The Death and Life of the Great American School System

The Death and Life of the Great American School System presents Diane Ravitch's critical examination of modern education reform in the United States. Ravitch, a former advocate of No Child Left Behind and standardized testing, documents her transformation from supporter to critic of these widespread policies. The book analyzes key elements of education reform including school choice, accountability measures, and the increasing focus on standardized testing. Through research and data, Ravitch examines the impact of these reforms on students, teachers, and the American public education system as a whole. This work draws from Ravitch's unique perspective as both a historian of education and former policymaker in the Bush and Clinton administrations. Her investigation covers major policy shifts, corporate influence in education, and the changing landscape of American public schools over recent decades. The book stands as a significant contribution to the ongoing debate about how to strengthen public education in America, challenging popular reform movements while advocating for a return to core educational principles.

Readers note this book represents Ravitch's shift from supporting standardized testing and charter schools to opposing them. Many reviewers appreciate her detailed evidence and firsthand experience in education policy. Liked: - Clear explanations of complex education policies - Historical context for current debates - Data-driven analysis rather than ideology - Personal admissions of changing views - Specific examples from school districts Disliked: - Can be repetitive in later chapters - Some find the tone defensive - Limited discussion of solutions - Focus on NYC/urban schools over rural areas Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (5,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (380+ ratings) Sample review: "As a teacher, I appreciated how she methodically dismantles each reform initiative with evidence rather than rhetoric." - Goodreads reviewer Critical review: "While she effectively critiques existing reforms, she offers few concrete alternatives." - Amazon reviewer

Reign of Error: The Hoax of the Privatization Movement and the Danger to America's Public Schools by Diane Ravitch Through data and historical analysis, this follow-up to The Death and Life of the Great American School System dissects corporate education reform and its effects on public schools.

The Teacher Wars: A History of America's Most Embattled Profession by Dana Goldstein This historical examination traces 175 years of American public education, focusing on recurring debates about teaching and reform that mirror current controversies.

Despite the Best Intentions: How Racial Inequality Thrives in Good Schools by John Diamond, Amanda Lewis The book investigates how racial inequalities persist in well-funded schools despite reform efforts and good intentions.

Finnish Lessons: What Can the World Learn from Educational Change in Finland? by Pasi Sahlberg A policy maker examines Finland's education system transformation and success without standardized testing or privatization.

Savage Inequalities: Children in America's Schools by Jonathan Kozol Through visits to schools across America, this investigation reveals the disparities in school funding and resources between wealthy and poor districts.

🎓 Ravitch served as Assistant Secretary of Education under President George H.W. Bush before dramatically shifting her views on education reform 📚 The book spent 14 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller list when it was published in 2010, rare for a book about education policy 📊 Prior to writing this book, Ravitch helped develop the national testing standards used in American schools during the 1990s 🏫 The author has written over 20 books on education, making her one of the most prolific writers on American education history and policy 🗣️ After publishing this book, Ravitch became a leading voice against corporate education reform, testifying before Congress multiple times about the dangers of over-testing and privatization