Jeff Bryant, Writing Fellow and Chief Correspondent for Our Schools, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the attacks on public education in America, the rise of school vouchers and privatization and the ongoing battle for adequate school funding.
Bryant opened by sharing his transition from nonprofit consulting to political advocacy, prompted by disappointments with federal education policy, including a focus on standardized testing rather than funding. He charted the history of bipartisan failures in both funding and messaging around public education, emphasizing that most Americans still choose public schools for their children. Bryant highlighted how charter schools blur the lines between public and private education and discussed whether the long-term strategy of some political actors is ultimately to eliminate public education funding, turning schooling into a parental expense and blaming teachers for the downfall.
The conversation shifted to the role of unions within public education as Bryant discussed how privatization can be perceived as union-busting, given the prevalence of labor unions in public schools. Opposition to unions spans the political spectrum and is linked to broader discomfort with democracy itself, he said. Teachers' unions, which combine professional status and community respect, have historically wielded significant power. Their ability to organize and advocate for their members and students makes them targets for criticism and legislative attacks, particularly in states with laws that diminish collective bargaining. He cited several examples in Chicago, where union organizing dramatically shifted local education policy and leadership.
Finally, Bryant discussed challenges in school funding, focusing on state-level constitutional battles and the expansion of voucher programs. He discussed cases in Ohio and North Carolina where courts have repeatedly found state school funding models unconstitutional, only for legislatures to defy court rulings or prioritize funding for private school vouchers. Bryant advocated for the “community schools” approach, which promotes local control and responsiveness to community needs.
For more from Bryant, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast above.