We are focused on how much we may have lost rather than how very much more we need to gain if our youngsters are going to succeed in the future. The nation has rightly recognized that education is troubled, particularly in urban and rural areas. Poll after poll shows better schools among the public's highest priorities. Any candidate running for office from dogcatcher to president must have an education platform. Unfortunately, politicians too often seek quick fixes, silver bullets and newsworthy sound bites rather than comprehensive plans.
Truth is, there are no silver bullets or quick fixes.
Hiring a general, privatizing education, creating alternatives and recruiting undereducated teachers will not make our schools better. Studies of each of these approaches show that not one is a panacea. We must be willing to experiment with new leadership, new schools, new management and new forms of teacher preparation. But these are mere mechanics. We know what it will take to redesign our schools.