WonkyFolk

Is a massive federal tax credit about to transform American education? 🎓Join Jed Wallace and Andy Rotherham as they dive deep with Shaka Mitchell from the American Federation for Children into what could be the most significant school choice development in years. This isn't your typical education policy discussion – it's about a "seismic" shift that could reshape how families access educational options nationwide.🎙️ What You'll Discover:• The federal tax credit program that's flying under the radar• What this means for families nationwide• Why this policy could be a game-changer for low-income families• What are SGOs, and how they will play a key role• How it can look different in different states🔥 Why This Matters:While everyone's focused on the usual education debates, a quiet revolution in school choice funding might be happening right under our noses. Don't miss this insider perspective on what could be the next big thing in education policy.📺 Perfect for: Education leaders, policy wonks, parents exploring school options, and anyone curious about the future of American education.📚 Show Notes & Resources• Georgetown's Edunomics Lab Analysis • AFC Federal Tax Credits Overview

Recorded live at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools’ annual conference in Orlando, this special episode of WonkyFolk features a candid and thought-provoking interview with education leader and author Steven Wilson. Hosts Andy Rotherham and Jed Wallace sit down with Steven to unpack his latest book, The Lost Decade, and explore what it means for the future of education reform.In their signature style—honest, informed, and unafraid of disagreement—Andy and Jed also share reflections from the conference floor and dig into the hard questions facing the charter movement today. It’s a conversation rich with insight, nuance, and vision for what comes next.🎙️ In This Episode: • Steven Wilson breaks down the themes of The Lost Decade • Reflections on leadership, accountability, and innovation in schools • Why reform feels stuck—and what might move it forward • Conference takeaways and real-time reactions from the field • A few lively disagreements between Jed and Andy (naturally!)This is an essential listen for anyone working in or thinking about public education today.Watch it on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxLaJmygER8

On this episode of WonkyFolk, Andy Rotherham and Jed Wallace dig into the surprising 4-4 split from the U.S. Supreme Court on the controversial St. Isidore religious charter school case—and what it means for the future of public education, church-state boundaries, and the charter movement.They also explore big-picture trends reshaping education, from the erosion of academic rigor in K-12 to the political dynamics behind school funding, college value, and the explosion of school choice across the country.Plus, a deep dive into Steven Wilson’s new book on merit, equity, and excellence in education—and why it may signal a turning point for liberal education reformers.👉 Topics include:Why the SCOTUS tie wasn’t just procedural—it was a signalThe evolving politics of school choice and teacher pay in red statesAre we underestimating the college-for-all backlash?Virtual schooling and its quiet but growing policy momentumWhy merit still matters—and what Democrats risk by abandoning it📝 Show notes include:Steven Wilson’s bookChad Aldeman on jobsEduwonk (Andy's blog) post on books4-4 Drummond decision Mark Walsh and Andy on SCOTUS cases The National Alliance’s standout amicus briefJed and Starlee's conversation Texas virtual bill Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review—every little bit helps us keep it wonky.

In this episode of WonkyFolk, Jed Wallace and Andy Rotherham do what they do best—speculate wildly about the forces disrupting public education today and what might lie ahead.Prompted by Marlon Marshall’s recent insight on the need to “make progress amid the disruption,” the boys take on some of the biggest questions facing schools and policymakers right now. Will the St. Isidore Supreme Court case redefine what it means to be a public school? Could religious charter schools become a new frontier—or a new fault line—in education policy? What happens when AI enters the classroom faster than we’re ready for? And will federal funding keep pace with an increasingly decentralized education landscape?As always, Jed and Andy mix sharp analysis with insider perspective, offering a candid and occasionally irreverent take on where things stand and where they could be headed. Whether you’re a charter school leader, policy wonk, or just trying to make sense of the headlines, this episode delivers insights, laughs, and a few eyebrow-raising predictions.Takeaways: In this episode, we discuss the implications of the Supreme Court case regarding AI's role in education advocacy and school funding. We reflect on the challenges faced by school districts amid budget constraints and the increasing complexity of educational policies. The conversation emphasizes the need for education advocates to navigate the evolving landscape of technology and its impact on learning outcomes. We explore the potential consequences of the SCOTUS ruling on charter schools and the broader educational landscape across the United States. As we analyze the current state of education funding, we highlight the critical importance of maintaining equitable resources for all students. Finally, we express cautious optimism about the role of artificial intelligence as a transformative tool in education, while acknowledging the challenges ahead. Notes: Article from The Dispatch on SCOTUS decision on charter schools: https://thedispatch.com/article/supreme-court-religious-charter-schools/EduWonk on SCOTUS: https://eduwonk.substack.com/p/wednesdays-department-of-educationUS News on the changing role of States in education: https://www.usnews.com/opinion/knowledge-bank/2015/12/10/new-education-law-is-bad-news-for-accountability

