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.
Why Trump Can’t Disavow His Support for Project 2025
The rightwing playbook’s plans for public schools are already in place or rolling out. Read more
Aug 13, 2024
How Charter Schools Became Politically Isolated
While the charter industry has become “too woke” for Republicans, it has done nothing to win back Democrats. Read more
Aug 5, 2024
Why Education Advocates Shouldn’t Get Behind Josh Shapiro as Harris’s Vice President
Although the Pennsylvania governor is effective in many areas, protecting public education isn’t one of them. Read more
Jul 26, 2024
It’s Time to End Federal Funding for Reckless For-Profit Charter Schools
A new bill would hold the charter school industry accountable. Read more
Jul 24, 2024
A Failure for ‘Divisive Concepts’ Legislation Is a Victory for Education
Laws like this have a chilling effect on teachers' free speech. It remains to be seen whether New Hampshire's win in federal court will become a bellwether for democracy throughout the country. Read more
Jul 10, 2024
Oklahoma’s Bible Requirement Is a Part of a Broader Rightwing Assault
The mandate to place Bibles in classrooms reflects a larger effort to undermine the rule of law. Read more
Jul 3, 2024
Debunking the School Choice Movement’s Top Evangelist
Corey DeAngelis is on a mission to demonize public schools—and promote voucher programs that benefit his wealthy backers. Read more
Jul 1, 2024
Louisiana’s Ten Commandments Law Is an Assault on History
Republicans are using a debunked James Madison quote to defend a bill that would eviscerate church-state separation. Read more
Jun 25, 2024
How the Right Exploits ‘Moms’ to Privatize Education
Moms for Liberty is just one of several dark money groups that pretend to be mom-led grassroots movements. Read more
Jun 17, 2024