A Clarion Call for Education Reform

Please, be certain that States maintain jurisdiction over their state. Limit Federal intrution. Protect the Constitution. I believe some of these ideas are already implimented (i.e. retired professionals teaching). Some good ideas, but please respect our State's Rights/sovereignty and the Constitution.

I am very disappointed with you, for having anything to do with likes of Obama and especially with Al Sharpton, what a complete joke and leech on society he is! I have been a Democrat all my life up to Nov. 4th, 2008 and that was the end of it for me, I no longer claim to be a Democrat, you see, I will not lower my values to join or support a bunch of Chicago Thugs that are pure Socialist and anti-American! The worst threats to America and to Americans are: Obama, Pelosi, Reid, Franks, Boxer, Kennedy and "W" Bush and Al Sharpton is nothing but a hand maiden of evil! I respected you and thought that you would make a good candidate for President but now I wonder with you getting into bed with Socialist and kissing their behinds. You want to reform something to protect America, then reform immigration by enacting a MASS DEPORTATION, then reform the Americans Politics, that is in more need of reform than anything!

Al Sharpton?????? Give me a break. I understand your reasoning for agreeing but I am very skeptical this will amount to anything. I am not familar with Arne Duncan but given all the other Obama's appointees I assume he is a Chicgo Mobster/Union.

I fell this is just another "smoking mirrors". Good luck to you.

■"A "no limits" charter school system, which the process for approving charter schools is smooth and efficient."

Charter schools????? No way pal!!!!!

Good start!

Parent's choice is the key element that can not be compromised. What ever the solution, keep it simple. Impower the parents by giving them a "voucher" that can only be spent on education. And let the voucher be the only way schools receive funds. Excellent schools will prosper and parents will be in control. Competition will see to it that all students are educated.

I absolutely agree with you John! I like Newt too, but like you I will not vote for someone who is a chameleon. I abhore Al Sharpton and all his big-mouthed bigoted media-parasitic friends. I too was thinking Newt might make a good candidate, but have now changed my mind.

I absolutely agree with you John! I like Newt too, but like you I will not vote for someone who is a chameleon. I abhore Al Sharpton and all his big-mouthed bigoted media-parasitic friends. I too was thinking Newt might make a good candidate, but have now changed my mind.

I agree completely with Linda Stalters. The Constitution does not give the Federal Government control of public education. It must remain in the hands of the individual states.

I need to know exactly what is meant by a "no limits" charter school system. Will this include church affiliated schools? And if so, then will we have to put up with Islamic schools and Wiccan schools and Scientology schools?

I agree with those who are concerned about the Federal Gov't taking over education completely... Please be careful what you agree to. I wouldn't trust Al Sharpton as far as I could throw him!

I am surprised that you would team up with such people, but maybe being on the inside will help preserve our education system somehow. Just be careful.....they will do anything to destroy America as we know( or used to know it)

Hey Newt, yes it is an unlikely trio. If it works and is productive all the better. There is a huge list of recommendations for improving education. Teachers MUST be politically neutral and prove so. There must be a huge improvement in the dress code rather like uniforms. Put fine arts back into the system as well as physical education. Put nurses back into the schools. Coordinate the hours of elementary, middle and high school. Get politics out of the textbook issue. Charge parents for excessive absenteeism.

Thank you for considering your involvement in this important issue. We need a serious effort to turn around our education system. I have heard Al Sharpton being critical of the education unions in the past, so will try to remain positive. I am, however, suspecious of ultier motives by Obama and his team. Watch your back, and do not let this consume you from all the other important things you do.

Newt, I am all for school vouchers. As a past public school teacher and now as I enter my eighth year of homeschooling, I see the need for parents to be in control of where and what their children are being taught. If it costs $10,000/year to educate a child, the homeschool parents should be given that money to educate their child if that is what they determine best. Parents - NOT the government -should be free to make all education decisions for their own children. Please - also fight against the UN which is trying to take all rights from American parents.
Also, in our colleges and universities - the liberal professors need to be counter-balanced by conservative ones. We are raising a generation of children without a moral compass.

Please - take it one step further... The decisions and funding should be coming from the school district. When the state has control, they can mandate many things for the district that are not needed - just as the Federal Govt. might if they have control in any way. We vote in our district - for school board trustees, who then hire/fire the administration of our schools. If we relinquish this control, we will be overrun by the control of larger populated districts and be forced to comply.

I also would like clarification on the term "no limits" charter schools. The public schools are so important to the U.S.they need to be kept, upgraded and brought back to high standards. The governing of them needs to be state operated not federal. Charter schools have been a good addition, especially in inter city schools that are not safe. Al Sharpton is a big question in my mind.

Look, Obama's going to choose someone, so it might as well be Newt. As a retired teacher who has been tnrough many, many pilot projects that have been thrown out because they didn't work, it's better to have someone we can trust on board and I feel we can trust Newt. I've signed up for tour updates, so I'll be watching. Good luck!

Newt, yes i certainly agree, this is definitely an unlikely trio, my only experience with the reverend is with viewing various news reports and listening to him speak and give his opinions on interviews, I dont think that i would call his views "conservative", The Rev Sharpton seems to be a "slick" operator and would cetainly warrant sleeping with one eye open when in his company. Not sure what Obama was thinking when he put this group together. Nonetheless, I am glad to have you involved, so keep your eyes open and ears to the ground and watch out for secondary motives.

My first thought was the same as others posted. Why would you waste your time Newt? I agree with you on most issues and look forward to your thoughts and visits as a Fox contributor. Wasn't a big fan of you giving the far left agenda credibility regarding "global warming", er...I mean "climate change" (had to change that one since the junk science doesn't support the warming theory). Sitting on the Sofa with Nancy Pelosi allowed them to push their agenda harder because they can point to "support" by folks the conservatives look up to. Next thing you know...cap and trade is on the table and millions of American jobs on the chopping block. On the other hand, by involving yourself in the processes it at least allows a more traditional view and conservative voice to be heard regarding education. I don't think the left and this administration will be any more interested in your ideas than they are the ideas of the republican congress regarding health care. However, we need a voice to speak up for us regarding education because my belief as a Father is that the progressive movement has been working hard to turn our public school (K-12 and college) system into nothing short of liberal progressive indoctrination centers. Kicking out traditional values, faith and patriotism and frankly, rewriting history (US and World) to fit their statist utopian agenda. I think the text book problems that have been covered so well on Fox and Friends over the last year is also a big issue. Between political correctness and outright falsehoods, our teaching materials are being revised to fill our kid's heads with a skewed vision of current and historical America. Also, intelligent design has a place in our schools to some degree...along with evolution theory. Charter schools are important. We are home schoolers using a computer based county charter school system. They offer many more options to our children and are under constant attack by teachers unions and establishments since they compete for state/federal dollars that the unions WANT badly. They don't like anybody putting their hands on what they consider to be THEIRS. Not only do we need to increase the level of quality in education Newt, we need to make sure it also teaches our future generations about what makes our country great and how it was created by our founding fathers. Also, that our country has played a huge role in shaping democracy and freedom around the world over the last 200 years. We can't afford to let them continue to teach only about the mistakes we have made and negative things that create a negative impression about America in the minds of kids. You won't find a single public school in America teaching alternative views from established scientists that contradict the progressive's view on "climate changes". Again, indoctrination. I would place this above the importance of college credits for early graduation. We all know that most state colleges are going to try to undo everything we have done to raise our kids with traditional American values...let's try to stop the process from starting at the age of 5. If we weren't home schooling our daughter, I would honestly be fearful of what they are filling her head with. We didn't start her education at home...so I know what I'm talking about. We are registered democrats and not particularly religious or politically motivated. If what is going on in our schools is this obvious to us, it should be to everyone. Put quite simply, the liberal power structure running our public school systems is working very hard every day to replace the parent and family as the primary factor is shaping the minds of our children. To us as parents, this is much more critical than trans fat content in school lunches and pay-for-performance issues. Let's limit schools to teaching our children the three R's and let the parents handle "raising" them. Thank God we got out of the public school system when our daughter was very young. For the rest of you that don't have that as an option, good luck.

John,
I'm not a fan of any of these guys. Bush got a bum rap on allot of stuff. When it comes to educating our kids
we cant play politics. One individual won't get it done.
We're gonna need a unified effort and thats where we come in.

It's one thing to work with Obama which is probabl;y OK but I believe Sharpton to be a fraud and a buffoon. Why him????!!!!!!! There must be some serious candidates out there........

Hi Newt. I too am surprised you will be joining Sharpton to do anything. I do not know anything about Duncan, but I suspect he is as liberal as all the unholy czars Obama has running our government. At any rate, I do not think this venture will be a positive move for you if you intend to run for President or anything else. As for charter schools, my children (unlike Obama's) went to public schools, but that was in a different place and time. Now, my daughter-in-law homeschools my grandchildren. She's a teacher, so I feel confident she won't be showing them how to put a condum on a cuke when they are in 1st grade, or have to wear pink and be forced to celebrate gay/lesbian day. Just a good ole fashion education will be taught, and not an NEA liberal agenda. By the way, as per the previous entry, she definitely does not get any money as she Home Schools her children. I think you, sir, have done yourself a disservice by joining these three people on this "tour."

Sorry Newt, but I can't support you on this one.

This is good news for once.
Newt's ideas and more importantly American Solutions ideas will be hitting their intended audience which is all of America.
Plus CNN is more likely to take notice if they can have taglines like " Unlikely Trio joins forces".
It just shows that Newt knows what he's doing.

Give every kid a voucher, and make all education private. Copy the parochial school business model. The national average per kid is 10K / year. With 20 kids in a class, that's 200K / Year / teacher. That's enough to make this deal work. Schools would open up all over, offering different educational options, different sized classes, and different learning environments.

For example, kids could get the basics in the morning and have an afternoon concentrated on their favorire subkect - ballet ? basketball ? chemistry ? whatever ! This eliminates $500K / year school superintendents, gives FAT raises to teachers - causing people who actually have credentials in a given subject to enter the profession - and gives parents and kids control over their education - where it belongs. It also makes it a lot more fair for those parents hustling to pay for private school and property tax for the public schools at the same time, even though their kids don't attend public school.

I hope you can work with these individuals to really reform education. I have two grown children and they did not receive and education on our Constitution and what it means to be an American and the goal of our laws in retaining our liberty not taking it away. Children these days are not taught our history. I understood too late that they were being influenced by their teachers on strictly liberal viewpoints. I blame myself also for not taking this type of education more seriously in my own home. I left it to the educators thinking they would be taught as I was taught.

