Choosing Excellence in Public Schools: Where There's a Will, There's a Way

Hornbeck, who has been an educator, community organizer, activist, and superintendent, describes how teachers, administrators, policy makers, and activists can implement better school reforms. He argues that there must be high levels of expectation and proper learning conditions; that leaving children behind is a result of choices made by leaders and citizens; and that the public must ensure that policy makers provide the necessary frameworks for all children to succeed. Drawing from his experiences, research, and the framework for an action plan he implemented in Philadelphia called Children Achieving, he describes other crucial components like performance indicators for accountability, school-based decision making, school readiness, professional development, community services and support, up-to-date technology and instructional materials, adequate resources, and comprehensive and integrated delivery, and addresses standards, assessment, and quality teachers and school leaders. Annotation c2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

David W. Hornbeck has spent 42 years as an educator, community organizer, and activist, serving as Maryland State Superintendent of Schools, Philadelphia Superintendent of Schools, and chair of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, the Carnegie Corporation's Commission on the Education of Early Adolescents, the Children's Defense Fund, the Council of Chief State School Officers, the National Chapter I Commission, and the Public Education Network. Katherine Conner spent her career in the School District of Philadelphia, as a teacher, teacher coach, and administrator, finishing as Associate Superintendent for Standards, Assessment, and Social Services.