There are a few key people who reformers flocked to during the campaign for assurances that Obama would embrace reform. They were the people whose names kept popping up that campaigned vociferously in public and private for our President-elect. And friends voted their way because of them. They gave Obama political cover for real education reformers. Where are they in the transition? Lest we damn them by our own embrace, here are a few that everyone knows about. There are others who toil quietly, whose names will not pass these blog lips.

Honorable Kevin Chavous – Former D.C. City Councilman, attorney, author, modern day civil rights activist

Dr. Howard Fuller – Former Milwaukee Superintendent of Schools, founder of numerous education groups devoted to giving parents and students power, founder of Black Alliance for Education Options

Honorable Anthony Williams – Pennsylvania State Senator whose leadership has brought hope – through great, new public schools called charters - back to communities throughout Philadelphia, and more (though not enough yet) accountability to all schools.

There are scores more. We just thought we’d remind our newest officials that these are the types of people whose own education, activism, expertise and accomplishment - and knowledge of government - could add a lot internally and externally to their efforts.