My daughter became a journalist and I can attest that she has learned a leftist view point so gradually over the years that she honestly believes she has come up with these views on her own. I have seen and heard her views change in direct contrast to her talking about this instructor and that professor who espoused these viewpoints in her classes. I tried to counteract these view points about our "stagnant Constitution" and "Evil Republicans" but it has been hard as children trust their children and feel their parents are out of touch. I don't object to their being republican or democrat as long as they have a good understanding of our Country and its laws and they develop these viewpoints on their own due to their own experience. What I object to is these children are being raised as leftists in our educational system and it feels like a very underhanded takeover of America and our Constitution.

Newt,
I heard about this on Fox News. Personally I don't care who you partner with in this effort. All little boys, and girls need to learn. Education should reach across party lines. Right now I am volunteering with a program in Tarrant County, Texas known as "Arlington Reads." My student is fifty-five years old, graduated eighth grade, and never learned to read. 20% of Tarrant County Adults don't know how to read. I can remember reading books for past time when I was in second grade. Recently I found a webside for my Old High School. Information on the website showed much concern for Freshman entering my Old High School who couldn't read above a 3rd grade level. I love to get a good book, and sit down by a grandchild or any child, and say "lets read, you read a page and I will read one." Mentoring, Tutoring or Grandchildren or where ever I read I always tell the child or adult, "Reading is something nobody can take away from you." Learning to read is the begining of Education. I have often thought some of our Countries problems could be solved if the Education System would recruit Retired Senior Citizens as a parttime employee to work with children that need some extra special attention for reading. The Lady I am tutoring in the Arlington Reads Program told me she lost interest early when she started to school, because she needed extra help, and her teachers pushed her aside, because she didn't catch on as quickly as the other students. Incidentally the Arlington Reads Program has Americorp volunteers,who are working in the reading program for a year to gain college tution. I live mostly on a small Social Security Check, but maybe I will be able to contribute to this worthwhile cause soon.

Charter schools are OK. Vouchers would be wonderful. I have a problem with pay for performance for teachers. We need good teachers, yes. But how can you measure performance between a teacher in an area of educated professional parents and one in an inner city ghetto school? It would be like measuring a dentist in a poor backwoods area where no fluoride was available in the water or otherwise and oral hygiene has not been a priority with a dentist in an affluent neighborhood. Standardized tests do not necessarily reflect the quality of the teacher. The variances in the abilities of the students to learn can be great even within the same school. And how much are the students really learning if the teacher has to "teach to the test?" I have even heard first-hand reports of teachers going around the room while the students are taking the test and pointing out the answers to them. Good teachers need a great deal more flexibility to really be able to reach each student and help him/her learn to his/her greatest potential.
I would also say, "Watch your back," on this project. Arne Duncan is Obama's basketball buddy and liberal Harvard buddy who has "always seen education as a civil rights issue." And Sharpton.....????? Maybe you can be a good influence on them.
I would still like to see you run for president. Your ideas on the economy impress me greatly. I hope this administration doesn't totally ruin the economy before we can elect a change of the guard in Congress in 2010 and in the presidency in 2012.

Newt,
You are being used by those that want to destroy you and your beliefs. I hope you are able to disinfranchise your views from theirs because someone is being played.

Al Sharpton?? He's been such a destructive force in this country, why would Obama ask him to be involved in education reform?

To the person who would like to see $10,000 a child go to parents who home school their children ... can you imagine all the parents hopping on that bandwagon? You have 3 children, then keep them all home to "home school" so that you can collect the $30,000 a year. Although many try to home school, very few of those are actually qualified or have the skills to do a commendable job with it. But this wouldn't stop the masses who would see it as an income without really having to do much of anything. Unfortunately not all parents are as concerned about their children's education as most of us are. I taught in an excellent public school system for fifteen years ~ including schools that half my parents didn't graduate from high school to schools with parents who were doctors and lawyers, plus everything in between. I've seen first hand the broad spectrum of "home schooling" by parents. A lot of kids miss out on a true education under that program, while a few actually do benefit from it. PLEASE don't set our children up with this well meaning initiative. There should definately be well defined perameters around what kind of schools that receive funding ~ remember the separation between church and state, not to mention accreditation.

Newt, I think I've followed you long enough to trust your involvement with this unlikely trio. It disturbs me when there are those who say they have supported you ... don't.

Having been interested in education for most of my life, it encourages me to see what you've laid out.

I do have a question. What percentage of the total population of India and China are in an educational system, and of those how many are ones that matriculate to advanced education?

I realize the need for great improvement in science/math education, but I hope that all other facets of education are improved also. The humanities, along with music and the arts help facilitate the minds that are to become scientists and mathematicians.

I define education as that which brings forth from within what the mind needs to achieve the purpose for which it came into the world.

What I failed to mention, and my main point, HA, is that I don't believe any political view should be espoused by our teaching institutions. I believe they should be taught facts and only facts and leave the viewpoints to the children to develop as they experience society and grow into themselves.

I have to agree with Brad, I can't believe you would stoop this low! I guess once a politician always a politian. I hate to say it but I guess it is time for us to vote for a third party. To put your name with Al Sharpton! And with a president that wants government control on everything. They could really have mind control of our kids. As my husband puts it politians are a bunch of whores and pimps. You just made the case. Good luck to you. I would have voted for you for president but you have changed my mind and I believe millions more. Obama just pimped you I hope you enjoy it, what a joke you have made yourself, shame on you for falling for his scheme.

I sincerely hope this is not a ploy to keep you away from the Healthcare issues we face. Both education and healthcare are important to me as over half of my family is in one or the other of these fields. Continue to stand tall for America.

Dr. Gingerich,
I totally trust you and am anxious to give the reverend a chance to help improve this country's education opportunity.

I seems reasonable to assume that a man with the reverends talents and intellect will be able to see beyond the past, see with reason and have incentive to make a historic contribution to this countries well being. Good luck.

Maybe the 3 of you can get the FEDS out of Education...I don't want you in any process concerning our social lives. Leave Education to the States only. The 3 of you concentrate only on armed service, airline service, highway service...all other Federal services are bankrupt, corrupt, and mismanaged. Sincerely, an AMERICAN.

We share this world together and are forced to work together if we want to accomplish anything. I believe Newt is showing wisdom in this area.
If there is a very intelligent informed conservative involved in this tour it is a good thing.

Parental freedom and choice in the form of vouchers may be the best choice. Imagine if vouchers eventually become public schools main source of funds, parents would have the power instead of politicians and governments.

I was taught that to effect change, it's easier to be heard when working within, rather than from without.
I'm sure that Speaker Gingrich, who has been an educator, will be an effective voice for those who feel that they are currently voiceless.
Please give this effort some support. These are our children we're involved with here and they are the future of our nation.

I fully agree with what Laury has to say. I would also like to ask if any part of this tour would do anything to include or incorporate any of the multitude of children that are homeschooled in this nation. We don't often receive any benefits from our share of the taxes we pay in.

I hope this isn't just another way for the President to divert public attention from the Heathcare and Cap 'n Tax tricks he's trying to play.

While we are reforming education, let change the way it is paid for. Property taxes are a bad way to fund schooling. Makes it difficult for funding in many districts. Sales tax, even though regressive, reaches more people with children who are directly affected. May help make the system more accountable. Sales tax revenues collected State wide would be distributed to school districts on a student # basis. This fits the Democratic's notion of spreading the wealth. Now if they would only vote for it.

Newt,

You were once my Congressman. I had much respect for you. I've conversed with you at "town hall" meetings.

That was then; this is now. When you joined with the current speaker about "climate change" I thought you were applying the tactic of "keep your enimies close". I wasn't impressed with this but was able to tolerate it.

I hear you from time-to-time on the various talk shows, and still believe you have many great ideas and are usually way ahead of those you oppose.

Now you join this "trio" situation! What a huge mistake.The President is using you. The current Secretary of Education is sorry excuse of a man for his position and there is nothing good that can be said about Al Sharpton.

Education should not be at the Federal level anyway. We can thank Jimmy Carter for that mess. The SOCIALISTS have taken almost complete control of the education system. Thank GOD my grand-children are home-schooled.

Newt,after much studing and reading of the founding and history of our country. I've come to the conclusion that there is only one thing to do with the "Socialist Enemies" of the United Stataes, and that is to DEFEAT THEM, not join them. As an historian, you should know that the SOCIALISTS have been slowly eating away at our precious country. As It turns out, it is both major political parties who have allowed this along with we the people.

I have become one of those who the current administration calls a Terrorist ( I qualify for this in two ways because I am a veteran too ), mobster, NATZI etc. I speak at TEA PARTIES and attend FAIR TAX rallys too. I'm a BAD person.

With the actions you have taken lately I will no longer be able support you in your activities. It seems you've become much the same as Bob Dole and John McCain. Don't you understand, you can't work with these people. WE MUST DEFEAT THEM!

The Constitution of the United States is my guide.

I trust you Newt and I surely know that something drastic has to be done to educate our American children. First, you need parents to care about their children and not use them to get more money out of the government. Second, you need teachers who care and be able to fire the ones who aren't able to teach. I believe in uniforms for the children, eliminating teasing over clothing. I also believe in teaching ethics, morals and manners!! Good luck and stand firm against the ultra liberals you are dealing with!!!

WELL I AM SHOCKED MR.GINGRICH YOU OF ALL PEOPLE
I HOPE YOU KNOW YOU ARE BEENG USED BY MR. OBAMA
WELL I GUESS SOON THE REPUBLICANS WILL BECOME DEMOCRATS
WELL POOR AMERICA
INGE ADDARIO
GERMAN BY BIRTH
PROUD AMERICAN BY CHOICE
LEGAL AMERICANFOR 43 YEARS

Anyone that gets in bed with the Obamanation will end up destroying themselves. I have in the past held you in high esteem. If you are so easily blinded by the offer of joining a tour, I am disappointed in your judgment. All of the feds should get out of education an let the states handle eduction all by themselves. Remember that birds of afeather flock together. You are known by the company you keep. Anyone that works with Al Sharpton has to have intellect problems.

I am a product of the Los Angeles school district. I sat in classes of 30 to 32 students through most of my 12 years of secondary schooling. My high school had a student body in excess of 3,000. I feel that I was given a good education which helped me stay gainfully employed from 1957 through 2006 and make a decent living for myself. I graduated in 1957. In those heady days, California had the best school system in the country. However, with the advent of the teacher's unionizing, the constant whinning about needing smaller classes and more schools, our education system as sunk to one of the lowest in the country. Before we build any more schools everyone needs to sit down and think about what each new physical plant costs a school district to build and run in comparison to adding on to existing schools or just going with larger classes. Each time a school is built, that land comes off the tax rolls which in turn lowers the tax revenue of the city and county. We just keep feeding on ourselves and eventually there will be nothing left for anybody.

