School accountability used to be a big deal. Republicans and Democrats alike praised laws like No Child Left Behind for emphasizing accountability for student achievement. But now, it seems like no one is talking about it. In the latest party platforms, accountability is barely mentioned when it comes to education. Democrats are focusing on things like free preschool, job training partnerships, and increasing funding for Pell Grants. There’s not much in there about improving student achievement, especially after the learning losses caused by the pandemic.
The lack of focus on accountability is concerning, especially as students continue to struggle. Research shows that massive investments in education have had minimal effects on student achievement. Eighth graders are still behind where they should be academically. And with funds running out, school districts are facing a financial crisis. The platforms don’t offer many solutions to these problems.
Both parties seem to be ignoring the importance of accountability in education. The Republican platform doesn’t even mention it, and the Heritage Foundation’s report suggests giving full control to states without federal oversight. In Massachusetts, there’s even a proposal to eliminate high school graduation exams, which were once a key part of the state’s accountability reforms.
It’s like the story of Mr. Kurtz in Heart of Darkness – once a powerful figure, now forgotten. Accountability in education is at risk of meeting the same fate if we don’t start paying attention to it again. Students deserve better, and accountability is a crucial part of ensuring they get the education they need to succeed. Let’s not let it fade away like Mistah Kurtz – it’s time to bring it back into focus.
