What the Candidates Debate Has to Offer Ed Reformers
October 3, 2012
Who knew education would come up repeatedly tonite?
Romney: After the president opened the debate about his jobs plan, Romney introduced the education component into the debate, combining jobs and skills, which come from education.
Obama: We have to improve our education system — we have a program called Race to the Top and now we are going to hire 100,000 math and science teachers.
Romney: I agree education is key to the future of our economy but we have 27 different training programs across government not working together. (we are fact checking this)
Obama: Says he inherited 18 programs for education that were well intentioned but not working for kids; that one teacher in NV has 42 kids and 10 year old textbooks. (we are fact checking this, too!)
This smattering of their words scratches the surface of an engaging, competitive conversation that highlighted education six times (at least) before the first 15 minutes were up and despite having been asked no direct questions about education. The candidates would go on to amplify their points throughout, and eventually address the proper federal role, which, despite suggestions among education reformers to the contrary, really is very, very different. And by all twitter, news media and pundit reports, even on this issue Romney was the winner. READ MORE…
For more information, review, and comparisons on Romney and Obama’s views on education, be sure to check out these resources:
Presidential Candidates Focus on Education
Where Do Romney, Obama Stand on Education?
School Choice is Key Issue in Election
GOP Convention Highlights Ed Reform; Now It’s the Dems Turn
And don’t forget to check out CER’s Field Guide and Mandate for Change, which serve as guides for the kinds of reforms candidates should be embracing and talking about.
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