Ep 296: Redefining Public Education

Cara Fitzpatrick, author of The Death of Public School, joins us
to discuss the history and implications of school choice in
America. We delve into how school vouchers, charter schools, and
education savings accounts redefine public education.


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Full Show Notes





The structure and definition of public education in America are
changing rapidly. With more states adopting programs that allow
parents to divert public funds to private and charter schools,
the idea of what constitutes a public education is being
fundamentally reexamined. These changes have far-reaching
implications for our communities, teachers, and children.


To explore this critical topic, we’re joined by Cara Fitzpatrick,
editor at Chalkbeat and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. Cara’s
deep dive into the origins and effects of school choice is
encapsulated in her book, The Death of Public School. Her work
offers a comprehensive look at how we've arrived at the current
state of education and what it means for the future.


Origins of School Choice


Cara traces the beginnings of school choice back to Florida, a
significant testing ground for charter schools and voucher
systems. The concept hinges on the principle that public money
should follow the student, whether they attend a public, private,
or charter school. This notion became particularly contentious
with the introduction of education savings accounts, offering
unprecedented flexibility in how public funds can be utilized for
a student’s education.



Navigating the Varieties of School Choice


School choice programs can take various forms, such as school
vouchers and charter schools. While charter schools operate with
public funding but independent management, vouchers allow parents
to use public money for private school tuition, including
religious institutions. Cara breaks down these different models,
highlighting the nuances and controversies associated with each.



Historical Context and Its Implications


Understanding the history of public education helps contextualize
today’s debates. From the vision of early American leaders like
Thomas Jefferson to the contentious battles over school
integration in the 1950s, Cara illustrates how the definition of
public education has evolved. She emphasizes that this isn't just
a new debate but a complex issue with roots in America's early
history.



Where Are We Now?


School choice has grown significantly, with programs now
available in over half of the states. However, this growth hasn’t
come without challenges. Cara explains how the initial waves of
school choice, such as those in the 1950s used to resist
desegregation, differ significantly from today’s initiatives. She
also addresses the legal battles that have shaped the current
landscape, including key Supreme Court decisions that have
supported the use of public funds for religious education under
specific conditions.



Future of Public Education


The future of public education is uncertain but seemingly headed
towards more choice and less traditional public schooling. As
Cara discusses, the recent push towards universal programs –
accessible to all students regardless of income or need –
indicates a shift supported by current political and judicial
climates. 



In the Episode…


In our conversation with Cara, we explore various other topics,
including:


- The economic arguments for and against school choice


- The potential for discrimination within choice programs


- The role of competition in improving public schools


- Historical and contemporary court rulings impacting school
choice


- Predicting the future landscape of American public education



Cara’s deep research and thoughtful insights offer a balanced
view on a complex issue. For a more detailed understanding, grab
a copy of her book, The Death of Public School, and consider
attending local school board meetings to stay engaged with how
these changes might affect your community.



For more thought-provoking conversations and expert insights,
make sure to listen to this week’s episode and subscribe to
Talking to Teens.





Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment
that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more
information, and a free consultation.