There are, of course, no silver bullets when it comes to education. But we are seeing islands of innovation across America, where digital tools hold the promise of revolutionizing the way teachers teach and students learn, empowering educators to personalize instruction so they can reach every student.

Research tells us that it's rarely one thing that turns around a troubled school. Instead, it's a series of consistent efforts focused on teaching and learning over time that is the key to improving outcomes for all students.

We say that we want parents engaged in their child's education, but most states have gone out their way to ensure parents don't really know how well their child's school is doing.

What, really, do our children learn in school? While standardized tests and teacher accountability are the buzzwords of the day, our schools may be missing one of the most important lessons our children must master in order to reach their highest potential.

After two decades, it's clear what charter schools can accomplish. The challenge for the next 20 years is to build on these accomplishments to ensure that every child can realize the benefits of a high-quality public school education.

Until we understand the deeply racialized history of public education in the United States, not even the best policy efforts will fully address the educational achievement gap.

Teaching is the most difficult, most rewarding job out there. Yet we tolerate or participate in conversations about school reform that paint teachers into a two-dimensional corner.

Neal Boortz, conservative talk show host, denounced public school education at a Tea Party rally in Tampa Monday. During his speech at the Unity Ra...