On September 20, 2007, Education Sector and The New America Foundation hosted a a special evening reception, book signing, and discussion with Richard Kahlenberg, author of the new biography "Tough Liberal: Albert Shanker and the Battles Over Schools, Unions, Race and Democracy" (Columbia University Press). Joining Kahlenberg for the panel discussion was prominent educator and founder of the Core Knowledge Foundation, E.D. Hirsch Jr., and Education Sector Co-director Thomas Toch. Introductions were made by New America Foundation Education Policy Program Director, Michael Dannenberg.

"Tough Liberal" is the first book-length treatment of the life of Al Shanker, one of the most influential figures in American education in recent history, the father of teacher unionism and a leading voice in nearly every major education and labor debate for almost four decades.

Read E.D. Hirsch's comments about "Tough Liberal."

Reviews of the book:

Diane Ravitch, Historian, New York University:

"An insightful, brilliant analysis of the life and times of one of the most influential figures in American education in the twentieth century. It should be read by everyone who cares about the future of public education and our democratic institutions."

James B. Hunt, Jr., former Governor of North Carolina:

"…I was privileged to work closely with Al on state and national reform issues and the success of the standards-based accountability movement is in no small way attributable to his courageous leadership. I was proud to consider Al Shanker a good friend and highly recommend this truly excellent biography which captures the essence of an inspiring individual who did what he thought was right despite the opposition he often confronted from friends as well as foes."