Adam Lotz, a historian and author of "Mr. Lancaster's System," joins the conversation about the curious history of American public education. He introduces Joseph Lancaster, an early edu-grifter whose self-taught schooling model promised free education. Lotz dissects the cyclical nature of educational reforms and critiques past efforts at privatization. They discuss the historical reluctance to fund equitable education, underscoring the need for renewed community engagement and state involvement in public schooling.

In Fort Collins, community members passionately resist the closure of schools, revealing deep emotional ties and urgent educational concerns. The discussion delves into the complexities of school closure policies, highlighting the harsh realities faced by families. Insights from local reporters shed light on funding and demographic shifts. Grassroots advocacy shines as parents voice fears of 'school deserts.' The narrative also critiques the shift from community-oriented schools to a consumerist model, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms in education.

When Courtney Gore ran for school board in a deep red Texas county, she pledged to root out indoctrination. But once she got into office, Gore could find no evidence of indoctrination happening in the local schools. She has since disavowed the far-right platform she ran on and now argues that the school culture wars are being ginned up in order to build support for private school vouchers–and a growing number of local Republicans agree with her. Education journalist Karin Chenoweth interviewed Gore on her podcast, Democracy and Education, and gave us permission to share their conversation on Have You Heard. The financial support of listeners like you keeps this podcast going. Subscribe on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/HaveYouHeardPodcast

David Backer, a school district finance expert, challenges the standard solutions of cutting budgets, firing staff, and closing schools as responses to financial crises in education. He sheds light on the complex causes behind funding issues, such as declining enrollment and the end of federal aid. Backer advocates for empowering educators and communities with knowledge to fight for equitable funding. He also discusses innovative ideas, like creating a national infrastructure bank, to enhance educational finance.

Tom Berkshire, a passionate advocate for children and reforming the foster care system, shares insights alongside journalist and educator Nora De La Cour. They explore Treehouse, a unique community in Massachusetts fostering love and support for foster kids while providing affordable housing for seniors. The conversation highlights the importance of intergenerational bonds, community resilience, and the challenges faced by those in the foster care system. Listeners are uplifted by personal stories illustrating the transformative power of belonging and mentorship.

Education experts Erik Anderson, Noliwe Rooks, and Derek Gottlieb discuss the intense push to privatize schools, the importance of defending public education in rural communities, and the significance of uniting to protect democratic establishments such as public schools. The podcast covers anecdotes, scholar contributions, and upcoming products related to their new book, The Education Wars.

Education scholar Mark Chin discusses his research on the impact of school integration in the South, finding that students who attended integrated schools became less conservative and more tolerant adults. This challenges the focus on test scores in education policy and sheds light on the current trend of school privatization in the South aiming to produce more conservative and less tolerant individuals.

Co-founder of Braver Angels, Bill Doherty, discusses how polarized debates over education can be tackled, emphasizing the need for civil discourse and understanding differing viewpoints. The podcast explores bridging political divides, addressing racial tensions through dialogue, and uniting Americans in divisive times through grassroots efforts and advocating for education policies.

Author Jonathan Gyurko discusses the concept of publicization in education, advocating for truly public schools. Topics include funding, governance, accountability, and redefining the purpose of school. Moving beyond privatization requires a hopeful vision of education.

The podcast explores Idaho's success in rejecting school vouchers, attributing it to grassroots organizing and influential business opposition. It delves into the challenges of rural school district consolidation and the influence of billionaires on education policies, revealing the complex motivations behind their support of voucher programs.