Andy and Jed talk about the evolving landscape of education policy and its implications for both K-12 and higher education. They discuss recent developments, the complexities introduced by political dynamics and regulatory changes, the challenges faced by educational institutions, the impact of immigration on the workforce, and the necessity for reform in response to society's shifting needs. Jed and Andy also explore the potential consequences of the Supreme Court's decisions on charter schools and the broader implications for educational equity and access. Ultimately, they assert the importance of fostering resilient educational systems that can adapt effectively to the demands of an ever-changing world. They wrap things up by wondering what kind of swag they should give listeners. What's your vote? Takeaways:The conversation between Andy Rotherham and Jed Wallace delves into the complexities surrounding higher education and charter schools. Both speakers express concern over the current state of higher education, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of its economic model. Rotherham highlights the troubling dependency of higher education institutions on federal funding and its implications for autonomy. Wallace shares a poignant story about former students overcoming challenges, illustrating the transformative power of education in the face of adversity. Notes: Dana Goldstein at NYT on college for all:BPC Commission on the American WorkforceEmily Yoffe at the Atlantic about Race and Sexual Assault Cases on College CampusesEducation at Economic Mobility - Ron Haskins at Brookings.Eduwonk on the Trump EO eventKlein's interview with David Shor at the NYT about post-election polling.Abundance book by Klein and Thompsona...

In this live Washington, D.C. episode, Jed and Andy tackle the early policy shifts of the new Trump administration and what they mean for charter schools, education funding, and equity. They discuss the chaotic rollout of federal budget cuts, block grants, and DEI policies, analyzing how these moves may shape the future of public education—especially in blue states.With federal oversight in flux, the conversation explores whether charter schools could be left without a seat at the table, the potential impact of religious charter schools, and the broader political realignment in education policy. The episode wraps up with a live audience Q&A, bringing in diverse perspectives on school choice, funding inequities, and the future of education reform.Key Takeaways:✔ The chaotic pace of policy changes under the new administration and how it differs from 2017✔ The potential risks of block grants for charter schools, particularly in blue states✔ The legal and political implications of religious charter schools and upcoming Supreme Court rulings✔ Why charter school advocates must define their values and strategy amid shifting political winds✔ The growing divide between red and blue states on public education policyNotes & ReferencesEduwonk on IES cuts and the cultural moment we're inEduwonk on the recent "Dear Colleague" letterSCOTUS Blog on the Oklahoma religious charter school case

