This commentary explores the so-called global "crisis" in education and the corresponding pressures and moves to "reform" education, and in particular, public education. The myths underpinning and driving these developments are examined. Supposed problems with (public) education and proposed solutions are explored. The…

This book examines the economics, history, and politics of education, asserting that public schools should be privatized. It suggests that privatized public schools can benefit from competition, market discipline, and the incentives essential to producing cost-effective, quality education and attracting additional funding and expertise needed to…

In 1993, the Minneapolis School District entered into a 3-year contract with a private company, Public Strategies Group (PSG). Under the contract, the president of PSG was to serve as the district superintendent and meet certain goals and objectives determined by the district. This paper presents findings of an evaluation of the Minneapolis/PSG…

School districts nationwide are experimenting with a range of reform options, one of which is private management of public schools. This General Accounting Office (GAO) report describes the early experiences of four school districts that contracted with private companies for management of their public schools. Specifically, the report describes:…

In 1990, the Dade County Public School System (DCPS) in Dade County, Florida, entered into a 5-year contract with a private company, Educational Alternatives Incorporated (EAI), to manage the educational services at South Pointe Elementary School. This paper presents findings of an evaluation of the DCPS-EAI collaboration at South Pointe. Data…

Lessons drawn from the experience of other countries make it clear that school voucher plans increase inequality without making schools better. Privatization reduces the public effort to improve schooling since it relies on the free market to increase achievement, but increases never occur. (SLD)

Research findings in England suggest that increased competition among schools, if combined with performance management, may enhance schools' efficiency. But, to prevent greater inequality in access to good quality state education, care must be taken with the regulations governing school admissions and the incentives for schools to admit and retain…