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Monday, July 21, 2025

DIANE RAVITCH: FROM CONSERVATIVE CRUSADER TO PUBLIC EDUCATION'S FIERCEST DEFENDER


DIANE RAVITCH

FROM CONSERVATIVE CRUSADER TO PUBLIC EDUCATION'S FIERCEST DEFENDER

In the sprawling landscape of education reform, few figures have managed to pull off a plot twist quite like Diane Ravitch. Imagine a former Assistant Secretary of Education under George H.W. Bush, a staunch advocate for standardized testing, charter schools, and accountability, suddenly flipping the script. Yes, Ravitch didn’t just change her mind—she rewrote the entire narrative. Today, she’s the poster child for “I was wrong, and here’s why,” a rare breed of intellectual who swapped her pom-poms for privatization and corporate-style reforms for a megaphone in defense of public schools. And oh, what a noise she’s making.

From Texas Roots to Ivy League Heights

Born in Houston, Texas, Ravitch grew up as the quintessential bookish kid—the type who climbed trees not for adventure but for a quiet place to read. Her early love of learning was fostered by excellent teachers and a rabbi who instilled in her a lifelong passion for writing and critical thinking. After graduating from Wellesley College in 1960, she worked as a magazine editor before diving into academia, eventually earning her Ph.D. in history from Columbia University in 1975. These formative years laid the groundwork for her dual identity as a meticulous historian and a public intellectual who could make even the driest education policy debates digestible for the masses.

The Conservative Years: Testing, Choice, and Accountability

For much of her early career, Ravitch was the darling of conservative education reform circles. She championed policies that emphasized standards, accountability, and school choice—buzzwords that made reformers swoon and teachers groan. Serving as Assistant Secretary of Education in the early ’90s, she led efforts to promote voluntary state and national academic standards. Her affiliations with think tanks like the Hoover Institution and the Thomas B. Fordham Foundation further cemented her reputation as a conservative powerhouse.

During this era, Ravitch was all-in on initiatives like charter schools and high-stakes standardized testing. She believed these measures could whip America’s struggling schools into shape faster than you could say “No Child Left Behind.” And for a while, it seemed like she had found the golden ticket to educational nirvana.

The Great Epiphany: When Ideals Meet Reality

But then came the reckoning. By the mid-2000s, Ravitch began to notice that the reforms she once championed weren’t just failing—they were actively harming public education. High-stakes testing? It narrowed curricula to little more than math and reading drills. Charter schools? They morphed from small-scale experiments into sprawling chains run by profit-driven corporations. Accountability? It turned into a euphemism for punishing teachers and schools rather than supporting them.


Her breaking point came with No Child Left Behind (NCLB), a policy she initially supported. Its utopian goal of 100% student proficiency by 2014 was, in her words, “totally unrealistic.” What followed was a cascade of unintended consequences: schools gaming the system, teachers teaching to the test, and entire subjects like arts and history being sidelined. By 2010, Ravitch had had enough. She laid out her case against these reforms in her best-selling book *The Death and Life of the Great American School System: How Testing and Choice Are Undermining Education*. It was less a mea culpa and more a manifesto—a call to arms for anyone who believed in the sanctity of public education.

The Reformer-Turned-Rebel

If Ravitch’s earlier career was about building the case for reform, her later years have been about dismantling it—brick by brick, policy by policy. She’s taken aim at everything from for-profit charter schools (“They care more about their bottom line than your kids”) to high-stakes testing (“It corrupts everything it touches”). Her critiques are not just fiery; they’re forensic, backed by decades of research and an insider’s understanding of how these policies were crafted.

One of her most scathing observations is how market-based reforms treat education as if it were a widget factory. Competition! Efficiency! Accountability! These buzzwords sound great in a corporate boardroom but fall flat when applied to classrooms filled with diverse learners facing real-world challenges like poverty and systemic inequities. “You can’t test your way out of poverty,” Ravitch argues, pointing out that socioeconomic status is one of the strongest predictors of academic performance.

Enter the Network for Public Education (NPE)

In 2013, Ravitch co-founded the Network for Public Education (NPE), an advocacy group that might as well have “Public Schools Forever” tattooed on its metaphorical bicep. The NPE opposes high-stakes testing, privatization, and mass school closures while championing equitable funding, reasonable class sizes, and teacher professionalism. Think of it as the Avengers of public education advocacy—minus the capes but with plenty of data-driven arguments.

