Includes bibliographical references and index.

The politics of education policy in an era of inequality -- Critical policy analysis: interrogating process, politics, and power -- Public schools or private goods? the politics of choice, markets, and competition -- National or special interests? federal and state education policy and reform -- School district governance and education leadership: a shifting landscape -- Philanthropy, donors, and private influence over public education -- The new professional: teaching and leading under new public management -- In pursuit of democratic education -- Building power: community organizing, student empowerment, and public accountability -- Reclaiming democracy and the transformative power of education: possibilities for democratic schooling.

"In a context of increased politicization led by state and federal policymakers, corporate reformers, and for-profit educational organizations, The Politics of Education Policy in an Era of Inequality explores a new vision for leading schools grounded in culturally relevant advocacy and social justice theories. This timely volume tackles the origins and implications of growing accountability for educational leaders and reconsiders the role educational leaders should and can play in education policy and political processes. This book provides a critical perspective and analysis of today's education policy landscape and leadership practice, explores the challenges and opportunities associated with teaching in and leading schools, and examines the structural, political, and cultural interactions among school principals, district leaders, state, and federal policy actors. An important resource for practicing and aspiring leaders, The Politics of Education Policy in an Era of Inequality shares a theoretical framework and strategies for building bridges between education researchers, practitioners, and policymakers"--