The Fight for Education Freedom

A new AEI report found that the COVID-19 pandemic caused the largest enrollment declines in the history of American public Schools. 85 percent of school districts across the country had enrollment losses the year after the pandemic started, and almost half of districts saw declines of 3 percent, a seven-fold increase from the prior year. Why are Americans fleeing public schools?

In this episode, Naomi and Ian are joined by Betsy DeVos, former secretary of education and author of the new book Hostages No More. Over the last two years, parents have witnessed school closures, mask mandates, and seen the impact of a curriculum focused more on social justice than preparing students for high levels of academic achievement. Secretary DeVos explains the flaws in the public school system that pre-date the pandemic and believes broadening school choice will return a standard of excellence to the classroom. Despite efforts in some states to return to remote learning or require masks in schools, Secretary DeVos is optimistic the public’s opposition to these measures will force politicians to put the interests of families and children first.

Resources:

• Hostages No More: The Fight for Education Freedom and the Future of the American Child | Betsy DeVos

• Pandemic Enrollment Fallout: School District Enrollment Changes Across COVID-19 Response | Nat Malkus | American Enterprise Institute

Show Notes:

• 01:20 | Why are Americans fleeing public schools?

• 06:30 | Why is it difficult to address the failings of public school?

• 11:10 | The problems with the Department of Education

• 16:00 | Should we have a national referendum on what topics should be taught in public school?

• 17:30 | The way we run K-12 education is very outdated