The NPE doesn’t just talk; it acts. It publishes reports exposing the pitfalls of privatization, mobilizes grassroots campaigns, and even offers an “education equivalent of the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval” for political candidates who align with its mission. Ravitch’s leadership ensures that the organization isn’t just reactive but proactive, shaping the narrative around public education rather than merely responding to it.

Critics Gonna Criticize

Of course, not everyone is a fan. Critics accuse Ravitch of painting all charter schools with the same broad brush or conflating school choice with privatization. Some argue that her portrayal of reformers as out-of-touch elites is overly simplistic, ignoring the many state and local educators who genuinely believe in these policies. Others claim she romanticizes traditional public schools while downplaying their flaws.

But Ravitch is unbothered. She acknowledges that no system is perfect but insists that public education is worth defending precisely because it’s one of America’s most democratic institutions—a place where every child, regardless of background, is entitled to learn.

Legacy: A Life Lived Loudly

Diane Ravitch’s career is a masterclass in intellectual courage. It takes guts to admit you were wrong—especially when you’ve spent decades at the forefront of a movement. But Ravitch didn’t just admit her mistakes; she turned them into a rallying cry. Her transformation from conservative reformer to public education warrior has made her one of the most polarizing yet respected figures in education today.

Even in retirement from her NYU professorship, Ravitch remains a force to be reckoned with. Her blog attracts millions of readers, her books continue to spark debate, and her advocacy work through NPE ensures that public education has a tireless champion in its corner.

In an era where changing your mind is often seen as a weakness, Diane Ravitch stands as a reminder that growth is not only possible but essential. She’s proof that you can be both fierce and flexible, both critic and defender—and that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is change your mind.

An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294/ref=sr_1_1?


Diane Ravitch's upcoming memoir, "An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else," set to be released on October 21, 2025. Ravitch, a historian and former conservative education reform advocate, recounts her ideological shift from supporting standardized testing and privatization to advocating for public schools and addressing systemic inequality in education. The book blends personal reflections with decades of research, making a compelling case for greater investment in public education.

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 7-21-25

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
7-21-25

Politico: Tulsi Gabbard Threatens to Prosecute Obama Officials for "Treason" https://dianeravitch.net/2025/07/19/tulsi-gabbard-threatens-to-prosecute-obama-officials-for-treason/ via @dianeravitch 

Politico reports that Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence under the Trump administration, called for criminal prosecution of several Obama-era officials for alleged "treasonous conspiracy" related to Russian interference in the 2016 election. Gabbard claims intelligence was manipulated and withheld, despite a Republican-led Senate investigation confirming Russian efforts to favor Trump in the election. Her accusations target prominent intelligence figures like James Clapper, John Brennan, and James Comey. Critics view this as a distraction from controversies surrounding Trump, including his connection to Jeffrey Epstein and allegations of misconduct. Commenters on Diane Ravitch's blog express concerns about political weaponization, attacks on democracy, and Gabbard's alignment with authoritarian figures.

### Key Points

- Tulsi Gabbard accuses Obama-era officials of treason over Russian interference in the 2016 election, alleging intelligence manipulation. 

- Critics argue this is a distraction from Trump's controversies, including ties to Jeffrey Epstein and allegations of predatory behavior. 

- Gabbard's actions are seen as aligning with authoritarian figures like Putin, raising concerns about politicization of intelligence and democracy erosion. 

Congress Exempts Trump and Vance from Conflict of Interest re Crytocoins | Diane Ravitch's blog https://dianeravitch.net/2025/07/19/congress-exempts-trump-and-vance-from-conflict-of-interest-re-crytocoins/ 

The GENIUS Act explicitly bars members of Congress and federal officials from profiting off stablecoins but EXEMPTS the president, vice president, and their families.

This carve-out allows Trump to leverage his position for personal gain without conflict-of-interest barriers.

A provision in the GENIUS Act bans members of Congress and their families from profiting off stablecoins. But that prohibition does not extend to the president and his family, even as Trump builds a crypto empire from the White House. His family holds a significant stake in World Liberty

Financial, a crypto project that launched its own stablecoin earlier this year and received an early boost from an investment fund in the United Arab Emirates.



CURMUDGUCATION: ICYMI: Just Hangin' In Edition (7/20) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/07/icymi-just-hangin-in-edition-720.html 

### Main Ideas

- Pennsylvania cyber charter schools resist mandatory weekly wellness checks for students, despite proposed regulations. 

- Checker Finn advocates for regulating school vouchers akin to food stamps restrictions. 

- Florida schools reject funding tied to political conditions, highlighted with snark by Stephanie Hayes. 

- David Barton promotes fake history supporting Christian nationalism and Ten Commandments legislation. 

