Why PragerU’s Ideology Doesn’t Mix With New Hampshire’s Values

PragerU Is a Bad Fit for the Granite State

GARRY RAYNO | Distant Dome

In a recent controversial decision, New Hampshire’s Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut has pushed for the approval of a financial literacy course offered by PragerU Kids, a non-profit organization known for its far-right, conservative agenda. This move has sparked outrage among educators and concerned citizens, who argue that PragerU‘s track record of producing misleading information and propaganda is not suitable for the state’s education system.

A Question of Association

The key question that arises from this situation is why the state would want to be associated with an organization that seeks to indoctrinate children with its far-right ideology. PragerU has been known to produce videos that normalize slavery, spread misinformation about climate change, and promote a distorted view of history and social issues such as fascism, immigration, and LGBTQ individuals.

Lack of Accreditation and Academic Credentials

It is important to note that PragerU is not an academic institution, does not offer degrees, and lacks accreditation. While the organization claims to have experts overseeing their education videos, the legitimacy of these experts is questionable. Without proper oversight and accountability, it raises concerns about the quality and accuracy of the information being presented to students.

Quality vs Convenience

Many educators have expressed their concerns about replacing locally developed curriculums with PragerU‘s video course. Assistant Superintendent Michael Bessette of the Kearsarge Regional School District aptly compared this decision to going to McDonald’s instead of a four-star restaurant. While PragerU‘s course may be convenient, it is a quick fix that sacrifices the quality of education for New Hampshire’s children.

The War on Public Education

This approval of a PragerU course is just one more front in the larger war on public education. It is part of a pattern that includes the introduction of the education business tax credit and the push for Education Freedom Accounts. The intentions behind these initiatives, backed by organizations like the Koch Foundation’s Americans for Prosperity, aim to undermine and privatize public education. This raises concerns about the motivations behind the state’s association with PragerU.

A Political Act

Education Commissioner Edelblut’s decision to bring PragerU‘s application to the board is inherently political. It demonstrates a clear ideological agenda that does not prioritize the quality and accuracy of education for New Hampshire’s students. The composition of the board, dominated by school-choice advocates, suggests that the approval of PragerU‘s course is likely, further cementing the state’s alignment with a divisive and propagandistic organization.

The People’s Voice

It is important for the citizens of New Hampshire to voice their opinions and concerns about the state’s association with PragerU. The overwhelming majority of residents would not want their children exposed to the misinformation and agenda promoted by the organization. Voters should remember this issue when the next general election occurs and hold politicians accountable for their actions regarding public education.

About the Author

Garry Rayno is InDepthNH.org’s State House Bureau Chief. With over three decades of experience covering the NH State House, Rayno provides a veteran journalist’s perspective on state happenings. His coverage has spanned a wide range of topics, from local planning and school boards to national issues like deregulation and Presidential primaries.

Contact Garry Rayno at garry.rayno@yahoo.com.