In volume 22, we engage with Karim Ani, the founder of Citizen Math, who shares profound insights into the realm of mathematics education and its implications for democratic discourse. Central to our conversation is Karim's candid reflection on his personal journey, culminating in his decision to retire from American education, a choice influenced by both creative fulfillment and the formidable inertia within the educational system. Throughout our dialogue, we explore the necessity of reforming math education to better connect with real-world issues, emphasizing the importance of utilizing mathematics as a lens through which students can engage with contemporary societal challenges. Karim's narrative is not merely an account of his professional transitions; it is a clarion call for reimagining educational practices to foster a more engaged and rational citizenry. Ultimately, this episode serves as both a farewell to Karim's contributions and an invitation to rethink the foundational principles that guide our approach to teaching mathematics in today's rapidly evolving landscape.Takeaways: The podcast features a profound dialogue with Karim Ani, who shares his insights on the evolution of math education and its impact on society. Karim Ani reflects on his personal journey through math education and the importance of using mathematics to foster rational discourse in democratic contexts. Listeners are encouraged to ponder the disconnect between traditional math education and its real-world applications, emphasizing the need for a transformative approach. The discussion highlights the necessity of supporting teachers with effective resources, thus enhancing the learning experience for students in mathematics. Karim Ani advocates for a shift from abstract math problems to real-world scenarios that engage students in meaningful ways through mathematics. The podcast concludes with a vision for a collaborative classroom environment, where students work together on community-driven projects to apply their mathematical knowledge. Mentions in this episode:Karim's book, "Dear Citizen Math"Citizen Math Wheat and Chessboard problemKarim on Instagram

We missed our November recording due to me coming down with the crud. It left us a lot of ground to cover in a short period of time. Topics we touch upon include:Elections perspective six weeks laterLinda McMahon reactions, including a somewhat surprising lack of acrimony across the political spectrum on her nomination.The biggest story in public education this year - Democrats embrace stasis, while Republicans embrace ESAs and vouchers. Are Dems approaching a "gray divorce" on their education priorities, while Republicans head into a "honeymoon period" on ESAs and vouchers?The biggest story regarding charter schools - Are charter schools in a "sweet spot" or in a "dead zone" headed into 2025?And our biggest reasons for optimism and concern headed into 2025.References:* Tim Daly's piece: https://www.educationdaly.us/p/we-are-in-the-midst-of-an-educational* Election reax: https://eduwonk.substack.com/p/shellacked-what-are-the-education* Fiscal situation: https://www.pgpf.org/article/7-charts-that-show-how-the-nations-fiscal-outlook-worsened-in-2024/* Andy and Lindsay Fryer discuss Linda McMahon: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7265157124941369344/comments/* Musical chairs: https://eduwonk.substack.com/p/charter-schools-might-not-have-a

Andy and Jed discuss what the theme music for their podcast should be before shifting to their voting experiences and frustrations with the current political landscape. The conversation delves into polarizing views on education, highlighting voter behavior differences, the impact of California politics, and significant historical events influencing perceptions. The nuances of charter school regulation, accountability, and data-driven decision-making are explored, emphasizing the difficulties of balancing regulation with performance metrics. The importance of evidence-based advocacy, critiques of past and current administrations, and the need for a balanced approach to promoting a healthy educational environment are underscored. Finally, the discussion addresses systemic issues in education, the challenge of intergenerational advocacy, and the impact of political climates on education reforms.Show Notes:PPI report https://www.progressivepolicy.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PPI_Searching-for-the-Tipping-Point-paper.pdfParker Baxter Denver study https://publicaffairs.ucdenver.edu/docs/librariesprovider36/default-document-library/denver_systemwide_and_intervention-effects-technical-report-september-2024.pdf?sfvrsn=f4236bb4_1Michael Bennet and Tom Boasberg on Denver https://publicaffairs.ucdenver.edu/docs/librariesprovider36/default-document-library/leading-for-equity-and-student-growth-lessons-transformation-the-denver-public-schools-sept-2024.pdf?sfvrsn=237174b4_1Eduwonk on electionhttps://eduwonk.substack.com/p/come-talk-ed-politics-plus-heresChalkbeat on CO consolidation a...