- South Carolina allows hiring noncertified teachers, reflecting a shift in educational standards. 

- Concerns arise over AFT's partnership with AI companies like OpenAI and Microsoft for classrooms. 

- Russell Shaw critiques ChatGPT’s role as unsuitable for child interaction. 

- Supreme Court ruling accelerates the dismantling of the Department of Education under Trump. 

- Ohio’s state budget prioritizes wealthy interests over public education funding. 

- Jennifer Berkshire examines broader societal impacts of current regime policies. 

- Right-wing outrage over Superman’s positive values in media reflects broader cultural conflicts. 



No Sun Bucks in Tennessee: Gov. Lee Rejects Summer Meal Funds, Let's Kids Go Hungry Innovative, low-cost program with proven results rejected in favor of spending more and feeding less https://theeducationreport.substack.com/p/no-sun-bucks-in-tennessee-gov-lee 

### Key Points

- Tennessee Governor Bill Lee rejected federal funding for the Sun Bucks program, a summer EBT initiative that provides enhanced SNAP benefits to families of children who qualify for free and reduced lunch, leading to increased child food insecurity. 

- Sun Bucks is an effective program that delivers $120 per child to address summer nutrition gaps, reduces child hunger, boosts academic performance, and generates significant local economic activity. States declining participation forgo these benefits. 

- Governor Lee replaced Sun Bucks with a state-funded program serving only 25,000 children, a drastic reduction from the 700,000 previously supported, prioritizing political motives over children's welfare. 

- Public reactions to Governor Lee’s decision express anger and disappointment, highlighting the perceived cruelty and misguided priorities of the administration. 



glen brown: Binoy Misra https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/07/binoy-misra.html 

### Key Points

- The article reflects on the philosophical views of writers like Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus, emphasizing the writer's role in resisting oppression and embracing isolation. 

- It discusses various societal and political issues, including pensions, Illinois politics, COVID-19, social justice, healthcare, and American racism. 

- The blog explores diverse topics such as environmental concerns, higher education, domestic terrorism, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and Supreme Court decisions. 

- It includes personal reflections, such as a tribute to a friend, Binoy Misra, and nostalgic anecdotes about life experiences. 

- The blog also highlights cultural elements like poetry, music (e.g., Dylan and Beatles), and literature. 

- There is criticism of political figures and administrations, including Donald Trump and the Supreme Court, for their actions and policies. 

- A taxonomy of recurring themes in the blog includes pensions, education reform, social justice, elections, and environmental issues. 



The Late Show, Colbert, Courage, and the Cost of Truth – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/07/20/the-late-show-colbert-courage-and-the-cost-of-truth/ 

The Late Show, Colbert, Courage, and the Cost of Truth

### Key Points

- Stephen Colbert is celebrated for using humor as a form of resistance and truth-telling, positioning himself as a cultural barometer for democracy. 

- Authoritarian regimes often control media to suppress dissent, and concerns arise about CBS's compliance under the Trump administration, potentially silencing voices like Colbert’s. 

- Colbert’s courage is likened to the boldness needed in educational leaders to defend diversity, equity, inclusion, and academic freedom against political attacks. 

- The article warns about the consequences of inaction, citing examples such as banned books, censorship, intimidation of educators, and dismantling of higher education progress. 

- The author calls for “Colbertian” courage in public leadership, emphasizing the importance of boldness and principled resistance to safeguard truth and democracy. 



Armstrong & Aldrin Walked On The Moon In 1969 On This Day – Here Are Teaching Resources Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/ 

### Key Points

- The blog offers educational resources, teaching strategies, and updates on various topics, including historical events, ed-tech tools, and social-emotional learning. 

- Highlights include resources for teaching about the moon landing, climate change, and native lands, as well as advice for school district superintendents and teachers. 

- Weekly features include free artificial intelligence tools for classrooms and SEL updates. 

- The author has published multiple books with research-based strategies for teaching various subjects like Social Studies, English, Math, and Science, along with techniques for motivating students and engaging parents. 

- Additional contributions include blog posts, radio shows, articles for major platforms like Education Week Teacher and the New York Times, and curated teaching practices. 



Schools Matter: The Epstein Cover-Up at the FBI by Allison Gill http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/07/the-epstein-cover-up-at-fbi-by-allison.html 

The chaotic review process of Epstein and Maxwell files at the FBI is detailed, highlighting mismanagement, whistleblower claims, and rushed efforts to process sensitive records. Thousands of personnel, including untrained staff, were tasked with reviewing 100,000 files containing 300,000 pages. Instructions changed frequently, and sensitive materials were improperly accessible, raising concerns about victim privacy and data security. Analysts flagged mentions of Donald Trump, creating a master log, but the files were ultimately not released. The process caused stress and low morale among staff, with fears of misuse of victim information.

