Betsy DeVos: A Promising Change for American Education

Like many, the initial news about Betsy DeVos being nominated as the Secretary of Education raised numerous concerns. While the early reports painted her as incompetent, often lacking a clear understanding of the role, I decided to dive deeper. After thorough research, my concerns have lessened. Here are some perspectives that support the idea that Betsy DeVos could bring meaningful improvements to American education.

Addressing Concerns with a Fresh Perspective

There are indeed many unknowns regarding Betsy DeVos and her approach to reforming the education system. Questions arise about her commitment to enforcing federal civil rights laws, managing student loans, and overseeing the implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act. These uncertainties are understandable and can be unsettling, but it's crucial to consider what we do know about her policies.

The School Choice Controversy

One of the most contentious elements of DeVos's proposal is the implementation of school choice. Critics often argue that this could lead to the closure of small schools that are unable to compete, resulting in significant disruptions. However, this narrative might not be entirely accurate.

According to DeVos, the idea behind school choice is that each student receives funding based on their enrollment, which can be transferred to their chosen school. This approach doesn't necessarily lead to a decline in student numbers; rather, it allows for greater flexibility in how funding is utilized. Many students wouldn't leave a school that serves them well, ensuring high-quality education continues for those in need.

A Closer Look at School Choice in Action

To illustrate this concept, let's consider a real-world scenario in upstate New York. Imagine a small high school with a diverse set of challenges and unique strengths. A significant issue is zoning, which complicates bus routes and makes it difficult for students to attend a nearby school. In such a district, a student might be forced to attend a school where they have limited resources or opportunities they value.

Under a choice-based system, parents could select the school that best suits their child's needs and the school's strengths. This ensures that even smaller schools can thrive if they offer unique programs or services that other schools can't match. For example, a school that excels in teaching environmentally-friendly technology could attract students from neighboring districts.

Encouraging Innovation and Complementarity

The concept of choice underlines the need for schools to innovate and adapt to meet diverse needs. Aspects of school life such as sports teams or environmental programs could become focal points that attract students. For instance, a district that removes its girls' soccer team might find that most female students leave, but this pressures the school to improve its offerings.

DeVos's policy isn't perfect, and risks remain. Nonetheless, it presents an opportunity for schools to focus on their strengths, serving the specific needs of their communities. This dynamic encourages a more personalized approach to education, which can lead to better outcomes for all students.

A Need for Bolder Reforms

Changing the American education system is a complex and challenging task. However, incremental changes are insufficient. We need bold and innovative reforms that address the unique needs of each school and district. Traditional approaches have not yielded the desired results, and a fresh perspective is needed.

DeVos's push for school choice is not driven by fear; it's driven by a desire to innovate. She is not just proposing changes but advocating for a system that forces schools to adapt and improve on a school-by-school basis. This approach can lead to more dynamic and responsive education systems, ultimately benefiting students.

In conclusion, while many questions remain, Betsy DeVos’s proposed policies offer a promising avenue for reform. Her willingness to push for bold changes and embrace innovative solutions can lead to a better education system for all American students.