Kayes and Maranto?s writings have always enlightened us as to how the education reform policies we advocate evolve into practice that affects thousands of students. Their perspective invites understanding over ideological hope, and their latest work combines the talents of others who likewise seek to provide us a window into the actual effect of our policies over time. Student-centered reforms such as charter schools now provide a history of over a decade of work. The next actions of educators and reformers should depend on a clear appreciation for the benefits we have inspired as well as the pitfalls we may have wrought. There?s nobody better to collect that history meaningfully for us than these two scholars...

Lisa Graham Keegan, chief executive officer, Arizona Chamber Foundation; former superintendent, Public Instruction for the State of Arizona

The chapters in this book explore almost every nook and cranny of the issues involving charter schools, from how charters should be issued to what these schools should teach to how they are studied. Also the chapters span methodological approaches, from empirical analyses to case studies to participant recollections. The authors range from charter supporters to charter critics, from the right and from the left. In short, one would be hard pressed to find a more comprehensive and balanced picture of what we know about charter schools than what is found in this book.

Jay P. Greene, endowed chair and head of the Department of Education Reform, University of Arkansas, Ph.D., endowed chair and head of the Department of Education Reform, University of Arkansas

Charter schools will be the savior of public education in the twenty-first century. Indeed, the redemption of public education lies in the system's willingness to become more and more charter-like. Yes, charter schools have their flaws, but A Guide to Charter Schools demonstrates that charter schools can overcome them where the current public school system cannot.

Matthew J. Brouillette, president and CEO, Commonwealth Foundation for Public Policy Alternatives (Harrisburg, PA), former history teacher and public ch

Intended as an introduction for those interested in the charter schools movement, this volume presents scholarly articles on the subject by authors representing a variety of perspectives.

Reference and Research Book News

A punchy and useful overview of many facets of charter schooling that will prove useful for friends and critics of charters alike and those who want to learn more about these new public schools.

Andy Rotherham, co-director, Education Sector; member, Virginia Board of Education; Senior Fellow, Progressive Policy Institute

Kayes and Maranto's writings have always enlightened us as to how the education reform policies we advocate evolve into practice that affects thousands of students. Their perspective invites understanding over ideological hope, and their latest work combines the talents of others who likewise seek to provide us a window into the actual effect of our policies over time.

Student-centered reforms such as charter schools now provide a history of over a decade of work. The next actions of educators and reformers should depend on a clear appreciation for the benefits we have inspired as well as the pitfalls we may have wrought. There's nobody better to collect that history meaningfully for us than these two scholars.

Lisa Graham Keegan, chief executive officer, Arizona Chamber Foundation; former superintendent, Public Instruction for the State of Arizona