The Politics of African-American Education

This study explores the ongoing challenges of equal access to quality education for African-American students, highlighting the influence of partisanship, representation, and political structures on education policy and outcomes.

The Politics of African-American Education explores the enduring challenge of ensuring equitable access to quality education for African-American students in the United States. This scholarly work is particularly relevant for researchers and graduate students in fields such as political science, public administration, sociology, and education, as well as those with an interest in African-American studies. By examining the largest 1,800 school districts over a decade, the book provides a detailed analysis of the intersection between partisanship and African-American education.

The authors argue that partisanship significantly influences various aspects of education, from school board elections to the racial makeup of educators. This connection highlights how political affiliation can determine the quality of education that African-American students receive. The book emphasizes that African-American representation in educational leadership is crucial, particularly in Democratic districts, where its impact is more pronounced compared to Republican areas.

Moreover, the book discusses the importance of political structures, such as election rules and independent school districts, in shaping educational policies. While these structures set the framework for educational governance, they also allow for the possibility of change and adaptation. Through its comprehensive analysis, The Politics of African-American Education offers valuable insights into the complexities of educational policy and the political dynamics that affect African-American students, making it a significant contribution to the field.