“Distrust of government” David Brooks

Taking the challenge right down to special education, it strikes me that noone should be surprised by the lack of trust among many parents. Why? Because back in the 1970’s, the law was written for them to do exactly that. They were supposed to be the law’s ‘enforcers,’ by making demands, filing complaints and hearing requests, and in all types of ways, ‘advocating’ for their children against their schools.

I believe it is time to change the paradigm. Change the law. Make it outcome based, not input driven. Let this law join the 21st century!

Let parents be parents, not enforcers.

Let schools provide services and enforce the law.

Let teachers teach, not be bogged down in paperwork and bureaucratic requirements.

Let students learn. Alas. That is what it’s all about.

Keeping special education as is will just continue the distrust of our schools.