110 Livingston Street

This book analyzes the New York City school system, exploring its bureaucratic challenges and the efforts to reform it over the decades, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s.

In 110 Livingston Street, David Rogers employs various sociological models of mass society to critically examine the New York City school system, which he characterizes as a sick bureaucracy. Through this lens, he explores the complexities and challenges faced by the educational system, highlighting the significant issues of governance and administration that have plagued it over the years.

The book delves into the contentious school decentralization crisis that unfolded during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Rogers provides a detailed analysis of this pivotal period, illustrating how the struggle for control and reform led to deep divisions among stakeholders. He also sheds light on the subsequent efforts made by mayors to implement changes, emphasizing the ongoing quest for improvement within the system.

In a new prologue, Rogers reflects on the historical context of these reforms, including notable initiatives introduced during the Bloomberg administration. 110 Livingston Street not only critiques the past but also serves as a commentary on the future of education in New York City, making it a relevant read for those interested in the intersections of sociology, education, and public policy.