Dear PoP – What Type of Education Reform Would People Like to See?

Photo by PoPville flickr user BrennaLM

“Dear PoP,

I’m wondering if you could throw up a question some time this week asking residents for their thoughts on substantive education reform. I’m not looking for people’s responses to Michelle Rhee or Kaya Henderson, I’m wondering exactly what sorts of changes they’re looking for in District schools. I’m out and talking with people, but your site offers the unique opportunity to observe people talking openly and honestly with one another.”

The following question was sent by a candidate for Ward 4 Member of the DC State Board of Education. It’s been a while since we’ve spoken about education reform. It’s an interesting question for me, because I’m far from an expert on education reform (or anything really except tropical fish and the Drive by Truckers) and all I hear is that many of the public schools leave a lot to be desired, to put it nicely. Obviously Michelle Rhee was a controversial figure but I understand she took some difficult (if not politically sensitive) moves. I don’t think it’s possible to answer this question without weighing in on Michelle Rhee’s decisions but power to you if you can.

So what type of education reform would you like to see in the coming years?