Paul Peterson: Putting Our Education System Back Together

Harvard Kennedy School's Paul Peterson recently spoke with us about the challenges facing the U.S. education system. Peterson points to us falling short in science and mathematics as compared to other countries, but says there are things we can do to put our education system back together. To Peterson, the most important thing is creating human capital in the form of skilled workers who can accomplish a lot.

Specifically, he says we need to bring more effective teachers into the classroom, compensate them well, reexamine our federal school accountability system, and build on the charter school system.

This year, 92nd Street Y's Campaign for the American Conversation offers you insight and analysis from the best minds at the Harvard Kennedy School. HKS is collaborating with us on American Conversation Essentials - videos that explain the issues at play during this campaign year. The videos are the building blocks for your own conversations with friends, colleagues and even people you're not sure you agree with. Start with the information we offer here and then keep your mind open as you discuss the topics of the day.