There was a poll a couple of days ago which asked who I would support as President in 2012. I checked your name. Now I think it was a mistake. If you can be sucked in to supporting whatever these guys (including Obama)are up too, I can no longer support you. I have yet to be convinced that anything they do is in the best interest of all of America.

Oh my goodness, Why! We need him there to bring a voice of reason to the debate and call for reform in our educational system.

Newt, be advised that a Homosexual-Activist and Founder of GLSEN has been nominated to a senior Education post.

Please ask President Obama and Education Secretary Arne Duncan to Replace Kevin Jennings, the founder and former head of the activist Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), who has been named assistant deputy secretary at the Department of Education after serving on President Barack Obama's campaign.

Tell Obama and Duncan that you oppose Jennings' appointment, and request that he be replaced with someone who does not represent a political activist group.

Let us first look into tax credits for those of us paying for very expensive private school tuition, ( over $12,000.00 ea.), so that we can provide our kids with the best education possible, to help off-set a small portion of the, "dumbing down of America", that government schools provide. We parents are willing to invest into the future of our great country, and could use some incentive through tax credits to continue, and spread this type of education. It stinks to have to pay local, state, and federal taxes towards government education, along with private school tuituion in order to provide our kids with the best education possible.
I realize that not everyone is in the position to pay for private education, and frankly, it`s tough on my family, but those that can make it happen should at least, be exempt from taxes on all levels relating to government education.
As far as the tour, I`m sorry, but as much as I admire Speaker Gingrich, I can not support anything that Al Sharpton is a part of. I don`t support thugs in anyway for anything.

This is a "jaw-dropper"... but will wait to see how the process unfolds. My observation, in general, is that when the federal government starts talking reform, their concept is to "rip and tear, trying to completely change the make-up of their target. That is not required in most cases: there are a number of great models working at the local level, that just need to be identified and duplicated... this is true regardless of the reform target.
I am shocked at how quickly the level of federal government intrusion has been allowed to reach epic proportions. We need to take our time, have sensible dialog and do our best to reach concensus. From Day One of President's Obama presidency, it has been a constant stream of legislation being rammed through Congress, always with the threat of dire consequences if we didn't act quickly. We do not need to continue on this path!!
We , as a country, have lost sight of the value of great debate.

Bob, why would you think Newt has any voice in anything. Obama is using him and Newt has no idea who he got in bed with this time. This is a smoke screen keep him off news programs talking about America. The America he will be talking about is one we don't want for our children. Now Obama is going for republicans to quiet them down.

I am so surprised to see you involved with this, only because it makes it look like some kind of bi-partisan effort on behalf of the Obama team.. I don't think they are capable of such an effort.. Although you are much admired by our family, this seems to be an opportunity to allow the democrats to use you.. for publicity purposes.. without ever considering your genuine input into this project. I believe that the Democrats are intereted in indoctrination of our youth and it is very upsetting to me like so many other things they are doing to change our country. I appreciate that your input will be valuable.. but I won't hold my breath as to their consideration of it however.

Dear Mr. Speaker,

Having been born and raised in Central Georgia, spent most of my adult life in the Navy, for the life of me I do not understand what is happening. I have only one question for you "Why did the Sec of Education and the Obama administration shut down the school voucher program for those young children in DC?" There was a wonderful situation that the kids were getting ahead and the parents where involved. I understand that is different from Charter schools but, it was a program that was working for the education of the young ones in our country. I personally feel that Pres. Obama is using the same tactic on you that he has done with the Sec Of State and that being pull my critics closer to me so I can see what they are doing. Pat them on the back but still have them in my target. You are a threat to him with possibly becoming a candidate for President in 2012. The Al Sharpten angle has me rubbing my old shoulder. The Sec of Education just a mouth piece back to Obama. Good luck sir and I have your back.

Fair Winds and Following Seas

Newt, I fully respect you and what you are doing. But, given I have never trusted Obama and Sharpton is nothing greater than a bottom dwelling leech/a parasite on society, I encourage great caution on your part. It is true that getting to know one from the inside can be of great value. I hope it works out for you.
Meanwhile, our schools do need help but they should have its greatest strength not so much from the state level (let alone the federal level) but from the local levels.
As a family with multiple teachers, a school board member of a prominent district for a dozen years, and now grandchildren in the system and some being home schooled, we know all too well the problems.
QUESTION TO PONDER: Could we make schools better by simply getting rid of the teacher union(s)? I believe it should be the first thing to be addressed. Once that is taken care of and the best teachers are actually teaching and not getting laid off while the not-so-good teachers are getting laid off, we may not have to address Charter schools as an alternative. Give it some thought. As mentioned, we are knee-deep in this and see what the real problem is.....unions.
GOOD LUCK AND COVER YOUR BACK!

Newt,
Finally, Obama is doing what he said he would, joining forces on both sides of the isle to come up with good ideas to improve health care, education, etc. I am so worried about what he is doing to the deficit. Can we stop him before our dollar is worth nothing?
Stay strong and good luck. Don't let them wear you down.

What does Al Sharpton have to do with anything? He is a lot like Jessie Jackson, he loves to read his name in the news.

Charter schools here in Indianapolis are great but never forget that the Syates need to control them and NOT the Federal Government. Hasn't Mr O'Bama done enough damage to this country.

Mr. Speaker,

As an Exceptional Children's Teacher the best thing you could do for us is scrap No Child Left Behind. It doesn't work, and it impairs true teaching because it forces educators to teach to the test. I taught a class in Life Skills/Science last semester, all of my kids passed the state exit exam. This was the first time in 17 years that this class has been taught that this was achieved. I had an exceptional group that was motivated to achieve, but it took 17 years to get there. That was 16 years of frustration for kids who needed this course to graduate and failed to do so.

I personnally think you are dancing with the devil, but I trust your judgement on what can be achieved through collaboration.

Here's a thought, my kids, some with IQ's in the 50s, are required to past competency tests to graduate. This was enacted by the No Child Left Behind law imposed by Congress. I think it only fair that Congress be tested for minimal competency and understanding of major legislative proposals like Crap and Trade, Stimulus Bills, and Health Care Reform. They don't pass, they don't vote on the bill. You could call it, "No Country Left Behind". This might cut down on bad law and would me feel good watching Congress struggle, just like my kids are required to do to succeed.

You have my vote if you decide to run for President in 2012. You are the kind of leader we need to bail this country out of the multiple Obaminations rammed down our throat by a totally corrupt Administration and an equally corrupt Congress. You've done it before with the Contract with America. Please help us take back our country!!
Charles Sharrard

First off, its good to be involved instead of being on the outside complaining.

The biggest concern I have is with pay for performance. I am not a teacher, nor do I want to keep paying for teachers who don't teach, but this can't be done with a formula. There should be a strong emphasis on nurturing teachers and seeing that they are doing the best job with their students; however you can't just look at student performance as many PFP systems do. This just causes certain schools to go downhill faster as no teacher wants to teach there because the students might not put forth the effort and make the teacher look bad.

All too often students get pushed through the system with minimally passing grades with teachers being forced by administration to pass the kids so that they don't linger on in the system drainging financial resources. These sorts of policies must change before PFP can work.

Hi Newt, I'm relying on that super human intellect of yours to protect your reputation from being damaged as I don't approve of Sharpton in any way, shape or form. As for education, it does need to be reformed. The Teachers Union should be broken down and trashed, teacher's pay should be doubled based on performance and along with the basics, teaching should be more innovative in order to get the kids to buy in. My husband is volunteering with the Goodwill Charter school here in Phoenix and it has been a real eye opener for him. Working in a class where kids are allowed to talk, text and refuse any and everything they are asked to do was almost impossible until he started treating them as young adults who will participate if they are given 'The Plan'. They almost wait in the halls for him now and look forward to what they will be getting out of class on that day. Things can change but keep Big Government out of it. Go Newt!!! Dianne

While I am uneasy with "Rev." Sharpton, and would rather have someone like Ken Blackwell or Bill Cosby to represent or speak on behalf of the black community (and be less of a lightning rod, politically), I can understand the need for him to be involved. If Newt can use his skills of persuasion and informing Al of a better way of providing educational choice and local control, then it's worth the gamble.

The rationale for working with Sharpton: Sometimes you need to work with an otherwise odious person in order to achieve the greater goal. Military example: our alliance with Stalin during WWII to defeat the Axis powers.

Question: Why isn't there an Hispanic voice added to this trio and make it a quartet? Since Hispanics make up a larger percentage of the population now, it would make sense to have them represented and diminish the anti-Hispanic accusation certain to rear its ugly head.

How is it that the nation that responded so wonderfully to the launce of Sputnik in 1957 and produced so many wonderful scientists has fallen into the educational abyss we're in now? I find it disturbing that this great nation has fallen so low in such a short time.

I salute you in your efforts to promote Charter Schools -- epecially if they follow the format of the Pattonville School District in Missouri.

To: Newt Gingrich

The only acceptable outcome of your efforts will be the dismantling of the Dept of Education.

The States own education and should be in control of education.

The Federal Education Bureaucracy has all of the classic flaws of the official defintion (see below).

Main Entry: bu·reau·cra·cy
Pronunciation: \byu̇-ˈrä-krə-sē, byə-, byər-ˈä-\
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural bu·reau·cra·cies
Etymology: French bureaucratie, from bureau + -cratie -cracy
Date: 1818
1 a : a body of nonelective government officials b : an administrative policy-making group
2 : government characterized by specialization of functions, adherence to fixed rules, and a hierarchy of authority
3 : a system of administration marked by officialism, red tape, and proliferation

when it was decided to combine Geography and History into Social Studies, neither geographpy nor history were digested...I would like to see these two subjects separated...at my age I can tell you where countries are, major exports, and significant historical detail...not sure my grandkids can...also, a vibrant return to Civics, please! during the election season, no mock voting was done in neighboring school system..

Sir:

Charter Schools have a place in our country but to serve the vast and varied population we have to day we need to move away from the Bill Bennett model of education where we try to prep all student for college and move back to the Smith/Hughes model where we provide vocational educations as an option in all public schools.

Sorry Newt...I have alot of respect for you as a patriot and American leader, however...I cannot support you on this one.

