A description and critique of education reform in the United States since the 1950s, focusing on the current condition of American schools and efforts to increase both educational opportunity and overall excellence. Authoritative and objective, Education in Crisis: A Reference Handbook is a critical look at the current state of the American school system, the conditions that have led many to label it "in crisis," and solutions aimed at leveling the educational playing field, elevating overall student achievement, and keeping American students competitive on the world stage. Education in Crisis shows how competing economic, political, philosophical, psychological, and global interests have influenced American education reform. It then covers a range of reform initiatives, including magnet schools, basic skills curriculum, home schooling, and the role of technology. A comparison of the U.S. education system to those of other countries and a presentation of helpful resources round out this essential volume for educators, policymakers, parents, and anyone concerned about the nation’s schools. Includes biographical sketches of school reformers and other influential figures in education reform in the United States, including David Berliner, Rod Paige, Nel Noddings, and Gloria Ladson Billings A Data and Documents chapter features the text of A Nation at Risk (1983), data from the National Assessment of Education Process (NAEP) and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), Brown v. Topeka Board of Education, excerpts from the National Defense Education Act (NDEA), the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), No Child Left Behind (NCLB), and other important resources