Whoever becomes Education Secretary has to have a love and passion for public schools. Not charter schools, not vouchers, but public schools.

The quote “Whoever becomes Education Secretary has to have a love and passion for public schools. Not charter schools, not vouchers, but public schools.” by Jamaal Bowman underscores his strong advocacy for public schools as the foundation of the American education system. Bowman emphasizes that the role of the Education Secretary should be rooted in a genuine commitment to strengthening public education, rather than prioritizing alternatives such as charter schools or voucher programs, which often divert resources away from public systems.

By insisting on a focus on public schools, Bowman highlights the principle of equity and access. Public schools serve the majority of American children, including those from low-income and marginalized communities. He suggests that the Education Secretary must be dedicated to improving these schools—through funding, support, and reform—so that every child has the opportunity to receive a high-quality education regardless of their background.

The origin of this perspective lies in Bowman’s career as both a public school educator and a U.S. Congressman. Before entering politics, he worked as a middle school principal in the Bronx, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges facing underfunded schools and underserved students. His experiences shaped his conviction that strengthening public education is essential for social justice and for closing the achievement gap.

In essence, Bowman’s quote is a call to ensure that federal education leadership is aligned with the needs of the public school system, which remains the backbone of American democracy. By prioritizing public schools over privatization models, he argues for a vision of education that is inclusive, equitable, and centered on the well-being of all children.