Whose Business is School Reform?: Letting the Experts Drive School Improvement

Much of what is mandated and touted as cures for school improvement are not research-based and in many instances, are doing more harm than any perceived good. This book examines all aspects of the present public school reform movement and explores how capitalism and the market system does not and cannot apply to public schools. Robert Brower contends that mandating a business model for education to force competition and change may destroy not only our system of education but also dismantle the intricate social, political, and economic successes we presently enjoy. In this book, the author gives research-based and practical advice on how to "right the ship" of educational reform by making bold recommendations for where public education must go to ensure this country's continued leader in the free world. Includes sections on: ·Standardized testing ·Capitalism ·Change ·Labeling ·Prescriptions for immediate action This book will be of interest to all educators, parents, lay people, and business leaders.

Table of Contents:
Part 1 Introduction: We Are Doing It All Wrong and What We Must Do about It Chapter 2 Who Are the Real Experts? Chapter 3 Traditional Capitalism versus Contemporary Capitalism in Schools Chapter 4 Rethinking Change in the Nation's Schools Chapter 5 Transformational Leadership Decision Making in Schools Chapter 6 The Labeling of Schools Chapter 7 Standardized Testing and the Ruination of Publis Schools Chapter 8 Discipline in Schools as the Foundation of All Learning Chapter 9 Prescription for Success in Public Education Chapter 10 Summary

About the Author :
Robert Brower is superintendent of schools for the North Montgomery Community School Corporation in Indiana. He is a nationally recognized speaker and author on numerous educational issues.

Review :
Dr. Brower's book on school reform is the best book I have read about reform in public education. Our leaders who have influence over public school reform should have this book as mandatory reading. Whose Business is School Reform? is a powerful account that provides valuable insights that will benefit any district contemplating or undertaking major changes toward effective and enduring reform. The book is a must read for educational leaders who are interested in school improvement. The heavily sourced book is both practical and inspiring to all educators. Brower's book is the BEST book on the educational market and should be required reading for all teachers, administrators, parents, business leaders, and legislators. Finally, an enlightened investigation into the state of educational reform that every educator, parent, and politician should read. Brower, a superintendent of schools in Indiana, argues that the present philosophies driving education are counterproductive and may actually lead to the dismantling of publication education in the United States. ... His recommendations are varied and include keeping schools small, maintaining discipline (through boot camps if necessary), and focusing on the needs of individual students. Great leaders ask great questions. Brower's book on school reform is an essential resource for initiating core questions about the vision and mission of public schooling.