In a historic moment for U.S. education, the nomination of Betsy DeVos faced unprecedented backlash, with teachers, education advocates, and especially parents expressing their concerns through a flood of communications to senators. As a former educator and a mom of two young kids, I felt a mix of disbelief and anger at the choice of DeVos as our education secretary. Her minimal understanding of essential education policies became evident during her confirmation hearing, and her long-standing disdain for public education is troubling. The outcomes of her education reforms in Michigan, which diverted taxpayer funds to private and often religious schools, have been disheartening. As a billionaire conservative activist, she has consistently resisted the accountability measures that public schools adhere to.
Despite this setback, parents must not lose hope or remain passive. The challenges our public schools face are too significant, particularly for the most vulnerable students, including those with disabilities and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The confirmation of Betsy DeVos marks not the end but the beginning of a renewed effort to advocate for public education.
Julie Harper, a dedicated public school advocate, reassures us that becoming involved can feel daunting at first. “It’s not as intimidating as you might think, especially at the state level,” she says. Here are practical steps parents can take to champion our nation’s public schools:
1. Educate Yourself
Stay informed about current education issues by following education bloggers and activists on social media. Engaging with top educational advocates can provide valuable insights. Attend local school board meetings to better understand the challenges your school district is facing.
2. Engage Locally
Volunteer at your child’s school, asking teachers about their needs. Join or create a parent-teacher organization and invite local civic and business leaders to engage in discussions on educational needs. Consider running for school board; organizations like She Should Run and Emerge America offer resources and training for those interested in elected office. Talk to family and friends about the importance of public education, and write letters to your local newspaper highlighting school challenges and successes. Mentoring and tutoring public school students can also make a difference. Collaborate with local grassroots campaigns for standardized testing reform, or start one in your community to address specific concerns.
3. Advocate at State and National Levels
Make your voice heard by regularly reaching out to your representatives about education issues. Attend public meetings and invite your representatives to discuss your community’s educational concerns. Stay informed about local and state education budgets and advocate against proposed cuts. Organizations such as the Alliance to Reclaim Our Schools and Network for Public Education can help connect local efforts with statewide initiatives. Supporting civil rights organizations like the National Coalition for School Diversity is another way to promote diversity in public schools.
Betsy DeVos’s confirmation presents a significant challenge for public education, but united, parents, educators, and community members can raise their voices and work tirelessly to protect our educational system. By taking action, we can ensure that public education remains strong and accessible for all children.
In the realm of family planning, understanding various methods can empower individuals. For more information on at-home insemination kits, check out resources like Make A Mom for guidance. Additionally, for those interested in fertility topics, Science Daily offers excellent insights into the field. Always remember to review our privacy policy for more information on how we protect your data.
Summary
Parents are encouraged to take action and advocate for public education in light of Betsy DeVos’s confirmation. By educating themselves, engaging locally, and advocating at state and national levels, they can help protect and strengthen public schools for all children.