Statement by Edward J. McElroy, President, American Federation of Teachers,
On Vouchers and Private vs. Public Education

BOSTON – It’s got to be tough when a study’s findings don’t match up to one’s ideological bent.  Education Secretary Margaret Spellings was nowhere to be seen or heard last Friday afternoon when her department quietly issued its long-awaited report showing that public school students are doing as well or better than most private school students when socioeconomic measures are considered.  And yet, just a few days later, Secretary Spellings was front and center in support of her ideological soul mates – Republican members of Congress – who held a press conference announcing legislation to provide federal dollars for private school vouchers.

We need to do what’s been proven to work for public school students rather than push legislation that meets an ideological litmus test.  Given the contrasting announcements from the department in the past week, a cynic might wonder whose side the administration and Republican Congress are on.  I’m on the side of the public, which supports strong neighborhood public schools.

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