Public education for the common good

Citizens today might take a lesson from the idealism of the founders of public education.

Although public schools sometimes fall short of expectations, holding set of ideals gives these schools something to work toward. The answer is not to do away with public schools or give up on the ideals that have guided them for two centuries. Nor is the answer to accept public schools as they are. The answer is to encourage reforms that will help all schools live up to these ideals.

Public schools must be accountable to citizens, but citizens must also be accountable to public schools. Americans can provide a model for their children of the virtues of a well-educated citizenry by supporting public education, engaging with their local schools, showing wisdom and compassion in decisions affecting schools, and advocating for better and more equitable public education.

(This was written by the Center On Education Policy, 1001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 522, Washington DC, 20036)

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