In the last several years, Microsoft mogul Bill Gates has become a perhaps unlikely champion for Education-related causes in the United States. But should he stick to computers and butt out of teaching? That's what Michael Paul Goldenberg thinks: What exactly is "compelling" about Bill Gates' views on education, Beth? The fact that he is a billionaire? Other than that, what qualifications does he bring to the table? What experience with teaching children or working with teachers can he bring to the conversation?
Having billions of dollars is very lovely, but it hardly makes someone an expert on teaching, learning, or schools. Allowing Gates and other Billionaire Boys' Club members to hold sway over current or future US public education practices, policies, and standards is absurd, but it is our sad equivalent of monarchy-worship. You may be prepared to bow to this royalty of wealth, but I prefer not to. And neither should our children.
Personally, I think that Education is in such a state of crisis that we don't have the luxury of being choosy about who suggests possible solutions. Anyone who's willing to put their name, money, and time on the frontlines of the fight for our children should be supported and encouraged to joint the discussion. We may not accept and enact every single suggestion. But what's the harm in listening to our nation's smartest minds on a variety of topics?
What do you think of Bill Gates as a new Education mentor?... Read more