### Key Points

- Senator Dick Durbin raised concerns about Attorney General Pam Bondi pressuring the FBI to review 100,000 Epstein-related records within a short timeframe. 

- Untrained personnel were involved, and chaotic processes led to mishandling of sensitive victim information. 

- Analysts flagged instances of Donald Trump in the files, creating a master log, but the number of mentions remains unknown. 

- Files were improperly accessible due to rushed efforts, and video trainings on redactions were distributed on unclassified networks. 

- Analysts experienced stress and trauma from reviewing disturbing materials, and morale was poor due to long shifts and chaotic instructions. 

- Despite the extensive review, the Department of Justice and FBI decided not to release the files, surprising many analysts. 



Why Fascists Fear Teachers - Penguin Random House https://sites.prh.com/whyfascistsfearteachers 

WATCH: Teachers vs. fascists Teachers union leader Randi Weingarten on why Trump fears educators, how the Democratic Party has to change, and why A.I. will transform learning itself https://the.ink/p/watch-teachers-vs-fascists?utm_source=substack&utm_content=feed%3Arecommended%3Acopy_link 

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, discusses the challenges facing public education, democracy, and societal progress. Topics include the politicization of education, the Democratic Party's need for inclusivity, and the transformative impact of AI on learning. She also reflects on her resignation from the Democratic National Committee, the importance of engaging with concerned parents, and lessons from the gay rights movement. While many praise her advocacy, some critics accuse her of aligning with tech billionaires and undermining public education.

### Key Points

- Randi Weingarten explains why education is targeted by the right and highlights the fears fascists have regarding teachers. 

- She emphasizes the need for the Democratic Party to expand its tent and address parental concerns about social change. 

- Weingarten discusses the future of education in the context of AI and addictive technologies. 

- Her interview sparked positive reactions about her insights and leadership, though some criticized her alleged ties to tech billionaires and their influence on public education. 

- Critics argue that her support of AI and partnerships with corporations may harm the teaching profession and public schools. 


Volunteer Opportunities, Events, and Petitions Near Me · AFT on Mobilize

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
7-20-25

The article is a compilation of diverse topics from various blogs, discussing political controversies, educational challenges, societal issues, and activism. It highlights systemic failures, advocacy efforts, and the impact of leadership decisions across multiple domains.

### Key Points  

- Tulsi Gabbard accuses Obama-era officials of treason over Russian interference in the 2016 election, alleging intelligence manipulation. Critics argue this is a distraction from Trump's controversies, including ties to Jeffrey Epstein and allegations of predatory behavior.   

- Congress exempts Trump and Vance from conflict-of-interest rules on stablecoins, allowing Trump to profit from his crypto empire despite ethical concerns.   

- Advocacy for public education and resistance against privatization continues, with educators promoting activism and reform.   

- The Epstein Files are compared to other conspiracies, critiquing the justice system's failures and the oligarchy's use of scandals to distract from systemic inequalities.   

- Nearly one-third of U.S. public schools mandate mental health screenings, with challenges in ensuring adequate care and addressing barriers like resources and workload.   

- A librarian reflects on the emotional loss of transitioning from physical to digital libraries, symbolizing the end of personal connections and community ties.   

- The NEA Representative Assembly voted to sever ties with the ADL over concerns about bias, but the decision was overturned by NEA leadership, sparking debates on union democracy and antisemitism.   

- Michael Mulgrew, leader of UFT, is criticized for failing to uphold due process for union members and prioritizing election manipulation over meaningful reforms.   

- Tennessee’s Metro Nashville Public Schools face leadership failures, retaliation, and misuse of authority, with a $6.5 million lawsuit settlement impacting resources amidst staff shortages.   

- Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist, wins NYC mayoral primary, sparking fears among the political elite and debates about socialism vs. capitalism.   

- Randi Weingarten discusses challenges in public education, the impact of AI, and the need for inclusivity in the Democratic Party, while facing criticism for alleged ties to tech billionaires.   

- Advocacy groups combat privatization, censorship, and authoritarianism in public education, emphasizing equity and inclusivity.   

- Trump administration policies dismantle environmental protections, impose harmful tariffs, and exacerbate political and societal challenges.   

- Systemic injustices in the criminal justice system, like cash bail, contribute to family separation and inequities.