Neoliberalism and Inclusive Education: Students with Disabilities in the Education Marketplace

Charter schools are growing in influence, and inclusive education for students with disabilities is becoming increasingly important. This book explores the value and impact of these schools, particularly on marginalized populations, by focusing on neoliberalism and inclusive education. It investigates the history of school choice and privatization in the US, the history of education for students with disabilities, and an ethnographic case study of an independent, urban charter school. The author argues that the pervasive neoliberal environment presents the biggest hurdle to successful inclusive education.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2021
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

Charter schools continue to gain significant influence, alongside the growing demand for inclusive education for students with disabilities. The value and impact of these schools, particularly on marginalized populations they often serve, warrant exploration. This book, drawing from the fields of Disability Studies and Sociology of Special and Inclusive Education, aims to address these questions.

Mac delves into the historical roots of the school choice and privatization movement in the United States, examining how ideologies like disaster capitalism and neoliberalism have shaped and influenced it. The author also sheds light on the overall success or failure of these privatization efforts in terms of social justice for marginalized students. Additionally, the book traces the history of education for students with disabilities, highlighting historical inequalities and challenges in their schooling.

Through an ethnographic case study of an independent, urban charter school, the author explores the school's vision and reality of day-to-day life for students with disabilities. The author investigates the school's inclusion program within the broader neoliberal landscape of free market competition in the educational marketplace. Drawing from this analysis, the author argues that the pervasive neoliberal environment poses the greatest hurdle to successful inclusive education, as inclusive education and neoliberal reforms are largely incompatible.

This book offers valuable insights into the growing influence of charter schools, the push for inclusive education, and the challenges and opportunities they present for marginalized students. It sheds light on the complex interplay between education policies, ideologies, and the experiences of students with disabilities, contributing to a deeper understanding of the educational landscape and the need for inclusive and equitable education for all.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 159 x 238 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838671112