No component of American education is spared Richard G. Shear’s and Bruce S. Cooper’s blame in Screwed-Up School Reform: Fixing America’s Broken Promise. They deliver a harsh assessment of the reform movement, backed by in-depth analysis of the contributing negative forces. But these authors don’t leave it at that. They provide rational and feasible responses to the reform attempts that are the targets of their tough appraisal. Shear and Cooper argue the reformers fail to see the problem for what it is and make matters worse by applying the wrong fixes. They make a compelling case that students should be valued as consumers, eager to use a product that satisfies their needs. Their 10 recommendations begin with their call for a much more participatory role for students and parents in the school system. They see this as a way to move reform in the right direction.

School Administrator

Shear and Cooper tell it like it is—American education is on the wrong track, and their spot-on analyses well capitalize their trenchant recommendations. We will, inevitably, continue in wrong-headed directions unless we take action, NOW! Fortunately, they suggest clear-headed and strong-hearted ways to think about and act for productive change.

- Rodney Muth, emeritus professor, University of Colorado, Denver,

Shear and Cooper propose to ask about students’ wants and needs. It is clear that this is where any serious-minded school reform should begin. As we propose building solutions from below (as opposed to imposing them from the top) it is mission critical to do so by asking these questions, and to ask them of students. Their provocative work is certain to raise and/or knit a few eyebrows; however, it is a must read for those who hope to make America’s schools meaningful again.

- Thomas P. Dolan, superintendent, Great Neck Public Schools, Great Neck, New York,