Barack Obama may be a believer in public education, but his support goes only so far:
It is the Quaker ethos that is the most striking feature of Sidwell Friends School, the one chosen by President-elect Obama for his daughters Sasha and Malia. A sense of community, equality and friendship runs through every classroom: children are encouraged to strive for their best, but to value above all their relations with each other and their place in the school family.
We should not begrudge the Obamas for this choice at all. They acted in the best interests of their children. But most parents, especially those trapped in the worst public school systems, would like to have such a choice. The next time Obama speaks about vouchers (he's been against them, but there are vague rumblings that he might be persuaded to be for them), he should make it clear that he understands this.
Comments
Have you considered the security issues involved in sending the President's kids to a public school?
Private makes it easier to make sure that they are safe, while minimizing disruptions for other students.
Yes, I mentioned that in a previous post and, as I note here, I don't begrudge him the choice at all. But he now needs to explain his opposition to vouchers (or change his mind about them) or else become just another "do as I say, not as I do" politician.
We have been down this path before. The NEA will keep their union mouth quiet, because the president-elect owes them so much. And the union will quote the same line Mr. Knuth stated. Security is a false premise. What takes place in the classroom is the issue. Let any of them discuss that.
The security issue is bullsh&t. So I don't have to retype, please see this: http://just4therecordbooks.blogspot.com/