Education policy maven Rick Hess of the American Enterprise Institute think tank (AEI), author of books like The Same Thing Over and Over, Letters to a Young Education Reformer, and A Search for Common Ground, offers straight talk on matters of policy, politics, research, and reform. Rick’s takes are his alone and do not represent AEI or Education Week. Follow Rick on Twitter at @rickhess99.
Policy & Politics
Opinion
The 10 Most Popular RHSU Columns of 2024
Academic rigor, abolishing the Education Department, and finding common ground were all hot topics this year.
States
Opinion
The Age of 'Adulthood' Varies by State. This Matters for Your Students
States set different limits on when kids can do different things. What does this mean for education?
Federal
Opinion
No, the U.S. Ed. Dept. Won't Be Abolished. But Here's What’s Likely to Happen Instead
There are plenty of big changes ahead that could catch educators, advocates, and others by surprise.
Federal
Opinion
The Trump Administration Should 'Devolve the Ed Dept.'s Responsibilities to the States'
After six years helming the House ed. committee, U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx cuts loose on high points and frustrations of her tenure.
Ed-Tech Policy
Opinion
How to Become an Ed-Tech Visionary Without Really Trying
Beware of PR grifters eager to turn education pros into A-list-worthy celebs. (And read the fine print.)
Classroom Technology
Opinion
Has Technology Been Bad for Reading and Learning?
Education technology is supposed to build knowledge. We need to wrestle with the possibility that it might not.
Reading & Literacy
Opinion
Boys Don't Love to Read. Could This Former Teacher Be on to Something?
Boys are falling behind in reading. Books with military-history themes may help reverse this trend.
Policy & Politics
Opinion
Trump's Win Is a Wake-Up Call for Educators. Here's Why
Following the election, those in and around K-12 should reflect shared values and turn down the heat.
Federal
Opinion
What's Really at Stake for Education in This Election?
What a Harris or Trump presidential victory might mean for federal education policy, according to Rick Hess.
Assessment
Opinion
'Academic Rigor Is in Decline.' A College Professor Reflects on AP Scores
The College Board’s new tack on AP scoring means fewer students are prepared for college.
School Climate & Safety
Opinion
Restorative Justice, the Classroom, and Policy: Can We Resolve the Tension?
Student discipline is one area where school culture and the rules don't always line up.
Student Well-Being
Opinion
Can Athletic Coaches Help Students Learn More in the Classroom?
School sports can provide an opportunity for mentorship.
Equity & Diversity
Opinion
The Fight Over DEI Continues. Can We Find Common Ground?
Polarizing discussion topics in education can spark a vicious cycle of blame. Is it possible to come to a mutual understanding?
Equity & Diversity
Opinion
How Can Educators Strike a Healthy Balance on Diversity and Inclusion?
DEI advocates and opponents both have good points—and both can go too far.