The Limits of Law-Based School Reform: Vain Hopes and False Promises

A confusing and contentious debate often surrounds law-based school reforms (lawsuits, regulations, statutes, and collective bargaining provisions). DeMitchell and Fossey argue that law-based reforms have not changed the fundamental character of the nation’s schools. Although hundreds of law-based initiatives have been introduced, most have had little effect on learning. Law-based reform is an important and necessary strategy, but by itself it is not enough to change the way children are schooled. Rational decision making, which undergirds most law-based reform, can take us only part way to the schools our children deserve.