He added that we would never organize an adult workplace that way. But he and the AFT, like the NEA, have been most resistant to them, and largely still are although their opposition has become more sophisticated. It has been reported that the AFT, for example, has indicated that the Rhode Island law is a model to follow. To date there are no charter schools in Rhode Island. Less well known are some of his observations about power.
Power is taken, and it is taken from someone.
Those who think teacher unions have undue power might remember Shanker's words. He realized, and repeatedly said, that educational change is needed and coming. There is absolutely no question that American education as it exists today will not be tolerated by the American people, by the business community, by our policy leaders for more than another few years. Otherwise public education will continue on its present course to destruction. It's very clear to us that we're about to lose public education.