Insights from The Takeover: A Podcast on Power, Public Education, and Houston ISD – Houston Public Media

Houston Public Media is set to launch a groundbreaking podcast titled “The Takeover” on Friday, May 3. This podcast delves into the intricate dynamics of power and public education, focusing on the Houston Independent School District (HISD). The first season of “The Takeover” is based on 18 months of in-depth reporting at the neighborhood level, featuring educators, students, and parents as they navigate significant changes in their schools.

The podcast also challenges policymakers, including the state-appointed leaders of HISD, shedding light on how they gained control over Texas’ largest public school system. Additionally, the podcast explores the ongoing influence of test-based accountability in state and national education policies.

One of the key revelations from the podcast’s reporting is the false claim made by a lawmaker that played a pivotal role in the HISD takeover. The claim, related to the absence of a certified math teacher at Kashmere High School, was fact-checked and found to be inaccurate.

Furthermore, the podcast highlights the impact of the takeover on teachers, with over 850 educators resigning since early August. The average experience of these teachers was around 10 years, raising concerns about the turnover rate and its implications on the quality of education.

Additionally, the podcast features insights from a former administrator of a charter school network founded by the state-installed superintendent of HISD, providing a unique perspective on the educational reforms implemented in the district.

“The Takeover” promises to be a thought-provoking and eye-opening podcast that delves deep into the complexities of public education and power struggles within the education system.Listeners can expect a compelling narrative that challenges conventional beliefs and sheds light on the realities of the education landscape in Houston.