In April 2009, a new era is beginning in American education. President Barack Obama has just appointed Arne Duncan, the former CEO of the Chicago Public Schools system, as his new Secretary of Education. For many, this is a sign that the Obama administration was serious about reforming public education and closing the achievement gap.
Duncan had a strong record of achievement in Chicago
Where he had implemented a number of innovative programs and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education for all students. Under his leadership, the graduation rate in Chicago had increased, test scores had improved, and the achievement gap had narrowed.
Now, as Secretary of Education, Duncan was poised to take these lessons to the national stage. In his new role, he would be responsible for overseeing the nation’s public schools and working to ensure that all students had access to a high-quality education.
One of Duncan’s first priorities was to implement the Obama administration’s “Race to the Top” program, which aimed to reward states that implemented bold, innovative reforms to improve student achievement. The program provided $4.35 billion in funding to states that met certain criteria, such as implementing rigorous academic standards, improving teacher quality, and turning around low-performing schools.
Duncan also emphasized the importance of early childhood education and invested in programs aimed at improving the quality of early childhood education. He recognized that the first years of a child’s life were critical to their future success and worked to ensure that all children had access to high-quality early education.
Throughout his tenure, Duncan remained committed to the principles that had guided him in Chicago. He believed in the importance of data-driven decision making, of investing in high-quality teachers, and of creating innovative programs and initiatives to improve student achievement.
Although Duncan faced his share of critics and controversies during his time as Secretary of Education, he remained committed to his vision of improving public education for all students. His legacy lives on, and his work has inspired a new generation of education reformers to continue the fight for educational equity and excellence.
0
