Marc Tucker is the author of an important new report: Fixing Our National Accountability System. You can find the executive summary here.
Although Marc and I disagree on the promise of Relinquishment (most specifically on charter schools), I agree with much of this thinking.
But, in this report, Marc makes a strategic mistake in dismissing choice-based reforms.
To put it another way: if there is a grand bargain to be made that significantly increases student achievement in the United States, it could look like this:
- Reduce testing frequency and increase testing rigor
- Improve the quality of the teaching force
- Increase charter schools and choice
Why could this bargain work? Because both Democrats and Republicans might actually support all three strategies.
Why might Marc’s vision not be realized without a charter strategy? Because, without charters, his reforms reduce testing accountability and increase spending, without increasing any elements of choice, competition, or entrepreneurship.
This is likely a nonstarter for many Americans, especially centrist and conservative policy makers.
Seventy percent of the public supports charter schools. Urban charter schools outperform traditional schools. And countries such as South Korea have shown that choice and competition can increase student achievement.
Pragmatically, Marc would be much more likely to see his vision realized if he embraced charter schools. And I believe firmly that this would be better for students.
So here’s my plea: Marc, embrace charters and choice in addition to your other excellent...