Richard Simmons has upgraded his outreach in his campaign to incorporate physical education into NCLB. He’s graduated from obscure blogs for policy wonks (here and here) to cable news talk shows.
Simmons also has shifted tactics. In an interview this week with Neil Cavuto on Fox Business, he says he’s “heard a rumor” Congress won’t act on NCLB this year. So he’s pressuring the presidential candidates to take up his cause. In the interview, he says that under NCLB, “our children have become a test score.” Sounds as if he’s been talking to the National Education Association. (He also says he’s made $30 million off “Sweatin’ to the Oldies”. Good work if you can get it.)
Watch the interview here. All of the references to Madeleine are to former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. Cavuto had a testy exchange with Albright immediately before Simmons’ appearance.
As you watch, remember Kevin Carey’s advice. Don’t dismiss Simmons because he looks and acts crazy. There’s a method to his madness.
