The latest episode of Neighbors in the Network takes a deep dive into one of the most pressing issues in America today—K-12 education reform. Hosts James Pinedo and Jane McEnaney are joined by Dr. Will Flanders, Research Director at the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL), to discuss how parents, educators, and policymakers can take real action to improve education at the state and local levels.
In this powerful conversation, Dr. Flanders explains why local action is critical in the fight for better schools, more accountability, and greater opportunities for students. He discusses how school choice programs—including Wisconsin’s pioneering Milwaukee Parental Choice Program—are helping students succeed, despite challenges from bureaucratic roadblocks and political opposition. More importantly, he highlights how real education reform doesn’t happen from the top down—it starts at the grassroots level, where communities, school boards, and parents drive meaningful change.
One of the most eye-opening moments of the episode comes when Dr. Flanders calls out the misplaced priorities of some politicians who focus more on protecting bureaucratic systems than on addressing the racial achievement gaps, failing test scores, and struggling students in cities like Milwaukee. His viral Twitter moment—where he exposed this hypocrisy—serves as a stark reminder of how advocates for real reform must stay engaged and push for solutions that truly benefit students.
Beyond discussing the challenges, this episode also explores real solutions. Dr. Flanders shares how local school boards are reshaping education policy, how lawsuits are being used to protect parental rights, and why funding reform is essential to ensuring school choice remains a viable option for families. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or policymaker, this discussion provides practical insights and strategies for fighting for a better education system in your community.
📺 Watch the full conversation below!
