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EXCLUSIVE – A newly established organization is setting out to reshape school boards nationwide, boldly presenting itself as the new advocate for education reform, akin to the National Rifle Association.
Ryan James Girdusky, the founder of the 1776 Project PAC, shared insights about the organization’s ambitions. He highlighted the PAC’s success over the past four years in electing over 250 conservatives to school boards across the country. Girdusky emphasized the high demand for policy support among these newly elected officials.
Girdusky declared that the 1776 Project Foundation aims to fill a critical gap in public policy for schools and school boards. He believes the foundation will enhance outreach and provide necessary resources.
Launched in 2021, the 1776 Project PAC proclaims its mission as reinvigorating the principles of the American Revolution through educational reforms. An official press release from the organization defines the new foundation as a significant extension of the PAC, focusing on addressing long-standing educational challenges.
The release notes that the 1776 Project PAC has pioneered the conservative movement in securing school board seats. It has successfully positioned itself as a leader on education issues, advocating against remote learning while pushing for a return to classical educational values. More than 250 endorsed candidates have emerged victorious in elections, fueled by a robust base of small donors.
The foundation aspires to construct a comprehensive strategy aimed at reversing decades of educational decline. The 1776 Project Foundation plans to conduct extensive research into educational initiatives, develop transformative policies, and rally support from motivated individuals. Girdusky described their operation as the NRA of conservative education.
One of Girdusky’s main aspirations is to encourage more parents to run for school board positions. He calls for those with a vested interest in improving educational outcomes to engage actively in the democratic process.
He stated, “I want them to run for office. That is essential. Many individuals hesitate to take action because they fear the challenges involved. Running for school board is crucial, so I urge them to seek our endorsement through the 1776 Project PAC.”
Once elected, Girdusky envisions these parents focusing on systemic issues specific to their school districts. He remarked, “School districts resemble snowflakes; they appear similar from a distance, yet each has unique characteristics and needs when examined closely.”
He further elaborated that new board members should concentrate on fundamental issues such as teacher retention, disciplinary policies, academic performance, and ideological influences to foster enriching educational environments.
Girdusky’s commitment to educational reform stems from personal experience. He recounted an incident involving his godson, a fourth grader, where a teacher assigned a problematic reading that addressed racial injustice in a manner he deemed inappropriate for the age group.
He expressed his outrage, saying, “The book discussed how police only followed black cars, neglecting white cars. This was particularly insensitive since many students came from families in law enforcement. His mother was understandably furious.”
The foundation’s launch aligns with broader political movements, including an upcoming executive order from President Donald Trump advocating the dissolution of the Department of Education.
Trump has campaigned on dismantling the education department, seeking ways to improve its efficiency. He has engaged influential figures such as Elon Musk to evaluate agency effectiveness.
During a recent Senate hearing, Trump’s nominee for the head of the Department of Education, Linda McMahon, discussed her goals of optimizing oversight and reducing bureaucratic hurdles within the education system.
Aiden Buzzetti, the president of the 1776 Project Foundation, reinforced the goal of becoming an intellectual powerhouse for education reform. He noted the significant number of school board members across the nation, estimating between 80,000 to 100,000 individuals.
Buzzetti stressed the importance of organizing those dedicated to educational reform to access essential resources for policy implementation and evaluation. He acknowledged the formidable challenge ahead, stating that effective reform requires cohesion and support among board members committed to enhancing the educational landscape.
Overall, the launch of the 1776 Project Foundation signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about education reform in America. It seeks not only to influence policy but also to empower individuals who are passionate about securing the best outcomes for future generations.