I just saw this tweet from a respected reporter in Florida:
MT @stevebousquet: Ed Commissioner Tony Bennett talked w/Gov. Rick Scott & plans 2 resign Thurs following Indiana schl grading controversy.
— Larry Ferlazzo (@Larryferlazzo) August 1, 2013
(Here’s a full report on his resignation)
It prompted me to come up with a quick “The Best…” list about this scandal:
I’d say Sherman Dorn’s post is the best out there.
Who does Tony Bennett think he’s kidding? is by Valerie Strauss at The Washington Post.
I’ve written two posts on the topic:
Priceless, Amazing & Disappointing: “GOP donor’s school grade changed”
I’m Sorry, I Just Can’t Help Myself: Bennett Scandal Is A Gift That Keeps On Giving
Break given to Christel House could have spared two IPS schools from state takeover is from The Indianapolis Star.
Do the Math: Christel House’s Grade Doesn’t Add Up is from The New America Foundation.
Florida’s Education Chief Quits Amid Report That He Changed a School’s Rating is from The New York Times.
After resignation, Tony Bennett’s rising star in school reform movement begins to fade is from The Indianapolis Star.
Tony Bennett: Songs in the Key of C, No Wait, A is by Rachel Levy.
Top Bennett aide resigns from Florida Department of Education is from The Tampa Bay Times.
“What Kind of Fool Am I?” Tony Bennett is by John Merrow.
What am I missing?
I think this article from Matt Tully is pretty accurate; I don’t think it was Christel DeHaan’s money that much (he got plenty from other sources), but his bluster and ego.
(Can’t stand the reference to “Waiting for Superman” as “great” and some of the case for reform), but I think he characterizes Bennett well. I saw him in person several times.
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2013307300036