Equality and Quality in U.S. Education: Systemic Problems, Systemic Solutions

Recent passage of the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), coupled with recognition of rising inequality in American society, has rekindled debate about how U.S. schools might address long-standing disparities in educational and economic opportunities while improving the educational outcomes for all students.

Equality and Quality in U.S. Education enters that debate with a vision and an argument for realizing that vision, based on lessons learned from 60 years of education research and reform efforts. The central points covered draw on a much more extensive treatment of these issues published last year. The aim is to spark fruitful discussion among educators, policymakers, and researchers.