How to get better teachers

by David Safier The NY Times has an interesting op ed about creating a better crop of teachers. It's a suggestion for a new model of teacher preparation. First, have our top colleges and universities "take education seriously" and offer top flight education programs. (Teach for America has demonstrated that the top universities are potential … Read more

“Education Inc.” — Imagine Schools under the microscope

by David Safier Today's Journal Gazette in Fort Wayne, Indiana, began a 3 part series about the corporation, Imagine Schools, and the charters it runs in Indiana. Compared to these stories, the posts I've written have handled these folks with kid's gloves. The first day's articles are serious stuff. The Sunday paper actually has two … Read more

Charter Reform: First step, realize you have a problem

by David SafierIn Philadelphia, six charters are being scrutinized by the U.S. Attorney's Office, which is considering criminal action. Most of it has to do with misuse of funds. Houston Philadelphia, we have a problem. Aiming to end abuses recently uncovered in Philadelphia-area charter schools, a bipartisan legislative committee yesterday unveiled a sweeping overhaul of … Read more