With the start of a new school year just around the corner, it’s time for First Tuesday’s second annual education summit.
This is where some of Chicago’s best and brightest brains gather at the Hideout bar to have a few drinks and figure out how to solve the problems facing public education in Chicago.
Since Mayor Emanuel seems incapable of doing anything other than driving up the school debt.
Wow! Where did that come from?
On Tuesday, Mick Dumke and I will be joined by three of the best education reporters in town . . .
Lauren FitzPatrick of the Sun-Times.
Sarah Karp, formerly of Catalyst and now with the Better Government Association.
And Becky Vevea, from WBEZ.
There’s so much to talk about I’m almost giddy thinking about it.
Sarah and Becky can talk about their investigation into CPS fudging on graduation rates.
Lauren can talk about her ongoing investigation into the $20.5 million principal-training contract debacle—something Sarah also knows a thing or two about.
Plus, we can dissect budget cuts, janitorial privatization, potential strikes, pensions, who’s in and who’s out at the central office, and so on and so forth.
If you’re curious about last year’s August education show, here’s a link to a write-up with video.
Rumor has it that the legendary Linda Lutton—who’s on leave from WBEZ—will be on hand, watching from the audience.
Since Linda won’t be joining us on the panel this year, I’m hoping to talk her into singing a rendition of Midnight Train to Georgia and other hits from the Gladys Knight songbook.
Mick, Hideout co-owner Tim Tuten, and I can sing the part of the Pips.
It’s an idea, anyway.
The show starts at 6:30 PM. It’s $5 at the door, and the Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia. Hope to see you there.