Performing Disruption: DeVos's Debut as Public Education Leader for the United States

• In Event: Hilton Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: Examining Federal-, State-, and District-Level School Reform: Choice, Finance, and Leadership

Abstract

The nomination of Betsy DeVos to the position of U.S.Secretary of Education was strongly contested. This paper considers the performed agenda of this self-described 'disruptor' in relation to the corporate reform movement while complicating the notion that the movement to corporatize education is monolithic. Through the lense of performance studies, a qualitative, mixed-methods approach highlights her leadership as a motivated performance for a non-traditional but powerful audience. The findings show DeVos' performance consistently evokes an arguably fictitious narrative of failing public schools that is nevertheless compelling to a large segment of the population. Suggestions for rebuilding public trust in public institutions like schools and protecting vulnerable minorities often targeted by charter schools given this leadership stance are offered.

Author

• Kristin Kusanovich, Santa Clara University