In this conversation, Andy and Jed discuss a range of topics related to education policies and the role of teacher unions, particularly reflecting on experiences in Oaxaca, Mexico and the United States. Jed shares his observations about the strong presence and activities of teacher unions in Oaxaca, contrasting them with unions in the U.S. The discussion extends to broader issues within the education sector, including the dynamics of charter schools, governance models, and the impact of large education reforms in cities like Denver and Indianapolis. They also touch on recent studies and political developments, such as the upcoming elections and their potential implications for education policies. Additionally, they reflect on the contributions and legacy of influential education leaders like Don Shalvey and Larry Rosenstock.Show Notes:Tim Daly on Finlandhttps://www.educationdaly.us/p/the-rise-and-fall-of-finland-maniaOG Eduwonk on Finlandhttps://www.eduwonk.com/2004/04/finland-rising.htmlEduwonk on DiAngelishttps://eduwonk.substack.com/p/the-bloom-is-off-the-seth-rose-what74 on DiAngelis backstoryhttps://www.the74million.org/article/corey-deangelis-disgraced-not-by-liberals-he-trolled-but-right-wing-parents/Denver Studyhttps://publicaffairs.ucdenver.edu/docs/librariesprovider36/default-document-library/denver-study-summary-september-2024.pdf?sfvrsn=60236bb4_1Denver Public Radio storyhttps://www.cpr.org/2024/09/23/denver-public-schools-controversial-reform-successful/Denver Post storyhttps://www.denverpost.com/2024/09/23/denver-school-reform-academic-performance-study/Matt Landner on ESA financehttps://www.reimaginedonline.org/2023/07/arizona-governor-touts-misleading-narrative-on-arizona-empowerment-scholarship-program/Bellwether school finance workhttps://bellwether.org/publications/splitting-the-bill/Rotherham in New York Times on when teachers unions fought their own teachers over innovation:https://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/10/opinion/10rotherham.htmlJed Wallace on Don Shalveyhttps://www.charterfolk.org/remembering-don-shalvey-a-mid-summers-nights-dream-of-loving-what-we-do-and-who-we-do-it-with/Eduwonk on Don Shalveya...

Andy and Jed explore the intersection of education and politics in a rapidly changing landscape. They start by analyzing the Democratic Party's surprising silence on education during their convention, delving into why education has become a party splitter and how this could affect upcoming elections. The conversation then shifts to Kamala Harris' role and what her presidency might mean for education policy, especially concerning the influence of teacher unions and school choice. The hosts also tackle the Republican stance on universal vouchers, the evolving dynamics within the GOP, and the broader implications for urban education in cities like Chicago and St. Louis. This episode is packed with in-depth analysis, covering everything from the NEA's strategic influence to the potential long-term consequences of declining public school enrollment. Don't miss this insightful conversation that sheds light on the critical issues facing American education today.SHOW NOTES: Andy's Eduwonk post on Biden being a centristAndy's Eduwonk post on Tim WalzTim Daly's piece about grading the Biden Administration on education policyThe cringy "Mommala moment" from the Drew Barrymore interview with Kamala HarrisThe full interview between Barrymore and HarrisDerrell Bradford and Tim DeRoche's Op-Ed in the 74 about Milliken vs Bradley

In this thought-provoking episode, Andy Rotherham and Jed Wallace are joined by Lynne Graziano from Bellwether Education Partners to dive deep into the complexities and inconsistencies of adolescent laws across the United States. Using Bellwether's new "Edge of Seventeen" report as a cornerstone, this discussion covers a wide range of topics from the age of consent and marriage laws to labor rights and education policies.*Key Topics Discussed:*- The diversity in state laws regarding age-related permissions.- Surprising statistics on child labor and marriage.- The influence of federalism on policy consistency.- The impact of these inconsistencies on today’s youth.- The role of schools and education policy in navigating these challenges.*Episode Highlights:*- [01:45] Introduction of guest Lynne Graziano and the Edge of Seventeen report.- [05:30] Discussion on the age of consent and marriage laws.- [15:00] The role of federal legislation in creating consistency.- [25:20] How adolescent laws impact education policies.- [35:45] Viewer Q&A and final thoughts.*Why Listen?*This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, parents, and anyone interested in the intersection of youth, law, and education. You’ll gain fresh insights into the often-overlooked area of adolescent policy and its real-world implications.*Show Notes:*- Edge of Seventeen Report by Bellwether Education Partners:https://bellwether.org/publications/t...- Aspen on cross-partisanship:    • Crossing the Partisan Divide in Educa...  https://www.aspeninstitute.org/public...- Reagan Institute conference:

