Betsy DeVos, School Choice, and the Debate over Public Education

The appointment of Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education in 2017 sparked intense debate surrounding school choice policies and the future of public education in the United States. As Secretary, DeVos’s approach to education has garnered both praise and criticism, with many arguing that her vision for education reform does not align with the needs of the nation's public schools.

DeVos’s Background and Qualifications

DeVos’s only qualifications for the position include a financial contribution to Donald Trump’s campaign and a family legacy in business, not in education leadership. Prior to her appointment, she had never set foot in a public school, nor did she possess any formal experience in public education or relevant public policy. Her limited experience, combined with her varied stances on key educational issues, has led to a divided public opinion on her tenure as Secretary of Education.

DeVos has been criticized for several actions taken during her tenure, including the reversal of Obama-era guidance that protected transgender students and students of color. Additionally, she has given special protections to men accused of sexual assault on college campuses, stirring controversy and debates over fairness and student safety.

Criticism of DeVos's Education Policies

DeVos is also critiqued for her stance on for-profit colleges. During her term, her department temporarily halted actions against predatory lending practices, which critics argue could harm students seeking higher education. Furthermore, she proposed massive spending cuts and the consolidation of educational programs, a move that some have argued would have negatively impacted the Department of Education itself.

Public vs Private Education

While some argue for the benefits of private education, emphasizing that Catholic schools, for example, can provide a superior moral foundation, the reality is that such benefits are often not accessible to all. A key concern with school choice programs is that they often only serve those who can afford to pay for them, exacerbating inequality in educational opportunities.

For instance, the 2000 voucher scheme is a prime example of how school choice can be more of a financial privilege than a right. Families who can afford to supplement vouchers with additional funds can send their children to private schools, while those who cannot may be left to rely on underfunded public schools.

Conclusion and Public Opinion

The public education system in the United States continues to grapple with issues of equity, fairness, and funding. While some advocate for policies that support private and religious schools as alternatives, criticsargue that such measures often leave public schools underfunded and inadequate. Betsy DeVos’s approach to education reform remains controversial, with many questioning the wisdom and appropriateness of her policies.

We welcome clarifications, respectful disagreements, and comments on this article. Your insights can contribute to a more informed discussion on the state of public education in the United States.