Educational Courage: Resisting the Ambush of Public Education

by Mara Sapon-Shevin, Nancy Schniedewind

Lost amid the debate over educational policies are the stories of the educators, parents, and students who are most affected by legislation such as No Child Left Behind and Race to the Top. In Educational Courage , veteran educators and activists Nancy Schniedewind and Mara Sapon-Shevin bring together the voices of those who are resisting market-driven initiatives such as high-stakes testing, charter schools, mayoral control, and merit pay. The diverse narrators who write in this volume confront the educational agendas that undermine teachers’ judgment and knowledge, ignore the different backgrounds of students and parents, and debase the learning process. Yet these educators, parents, and activists also offer stories of resistance and hope as they fight to uphold the ideals of democratic public education.

Genres: Education, School

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Starr · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not love this essay compilation. A lot of name-calling (you NEO LIBERAL!) and bitterness going on here. I agree with the idea that private corporations probably don't have a place in education, but there wasn't much else offered as a solution to kids who read poorly and yet are graduated from high school.

There was an essay on Teach For America that I think should be required reading for anyone considering a job through the organization. Otherwise, I wouldn't recommend this book to most people.

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best collection of essays for stoking the fires of outrage on critical issues in education reform as well as providing concrete ideas to actually do something about it. The experiences detailed here are a primer on how to resist and summon the courage to work with integrity. Should be required reading for all teachers and administrators who feel pressured to give up and go with the flow.

[Mills College Library]

370.973 E2481 2012