The Head Gamemaker: David Coleman

I would like to let everybody know about a man named David Coleman. You’ve probably never heard of him before, but if you are any where within ten feet of a school you can feel his effect. David Coleman was the man who pushed the Common Core standards through the federal government – radical standards that seek to further standardize education. And, as of last October, he is also the head of the “non-profit” College Board, which is in charge of both the SAT and all AP classes. This man, who was never voted by anyone and who has a comparatively radical view of education is determining the federal standards, classroom curriculum, advanced high-school courses, and college entrance exams of students across the country. 

            The main theme of David Coleman’s platform is readying the student for a professional life. While this is a noble and worthwhile goal, Coleman effectively bulldozes a personal and “human” education. The romantic notions of education: discussing literary texts and personal opinions are exactly what he wants to cut out. Instead Coleman has pushed for the reading of informational texts, and has even gone so far as to recommend that children read memos – those derided examples of corporate homogeny – as part of their curriculum. Coleman mocked the personal aspect of childhood education when he remarked that a boss would never say, “Johnson, I need a market analysis by Friday, but before that, I need a compelling account of your childhood.” While here he is in fact speaking the truth, he is speaking the truth for adults and not for children. The world of business is a cruel world that does not focus on the individual needs, but serves the purpose of a bottom line. This mentality cannot and should not be applied to childhood education.

            It is easy to see that David Coleman does have good ideas. The American educational system should be made more rigorous and challenging, but not at the cost of losing the humanity of school. The world of business and grown-ups is cold and demeaning enough; there is no reason why we need to bring children into it. Coleman’s ideas should be seen in education reform, but they should not be the only voice. This one man cannot be allowed to dictate and monopolize what is essentially our entire educational system.