Have You Heard

Local activism plays a pivotal role in shaping educational policies and school board elections. In Souderton, Pennsylvania, a grassroots movement aims to revive nonpartisan school board elections. As debates rage over COVID measures and critical race theory, residents are determined to champion educational fairness. The journey through local politics reveals the complexities of community dynamics and the necessity of pragmatism in addressing real issues. Personal stories of encounters with law enforcement add depth to the discussion, underlining the connections we forge in our communities.

It’s common knowledge that every student has a learning style: visual, auditory or kinesthetic. But what if those classifications are not just inaccurate but dangerous? That’s the argument made by education historian Tom Fallace in his provocative new book, You Are Not a Kinesthetic Learner: The Troubled History of the Learning Style Idea. As Fallace documents, not only is the research behind learning styles flimsy, but the classifications end up lumping together whole racial and ethnic groups as kinesthetic learners. The financial support of listeners like you keeps this podcast going. Subscribe on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/HaveYouHeardPodcast

A surprising coalition of conservative Texans is vocalizing their opposition to school vouchers. They argue that vouchers threaten the integrity of local public schools, especially in rural areas. Interviews reveal a blend of personal stakes and political concerns, particularly about workforce implications. The discord among Republicans over this issue is palpable, reflecting broader tensions within the party. This conversation underscores the values of community and public education while challenging the narrative around educational privatization.

Join David Hopkins, an Associate Professor of Political Science at Boston College and co-author of "Polarized by Degrees," as he sheds light on the alarming divide in American politics driven by education. He discusses how educational attainment is reshaping party identification and voter behavior, especially in light of the 2024 elections. The conversation explores the fraught relationship between teachers and political hostility, while highlighting the need for constructive dialogue. Plus, he shares insights on bridging societal divides through community engagement.

Heath Brown, an Associate Professor of Public Policy and expert on homeschooling, delves into the GOP's radical shift in education practices. He discusses how the party has transitioned from a business-minded approach to prioritizing private, religious schooling and homeschooling. The conversation touches on the historical roots of this transformation, grassroots activism's role, and the implications for future educational policies. Brown also highlights the intertwining of capitalism and education reform, raising concerns about student performance amid these changes.

The discussion delves into how a second Trump administration might reshape public education. Key topics include the potential impacts on immigration policies and undocumented students in schools. There’s an exploration of school choice and teacher unions, along with anticipated reforms affecting civil rights. The tension between national educational rhetoric and local realities is examined, alongside the recent Kentucky vote against private school vouchers. Activism and community engagement are promoted as crucial responses to these changes.

Rebecca Jacobson, a Professor of education policy at Michigan State University, explores the intertwining of politics and education. She discusses the rising chaos and conflict schools face, driven by the politics of disruption. Key insights reveal the financial and emotional toll of educational disputes on school communities. The conversation also highlights the need to reconnect with local communities to foster collaboration and address the damaging effects of nationalized politics on governance in education.

David Labaree, an education historian and professor emeritus at Stanford, dives deep into the ongoing debate over high school exit exams in Massachusetts. He argues that high schools have never been effective at preparing students for future jobs, leading to a troubling focus on standardized testing. Labaree discusses how educational systems evolved from fostering citizenship to prioritizing workforce readiness, all while critiquing the implications of educational privilege and the need for more inclusive educational policies.

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.