A new group has formed to focus on improving public education. Based on the high profile names involved, it is comprised of people who are vocal supporters of the Big Education status quo. So will this group embrace new ideas and innovations? Will this group push to empower parents? Will this group advocate for kids not being served by the traditional public system? In other words, will this group support the education reforms passed by the General Assembly?
The group’s members say though BEST NC is an advocacy group, members will not lobby the government. Walter McDowell of Winston-Salem, a retired Wachovia executive, is chairman of the group. McDowell was unavailable for comment but did tell The News & Observer the group won’t endorse candidates or make political contributions. It aims to be nonpartisan, he said.
Maher said he thinks it will be challenging to effect change without lobbying.
“If they will not lobby, how exactly will they promote their ideas for change?” Maher said. “This is a powerful group of individuals however, likely with some influence so perhaps they will be more effective than others have been.”
If this group wants to help improve student achievement, it will support legislators who are champions of reform.
