Gadfly Bites 7/27/26—Union/reunion

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1. Kudos to Laura Hancock for detailed coverage of Fordham’s new report on union strength in all 50 states. Everyone quoted seems to have read and clearly understood (and accepted) the methodology and findings—and there are a lot of interviewees. Then there’s detailed analysis of how these realities dovetail with the two major-party candidates for Ohio governor. None of which are surprising or revelatory in the slightest. (Cleveland.com, 7/26/26) If you haven’t had time yet to check out the full Fordham report, it is here whenever you’re ready for your next frothy beach read.
   
   

2. This piece seems simple at first blush: Alums of a charter school in Youngstown met over the weekend for a two-day reunion. But I feel there’s more we can take away from this if we just think a little deeper. Including the fact that this now-closed charter school created a true community among its students…just like a district school. The fact that more than 100 people felt positive enough about their time at Eagle Heights Academy to want to revisit their old friends…just like a private school. And that there are now adults with children in Ohio for whom attending a charter school is normal, good, and worth celebrating. So many of the best aspects of district and private schools are embodied at charter schools also. Just like your humble clips compiler has always said. And now others are (sort of) saying it too. Huzzah! (WKBN-TV, Youngstown, 7/26/26)

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