School reform is desperately needed, that is for sure. I would be the first to support the removal of the Union controlled Public Educational System. Furthermore, I only support the State's duty to provide education for our Kids and the Feds should stay out of it.

I do not understand what is meant by the term "no limits" charter school system, but I what Christ back in our schools and teachers rewarded for not only excelling in educating our kids, but also contributing to their character.

Sharpton is a dishonest representative of the human race, he has no moral of character and his interest are only selfish and are not the interests of the people of this nation...I do not want Rev. Sharpton to be an example of character for my kids!

And as far as Arne Duncan goes...in 2007, only 17% of eighth graders tested at or above grade level in reading in Chicago Schools-the school system administered by Arne since 2001. According to the US Dept. of Education's report for 2007, Chicago public schools have consistently performed below the national average during Arne's tenure.

No more can America compromise her values...sorry.

Personally, I trust Al Sharpton and Arne Duncan as far as I can throw them; but the rule of thumb is keep your friends close, but keep your enemies closer!

I think Education Reform during an Obama Administration is a bad idea; however, I do trust your judgement, Newt. Having said that, I fear that "charter schools" are code for "government-run schools." As a taxpayer, I'm not interested in the government running any schools.

I would love to see incentives to homeschool children. The Homeschool Legal Defense Fund (www.hslda.org) just conducted the most extensive study ever that indicates homeschoolers are surpassing public schools by about 30% in all subjects at a cost of about $900 per student. That's a far cry from the $9,500++ it costs public schools to educate our kids. See the full report at http://www.hslda.org/docs/study/ray2009/default.asp.

Good luck, Newt. I'll keep you in my prayers.

Newt,
I'm not you're sleeping with the right bedfellows this time. However, I'll give you the benefit of the doubt, but please consider that this may be a rouse from Obama to distract your time and energy from the healthcare package. I pray for your wisdom and that of all polititions to do the "RIGHT" thing. There is no doubt about the need for education reform for the children but please, don't neglect your dedication to the health care bill looming so heavily,especially on the seniors heads, and wallets now!

A race baiter a Chicago cronie and a true American and let's not forget the man at the top. That means three against one. With your passion and intellect I believe we have the edge.

Ordinarily I would say don't partner with the enemy but the cause is too important not to do it.
Good luck.

Because of Obama's consistant record from the beginning, I feel he does nothing without a hidden,opposing reason that would jepardize the Health of our great Nation. I am supicious. Preserve our democracy/Republic. Watch your back. He is most likely going by the golden rule of "keep your friends close, and your enemies closer."

Newt,
I applaud you for turning the other cheek in this endeavor. However, I see Sharpton using this as an opportunity to stay relevant. He has been an apologist for all things of color to this point. He has not asked for personal responsibility from his backers and has done little to hold those accountable in his community. I suppose he didn't have enough victims in his arsenal to keep him on the front page.

I will pray for you and applaud you for your enthusiasm. Newt for President!!!!

Here is what Newt should do: Right before the shindig is to begin, Newt should stagger in with his clothes all ripped and tattered. He should also have dog poop smeared all over himself. He should come in very shaky manner and say, "Two black policemen have just raped me and smeared human feces all over me". Please, Al, could you represent me for the media onslaught that will surely come. I think the two policemen were racists because they called me the "R" word! The "R" word? Yes,
Al, "Redneck" and when they were through they wiped human feces all over me!! Please Help Me Al! I know you are experienced in these types of things.
I would love to see what Al, with his eyes wide and his mouth agape would do and say if Newt actually came out looking and smelling like that.
Of course, Al could not take Newt's case because of Newt's lack of pigment, but it would be great to see Al's reaction. Wouldn't it?

Gentlemen,
The idea of education reform is a great idea. What we need to do to reform education is do things we did to educate children that eventually cured cancers, landed on the moon, thought of others first and themselves last, invented computer technology. We need to stop envying the world and do the following:
1. Say the pledge of allegiance to the flag every day.
2. Have 15 minutes of free play time in the morning, 30 minutes at lunch, and 15 minutes in the afternoon.
3. Teach classical literature and sample classical music.
4. Read a historic Bible story once in a while.
5. Teach that truth is
A. True all the time
B. Truth is true whether we understand it or not
C. Truth is true whether we agree with it or not
D. Truth is unchangeable even when circumstances change.
E. Truth is true even if God is the only one who fully understands it.
F. Truth is a binary choice; you either choose truth or falsehood.

Lastly, for heaven's sake teach the childre how to recognize false reasoning. Teach them how to think logically and not emotionally all the time. Teach kids that evil does exist. Oh and one other thing- teach students that familys are the foundation of an enduring family- one man, one woman, one child at the very least. Teach that the more consistently a child misbehaves in life and makes wrong choices the ever widening circle of authority they will have to answer to. From a family that loves them to rings of influence all the way out to a mean judge that will sentence you to prison time.

I agree with John Thomas. Newt, I can't support you on this either. What are you thinking. This is just another Obama divide and conquer tactic. Education is very important to this country and we need to devote a lot of time to this issue, but not yet. With critical healthcare issues on the table we need to consentrate on healthcare and not overwhelm the system. We should fix what we have, not throw out the baby with the bath water. Newt, don't be another Obama puppet!!!

I am skeptical to say the least of charging an eternally lost racist in Al Sharpton on the one hand and a fool like Newt on the other with such and important task.

May I suggest pairing Dennis Prager and Michael Savage and Bill Bennett to the chore?
PLEASE reconsider!!!!!!!!!!!

Mr. Gingrich,

Good luck with this. You are already my choice for 2012.

School vouchers. Give taxpayers the money that's spent on public education. My children were both home schooled. Absolutely no regrets. My son attempted to go to public school during his junior year, but only lasted one semester. He was totally bored with public education and the daycare attitude. Give the money to parents, and let them have that chance at private education. Public education, government controlled, is a joke. With our current administration government controlled takes on a whole new meaning. Scares the heck out of me.

Newt, don't let these Chicago thugs change you.

Much of what I believe has already been said, I applaud those of a like mindset. I trust this venture is well under your (Newt’s) control and I would like to believe you would not be getting into this if you didn’t understand the “game”. But please don’t become another John McCain, we had to abandon him.

Education is the number one priority. Education will get those for whom we have been footing the “bill” off our support and fend for themselves. Do I have empathy for those who want to get ahead but can’t, the answer is yes, but I believe the solution is education.

I grew up in the projects, did not go to college and now have my own company with very sophisticated clients. Being white probably helped me get my foot in a couple of doors early on. But during that career I worked alongside many minority professionals that had no problem getting jobs due to their education and these were offices in different parts of the country.

Another huge problem is our loss of manufacturing. A service society (and I am in the service business) does not create wealth. Most or all of the services we provide in this country is due to the fact that someone manufactured something. Start-up manufacturers should be given incentives by the government but not controlled by the government.

I never thought I would see “hell” but what we are going through now with the latter part of the last administration and now the current administration is as close as I want to come.

Good Luck Newt!

Mr. Gingrich:
I am sorry to not be with you on this one. I see this as a way of our current political system redirecting attention to yet another issue and taking one of the "other sides" leaders, YOU, along with it to redirect you away from health care! There are so many issues our White House is throwing out there that no one is going to be able to focus on anything. How does Mr Sharpton represnt anything regarding education in America?

I substitute taught for 5 years in a local school system. It was an average everyday school system and a few of those teachers I taught with worked at one time in Philly. Although our school system was not reflective of Philly we still had issues and they got worse every single year. Charter schools are another way to convince parents they have another option. And you know what? They are exactly the same thing as the school they left with newer faces, newer technology and no guts. Same union leaders, same family issues and same resistance to education. Charter schools will be our public schools sooner than you think and then our regular schools will be with the dead and dying.

Until we as a country realize that good schools come from family first, parents teaching children to respect their teachers, respect authority, respect themselves and others, WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO EDUCATE ANYONE ANY DIFFERENTLY. WE WILL BE WASTING OUR TIME. Make this one Simple Mr. Gingrich. Start in the homes. Reteach parents on the importance of making sure their kids do their homework. Oh yeah, it helps if the teachers expect their children to do their home work as well. The solution to our education system is not MORE government. It should Not mean more rules to follow.
Our failing schools are a true reflection of the community that supports it. Until we realize how to solve that one, Charter schools will just bandaid the wound.
Please for goodness sake,
stop practicing the "common ground" nice guy attitude and take a stand.

The soul of our educators is wanning and until a parent with a troubled student, caring little about learning can come and teach a class and see the results of their poor parenting, nothing will change in a Charter school.

We need more structure. Higher expectations. Teachers should not be teaching just becuase they are tenured. Teachers should keep their politics to themselves. Teachers for the most part truely care about the children, but more and more are being expected to teach them everything the missing parents are not teaching them. More and more an average teacher is expected to make decisions parents are unwilling to make.

We dump our kids in larger and larger schools, larger classes, less contact with teachers and more expectations that our kid should learn how to do it alone. And in the meantime two family incomes have zapped energy from the house and when the folks are home homework is that last thing they want to fight with their kids about. Unless a parent has a self starter child, and that is about 1/4 of the students, there is a place whre those in the middle of the curve are failing to care and those at the bottom of the curve are faling.

I know I sound bitter but I am surprised you would allow yourself to be involved in this promo piece with the president's approval.
Why are you wasting time with this fool hearted mission????? Meetings..... bunk, just words, Blah, blah blah.....More meetings, more 'town halls, more of nothing!
Obviously, I feel strongly about this one!

I am concerned, and will watch the advancement of this project. But we can not forget Cap and Trade, Health Whatever it is now, and Card Check. All of this stuff is what concerns me, and the fact we have a new CZAR that is going to create havock on free speach, or whatever we want to listen too. Be very careful!

Wow, what a lot to respond to. Let me narrow my focus to Mr. Duncan. He is a friend of Mr. Obama's, which is fine, but by choosing Duncan as Sec. of Ed, Mr. Obama seems to be showing that he understands very little about the demands on our teachers and students in public schools (which he has chosen not to send his daughters to, by the way.)
They want to pay teachers based upon performance. In itself, this seems a reasonable idea, yet their only way of measuring this performance is student test scores. They want schools with great test scores, as if test-taking is a lifelong marketable skill. It's not. Yet by basing a teacher's livelihood on a test score, they're encouraging teachers to teach to the test--and that's all.
After 35 years teaching, I know that students must be engaged to learn. Students are engaged by creativity, by accomplishment, by actively learning by practicing skills--not by practicing for a multiple choice test. Teaching just for the test sucks the life out of a classroom. We will produce a nation of robots.
Plus is it fair to base a teacher's pay on these scores, when the teacher has no control over a student's life except for a brief period of time in class, each day? No, of course not. Now if they based the pay on products that students have created, that would be more like it. But it would cost too much and be too difficult logistically. And politicians only understand test scores.
Anyway, let's give Obama a chance, with the help of the intelligent Gingrich. Duncan and Sharpton I'm not sure of, but just like all of Obama's proposals, it's worth a try.

