Public Schools Advocate is a project of The Progressive magazine that aims to pull back the curtain on those individuals, foundations, and groups working both to privatize our public schools and to limit the role of schools in creating a critically democratic citizenry.
Launched in 2013, and originally called Public School Shakedown, the project covers the fundamental struggle for democracy going on around the country, as teachers, parents, and others rally to protect our public schools.
We changed the name to Public Schools Advocate in 2021, embracing a broader goal to empower teachers, parents, and other community members to organize and advocate for strong public schools that serve all students well.To that end, we work with a diverse group of fellows—teachers, advocates, activists, thinkers, and others in the progressive education movement. We regularly publish their writings, support them in attending conferences and other events, and assist them in getting the word out about one of the most important issues facing our democracy today.
Rural Communities Need the Community Schools Approach More Than Ever
Post-pandemic, schools continue to struggle with food insecurity, mental health, and chronic student absenteeism—but the community schools approach can help close these gaps.
Jul 1, 2025
The Fight for Fair Funding in New Hampshire
Andru Volinsky’s book ‘The Last Bake Sale’ details the far-from-over struggle for equitable school funding in New Hampshire.
Jun 26, 2025
The Pulpit Is on the Precipice of the Schoolhouse Steps, and People Are Fighting Back
Local resistance is blocking state legislation to bring Christian nationalism into public schools.
Jun 23, 2025
As Federal Education Cuts Loom, Future Teachers are Caught in the Crosshairs
States are fighting back against Donald Trump’s cuts to federal aid for teacher preparation.
May 21, 2025
Students of Color Want Cops Out of Their Schools
Students of color from around the country share experiences with school resource officers that make them feel threatened and othered at school.
May 16, 2025
This Supreme Court Decision Could Determine the Future of Charter Schools
A ruling in favor of a religious charter school for Oklahoma could disrupt the 'public' status the charter industry enjoys.
May 14, 2025
‘Banned Together’: New Documentary Highlights the Power of Organizing Against Book Bans
The efforts of three young activists in South Carolina exemplify that resisting book bans is possible.
May 12, 2025
'DOGE Already Happened in Chicago': Stacy Davis Gates on How to Resist Through Coalition Building
The president of the Chicago Teachers Union spoke to The Progressive about the union’s new contract that will protect Chicago educators and students from the threats of the Trump Administration.
May 2, 2025
Planned May Day Actions Show Resistance Is a Fight for the Common Good
Hundreds of protest actions planned across the country will unite in ‘common cause to defend labor, immigrant, and civil rights, and then go on offense.’
Apr 30, 2025