Why Parents Everywhere Should Pay Attention to the DSA’s Public School Strategy in NYC

A recent New York Post exclusive describes an organized effort by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) to expand its influence throughout New York City schools. 

While the article focuses specifically on New York, it raises broader issues for parents across America to consider how political movements try to infiltrate public education.

The New York Post story is based on access it got to a meeting titled “Planning for Socialist School Governance” and hosted by the New York City DSA Labor Working Group. The meeting was led by a math teacher, science teacher and ESL teacher all based in NYC.

The most significant aspect of the article is its portrayal of the DSA’s efforts as a coordinated, long-term strategy aimed at influencing every level of the public education system — from school board elections and teachers’ unions to educator training, curriculum development and public policy.

According to the story, the goal isn’t only to advocate for individual policy changes, but to encourage schools to teach through a completely different worldview — through a democratic socialist framework that emphasizes class consciousness, critical race theory, criticism of capitalism, free public education from birth to doctoral studies, labor organizing and social justice. 

The group discussed using their political connections to socialist sympathizers in government to advance their agenda and plans to use United Federation of Teachers contract negotiations to institute some of their socialist goals.

So, what should parents be watching for in their own communities?

First, pay close attention to school board elections. Most local races receive very little attention, but school board members often make incredibly important decisions about curriculum, library policies and district priorities. Learn who is endorsing which candidates and whether they have affiliations with organizations that have broader political objectives beyond education.

Second, review all curriculum changes. Curriculum reflects values. When evaluating curriculum,parents should ask whether the change was meant to improve student achievement or promote a specific ideological worldview. Curriculum changes should be about academic achievement only.

Third, pay attention to teacher training and partnerships with outside organizations. Parents should know what these organizations are, what they believe and if their mission aligns with the community’s educational priorities. 

Fourth, watch for changes in district policies and strategic planning. District policy documents, initiatives, mission statements and long-term strategic goals are very revealing and can alert families to changes that could be shifting the district’s direction.

Fifth, and finally, stay engaged. Watch school board meetings. Review proposed policies before they are adopted. Ask questions. Encourage transparency. Parents of students who attend government-run public schools must actively participate in decisions that affect their children’s education.

Efforts in New York City by socialists to take over the public school system are a very important reminder to parents everywhere — your children need you to pay attention to what’s happening at school so you can protect them from indoctrination.

Focus on the Family has a free parent resource on education — Equipping Parents for Back-to-School. It explains issues like radical ideologies in the classroom, parental rights in education and religious freedom and free speech in schools. It’s a terrific resource for parents who want to advocate for their children and guide them toward academic success.

Related articles and resources: 

Capitalism vs. Socialism on the Eve of the 2020 Election

Education is on the Ballot – Over 20,000 School Board Seats up for Election

Ronald Reagan Warned Us About Today’s Rise of Socialism

What is Democratic Socialism? Here’s What You Need to Know

Why American Youth are Drawn to Socialism