Unproductive School Choice Debates is an important and well-timed analysis of how to create an educational system in the United States that leads to optimal education for all children. It’s discussion of the confusion regarding educational choice terminology and interpretation of research findings provide a road map for those who engage in the debate over how to move from a largely failed educational system to one that is truly transformational in improving our children’s education.

Gary Wolfram, William Simon Professor of Economics and Public Policy, Hillsdale College

Merrifield and Gray provide a real service to the school policy debates. They extensively document the way political forces shape the language of school choice -- and by implication the way school decisions are made. In the post-COVID world, issues of parental options and richer arrays of schools assume a sudden relevance. This is an opportunity that should not be missed. This book helps to guide clearer thinking about options and potential improvements.

Eric Hanushek, senior fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford University

John Merrifield’s ability and willingness to identify and challenge what he calls weak, perhaps heroic assumptions; to go against the supposed conventional wisdom is incredible.

Kent Grusendorf, Former State Legislator and Education Committee Chair

The world desperately needs a school system reform movement, and Merrifield’s work leads the way on that. His unique perspectives provide a basis to escape unproductive reform strategies, and generate evidence to support new approaches.

James Tooley, The University of Buckingham

Merrifield and Gray offer a disruptive solution to the failures of US K-12 education. Traditional Public Schools and School Choice options, alike, have proven to be ineffective in addressing educational ills – especially for underserved poor and minority students. They demonstrate how an “Open Education Industry” transcends school choice options such as public charter, vouchers, and private schools by creating a niche for decentralized planning. It is the authors’ thesis that an ”Open Education Industry” – based on economic principles – has the greatest potential to positively impact education inequity, academic under achievement, and social acrimony. For those of us looking for real debate about school choice and true options for education reform, Unproductive School Choice Debates, is a must read!

Alexandra Penn, Author, Senior Consultant, GoldenPair & Company

John Merrifield knows more about school choice than anyone else.

Neal P. McCluskey, Cato Institute