Feet to the fire: New Orleans kids Rethink their devastated school system

Abstract

Before 2005, when Hurricane Katrina destroyed most New Orleans public schools, youth voice was rarely heard in the superintendent's office. In this chapter, we tell the story of a youth organization that grabbed the historical moment to rethink one of the lowest-performing school systems in the United States. The Rethinkers, as they called themselves, advocated for policy change at well-attended, youth-led news conferences, coaxed agreements from officials in front of TV cameras, and held their civic leaders' feet to the fire. Eventually, the Rethinkers earned a seat at the school reformtable in New Orleans. We describe the first generation of Rethinkers as they gradually deepen their dedication to one another and their cause. We highlight the critical role adult partnerships played in the success of the Rethinkers. These adults deeply respected youth voice and shared skills such as critical thinking, architectural design, and public speaking. Finally, we describe how the Rethinkers have built victories from a strong set of beliefs that include mutual respect and honest relationships with outsiders based on common goals. We have a vision: a great education for every kid inNew Orleans, no matter what neighborhood they stay in, no matter how much money their parents make, no matter the color oftheir skin.-Isaiah Simms, Rethinker, age 11, at a 2006 news conference.