This week Andy and I start out debriefing the ASU-GSV conference and explore why the open and optimistic spirit of that gathering feels so at odds with the vibe that prevails across much of ed reform these days. That leads to a discussion about Andy’s widely read article about ed reformers needing to buck up and realize the progress that has been made in recent decades. That leads me to chime in about the need to keep a decades-long view in order to appreciate the accomplishments of the charter school movement. We then talk about the fact that many ed reformers are in blue contexts, which are also the most difficult politically, and so the voice of those Folk is loud enough to drive the national narrative among ed reformers regarding prospects for continued impact, We close with Andy identifying the political folly of blues at a national level not embracing greater ed reform and charter schools as a way to win over critically needed swing voters.SHOW NOTES:ASU-GSV "Brave New World" keynote from Michael MoeVinod Khosla interview from ASU-GSV“Buck Up!” article from Eduwonk Economist on YouGov PollThe live WonkyFolk episode where we both praise Starlee: Video | AudioEduwonk’s Public Relationists V. Achievement Realists Article about Proposal to change a school in Gainesville, Florida to selective admissionsCharterFolk post about charter school history not being "a bucket of ashes."

Jed and Andy record WonkyFolk's first live session as they keynote at the Charter Growth Fund. WonkyFolk's first live episode discusses the vital role of charter schools and civic engagement in advocating for education reform, particularly within African American and Hispanic communities. Jed and Andy delve into policy-making dynamics, the influence of political affiliations on educational initiatives, and how charter schools can serve as catalysts for community mobilization towards improved educational outcomes. Highlighting the importance of a cohesive advocacy strategy, the podcast also explores the implications of school choice mechanisms like vouchers and Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), advocating for significant policy adjustments to ensure access to high-quality education for all, fulfilling diverse community requirements.00:00 Welcome to the Wonky Folk Podcast Live Episode!00:53 Kicking Off with a Live Audience: The Excitement and Challenges01:48 Charter Schools Advocacy and the Impact of COVID-1902:57 Navigating the Political Landscape of Charter Schools07:54 The Importance of Narrative and Controversy in Advocacy17:07 Exploring School Choice and the Political Divide26:39 The Future of School Choice in a Polarized Political Climate32:48 The Struggle for School Choice and Accountability33:57 The Need for Strong Advocacy and Communication in Education35:47 Challenges and Successes in Charter School Advocacy38:30 The Importance of a Unified Advocacy Strategy43:57 Navigating Political and Policy Challenges in Education Reform50:13 Building a Stronger Narrative and Policy Agenda for Charter Schools56:28 Engaging Communities and Shaping the Future of Charter Schools01:07:57 Closing Remarks and the Path Forward

This week, Andy and I are talking about the furries, a fiscal cliff, higher education, and trade schools.You can also watch it on YouTube. Show Notes:https://eduwonk.substack.com/p/theyre-furious-in-oklahoma-plus-baeslerhttps://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/01/17/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-announces-improving-student-achievement-agenda-in-2024/Bellwether School Finance: https://bellwether.org/tag/school-finance/Bellwether Admission: https://bellwether.org/beta/admission/Higher Ed Hypocrisy: https://eduwonk.substack.com/p/odds-ends-and-fish-higher-ed-pisa

