But fix the schools. And start now. Offer freedom in return for results . The only strings attached to federal dollars should be those that insist on demonstrable results, particularly stronger student achievement. Decisions about how to achieve those results and how and where to spend the money should be left to states, districts, schools, teachers, and parents.
Prevention beats remediation .
Federal programs should focus on assisting children to succeed educationally the first time. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of compensatory services. Power to the people . As in other important domains of American life, Washington should be wary of monopoly providers. Its role is to protect the interests of consumers in this case, children and parents.