Critical Perspectives on Education Policy and Schools, Families, and Communities

This book offers vital insights into how educational policies affect families and communities, encouraging critical reflection on the nature and impact of these policies.

In Critical Perspectives on Education Policy and Schools, Families, and Communities, the authors provide a comprehensive examination of how contemporary policies affect families, schools, and community partnerships. They approach the subject with a critical lens, encouraging readers to reconsider traditional notions of policy, the identities of policymakers, and the potential outcomes of these policies. By engaging with diverse theoretical frameworks, including critical race theory and institutional ethnography, the authors offer a nuanced understanding of the implications of educational policy.

The chapters delve into original research from various levels of governance in Canada and the USA, showcasing the complexities of policy enactment. Some contributions focus on specific district policies, such as language translation initiatives and the establishment of local advisory bodies, highlighting the intricate relationship between policy and practice. Other authors shed light on the often-overlooked contributions of parents in supporting their children’s educational journeys and the functioning of schools.

Moreover, the book addresses the challenges of including families and community members in the policymaking process. Several chapters explore instances where parental preferences may not align with research-backed policies, raising critical questions about decision-making in education. By emphasizing the importance of policy texts and the language used within them, Critical Perspectives on Education Policy and Schools, Families, and Communities ultimately aims to inform educators, families, and community partners about the powerful role of policy in shaping educational experiences.