ABSTRACT

In a context of increased politicization led by state and federal policymakers, corporate reformers, and for-profit educational organizations, The Politics of Education Policy in an Era of Inequality explores a new vision for leading schools grounded in culturally relevant advocacy and social justice theories. This timely volume tackles the origins and implications of growing accountability for educational leaders and reconsiders the role that educational leaders should and can play in education policy and political processes. This book provides a critical perspective and analysis of today’s education policy landscape and leadership practice; explores the challenges and opportunities associated with teaching in and leading schools; and examines the structural, political, and cultural interactions among school principals, district leaders, and state and federal policy actors. An important resource for practicing and aspiring leaders, The Politics of Education Policy in an Era of Inequality shares a theoretical framework and strategies for building bridges between education researchers, practitioners, and policymakers.

chapter

Overview of the Book

chapter Chapter 2|27 pages

Critical Policy Analysis

Interrogating Process, Politics, and Power

chapter Chapter 3|20 pages

Public Schools or Private Goods?

The Politics of Choice, Markets, and Competition

chapter Chapter 4|20 pages

National or Special Interests?

Federal and State Education Policy and Reform

chapter Chapter 5|18 pages

School District Governance and Education Leadership

A Shifting Landscape

chapter Chapter 6|34 pages

Philanthropy, Donors, and Private Influence over Public Education

The Case of Charter Schools

chapter Chapter 7|24 pages

The “New Professional”

Teaching and Leading under New Public Management

chapter Chapter 8|25 pages

In Pursuit of Democratic Education

chapter Chapter 9|18 pages

Building Power

Community Organizing, Student Empowerment, and Public Accountability

chapter Chapter 10|22 pages

Reclaiming Democracy and the Transformative Power of Education

Possibilities for Democratic Schooling