I Don't Agree With The Title

So the saga of education and reform continues…a new article posted by Diane Ravitch entitled “Why Business Leaders Should Not Be in the Driver’s Seat” is very poignant and centered around the fact that running schools like businesses are not the key in finding the solution.  Neither is the fact that test scores and achievement data are the sole determinants in whether or not “success” has been reached.  Here! Here!  To this I say “yes, I agree”.  Where I would like to challenge us in is the blanket statement of “business people” integrated in the education world.  I have absolutely no animosity or apprehension towards professionals outside the education arena who work and contribute to its success and advancement because any positives are good for all.  So if you are a business person looking to make a difference in education, kudos to you!  If you’re a teacher, great!  If you’re in the food services industry, thank you!  Each area has a responsibility to do their part in their own expertise to ensure that our students are given the right opportunities…period.  I mean after all, let’s face it, there are school administrators, teachers, aides, and other educationally related people who still take advantage of their positions and who don’t provide what’s needed for students.  I don’t think it matters what industry you hail from.  Unless you truly have a passion for helping students, you have no intention of helping them.  You are in it for yourself.  If you truly want to see the next generation be successful, your passion will lead the way and help your skills and talents contribute to their success…no matter what your background is.  So I would change your article title to “Why Non-Passionate Non-Student Focused Leaders Should Not Be in the Driver’s Seat”.  Thank you.