Charter Storm: Waves of Change Sweeping Over Public Education

by Mary Searcy Bixby

IN THE MIDST of the many dramatic events occurring around the globe, there is a not-so-silent war currently gripping the United States, and yet it is ignored by many. It centers on a critical aspect of American life—an aspect destined to affect our economy, scientific discovery, political evolution, social mores, artistic endeavors, health, crime levels, urban decline, urban development, issues of race and poverty, and overall American culture. The outcomes of today’s fight will have implications for decades to come. They may even result in change that can never be reversed. This raging war is born of a strict contrast in educational philosophies and perspectives. It affects not only every man, woman, and child currently living in the United States but also those who have not yet been born or immigrated to our shores. The battle lines are drawn in the sand. In many ways, the powerful strength of the status quo and its decades-old structures are attempting to crush new thought and innovation. Similar to the clash of biblical proportions between David and Goliath, the smaller, righteous challenger is circling the massive, muscle-bound image of the past, facing a brutal beating at every turn. In this analogy, Goliath personifies the public education establishment comprising school districts, school boards, administrators, teachers, and their associations. David, the small challenger, is the embodiment of a chartered school movement daring to face down an antiquated adversary ...