Terry Moe

Terry Moe, a political scientist and author at Stanford University, delves into the transformative impact of Hurricane Katrina on educational reform in New Orleans. He highlights how the disaster prompted a shift to charter schools, leading to significant improvements in student outcomes. Moe discusses the challenges posed by entrenched interests, like teachers' unions, that often hinder reform. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating innovation and adaptability in education, showing how political dynamics can change under pressure from catastrophic events.

Randy Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, joins fellow educators and experts, including Terry Moe, a political science professor, and Larry Sand, a retired teacher. They tackle the contentious role of teachers' unions in school performance. Discussions reveal the unions' dual nature—supporting teachers while sometimes hindering reforms. Personal stories highlight the emotional stakes for families seeking better education options. The debate challenges listeners to reconsider whether unions are allies or obstacles in the quest for educational improvement.