A primer for the public : the structure and control of public education

Abstract

Because education holds such a significant place in American life, both for the individual citizen and society in general, and because changes in the educational process have been made so rapidly in recent years, there is much confusion and misunderstanding about the basic framework in which public education operates. This condition results in needless conflict and confrontation. If public education is to retain its democratic base in this country, it is necessary that there be a wider understanding of the design and control of the educational enterprise. This primer is written to enhance that objective. It is intended, not as a thorough analysis or as a critique, but to provide a basic structure for the general public. References are given for those who desire to explore more deeply the issues and structures which are mentioned briefly in this primer. --Introduction