotten.
What is remarkable about this is not the sentiment expressed. This is a mainstream point of view - not some radical concept. If you watch great American films like Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, you find the same ideals. Government is supposed to be a force against corruption and control by
