Challenging Education's Function: Is Its Vision Blurred by Political Issues?

Education occurs in a complex environment now confronted by many social issues, and who is ultimately responsible for a child’s education is the fundamental issue. This book’s purpose establishes how parents and not the state wear this responsibility, and how they must consider and navigate through multiple factors in their choice. Political differences are ever-present in America’s culture. The current climate accentuates clashing perspectives involving race, religion and individualism. While many solutions for improving educational outcomes are proposed, political obstacles appear insurmountable. An apolitical strategy providing evidence for large-scale student success culminates this review.

Table of Contents:
Preface A Nation at Risk, StillImpact of Teachers’ UnionsUnion’s Control Over TeachersTeacher PayTeacher GenderUnequal Education OpportunityParent’s Responsibility and RightHome Schooling: Friend Not FoeA Divided NationWoke In the ClassroomSex Ed: Too Much Too Soon12. Expressive Individualism 13. Home’s No Longer Sweet 14. Civics’ Failure 15. Hollywood Or “Hollyrude” 16. Student Cheating 17. Standardized Testing 18. School’s Missing Students 19. Civilizing Students 20.Common Core Confusion 21. Old-Fashioned Schooling 22. Students’ Mental Health and Covid Fallout 23. Successful Education Guaranteed 24. Expecting And Achieving Results 25. Conclusion References

About the Author :
Jim Dueck served as a teacher, principal, superintendent and assistant deputy minister during his 40-year career. More than 50 countries sought his opinions about accountability and also played a key role in launching the U.S. Race to the Top Initiative and Common Core.

Review :
If you are looking for a feel-good book about American education, then you can avoid reading this one. Dueck’s blistering critique ranges from low expectations to the politicization of the curriculum. You will not agree with everything in these pages – I certainly don’t – but coherent debate on educational policy requires that we get out of the echo chamber and consider divergent points of view. Dueck brings his international experience to bear on uncomfortable topics and will, I hope, lead to a vigorous and productive evidence-based dialog on education that will lead to better opportunities for all students. Common sense might be viewed as a declining virtue, but Jim Dueck has made a valiant effort to bring it back in the important area of U.S. education. Of course, basing common sense on experience, observation, and data as he does considerably strengthen the case for common sense. This is an exceptionally insightful and powerful discussion of the elements behind the underperformance of the U.S. education system along with thoughtful ideas about what to do. If you are searching for a book that addresses the current state of the U.S. education system, as well as the implications it has on the ever-increasing global marketplace, this book is a must read. At the core of Dueck’s book, is the principle that parents have the responsibility of determining the education they want for their children, and learning or lack thereof has serious consequences. Dueck has delved into a wide range of topics, brought research to bear to back up his ascertains and then in systematic and methodical way articulated thoughtful strategies and solutions. If implemented, this would in my estimation dramatically lift the U.S. global ranking of education in comparison to other members of the OECD. As the co-owner, President and C.E.O., of Canada’s largest private sector rail and transit construction company, plus serving on the City of Abbotsford Council, for 11 years, 8 as Mayor of B.C.’s fifth largest city, I have witnessed firsthand how unprepared too many of our students are for private sector employment, as well as the public sector. My assessment is that today it’s all about achieving high grades at the expense of learning – there is a difference, which Dueck unpacks in a masterful way. This is a book for people who care about our country and are looking for creative, reasoned, non-polemical solutions. Controversy drives public discourse today, but in Dr Dueck’s treatment of a wide range of educational issues, there is a gracious tone and a rigorous commitment to statistical evidence. Narrative interludes and thoughtful analyses make this book interesting and convincing, as well as relevant and timely.