Courtesy of: National Alliance for Public Charter Schools
Nina Rees, Bruno Manno, and Michael J. Petrilli honor Chester E. Finn Jr. for his significant contributions to education reform. Finn’s role as a mentor and thought leader is highlighted, with a focus on his ability to simplify complex ideas and challenge the education system. His work on charter schools, starting in the mid-90s, is noted for its impact on quality, innovation, and choice, particularly for disadvantaged children. Finn’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his role as a “gadfly” in education policy are celebrated. The speakers acknowledge his influence on the Fordham Institute and his commitment to speaking truth to power.
Transcript
Outline
Chester E. Finn Jr.’s Contributions to Education Reform
- Nina Rees highlights Chester E. Finn Jr.’s role as a mentor in the education reform movement, emphasizing his ability to simplify complex ideas.
- Bruno Manno describes Finn’s role in the movement, noting his provocative questions and challenges to the charter school movement.
- Chester E. Finn Jr. recounts the early days of charter schools, starting around 1994-1995, and the research that led to his involvement in the movement.
- Michael J. Petrilli praises Finn’s role as an “education gadfly,” emphasizing his responsibility to speak truth to power and his significant impact on the Fordham Institute.
- Nina Rees shares a personal anecdote about receiving feedback from Finn, which helped her elevate her work despite the challenging comments.
- Bruno Manno and Michael J. Petrilli both agree that the award for Finn is overdue, recognizing his significant contributions to education policy.