Dear Mr. Gingrich:
I do agree with you that we must help where we can. To help solve our problems, we must be part of the solution; but be very very careful, as that rascally rabbit might say; I don't trust any of Obama's people.
I hope you know what you are doing. Please don't let them get you in the middle of something and leave you hanging. Or don't let them get you into a situation that might hurt You and the A.S. politicaly.

Mr. Gingrich:

I'm skeptical to say the least! But if you must work with Sharpton & Duncan, stand strong and stay on guard. Hanging out with the wrong crowd can get you into trouble.
Matthew 16:6
"Be careful," Jesus said to them. "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."

Newt:

My first thought was that you might be bamboozled. My second thought was that you are about to be bamboozled. And I'm normally a very trusting guy, except when it comes to O'bama.

Good luck

In response to this phrase "Our schools must be accountable for results and be focused solely on learning and achievement", and in response to all of the following discussion regarding "education", my serious question is this: Since when do we Americans go about our personal business, our education, the raising of our children and all other aspects of our lives without even MENTIONING the LORD our GOD and his desire and will in our lives???? Is anybody THINKING? Is anybody OUT THERE?? Since when has America forgotten her God, her Lord, her Provider, her Sustainer, her reason for living and dying?? Since when has America decided that the most important thing for our children to "focus on" is their own personal development and advancement????? Since when has America taught as public policy such self-centered "education" and expected to produce citizens who could submit themselves to "a greater good", or make a sacrifice on behalf of society?? Since when has America socialized her children to participate in such nonsense, but neglected to lead them to serve the only True and Living God?? America is in trouble. And rightly so. America needs to wake up and quit talking about politics and education and the national debt and abortion and everything else that we are doing that is clearly anti-Christian, and turn around and face God. "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you". America seems to think she doesn't need God anymore. He gave us a great start, and now, thanks anyway- we can make it on our own. Shame on you America. You once were Beautiful. You once called upon the "name above all names". You once were His light to the world, and now in all of your educational reform, you have forgotton His name and the name of His Son, Jesus Christ. What do you want out of "education"? A better life for yourself? Jesus said "if you seek your life, you will lose it, and if you lose your life for my sake, you will find it. Come on, America- return to your Savior. Make a real change and THEN change the world. It is not the world that needs changing any more- it is the House of God. America, get on your knees and understand what you have need of, then ask Him, not for more of your own resources to spend on yourselves, but for Living Water and "Life more Abundantly", to spend as HE desires.

In the name of Jesus.

I am extremely sceptical about this unholy alliance. Given his past, I would expect nothing good to come from anything Al Sharpton is involved with, and I am frankly a little shocked that Mr. Gingrich would be allied with him on anything. I wish him luck, and I hope he watches his back.

As for education reform, anything that increases the control of Washington over our public schools can have only negative effects. I speak as an educator with 20 years' experience, as well as the real-world experience of a former military officer. Unfunded mandates, "accountability", political correctness and the misguided notion that ALL students MUST go to college to succeed have ruined the education system in this country. The teacher's unions have aided and abetted the Feds every step of the way. Hypocrisy and illogic are rife in every new program we get from Washington. Two examples will illustrate. In Ohio, we are supposed to exercise "local control" on the local school board level; however, if we do not follow every white-tower scheme promulgated by the Department of Education, we lose funding. So much for local control. We also have a test known recently as the Ohio Graduation Test. The students start taking it when they are sophomores. It supposedly indicates when a student has learned the basics of high school and is ready to move on. If a student passes the OGT on the first try, can they then move on? You guessed it, two more years of high school. And for students who do not test well, or are just not intellectually equipped to pass the test, we have a plethora of special exceptions and accommodations that exempt them from the test, which kind of cheapens the efforts of those kids who do try to pass it. Education becomes nothing more than test preparation.

I graduated from high school in 1971, from a private religious based school that MY PARENTS PAID FOR OUT OF POCKET, because it was their choice I go there. Although it was a small town, I got a pretty decent preparation for the next steps in my life. Compared to what I knew at similar stages in my life, I am shocked at the sheer ignorance of recent graduates of high school and college, to include many of the fully qualified - or so one would think from all the hoops they must jump through to get certified here in Ohio- teachers with whom I work. But they can sure take a test!

One of the interesting things I find about all the talk of our education system being in crisis is the fact that wealthy people from other countries (or even many not-so-wealthy) who can afford to go anywhere for their education, choose to come here. Another interesting thing is that if you talk to the average person about education in America, we all agree that it is in crisis, that something must be done. However, if you ask them specifically about their local school system, more often than not they are generally pleased. Of course some things could be improved, some things could be done better, but generally speaking our local schools do a good job. It's those other schools, in other parts of the country, that are failing. Ya can't have it both ways, people!

Improving education in America can be done quite simply. Disband the NEA, and get Washington out of local school boards. Do away with crap like the Ohio Graduation Test, or whatever your local equivalent is. Allow local school boards to manage their schools. Make education the priority - and not football! Change the minds of parents so that education is valued, so that once again parents want their children to do better than they did. Make parents responsible in real ways for their children's behavior and attendance. Stop labelling EVERY nuance of human variation as a "disability". Special education ain't very special, people, when 50-60% of your student body has an Individual Education Plan to account for some 'disability'. Teach kids how to make the best of whatever talents God has given them. Teach them to do their best, and teach them how to handle failure when that best isn't good enough. Teach them to be fierce competitors, gracious winners, and dignified losers. I don't care how much a kid may try, if his answer to 2+2 comes out 5, then he is wrong and must be taught how to deal with that. Their self-esteem will grow when they are authentically successful, with real achievement based on growth and individual success.

Until these things happen, we will continue to get what we've gotten for the past 20 years.

In response to this phrase "Our schools must be accountable for results and be focused solely on learning and achievement", and in response to all of the following discussion regarding "education", my serious question is this: Since when do we Americans go about our personal business, our education, the raising of our children and all other aspects of our lives without even MENTIONING the LORD our GOD and his desire and will in our lives???? Is anybody THINKING? Is anybody OUT THERE?? Since when has America forgotten her God, her Lord, her Provider, her Sustainer, her reason for living and dying?? Since when has America decided that the most important thing for our children to "focus on" is their own personal development and advancement????? Since when has America taught as public policy such self-centered "education" and expected to produce citizens who could submit themselves to "a greater good", or make a sacrifice on behalf of society?? Since when has America socialized her children to participate in such nonsense, but neglected to lead them to serve the only True and Living God?? America is in trouble. And rightly so. America needs to wake up and quit talking about politics and education and the national debt and abortion and everything else that we are doing that is clearly anti-Christian, and turn around and face God. "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you". America seems to think she doesn't need God anymore. He gave us a great start, and now, thanks anyway- we can make it on our own. Shame on you America. You once were Beautiful. You once called upon the "name above all names". You once were His light to the world, and now in all of your educational reform, you have forgotton His name and the name of His Son, Jesus Christ. What do you want out of "education"? A better life for yourself? Jesus said "if you seek your life, you will lose it, and if you lose your life for my sake, you will find it. Come on, America- return to your Savior. Make a real change and THEN change the world. It is not the world that needs changing any more- it is the House of God. America, get on your knees and understand what you have need of, then ask Him, not for more of your own resources to spend on yourselves, but for Living Water and "Life more Abundantly", to spend as HE desires.

In the name of Jesus.

AS A retired special education teacher, I can assure you that the problems in the public schools are not, I repeat, are not, because of poor teaching or administration. WE DO NOT NEED CHARTER SCHOOLS! What we need is a severe discipline policy to remove those who habitually disturb the learning process of those who truly want to learn. Statistically, 20 minutes +/- 05 is wasted each teaching hour on rude, disrespectful students, who have no consequences for their abysmal behavior. They tax and tire the teachers, pull the weaker students in with them and make it impossible for those who want to learn, to learn. It is time to stop blaming the Public Schools, for a society that cannot or will not accept the fact that their children are the problem and not the teachers or the administration. It is so easy to shift the blame rather than to accept the responsibility of proper parenting.
We must return to the basics. This is America. If you refuse to allow your child to say the Pledge, then do not take the free meals, free education, and free transportation. Home teach, buy the books and feed your own kid.

Mr. Gingrich,

I can see no good coming from this. Obama will either claim you support everything he does or he is getting you out of the way like he does Hillary. Al Sharpton is probably one of the most despicable people in America, you have more courage that I would to even attempt to work with him. You have a much more important job to do every day in getting the word out on the Obama scams than to do this. You need to reconsider.

I hope Newt has become familiar with the philosophy of Obama's good friend(the Chicago way "former" terrorist) and edicational advisior, Bill Ayers.

I am afraid Sharpton and Newt are being used as Obama window dressing--each for a different group.

How disappointing.

This sounds great, but I wonder if it is just an attempt to throw a red herring toward Newt to derail Newt's frequent criticism of Obama's policies. If there really is a chance for Newt to positively affect schools, then this will be worth while. But if this will just be an exercise in futility, and Obama has no intention of making real change in the education system (by reigning in teacher's unions, and supporting School Choice)then Newt would better spend his time continuing to publicize Obama's disastrous policies.

Mr. Gringrich,

I URGE you to reconsider. I am a veteran of 10 years teaching in a public school. There is very little about them that can be considered reasonable to people of faith. Our children are under assault by the liberal agenda. It IS VERY SERIOUS.

Charter Schools ARE public schools. My state has hundreds of them. They receive public funding from the state, so they must follow the same rules as any public school that doesn't have the name "Charter" on it. The statistics show that they very rarely exceed the performance of their counterparts.

There is only one solution to our education problems. VOUCHERS. Please do not succumb to any plan that is only a solution in name, but not substance.

Respectfully sir, your alliance with the likes of Reverend Sharpton is a thoroughly bad idea. Compromise in this case is an admission of defeat. We simply can no longer 'compromise' on the future's of our children.

I'm ok with Newt putting his toe in the water, and seeing where this goes, but he needs to be very wary and cautious.

