Gadfly’s not sure what to make of Secretary Duncan’s comments earlier this week in a big speech to the National Urban League. According to a press release from the Department, he proclaimed that “We will ensure that all schools—public, private and charter—serve the kids most in need…That is also something you told us was important. We heard you loud and clear, we are responding and these schools will be held accountable.” Set aside the Secretary’s assumption that charter schools aren’t serving “the kids most in need.” What on earth is he planning to do to “ensure” that private schools serve needy kids? How is he going to hold them “accountable”? Accountable to whom? Most don’t get public funds, and the administration's refusal to back the D.C. voucher program signals that they don't want private schools to get public funds--not even to educate needy, poor, black kids. The Administration’s thinking on civil rights has already been muddled; now it’s downright mystifying.
“Secretary Arne Duncan’s Remarks at the National Urban League Centennial Conference,” July 27, 2010