Greetings, CharterFolk!This week, Andy and I are talking with Nina Rees, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, regarding charter schools and the American Dream.For those of you who would prefer a video recording, we provide a link to YouTube. This week some of the topics include:Introductions (00:01)One of the greatest accomplishments for the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools (NAPCS) over the last decade (06:11)How we should we think about charters relative to other choice options and what we need by way of leadership and advocacy (11:30)Nina’s thoughts regarding the most pressing charter issues 11+ years ago v. today (15:21)Nina’s biggest surprise (18:27)A backstage pass to leading and organization like the NAPCS and some of Nina’s enduring memories (24:33)The political leaders who support charter schools during a period of intense polarization, what we can do to support continued bipartisanship, and the importance of future elections (28:47)How to keep a charter base together, especially during vexing issues facing charter schools (34:10)The area Nina would encourage CharterFolk to work on for charter school success (44:11)Nina’s billboard for charter schools, “A ticket to the American Dream” (47:22)Notes:You can use the following links to access:·      The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools’ report, Believing in Public Education: A Demographic and State-level Analysis of Public Charter School and District Public School Enrollment Trends....

Greetings, CharterFolk! This week, Andy and I are talking with David Griffith, Associate Director of Research at the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, regarding The Education Competition Index: Quantifying competitive pressure in America’s 125 largest school districts, which indicates the death of traditional public schools has been greatly exaggerated. For those of you who would prefer a video recording, we provide a link to YouTube as well. This week some of the topics include:Introductions (00:01)A brief description of the study, its findings, and their significance (04:07)The effects of competition generally (06:54)Evolution of the role of competition as advocacy battles intensify and polarization increases (14:54)Other creative ideas to increase competition (16:10)Interesting findings on variation in competition by demographics of students (24:46)Thoughts regarding the ability of new ESAs and voucher programs to increase competition (31:01)Upcoming Fordham studies (39:42) Notes: You can use the following links to access: ·      The Education Competition Index: Quantifying competitive pressure in America’s 125 largest school districtshttps://fordhaminstitute.org/national/research/education-competition-index-quantifying-competitive-pressure-americas-125-largestAs ever, I’m eager to hear feedback and suggestions from CharterFolk. So, if you have a chance to listen to the discussion and want to drop me a line with some thoughts, feel free to reach me at jed@charterfolk.org.If you haven’t yet heard or seen previous volumes of WonkyFolk, you can access them here.Meanwhile, I thank you once again for being part of the CharterFolk community and for the efforts you are making to improve educational opportunities in our country.

Greetings, CharterFolk!This week, Andy and I are focused on a Thanksgiving theme. We are talking about what we are thankful for over the last year, personally and professionally, as well as traditions and new results.For those of you who would prefer a video recording, we provide a link to YouTube as well. This week some of the topics include:Welcome back and tales from the trail (00:04)Thanksgiving plans, traditions, and WKRP in Cincinnati’s 1978 Thanksgiving classic episode, “Turkeys Away” (05:58)One positive thing we are each inarguably happy about that happened in charters and/or ed reform over the last year (08:01)CMO leadership transition: promote from within or hire externally (17:15)Virginia election results (30:30)Public school satisfaction polling results: parent, non-parent, and pundit opinions (38:39)Notes:You can use the following links to access:·      WKRP in Cincinnati’s 1978 Thanksgiving episode, “Turkeys Away”: https://www.pjstar.com/story/entertainment/television/2023/11/20/wkrp-turkey-drop-cincinnati-thanksgiving-episode-turkeys-away-les-nessman-streaming/71652621007/·      Andy Rotherham’s Eduwonk article regarding Virginia’s recent elections, “Vibes And Narratives Are No Way To Go Through Ed Policy Son…Plus Fish!”: https://eduwonk.substack.com/p/vibes-and-narratives-are-no-way-to·      Matt Barnum’s Chalkbeat article, “The public is souring on American education, but parents still give own child’s school high marks”: https://www.chalkbeat.org/2023/9/5/23859890/parents-polling-surveys-schools-american-education-pandemic/Previous volumes of WonkyFolk can be accessed here.

