Private Schools

In this book, a renowned historian of education searches out the lessons that private schooling might offer public education as cries for school reform grow louder. Arthur Powell uses the experience of private education to put the whole schooling enterprise in fresh perspective. He shows how the sense of schools as special communities can help instill passion and commitment in teachers, administrators, and students alike - and how passion and commitment are absolutely necessary for educational success. The power of economic resources, invested fully in schools, also becomes pointedly clear here, as does the value of incentives for teachers and students.

It is generally agreed that students--especially those from minority and disadvantaged backgrounds--are better educated in Catholic high schools than in public high schools. This finding is intriguing, but what does it mean? These authors respond to these questions in this comprehensive look a t how Catholic high schools function.

Eighteen experts, including Albert Shanker, Ernest L. Boyer, Thomas Kean, and John Menge, examine the issues surrounding educational choice in public school systems and the voucher system for private schools. They discuss when choice should be considered, methods of implementation, and the extent to which government should be involved. Descriptions and evaluations of choice programs that have been implemented are presented. The book includes contributions from both supporters and opponents of choice presented within an academic framework to enhance examination, debate, and analysis. Since 37 states have adopted legislation that provides some kind of choice in the public education system, the issues involved will be important to school boards, educational administrators, public policy makers, parents, and taxpayers.

Giving the Kids the Business exposes the way in which corporate America is turning schools into profit centres, and lowering the quality of public education.