Billionaires Buying Education

This explosive episode of "Busted Pencils" confronts the pernicious influence of Charles and David Koch on the American public education system through their organization, "Americans for Prosperity" Despite their name, their interests are in anything BUT prosperity for all Americans. With their deep pockets and right-wing ideology, the Koch brothers have embarked on a relentless campaign to dismantle public schooling, favoring a future where education serves the interests of profit over people. Hosts Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci peel back the layers of this orchestrated attack, revealing how the Koch network has used its vast resources to promote charter schools, voucher programs, and a market-driven model of education that starkly undermines the principles of equity and democracy.

Listeners are guided through the intricate maze of the Kochs' strategic investments in political advocacy, policy formulation, and public opinion manipulation, showcasing the wide-reaching consequences of their actions for students, teachers, and communities. The episode not only critiques the Kochs' agenda but also highlights the broader right-wing movement's efforts to privatize public goods, spotlighting the insidious trend toward commodifying education.