Reforming the Reform: Problems of Public Schooling in the American Welfare State

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

School reform is a complex and multifaceted endeavor driven by the aspiration to transform the educational landscape. However, the journey from lofty reform legislation to the actual implementation of these initiatives is fraught with numerous challenges and complexities. Between the lofty goals set by policymakers and the students whose education is at stake, a myriad of policies and policymakers come into play, shaping the execution and outcomes of reform efforts. Even in the best-case scenarios, school reform initiatives can inadvertently perpetuate problems that were previously created or exacerbate existing injustices, while also introducing new complications.

In their groundbreaking book, Reforming the Reform, political scientist Susan L. Moffitt, education policy scholar Michaela Krug ONeill, and the late policy and education scholar David K. Cohen delve into the intricate nuances of school reform. With a particular focus on policymakers in the spaces between legislation and implementation, such as school superintendents and district leaders responsible for developing new policies within their unique contexts, the authors identify common problems that arise when attempting to operationalize ambitious reform ideas.

Their research, conducted through over 250 interviews with administrators in Tennessee and California, serves as a powerful testament to the diverse challenges faced by public schools in the United States. By juxtaposing these findings with survey data from across the country and archival data, the authors provide a comprehensive analysis of how public schools shoulder enormous responsibilities for the American social safety net.

Through their insightful analysis, Moffitt, Krug ONeill, and Cohen offer a general explanation for the problems encountered by social policy reforms in federalist systems, including healthcare. They also provide valuable insights and pathways forward for education policy, particularly in the context of federalist systems.

Reforming the Reform is a seminal work that sheds light on the complex dynamics of school reform and provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and students alike. It serves as a reminder that the journey towards positive change in education is a multifaceted and iterative process that requires collaboration, understanding, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By addressing the challenges and complexities inherent in school reform, we can work towards creating a more equitable and effective educational system for all.

Weight: 502g
Dimension: 152 x 371 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226826943