Editor, New York Times Magazine
Editor and writer at the New York Times Magazine, and author of Whatever It Takes: Jeffrey Canada’s Quest to Change Harlem and America
PROFILE
Paul Tough
Guest
FROM Paul Tough
Press Play with Madeleine Brand
'Helping Children Succeed' in Rich and Poor Schools Alike Academic success depends a lot on the school, and like it or not, the American public education does not serve all students the same. Wealthy districts are nearly always more successful than poor districts. For the latest in our ongoing conversation about how children can succeed in school, we talk to author Paul Tough, who has built his career on studying what works in public education. Tough’s book “How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character” was a bestseller in 2013. In his follow up, “Helping Children Succeed: What Works and Why,” Tough explores what can be done to help kids succeed in both rich and poor schools alike.
To the Point
Can Obama's Education Chief Save the Nation's Schools? Democrats are sharply divided between school "reformers" and so-called "traditionalists." They circulated competing manifestos during the presidential campaign: one side wants charter schools, merit pay and accountability for teachers; the other says don't blame teachers for failing schools, provide flexibility and better resources. Barack Obama has chosen an education secretary who has endorsed both sides. Will that mean gridlock or will Chicago's Arne Duncan finally overcome the "tired… debates" that have stalled real education reform? What about " No Child Left Behind ?"
Recommended
Press Play with Madeleine Brand
Investigation into Les Moonves uncovers more cases of alleged sexual misconduct The board of CBS hired two law firms to investigate the sexual misconduct allegations against former CEO Les Moonves. The draft report was leaked. It says Moonves repeatedly lied to investigators, and destroyed evidence to save his reputation and severance.
Film Reviews
Vox Lux It’s a bizarre treat to watch Portman singing—very well—and strutting her stuff in a black sequined gown like a cross between Madonna and a Roomba Robot vacuum gone rogue.