League of Industrial Democracy Speech: I.S. 201

jruss — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:12:39 -0500

In light of a recent campaign for greater parent and community authority in school administration for a public school, I.S. 201, in Harlem, Al Shanker discusses the various attempts at school reform in New York City. He hits on the desire by I.S. 201 parents to select textbooks, to require a certain racial makeup in the school staff and administration, and the idea of handing over administration of schools to universities or community groups rather than the government. read more »

Suburbia Today: "The Education of Albert Shanker"

jruss — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:03:36 -0500

In this interview, Al Shanker speaks about his childhood and his own experience as a student. He also talks about his time as a teacher before he became involved with union administration. He discusses his wife and children and their motives for moving out of New York City. In these discussions, he talks extensively about how education has changed from when he was a boy and the different issues that teachers face now. He cites disruptive students as a major impediment to recruiting good teachers. He also cites low salaries and increased employment options for women. read more »

Emotional Disturbances

League of Industrial Democracy Speech: I.S. 201

Suburbia Today: "The Education of Albert Shanker"