This could be a diversionary play to bottle Newt up and have him focused immensely in the Education area, meanwhile diminishing his focus and ability to fight Obama at full strength in other areas where there is enormous disagreement.

Newt I believe what you are taking on is very risky. Watch your back and be extremly careful what you agree to. This could very well be the most important thing you have ever dealt with.

DOE should defunded by 10% every year over 10 years. Education should be a local level issue. Unions out! Newt, get out wile you can. No need to smooze with the enemy.

Newt;

Vouchers should only be considered if they are given directly to the parent/guardian with no governmental strings attached for the schools that the children attend.

A "freedom of conscience" clause MUST be included to protect our private and religious schools from politically correct "group think".

In addition, controls must be in place to ensure that such a clause would NOT benefit the teaching of anti-Semitic, bigoted, racist, anti-American subject matter. If it is determined that such controls would run against a reasonable interpretation of the 1st Amendment....... then the issue of vouchers or charters should be dropped.

Control over education belongs to the parent/guardian, not a politically correct bureaucracy whose only purpose is self-preservation, and the indoctrination of those under their control, to ensure adherence to their goals.

Newt, My wife and I think you are only one of a very small handfull of honest politicians left. I agree that finding solutions to problems must be a bipartisan effort but please keep in mind the company you keep. When swimming with sharks, one is likely to be bitten. When walking through slime it's very difficult not to get some on you. Good luck and stay safe....

Well, it shows integrity for Newt to accept comments, which are nearly all negative re: this tour; so much evil was thrown at him during Bush years, I fear he has begun to fear men and lose his passion. By the way, comments should appear in reverse order (most recent first) to better keep up with evolving thinking on an issue. Now to the MEAT:

Both my children attended a charter school in Austin, TX, heart of the Bible Belt. They were told by the (yes, public school) teacher there NOT to say Christmas Tree or Christmas Lights but rather HOLIDAY tree and HOLIDAY lights. At first the school seemed free, it was set up for skaters at a local rink to be able to fit into 1/2 day a full academic schedule, and participation in SOME (ANY) sport for 10 hrs. wk. was initially mandatory, and I was asked to teach math even though not a registered teacher. This was all short lived.

A separate structure was finally chosen, not the skating rink facility anymore; the once-private school sure did become "charter" and sure did save parents lots of money and allowed my girls to attend (only one a skater). But also invited the "HOLIDAY TREE" and state-purchased textbooks in too.

I fear that Charter Schools have (and even at that time felt) been accepted by bureaucrats as a sop to folks who are "sort of" interested in their kids but can't or won't home or private school. It takes pressure off the bureaucrats from folks who might try harder to get GOVERNMENT out of EDUCATION, or push for vouchers which are so effective in DC. and elsewhere for boosting school performance.

I HEARD from callers on RUSH and elsewhere that Newt had lost his edge, and I fear that anything Obama and Sharpton can live with or promote must be bad, i.e. black Moslem charter schools OK'd by Sharpton, further balkanization of the U.S. into interest groups, but not REAL freedom, because state-hired, politically correct teachers will help amalgamate all groups into the final LAST DAYS religion, which will be all religions and environmentalism thrown into a blender or placed into a barrel like a B.Y.O.B. party, creating a disgusting mixture that will satisfy nobody, but which all will be forced to drink at pain of death. I do NOT believe Obama is one to play ball with any more than, say, I believe that the Chinese are interested in our welfare,to give an example...We kicked Japan's butt, and they respect us and have taken many of our best points and incorporated them; the Chinese have taken nothing but our H-bomb and missile technology...We never kicked their butts yet! Likewise, this current crowd in whitehouse are ANTI-CHRIST material, not like negotiating with earlier democrats, like RFK, etc, Newt, in my opinion...Youre being sidetracked, as others wisely say here.

I had wanted to start actually giving to Am. Solutions, I just got a bank account at Wal Mart to save tax money in, which requires use of ATM card a few times a month, I was going to give to Am. Sol. frequently but now don't know after all. Less compromised folk around? I am asking for updates on Newts trip more out of morbid curiosity to see what he may do, stand up for, or NOT stand up for. I'd prefer, Newt, if you would STAND and DELIVER on education. Andy in TX

Mr. Gingrich:

Good luck on the mission stay alert and keep your standards high. Be careful and stand strong but I disagree on charter schools and what they do especially in these setting. The goal is noble but to promote this change in our environment means the bulk of our spending is worthless. Please keep me in informed of your progress and the outcome of the tour.

Good luck and God bless,

Frank Corriere

I loved your comments, and very heartening that you are REGISTERED DEMOCRATS looking for something better and hoping American Solutions might bring it. I really respect you for home-schooling; we "Charter Schooled" the first 2 girls, (now one is in college, and one working in Japan.) Your comments show there are still democrats of conscience and religious integrity; perhaps a chance blue dogs WILL stop healthcare power grab?

But, I digress: our last is at a public school. We moved, and she attends in a small town just out of Austin; we recently moved and (morally, crime wise, and teaching-wise) we found we had "moved back 20 years" in the effects of the decay and "political correctness" movement shaping our schools today...They even celebrated Columbus Day in her Kindergarten and had a ship making contest! But perhaps the older small house in Austin would've cut expenses and we'd have finally home-schooled? But, my self employment which was constantly improving recently has taken hits so who knows? YOU and your WIFE have made the sacrifice, THAT I know. I'd like to know more about "on-line" learning!

See my comments to Newt which will I guess appear at the bottom of the stack, Sat. Aug. 15. Would be happy to keep in touch if you wished, Outdoor Janitorial, p.o. box 686, Georgetown, TX 78628.

Yeah, right, parents not OK'd to teach their own kids though this is how it was done in U.S.A. for a long time, and internet, like Gutenberg press, will free folk to learn, teach at home. Standards of attainment could easily be dreamed up and tests given, if this was a concern, with public input on content of tests, taking into account revisionist history, anti-creation biases, and allowing folk to eliminate politically charged things like creation, whether the U.S.A. is "Satan" and sex-ed from testing; things which government has inserted itself into and which public does not endorse...Test on 3 R's, and let folks read with their new found reading ability.

Go a bit deeper with your condescending to some schools who's parents had not passed 8th grade... Was the quality of THEIR (certainly PUBLIC SCHOOL) education any better than that of the "majority" of well meaning HOME SCHOOL parents,the quality of whose childrens' education you seem to deplore, saying only a FEW benefitted from home schooling? You sound a bit elitist, especially since VALUES are under assault in schools: kids miss out you say acedemically at home, but a kid with decent values who is not a rebel and sexually compromised by end of high school will outperform a supposedly better-taught public school child, n'est-ce que pas?

I applaud you for being a teacher, but the "hand that chooses the textbook will rule the world." Sorry.

I share the same thoughts as many of the comments posted here. I do not trust Al Sharpton. Please list one positive thing he has accomplished! Education reform should start with the Federal Government being out of it. Let the states control education. Then get rid of the unions. Tenure is the absolute worst thing that ever happened to education. Private enterprise has forever led the way in productivity and prosperity. And a big reason for that is that no one has a guaranteed job for life, regardless of their performance. Finally, everyone should have access to school vouchers. Let parents pick their schools and you will very quickly weed out the deadbeats.

Newt,
Don't let them roll you. They will try to make even this good idea a way to extend federal control.

I'm in the financial business. I work with families every day who are in trouble through ignorance of the most basic of basics of how money works.

It is this ignorance that, to a large degree, caused the current financial problems. Financial literacy MUST be a cornerstone of our educational system.

Les Dunaway

In bed with Al Sharpton - doesn't seem smart. That said, an initiative that will give parents a stronger voice in their childrens education is needed. Charter's and/or vouchers may help break the strangle hold of the teachers union on our schools and that is good. Stronger local control as opposed to overbearing state mandated requirements can only help. As one who has twice gone through teacher ed curricula (first in 1965 MN and second in 1989 CA) the two systems remarkably similar and remarkably useless I STRONGLY ADVOCATE GETTING COMMUNITY PERSONNEL EXPERT IN THEIR FIELD INTO THE CLASSROOM WITHOUT THE CREDENTIALING NONSENSE. Hold the superintendent accountable for the quality he/she hires. Make education a business.

Newt
Watch your back and remember the "Rules for Radicals" These people are not to be trusted. They will use, marginalize, and try to humiliate you. They are scared of you. If it were me I’d do this education tour by myself or with other conservatives.

BTW Rev Al is a complete joke and hasn’t a single good intention in his head for this country. I will not support with my hard earned dollars this scheme of obamas

Larry, I read your response to Mr. Gingrich and I am with you 100%. I wrote the response a frew paragraph's before you and in too many words,I said the same thing.
Thanks for letting me know I am not that crazy.......in so many words.
Kim Esposito

Newt, I'm disappointed. I think you can spend your time in a more productive manner for the Republican Party at a time when we should be re-organizing.

I keep thinking...keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. Can't you see that they consider you a threat, and this is a way to "get you off on something else". Please reconsider.

Nice to see you have an open mind to the possibility of bi-partisan participation on an important issue. Try and broaden your perspective on issues by watching something other than Fox news...you might learn something. By the way,before you accuse me of some Obama apologist I hated the personal attacks on President Bush as much as what our current president gets. You do realize he is OUR president.

Newt, I am in favor of less federal government involved in education. I see that progressive, liberal ideology has pervaded our school system and it makes me sick. I do support charter schools, but I support the voucher program even more. I don't want to support anything that will interfere with the parents' right to choose appropriate schools for their children. Al Sharpton is a joke and I hate to see you involved with him in any fashion, so I am skeptical of this alliance. I usually have a high regard for your positions, Newt, but I'm not buying into this.

I beleive this is Obama's way of keeping you occupied while a very crucial issue is being battled by the Obama regime and we the people who are against the "Obama health care plan. " I truly beleive that we the people need you help in our battle against the liberals on the health care issue, cap and trade. As the saying : Keep you friends close but your enemies closer and that is exactly what Obama is doing to you.

I am one of the many Americans who thinks that the Obama Regime is slowing destroy our form of gov't and turning the United States of America into a socialist country. May God Bless America , we need all the blessings we can get as well as help from all our conservitive leaders and you are one of them!

I'm actually surprised that the Obama administration supports charter schools given his alliance with the unions. I don't believe the teachers unions support charter schools.

I agree with the idea of working with poeple representing other political points of view in cases where agreement can be found. But Newt must be careful to stick to principle and not sacrifice any of his ideals to gain their support in any aspect of the issue. In truth, most of the problems in education were cuased by policies espoused by Sharpton, Obama and his administration (although I don't know much about Arne Duncan, what I know of other Obama appointees is downright sinister. SO there must be an understanding that where common ground ends they must agree to disagree and Newt should continue to fight for Constitutionally based policies that are known to work.

