Access,Equity,Engagement,Educ.

Catalog description

Horace Mann, an 18th century American pioneer in public education, said “Education, then, beyond all other devices of human origin, is the great equalizer of the conditions of men, the balance wheel of the social machinery.” While this sentiment has been echoed by many since Horace Mann’s time, the reality on the ground in American public schools is often contrary to this statement, particularly for marginalized populations. This course addresses the question of access and equity in American public education and the ways that policy decisions impact marginalized groups. Do all students receive the same standard of education? What policies and resources determine who has access and to what? The course introduces students to the role that the public education system plays in the lives of American youth from early childhood through post-secondary education. In particular, the course emphasizes the way in which public policy and engagement can impact educational access, equity, and participation of diverse populations in varying ways. Offered: summer.