Josh Eidelson explains in Salon.com what happened in Bridgeport, Connecticut, when the corporate reformers promoted a referendum to abolish the elected school boards and give the public schools to the mayor. Despite the active support of Michelle Rhee and a heavy infusion of money, the voters of Bridgeport decided they preferred to keep their right to choose those who control their schools.
Vallas is a brand more than a superintendent … he has spent millions on data syatems and textbooks and employs his “team,,” consultants and camp followers … the city needs a superintendent who is on-site, not ocassionally dropping by … Bridegeport’s main problem is a large number of English Language Learners, a transitory school populations, …
Good for the people of Bridgeport, my hometown! The public education system I grew up with there did fine by me. My teachers were a memorable, dedicated bunch. Eventually, I became a public school teacher myself, though in another state. I can thank the example set by my own teachers for inspiring me to want to educate others.
Go Bridgeport!
Bill
Go Bridgeport! One battle down, more to come… stay alert!
Read more about the Vallas Spinaround in Bridgeport…lots so money for him and his corporate buddies.
He is now willing to stay in CT longer…he must not have anymore “disasters as opportunity” waiting for him or maybe his “reforms” (Chicago, NOLA, Philly) are starting to speak for themselves.
http://jonathanpelto.com/2013/01/03/education-reformer-vallas-reverses-course-now-open-to-keeping-part-time-234000-bridgeport-superintendents-job/
Typo…lots of money…
congratulations to the people of Bridgeport!
“You can accomplish anything by carrying out class struggle.”
Some good news came out of Fairfield County this year. Hooray!
Thank you Bridgeport!