Speak Out for Public Education

        Last week, I had the opportunity to participate in a demonstration in conjunction with Harvard’s Commencement Ceremonies designed to get Secretary of Education Arne Duncan’s attention.  A Harvard graduate, Duncan was honored as Chief Marshall of the Commencement proceedings for his 25^th reunion.  A group of educators and advocates from Cambridge and beyond, including Deborah Meier and Alfie Kohn, took this opportunity to gather in Harvard Square and speak out.  I was honored to be among the speakers at the event, and delivered a brief speech to share my story as a current teacher and give some insight into how Duncan’s top-down policies are negatively impacting classroom communities.

            It was heartening to meet this dedicated group of current or retired public school teachers, researchers, and advocates all devoted to bringing about positive change for our students.  I was excited to see passers-by and graduates stop to read our signs, gather more information, and thank us for speaking out.  We were a small group, but our message was clear:  teachers, parents, and students know what’s best for schools and we will make ourselves heard.  Next stop: Washington, DC for the Save Our Schools March!

Author’s Note:  To find coverage of the event visit wmbr.org, and click on the program “What’s Left” for Friday, May 26 from 6 to 7pm.  You will find the piece about the demonstration at about the 36-minute mark.


**Author's UPDATE:  To see video of the rally, go to http://www.filmourwayfilms.com/film/teachfilm.cfm and select the "Rally Against Duncan's 'Reforms' for Public Schools of May 26" link.  I come on around the 30 minute mark!