Sharpton?????? I'm amazed....and with tongue in cheek. Also, I hope the NEA isn't there. Obama must have some ticking bomb hidden somewhere....maybe in the health care bill, there are so many pages!

First of all, I want to say that I totally agree with Ralph jensen's comments. All the evidence points to the fact that vouchers, when given to parents so that the power of choice is in their hands, produces results that are unquestionable. Free market competition ensures that only the schools that actually produce the product paid for, in this case an educated child, survive. Those schools that don't show improvements or fail altogether, will simply go out of business. Let's face it, nobody expects to continuously pay a business that fails to give the customer the full value of the money paid. Schools should be no different.
What I think ought to be done is to form a PARENTS' UNION in direct opposition to TEACHERS' UNION. If there's 1 teacher for every 20 students on average, then at the very minimum there can be a voting block that outnumbers teachers, 20 to 1(assuming a single parent household) at the low end and 40 to 1 at the max. With numbers like that, the democrats would have to let America be educated again. I'm sure some teachers are parents too, but not all are. Furthermore, not all teachers are in the same bandwagon as these teachers' union zealots.

I have no idea as to why someone would intentionally allow themselves to be linked to Al Sharpton in any manner, regardless of the possible lofty goals.

Your proposals are trying to fix a failing system. No amount of tinkering with the existing system will fix it. Charter schools, unless they are designed differently, will not fix the education problems.

Our current education system, including charter schools, teaches a fixed amount of content in a fixed amount of time. The teaching and learning happens in classrooms with groups of kids. Children who don't master the right content at the right time are pushed forward anyway.

Imagine a school system that is transformed to provide children with a customized, personalized education. Imagine children participating in learning activities at a pace that responds to their individual needs, interests, and abilities.

If charter schools and entire school systems are transformed in that way the rhetoric of education reform ("No child left behind) will become reality because how in the world could any child be left behind when he or she is receiving a learning experience tailored to his or her learning needs, interests, and abilities?

See www.futureminds.us for more information about the vision sketched out above.

Newt - thank you for joining this group and being the only conservative voice representing the American people. We need your wisdom and leadership.

Let's face it folks, Obama has his cronies and Sharpton is one of them - so what makes you think he wouldn't give him a lucrative position. Just be happy Newt is there to help us and our children and not someone like Barney Franks.

My suggestions:
1) Teacher's unions should not have any PAC's. Individual teachers should have the right to support their political party and agenda's - but the teacher's union - IF is is actually needed, should be for the IMPROVEMENT of career, student needs, training, and school related issues - NOT be a conduit for liberal speak. Also, do teachers unions pay taxes?

2) Pay for performance system MUST be implemented - THROUGHOUT - the education system - colleges and universities. TENURE should be based on 10 years continued OUTSTANDING ratings. Do American's really grasp the importance of having the BEST OF THE BEST in our education system? Children gain only what is taught them. Do you want your child to fail because of the failure of teachers who can not be fired? How are teachers recertified?

Teachers I have spoken to said that the pay for performance system won't work because the principal has their favorites and would award higher raises to some and punish others. However, there are ways around this by instituting any of the excellent processes found in the business world. Using performance review tools, the principal can rate the teacher, their co-workers can rate the teacher, the local Board of Ed and PTA can rate the teacher. However, standards must be established with regard to the level of ability of the students within the class being taught. Test results of the children are key. If they are not learning - Why?

3) Discipline in schools must return. I'm not talking about beating children. I'm talking about teachers taking control back from the students. Right now, the students have their parents, principal and school boards to support them - while the teacher has no one. If a student is unruly, he knows mommy and daddy will make everything right. There is no respect. Let's go back to the basics. There needs to be a written contract that is signed between the principal, teacher and every parent - that the teacher has full authority within the classroom.

4) Cheating must be dealt with severely.
Why is the U.S. losing ground on the success of our youth? Because kids cheat and think it's ok. Then they get to the next level - without having the basics drilled into them and they fail. Sometimes they are passed thru the system without knowing how to spell. How does that happen? All the tools they have - computers, calculators - kids can't even make change on their own. What does that tell you.

5) ALL elementary and high school curriculum must be reviewed by a group of unbiased retired teachers who are experts in their field. I believe that there are individuals writing our curriculum that are infiltrating some of their ideology. Was I correct in hearing that the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were NOT allowed to be taught in California? What's up with that?

Also - if anyone every watched Jay Leno man on the street - with questions to people - it is amazing the person could have made it though school. What is the Revolutionary War? It was the battle for slavery. Why do we celebrate Thanksgiving? It was the battle for slavery. Come on!

6) Finally your last selection -
Though on paper this is a great idea, taxes are paying for this education - it's not the students money. Also, the teachers are still teaching other students and schools are still open for the rest of the students, so the expenses are still there. So it would be difficult to administer this. Now - if it's at the college level, then by all means. The tuition was paid by the parents, so it could be credited to the student for future continuing education / master's programs. However, to be fair to the college and their expenses - some advanced agreement must be met so they are prepared to reimburse funds they thought were to cover current expenses.

Thanks for letting me get my thoughts out there. I'm sure everyone is bored by my ramblings...but I have no where to voice my opinions and if Newt does read these comments....thought it's a place to start.

God Bless America - and our children, the future of this wonderful nation.

Like many others, I think that if Obama, Sharpton and their appointees are for a ting, then that thing is certainly suspect. We must suspect that their intentions for that thing is to continue to destroy traditional American values and to replace them with politically correct socialism. There is nothing wrong with the idea behind charter schools, as such. Unless you wonder why we need such a thing if we already have the most expensively run public school systems in history. Oh, yeah. It's because our schools are a disaster. Therefore we can expect that the implementation of a charter school is likely to be Progressive, and therefore essentially destructive of tradition and far more costly than is warranted. We must even beware of the words that they use. For instance "success", as a Progressive uses it, does not mean success. It means "willingness to be dependent on the government." So, "helping children to succeed" means "sign them up for 'special' education (i.e., the blind leading the blind)", and "mushing brains with such ideas as alternative lifestyles"

Be careful, Newt, that you do not agree with creeping stupidity.

I'm sorry Newt, I can not support this time. I agree with with John Thomas & Dorothy Richard.

Al Sharpton is bad news, I do not trust this guy.(include Jesse Jackson too)

I would rather have Mr. Bill Cosby in your team but not Sharpton.

Newt, be afraid - be very afraid. I'm not pleased you're joining with the likes of these people. I know you want to put your $50 in, but it will be to no avail with this corrupt administration.

After all these years, you are still naive enough to believe that you can make a difference working with these idiots. God bless you for that!

Your time would be better spent working towards the dismantling of the Department of Education in Washington. In fact, get Washington the hell out of the education business! The system is broken: even you cannot fix it. We must begin at the beginning...

Question #1: Why aren't educators and parents included? Now is the time for them to tell you what needs to be said and done.

Question #2: Does anyone remember "A Nation at Risk"?

Question #3: Do you remember "Cultural Literacy"?

Question #4: Are you familiar "The Seven Levels of Knowing"? (brain research)

Question #5: Why are unions allowed to interfere in the educational process by allowing incompetent teachers to remain on the payroll? (New York) Fire them!

Question #6: Why don't you ask the teachers and parents who wrote comments before me to gather together to create a new system? As a 30-year educator, I would be more than happy to volunteer.

'Nuf said for now. Thanks for listening.

Dear Newt,

I have to agree with many of the comments made here, I do not trust anyone in this administration; you need to ask yourself why you are picked; what is their motive? Their motive cannot be good; our country is run by thugs at this time and this may just be their way of getting you out of the way for 2012. I trust that you have prayed about this decision and honestly searched out God’s will. Even though our public school system needs to be fixed as we are now dealing with all the “public school indoctrinated” individuals as outlined in the book called “Non-Dare call it Education” by John Stormer; do not compromise as this president and his administration is the most untrustworthy, corrupt, deceptive, anti-freedom, anti-American administration that I can remember and I have been voting for decades. If, indeed, you have searched out God’s will and you believe this is His will for you, then so be it, but stand firm and remember that God’s way is the only option.

I agree with the voucher plan so that parents have control of where their children go to school, whether it be public, private, charter, or home school.

Public schools need to teach instead of indoctrinate, get back to the basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, and true history, not the made up politically correct nonsense they teach now. The school system cannot be trusted to teach sex education; this subject should be left to the parents. The public school system has indoctrinated our children in politics, in the environmental issues, in sex education all presently slanted to the left, to the blame America first crowd instead of how great this country is and how blessed we are to be a part of this country. They need to teach individual responsibility for their destiny, not the entitlement mentality, instead teach the mentality of that you work for what you get out of life; no free lunch.

I don’t know if your plan is to run for President in 2012, but if you take this position just know that we will be watching how you handle this and that will be the deciding factor whether or not we will vote for you. We can no longer support anyone who compromises; RIGHT IS RIGHT and WRONG IS WRONG, compromise always gets you into trouble. Just look at the situation we have here in California; we compromised and voted in Arnold Schwarzenegger, who has always governed like a Democrat, but he was the better of the two evils. Even though California has been under Democrat control for decades, Gov. Schwarzenegger has done nothing for California except to allow homosexual law after homosexual law to be pushed down our throats in the California public school system from kindergarten up in the disguise of diversity. Newt, we CANNOT AFFORD COMPROMISE; YOU CANNOT RIDE THE FENCE. We need someone we can count on.

Dear Newt,
I have been in education for 20 years, including a year spent as a substitute teacher at the Light House Charter School in East Chicago, Indiana. While I am in favor of charter schools, they need to be properly funded and administered. The school that I substituted in was actually housed in Gary, which meant that students boarded a bus in East Chicago and traveled to Gary. Elementary students arrived at 7:20 in the morning for breakfast in the classroom...not a good place for breakfast. The school had no gym or P.E. facilities; as a consequence months could go by without students having a recess or any physical activity. School was not dismissed until 4:00 in the afternoon. Essentially children are expected to endure school days that last from 6:00 until 4:30; many don't arrive home until after 5:00....we are talking about grades K-5. Whose schedules is the administration accommodating, the parents or the students? I understand that parents work and need daycare assistance; however, the smart move is to end school at 2;40 and provide daycare for those who need those services. The administrators invested money in salaries for a drama and Spanish teacher; I am a proponent of the arts and languages, but not when the majority of first graders are woefully behind in math and reading. There is not a classroom in the school that does not need an aide; not to grade papers, but to help maintain discipline...which is really, really bad. Aides could provide additional assistance to manage reading groups or to assist students who are struggling. Far too many students have a veritable "Best Buy" in their bedrooms, but no books. The difference between upscale schools and urban schools is not always the money; politically we gloss over the truth...the parents in upscale schools work with their children, and maintain routines and schedules that encourage productivity. Considering the constraints of space, I have only touched on some of the problems that I have observed; I hope that you and your commission will do more that tour schools. You really need to listen to the teachers and get behind the scenes to determine the best course of action. Take politics, egos, and political correctness out of your solutions and do the right thing for the kids.

