President Donald Trump's recent order to dissolve the U.S. Department of Education has sparked discussions on the role of federal and state governments in education. However, real change in public schools often comes from coordinated, community-level efforts over time.
Successful education reform in the U.S. has typically involved state policies enabling change, with local leaders working together to seize opportunities. Cities like New Orleans and Indianapolis have seen positive transformations in their education systems through strategic planning and collaboration.
For example, Indianapolis has reshaped its education landscape over the past 25 years, providing parents with more high-quality school options and improving student outcomes. Today, the city's charter schools are outperforming district-run schools in both math and reading.
Local leaders in Indianapolis developed a plan to take advantage of state legislation enabling the creation of charter schools. This proactive approach, along with philanthropic support and innovative partnerships, has led to the growth of high-quality schools in the city.
Lessons learned from Indianapolis' education transformation can be applied nationally, emphasizing the importance of local efforts and infrastructure to drive lasting results for students and families. Amid federal policy changes, communities are urged to take action and prioritize the needs of their students.
David Harris, president and CEO of Christel House International, shares insights on the impact of local initiatives in driving education reform.