Itasca Seminar: Albert Shanker - Balancing Educational Excellence and Equity in the Public Schools

December 12, 1988 - Albert Shanker, president of the American Federation of Teachers, speaking at the Itasca Seminar. The theme of seminar was "Balancing Educational Excellence and Equity in the Public Schools". Shanker stated educators face a daunting challenge, but a challenge that can be met if we looked at the system in new and creative ways. He also shared his view that U.S. schools are turning out 80 percent lemons - students who can't handle routine tasks. He suggested treating schools less like factories that churn out students on an assembly line and more like an office where co-workers cooperate on achievement. Itasca Seminar is a summit for Twin Cities political and business leaders.