What lessons have been learned from the past half-century of federal involvement in education? What role, if any, is the federal government suited for in the formulation and implementation of education policy? The following essays, which have been adapted for Education Week from the recently published book Carrots, Sticks, and the Bully Pulpit (Harvard Education Press, 2011), seek to answer those questions, among others. Writers from the five-part Commentary series include Charles Barone, Larry Berger, Chester E. Finn Jr., Andrew Rudalevige, and Marshall S. Smith.
Equity & Diversity
Opinion
Starting From Scratch With ESEA
An updated ESEA should focus on a few evidence-based strategies for improving schools, Marshall S. Smith writes.
School & District Management
Opinion
How the Federal Government Can Promote Innovation
The federal government can be a driving force for school improvement if we pay attention to history, write Patrick McGuinn, Larry Berger, and David Stevenson.
Law & Courts
Opinion
The Role of Congress in Education Policy
In order to safeguard equal educational opportunities and set national education goals, Congress must focus on policymaking, not political rancor, argue Charles Barone and Elizabeth DeBray.
Law & Courts
Opinion
Bribery, Blackmail, and Implementation: Thoughts on Federal Policy
Congress needs to be realistic about its goals and impact when it finally revisits the No Child Left Behind Act, Andrew Rudalevige says.