Book bans, parental rights, critical race theory, religious freedom, DEI initiatives, vouchers for private schools…the list of topics stirring political division in public education is growing, leaving little room for common ground and practical solutions. During this event, we examined the origins, connections, and effects of today’s most polarizing issues in public education and how that growing divide impacts students. Speakers discussed what’s at stake and what can be done to chart a path forward to assure equity in education for all students.
Event Details
- March 12, 2025
- 5 p.m. - 6:15 p.m.
- Watkins Room, Trone Student Center
Josh Cowen
Josh Cowen is a nationally recognized expert and writer on topics related to school choice, teachers and teaching, policy analysis, and education politics. His writing on school vouchers, culture wars, and other current events has appeared in major media outlets ranging from Slate to Time Magazine. Cowen serves as professor of education policy at Michigan State University.
Panelists
EDWARD ANDERSON
Edward Anderson is the executive director of United Way’s OnTrack Greenville, a school-based community collaboration aiming to bridge the gap between communities and schools, invest in data-driven strategies, and evaluate program effectiveness to eliminate barriers and advance student success so that every Greenville County students can achieve their full potential. Prior to joining United Way and OnTrack Greenville, Anderson served as principal at Tanglewood Middle School for three years.
DAVID FLEMING
David Fleming (moderator) is a professor of politics and international affairs at Furman University and serves as a senior researcher for The Riley Institute. His research interests include education policy, civic education, and political participation. Fleming served as an evaluator of the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP), the nation’s oldest and largest urban school voucher program. In this role, Fleming and his colleagues examined how school vouchers affect student achievement, graduation rates, parental satisfaction, and other outcomes.
MOLLY SPEARMAN
Molly Spearman is an educator and politician who served as the South Carolina Superintendent of Education from 2015 to 2023. For 18 years, Spearman taught music and served as an assistant principal in public schools. She served four terms in the South Carolina House of Representatives, representing Saluda County and parts of Lexington County (District 39). Spearman was deputy superintendent of education before being elected superintendent of education in November 2014.
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