Ravitch: Chicago Strike Illustrates National Backlash Against Education Reform

Progress Illinois (10/16, Blake) reports that former Assistant Secretary Diane Ravitch "says that Chicago has taken the lead on education reform – and the revolt against such policies," noting that she "told reporters at the Chicago Teachers Union headquarters Monday that the strike gave 'vicarious exhilaration' to teachers across the nation that were 'beaten down' by evaluations based on standardized tests and charter schools." The piece adds that Ravitch "says Chicago is distinctive on education issues because of a 'more militant' teachers' union," as compared with other parts of the country in which collective bargaining rights are less vigorous.