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.
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
Reaffirming Higher Education as a Public Good
The second National Day of Action for Higher Education brought tens of thousands together to defend U.S. colleges and universities.
Apr 29, 2025
Are Community Schools the Positive Disruptor Public Education Needs?
Trust in public schools has eroded, but community schools in La Crosse, Wisconsin, may show how it can be restored.
Apr 16, 2025
The Long Road to Dismantling the Department of Education: From the Southern Manifesto to Project 2025
Conservatives have tried to shut down the Department of Education as a way to resist racial and social progress for decades.
Apr 14, 2025