Handbook Of Education Politics And Policy

This revised edition of the Handbook of Education Politics and Policy presents the latest research and theory on the most important topics within the field of the politics of education. Well-known scholars in the fields of school leadership, politics, policy, law, finance, and educational reform examine the institutional backdrop to our educational system, the political behaviors and cultural influences operating within schools, and the ideological and philosophical positions that frame discussions of educational equity and reform. In its second edition, this comprehensive handbook has been updated to capture recent developments in the politics of education, including Race to the Top and the Common Core State Standards, and to address the changing role politics play in shaping and influencing school policy and reform. Detailed discussions of key topics touch upon important themes in educational politics, helping leaders understand issues of innovation, teacher evaluation, tensions between state and federal lawmakers over new reforms and testing, and how to increase student achievement. Chapter authors also provide suggestions for improving the political behaviors of key educational groups and individuals with the hope that an understanding of political goals, governance processes, and policy outcomes may contribute to ongoing school reform. Review: In this revised edition of their Handbook, Cooper, Cibulka, and Fusarelli have brought together a superb collection of material that is of value to both educational scholars and practitioners. Scholars will find a succinct discussion of critical institutional and policy issues. Practitioners will find the book an excellent starting place to understand the politics and institutional pressures facing the schools they lead. The book's structure offers an excellent starting place for in-depth analyses of complex educational issues and provides readers with quick introductions to the major issues they face on a daily basis. --Lawrence O. Picus, Professor of Education Finance and Policy, Rossier School of Education, University of Southern California This comprehensive handbook is the new go-to source for all readers, whatever their political views. Pooling together writings from leading researchers, the compendium covers new developments in political institutions and interest groups and tackles controversial topics from school choice and religion in schools to equity, school finance, and integrated education. --Priscilla Wohlstetter, Distinguished Research Professor, Department of Education Policy Social Analysis, Teachers College, Columbia University