Greetings, CharterFolk!Greetings, CharterFolk!This is the second WonkyFolk where Andy is talking while Jed is walking the Camino Trail with his wife, Amy. Andy and Cara Fitzpatrick, an editor at Chalkbeat and a Pulitzer Prize winner for Local Reporting in 2016 for a series about school segregation, talk school choice history and school choice today.Their conversation focuses on Cara’s book, The Death of Public School: How Conservatives Won the War Over Education in America, particularly the complicated history of school choice in America, and the fact that very different people with very different backgrounds are pursuing school choice for very different reasons. A theme running through the discussion is the long history of political and constitutional strategies to expand school choice, especially the legal strategies focused on the Free Exercise and Establishment Clauses.For those of you who would prefer a video recording, we provide a link to YouTube as well.  This week some of the topics include:Introductions and Cara’s background and K-12 school experience (00:00:20)The provocative title of the book and an overview of the very complicated history of American school choice (00:04:33)Who wins between these different visions of choice: Is it good for everyone or is it good for low income children? (00:10:50)What does it mean for Democrats and school choice and why are Republicans better at messaging than Democrats? (00:15:06)Organized political warfare v. grassroots in school choice (00:16:55)How the Democratic answer to school choice was initially charters versus vouchers and how it only recently changed with Betsy DeVos (00:23:00)Jeb Bush’s quote regarding school choice, ‘…start small and expand’ and the idea that school choice is a regular feature of American education (00:26:41)Political and constitutional strategies to expand school choice, with an emphasis on legal strategies and the journey of separation of church and state in education, including precedents and the most recent Supreme Court decision in Carson v. Makin (2022) (00:30:57)Precedents v. presentism and court shifts on the Free Exercise Clause over the years (00:38:11)The role of housing in school choice and the various tools segregationist use in education that are still a problem in our school systems across the country (00:44:09)Why were individuals like Milton Friedman and Virgil Bloom comfortable with school choice options (vouchers) while recognizing they would have ill effects on public schools? And is this the death of public schools? (00:48:37)Notes:You can use the following link to accessCara Fitzpatrick’s book, The Death of Public School: How Conservatives Won the War Over Education in America. Andrew Rotherham’s article in U.S. News & World Report, “The Complex History of School Choice: There’s no single reason people want more choice in...

This week Andy is talking while Jed is walking…hiking the Camino Trail with his wife, Amy. Andy is talking with Morgan Polikoff, Associate Professor of Education at the University of Southern California(USC)’s Rossier School of Education. Their conversation focuses on public opinion on education, particularly parent opinion, and the similarities and differences of post-pandemic K-12 experiences for students, parents, and families. A theme running through the discussion is how to build and use an accurate data model to overcome the overt political efforts to drive a wedge between parents and the public education system, shed light on the issues, and to create a healthy culture of free expression to work through complicated issues (e.g., transgender, sports, gay rights, and controversial topics and diversity in the curriculum).  For those of you who would prefer a video recording, we provide a link to YouTube as well.  References & Notes:• The UAS Education Project data, documentation, and publications focused on “Understanding Coronavirus in America” by USC Dornsife Center for Economic and Social Research (CSER)’s Center for Applied Research in Education (CARE)’s Understanding America Study (UAS) Education Project: https://uasdata.usc.edu/index.php• Morgan Polikoff’s book, Beyond Standards: The Fragmentation of Governance and the Promise of Curriculum Reform: https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Standards-Fragmentation-Governance-Curriculum/dp/1682536114/ref=sr_1_1?crid=TWUZ7FDJ0BKS&keywords=beyond+standards&qid=1697491913&sprefix=beyond+standards%2Caps%2C124&sr=8-1• A Controversial Topics Report from USC Dornsife CSER and USC Rossier School of Education: https://www.ednc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/House_Divided.pdf• Bellwether’s Common Ground: How Public K-12 Schools Are Navigating Pandemic Disruptions and Political Trends: https://bellwether.org/publications/common-ground/• Politico’s “Virginia Went to War Over History. And Students Actually Came Out on Top.”: https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/09/09/glenn-youngkin-history-wars-virginia-00113958