Braun tells it straight about N.J. ed reform

How about a Pulitzer for New Jersey Star-Ledger columnist Bob Braun. If not a Pulitzer, maybe my Diogenes (honest man) Award?

Braun ("Idea of failing N.J. public schools promoted by politicians, privatizers, celebrities") debunks the myth of New Jersey's "failing schools," pointing out that the state has the best and the worst performing schools, like every other state.

Some of the best schools — because it has some of the richest communities in the nation.

The state also has some of the worst public schools — because it also has some of the poorest and most racially segregated communities in America.