A cursory perusal of the comments to date indicate there is little support for this effort because of Al Sharpton. While I have similar feelings, I believe that Newt has the capability to be successful despite this association. I have been convinced for some time that our failing education system is one of our most crucial areas threatening our country's future. Of the goals mentioned, there was no identification of teacher's unions and associations as major obstacles to education improvement. I will be watching closely to see when these obstacles appear as issues.

Any reason Al Sharpton Jack A** needs to be involved? What a joke.

The education of children will never get better without parental involvement, which can not be legislated. Give parents the ability to take charge of their childrens education and keep government out of the mix! Education is not a provision of the constitution! Remember state's rights!!!

I know times may not be as well as we want them now, but I am a single, black working mom who has raised 3 daughters who are now 30, 24 and 21. My oldest daughter is out of college and a working woman. My 2 younger daughters are in grad school and in college. My requirements for them, while in K-12th grades, were to come home, eat dinner and do all homework before anything else. Because the public school system was not of the caliber that was acceptable to me, I sent them to private schools because I require handwork, a disciplined environment, academic excellence and no foolish acts at school. I taught them to work hard and do their best in grade school so when college time arrived they were well prepared and competent to receive grants and scholarships that paid for nearly all of their undergraduate studies. My two younger daughters worked a few hours on Sundays at our church bookstore, part time, in high school and college, so that gave them spending change and h!
elped them learn to manage money Because I believe cell phones are a luxury, they had no cell phones in high school, but did purchase their own and paid their phones bills when in college. I have taught them because they are able-bodied, of healthy/sound minds and bodies, they must not expect any entitlements. We were/are not rich, but we have what we need. The way out of poverty is to take advantage of the education that is free in the US, pick a field of study that is hiring (i.e., engineering, medicine, nursing, etc.) and then work and do your best. We are not hurting because I worked everyday and when necessary I worked two jobs as I did when both younger daughters were in college. If the poor need to know the way out of poverty, tell them to contact me. If you need a parent who knows how to educate children right and well (top of their classes), you need to contact me. Thanks. Marquette Brown

To those who are being critical of Mr.Gingrich and his efforts to make a difference in education, efforts that I’m certain are well thought out – SHAME ON YOU! I’m saying this as a former school administrator and a former home school parent. It simply disgusts me when we tear down those who are trying to make a positive difference. Without a doubt, public school education needs help. But if we want to truly understand the #1 problem, we need to look in the mirror. Public school education is what it is because far too many parents (not all) have stepped away from their responsibility, and public schools have had no choice but to step in. I like well-known speaker Josh McDowell’s opinion on this when he said, “The most important change in education in the last 50 years has not occurred in schools; it has occurred in the minds of parents who no longer take responsibility for their children’s education.”
Folks, we have a tremendous amount of freedom in this country, but if we are not responsible with that freedom, we will lose it. Mr. Gingrich is fighting for more freedom and options in education. I am a grandfather now, and I want to see more and better options for my grandchildren. A public version of homeschooling (often through a charter school), is now available in many states (www.k12.com). Texas Tech University even has their own ISD (www.ttu.edu). What I am more excited about is the current spread of K-12 schools based on the University-Model of Education (www.umeschools.org). More charter schools will be needed if this option is to be available for my grandchildren. These schools involve less time in the classroom (thus less cost) and more time at home because professional teachers and willingly involved parents are working together in partnership. That’s right! Working together, supporting each other, and believing in the need FOR EACH OTHER.
Debate? Yes! Tear each other down? No! -- Thank you, Mr. Gingrich, for your efforts.

Charter Schools may be a start, but real education reform will not happen until you return parents money to the parents to invest in their children's education. This may be a private school or home school. For a good portion of country's history we could teach about God in our schools. Ever since the Supreme Court made the tragic mistake of misinterpreting one of Thomas Jefferson's letter about a wall of separation, our country has been going down hill. Let public or private schools seek a basic accredidation for basic subjects, if they achieve accredidation give parents back their money to send their children there. Also, if they wish to home school, just give them back their money. Everyone could contribute a nominal sum to cover special education needs.

I am excited to see this happen. I would strongly advise them looking at the Greater East High Foundation (http://www.easthighfoundation.org/) and the success they have had with a Memphis inner city school. The Foundation has also utilized Moore's Reminders for Math(www.mathhelpcards.com) that has helped many students comprehend math skills that they are not getting in the schools at this time. Teachers in the public schools have very little time to teach because of all the paper work they are required to fill out. Hopefully this group will help the teachers get back to teaching.

Once again Newt confirms that he is nothing more than a political opportunistic "hack". I believe conservatives need Newt Gingrich as someone to point to when we need to describe what happens to members of our movement after they have fallen under the spell of being in Washington too long.
To even consider sharing the stage with Al Sharpton proves what we've known about Newt for quite some time now.
Newt, you got nothing I need!

I can not believe that Newt has fallen for the old trick of "Bring your enemies close - to control them".

Newt should spend his efforts stopping the ruination of the country - that and that only.

The socialists have taken control of two branches of the government. Is the Judicial system controlled by them also. What strong action do we take?

How about the Ghandi approach of a country wide strike in the health industry and elsewhere.

How about going after the ring leaders one by one as we can be sure that there is something fishy with each and every one of them.

Aloha and Pono,
We all need to network on the internet like Obama is right now or we will lose not only the debate on healthcare and cap and trade but the rights our founding fathers secured for us.
Please send out the vital truths on this blog to millions by sending scores of e-mails and urging all we send to to do the same; It's exponential!!

We can turn this catastrophe around if we ORGANIZE.

Thanx with much ALOHA,
Ronald Pray, Honolulu, HI

Mr. Duncan, Rev. Sharpton and Mr. Gingrich
Thank you for this opportunity to speak to the need for education reform. I live in the state of Georgia where we have no laws governing restraint and seclusion of special needs children. We also have GaCode 20-2-730, Gacode 20-2-731 and Ga Code 20-2-732, 20-2-1000 and GaCode 20-2-1001 on the books. These previous codes I have listed are the laws that allow for corporal punishment of students (physical punishment). I am not an attorney but just a concerned parent and retired nurse. When I was doing research on the laws here, I was simply appalled that this continues in my state. So I did a GORA request and found the statistics for corporal punishment and yes, it is still going on in the schools.

And the laws allow for criminal and civil immunity of educators related to discipline. This is another factor why there is no accountability. There have been countless children hurt at the hands of systems around this country as evidenced by the hearing that took place in front of congress in May 2009. This MUST STOP NOW.

I hope all of you read the report by the aclu entitled "Impairing Education" which chronicles the problems with corporal punishment and harsh discipline meted out by school systems. The report revealed that DISABLED AND MINORITY STUDENTS ARE SUBJECT TO THIS MORE OFTEN. When are the people in power going to address this issue -- I believe this most definitely is effecting student achievement gaps. Many of these districts are not implementing Positive Behavior Supports in a proper manner, so you can tell the districts to do this or do that, but it is likely they will not. I believe they will continue to do what they do until the people in power make it law and FINANCIALLY Sanction them, if they don't. It's high time we as a country remove this immunity from educators too, which can be dangerous for our children. And we, the parents, have no recourse in the courts or anywhere. I am sure if the teacher organizations and unions read this, they will be up in arms. Frankly I don't care. We must remove abusive educators from the system and not pass them from district to district.

For those with interest read the ACLU/HRW report here:
http://www.hrw.org/node/84950

Get involved and join the Stop Hitting Our Kids Now Campaign on FACEBOOK
http://www.fndfl.org/Blog/post/2009/08/Stop-Hitting-Our-Kids--Now.aspx

Mr. Duncan, Mr. Gingrich and Reverand Sharpton can help to fix this problem for calling an immediate MORATORIUM around the U.S. The question is, will you?

This is the Facebook Cause - Stop Hitting Our Kids:
http://apps.facebook.com/causes/341382/41469811?m=6d54c0aa

It is unfortunate that man, left to his own accord could not and would not educate all children equitably. States who cannot attract new industry because of inferior SAT scores and Needs Improvement status under NCLB are receiving millions of dollars in "educational welfare," more commonly known as Title I grant money. School districts know that industry would increase the tax base, but they also know it would take a few years for the business to establish itself and the tax dollars to trickle down to the schools. Whereas, school districts receive Title I money because of the poor, disadvantaged, and/or minority students without industry. Thus, my question....what is the incentive to educate all children and interrupt the federal welfare dollars coming to education that pays for a lot of extra employees and pet projects? Title I grant money must be followed more closely and districts should be held accountable for the millions it receives to level the education playing field for the poor, disadvantaged, and/or minorities.

Newt,
It is interesting that you are in such company... I am appalled the fact that the President would opt to suspend funding vouchers to residents of DC so that inner city children could attend the same school that his daughters attend -- AND this recommendation came from the Secretary of Education..
I do not understand how one can appoint an Education Secretary that his only credentials are that he was the Superintendent of on of the WORST school districts in the country -- a district that was so bad that the Obama's did not send their kids to -- oh it must be that Arne was the token white boy on the basketball court on the South side.
Newt - I would hope that remember what you wrote on your book "Real Change" and that is a phrase that has stuck with me ever since I read the theory -- "Bad Government/Bad Culture" when talking about Detroit. For me it is not the education system that is broken -- it is truly a cultural issue and a lack of parental involvement after schools are closed. Keeping them open longer - or keeping them open on weekends for children's safety is not a school district issue. I thought that is why we had Boy's & Girls Clubs or Police Athletic Leagues.
Go ask Oprah Winfrey why she did spend her money in the US but went to Africa. Her response was that kids in the US wanted a new IPOD not a new book. Let us address the root causes of the problems - acknowledge the issues and start to address them. Charter schools in Detroit for no cost to the taxpayers was declined?
Look at the problems right on and stop all this PC blaming of the teachers.