Politics of Education

Forum: “Where Albert Shanker Stands”

jruss — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:24:19 -0500

In this interview, Al Shanker answers questions about a number of topics including teacher shortage; teacher recruitment; teacher pay; use of technology in teaching; focus on developing students' critical thinking skills; teachers' involvement in unions, politics, and strikes; working with the Reagan administration; and merit pay.

Good Morning, America: “Politics in Education”

jruss — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:32:03 -0500

Al Shanker and NEA President Mary Hatwood Futrell, are interviewed about the role of education in the 1984 presidential campaign. They discuss whether the candidates are truly discussing policy or merely spouting rhetoric. They also weigh in on issues like the extent to which the federal government should play a role in education, merit pay, teacher recruitment, and funding.

Institute for Educational Policy Studies: “Teacher Unions: Past, Present and Future Influence”

jruss — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:21:18 -0500

Al Shanker discusses the history and development of teachers' unions in the United States. He traces the changing focus of teachers' unions from collective bargaining to larger questions of education policy to an expanded approach to politics. Shanker argues that teachers should pay attention to energy, trade, and commerce policies, for instance, because these policies affect the taxes which fund the public schools. Shanker believes that interest and involvement in the larger political picture will help put teachers in a position to enhance public opinion of education. read more »