Despite periodic reform movements, the American educational system has remained essentially unchanged since about 1885, when it was established as "universal, tax-supported, free, bureaucratically organized, class-biased, and racist." Bureaucracy emerged as the dominant structure because it is the most practical method of keeping the lower orders…

This book examines the maligned students who populate urban schools and finds a talented group of resilient young people who deserve the support of the larger society. The editors and authors explore the ways such students are undermined, in the process developing new ways of teaching based on an understanding and appreciation of them.…

A 3-year collaborative project among Clay and Duval County (Florida) school districts, two professional teacher organizations, Florida Community College at Jacksonville, and the University of North Florida College of Education and Human Services sought to improve the preparation of urban teachers, increase student achievement, and decrease urban…