You can't have a managed economy in this country without having a managed work force. Conservatives have had a sporadic presence in New Jersey's school debates, fighting against sex education or for tax breaks for private school tuition. Now they say they want a more enduring say over education policy, including testing reform, changes in graduation requirements, and especially the career plan. What I've noticed . . . They're finally getting their head up and more involved on these issues.
Education is part of the larger issue of the role and scope of government.
Over the past 25 years, conservative activists have sought to make inroads into state politics by first gaining power over local school boards. Although New Jersey has been largely immune, states as diverse as Pennsylvania and Texas have seen a surge of conservative involvement in education. Led by groups such as Concerned Women of America and Phyllis Schlafly's Eagle Forum,the activists typically reach out to like-minded people who share their view that schools are promoting a permissive, amoral message. Across the country, the result has been battles over the role of religion in the classroom, the types of books that libraries should stock, and even the best way to teach math and reading. But right-wing views apparently are winning adherents in a state known for its moderate politics.