Tipsheet

Shouldn't Results Matter, Too?

Carol Platt Liebau

Carol Platt Liebau | February 22, 2011 10:09 AM

As government employee unions and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker continue the standoff in Wisconsin, it's worth pointing out that despite the highest per pupil spending in the Midwest, 66% of Wisconsin's eighth graders -- at least those in public schools -- can't read proficiently. Could that be because most of the "spending" isn't actually reaching the students?

The New York Times has a surprisingly honest article today, as well, pointing out that many of Wisconsin's private sector union members, buffeted by economic reality, have scant sympathy for the government union protestors. Hm. Perhaps they have children in the public schools.