The stakes in this reform effort could not be higher. At issue is nothing less than one of the country’s most pressing questions: In a nation where Democrats and Republicans alike say they want to provide “equal opportunity,” can failing schools be transformed into successful schools in short order and on a large scale? If not, have the nostrums of the education reform movement distracted politicians, public officials and the public from the real challenge -- the problems of poverty, segregation, crime and family structure?
What follows is a four-part series on education reform from the halls of Frayser High School in Memphis.
What happens in Memphis will reveal the power -- and limits -- of education reform. Read More.
Fixing a failing school may require a complete change in culture. That’s not an easy thing to achieve, but Memphis is trying. Read More.
Driven by fear and frustration, protesters are starting to drown out the supporters of Tennessee's effort to help low-performing public schools. Read More.
As other states consider embracing Tennesse's program, the experience of one Memphis high school shows policymakers about its potential and perils. Read More.