Alternative Schools: A Guide for Educators and Parents

by Jonathan Kozol

The author describes his efforts to set up a school and offers advice on the organization of a school designed to meet the needs of the community

Genres: Education

132 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1982

About the author

Jonathan Kozol is a non-fiction writer, educator, and activist best known for his work towards reforming American public schools. Upon graduating from Harvard, he received a Rhodes scholarship. After returning to the United States, Kozol became a teacher in the Boston Public Schools, until he was fired for teaching a Langston Hughes poem. Kozol has held two Guggenheim Fellowships, has twice been a fellow of the Rockefeller Foundation, and has also received fellowships from the Field and Ford Foundations. Most recently, Kozol has founded and is running a non-profit called Education Action. The group is dedicated to grassroots organizing of teachers across the country who wish to push back against NCLB and the most recent Supreme Court decision on desegregation, and to help create a single, excellent, unified system of American public schools.

Reviews

[LIFEfluency Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

Through meticulous research and heartfelt narratives, Jonathan Kozol, a prominent voice in education reform, delves into the diverse landscape of educational alternatives, shedding light on their successes, challenges, and profound impact on students.

Kozol's narrative style is engaging as he interweaves personal anecdotes with empirical evidence to paint a vivid picture of the alternative schooling movement. From progressive schools embracing experiential learning to charter schools offering innovative approaches to education, Kozol examines a spectrum of educational philosophies and methodologies.

One of the book's strengths lies in its examination of the motivations behind the establishment of alternative schools. Kozol deftly navigates the complex intersection of social justice, pedagogy, and community empowerment, highlighting how alternative schools often emerge as responses to systemic inequities and the limitations of traditional education systems.

Moreover, Kozol's portrayal of the students, teachers, and administrators within alternative schools humanizes the educational landscape, underscoring the transformative potential of personalized, holistic learning environments. Through their stories, readers gain insight into the profound connections forged between educators and learners, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose often absent in conventional schooling.

However, Kozol does not shy away from addressing the challenges and criticisms faced by alternative schools. He confronts issues of sustainability, accountability, and equitable access, challenging readers to consider the broader implications of educational reform efforts. By doing so, Kozol encourages critical reflection and dialogue, essential components of meaningful educational change.

"Alternative Schools" is a must-read for parents of today. Parents are often confronted with numerous schooling options for their children. Reading this book, parents can gain a deeper understanding of the alternatives available to them and make more informed decisions concerning their child’s holistic development and well-being, not just their education.

In conclusion, "Alternative Schools" offers insightful exploration of an often-overlooked facet of the education landscape. With its rich narratives and thorough analysis, the book serves as a catalyst for reimagining education and advocating for more inclusive, student-centered approaches. Whether you are an educator, policymaker, or concerned citizen, this book offers invaluable insights into the power of alternative schooling to nurture the minds and spirits of our future generations.