This policy report from the National Education Policy Center examines how growing criticism of public schools may contribute to a cycle of declining public support and reduced investment in public education. The report analyzes five common themes in critiques of public schools, underachievement, inefficiency, inequality, limited school choice, and indoctrination, and compares these claims with existing research. It finds that many of these narratives overlook evidence on the influence of poverty, the positive effects of increased school funding, and the mixed or negative outcomes associated with large-scale voucher programs. The report argues that these narratives can contribute to declining enrollment, reduced funding, and diminished public confidence, creating conditions that further challenge public schools. It concludes with recommendations for state and district leaders, including strengthening equitable school funding, directing resources to students with the greatest needs, adopting evidence-based instructional materials, improving communication with families, and using research to inform education policy and practice