Bennett, William J. (William John), 1943-

Compass: “Thoughts on Education: An Interview with William Bennett and Albert Shanker”

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

This Compass interview asks Al Shanker and William Bennett, former Secretary of Education, ten questions and lists their answers side by side. Topics include problems in the school system, how to improve higher education, corporate roles in education, standards, President George H.W. Bush's performance, and school choice. While Shanker and Bennett disagree on the role of teachers' unions and on some policies like school choice, their thoughts on standards and higher education are similar.

Marjorie Kovler Lecture Series, University of Chicago

jruss — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:49:41 -0500

Al Shanker begins with his personal history and the changes in schools and the educational system he has witnessed. He also discusses the history of teachers' unions. He acknowledges the problems present in schools, and he says that teachers need three things: higher salaries, smaller classes, and more time during the day to grade work and to interact with colleagues. Shanker states, however, that teachers probably will not receive these because of the high cost and not enough personnel. Shanker then addresses what students need. read more »

National Press Club Speech – Proposes the Creation of a National Examination for Beginning Teachers

jruss — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:49:40 -0500

Al Shanker advocates that a national teachers' examination be developed and implemented. He insists that current examinations are not rigorous enough, nor are they nationally administered. He acknowledges that the teacher shortage presents an obstacle to this plan, but insists it is necessary anyway. He believes that an independent group of educational experts, possibly appointed by some government officials, but not overseen by the government, would develop the test. read more »