Publications

Competitive Federalism

Blog · March 15, 2013
Competitive Federalism

Ideas have consequences. This may seem obvious to some, but at PPI, we believe this calls us to examine the principles and truths that form the foundation of our policy innovation. We strongly believe in the First Principles of our federalist system and are proud to be co-signers of this important - and practical - report. As conservatives, we say "no" to federal overreach to have the flexibility to say "yes" to the innovative thinking that can only bubble up from the state and local level. We are strong advocates for returning dollars and decisions to the people best equipped to know and grow their own communities. Competitive Federalism is the arena in which states will compete to save America.

Transformation: What South Carolina Can Learn From Florida’s K-12 Reforms

Education
February 26, 2013
Transformation: What South Carolina Can Learn From Florida’s K-12 Reforms

Since the arrival of Steve Spurrier in Columbia, “Florida usually beats Carolina” has eventually become “the Gamecocks usually beat the Gators.” The reverse is true in K-12 education. In 1999, South Carolina students led Florida students in performance on a number of national educational tests, including NAEP, the National Assessment of Educational Progress. But for 2003-2011, in combined Math and Reading NAEP scores, Florida was first with a 54 point improvement and South Carolina was last with a 44 point decline (page 7). Question: How did Florida leapfrog South Carolina in such a short period of time? Answer: transformation through comprehensive reform.