In chapter 2 of the text, the authors explore the era of Modern Conservatism, which started roughly in 2000 and has continued into the present day. Undoubtedly, the most discussed, debated, applauded, and scorned piece of legislation from this era is NCLB. Despite its lofty goals, NCLB is “. . . a flawed law that failed to deliver for schools and kids” (p. 69). Although the authors do not discuss this at length, NCLB can stand as a lesson for current and future politicians, administrators, educators, and parents. Unfortunately, its effects have been far reaching and will be long lasting. Additionally, the authors point out several other key movements from the past decade, including the emphasis on global competition in education, voucher programs, homeschooling, diversity education, P-16 education, Race to the Top, and the Common Core State Standards.
In their discussion of homeschooling, the authors appear to side with proponents of the movement, citing work by Ray (2006). Of personal interest, the authors note that Ray’s research has shown “homeschooled individuals exemplify better academic performance; above-average social, emotional, and psychological development, and more success in the world of adulthood” (p. 72). I found this to be of interest because my experience teaching young adults and teens who have been homeschooled is quite different the majority of the time when they are homeschooled for faith-based reasons. While I have found that these students perform better academically, they lack above-average social and emotional development, and they are often extremely sheltered and lack exposure to beliefs and ideas that differ from what is taught in their home. When these students go to college, it is very much a culture shock for them. They struggle to relate to their peers, and they struggle to substantiate their own beliefs in an environment that challenges them rather than simply embraces them.
While the authors are correct when...