David Backer

David Backer, an education policy expert and author, dives deep into the financial struggles public schools face today. He discusses the impact of the sudden loss of $6.8 billion in federal funding and the challenges posed by legislation like House Bill 96. Backer also shares inspiring stories of community advocacy that led to funding formula changes. Highlighting candidates with progressive visions for urban education, he emphasizes the power of collective action in driving meaningful reform. Tune in for an insightful look into the future of school finance!

David Backer, a school district finance expert, challenges the standard solutions of cutting budgets, firing staff, and closing schools as responses to financial crises in education. He sheds light on the complex causes behind funding issues, such as declining enrollment and the end of federal aid. Backer advocates for empowering educators and communities with knowledge to fight for equitable funding. He also discusses innovative ideas, like creating a national infrastructure bank, to enhance educational finance.

Stacy Horn, journalist and author of The Killing Fields of East New York, traces 1970s mortgage fraud, blockbusting and redlining that gutted a Brooklyn neighborhood. David Backer, education professor and author of As Public as Possible, examines why school finance is unequal and how funding reforms could help. Short, sharp conversations about predatory finance and the politics of education funding.