This text is ideal for courses that examine current, relevant pro and con disputes about schools and schooling. By presenting divergent perspectives, each written in compelling advocate language, the text’s authors encourage the reader to think critically and to develop his or her own views. Three integrating themes provide a solid framework for examining the eighteen issues covered. Each part begins with a chapter-length introduction that provides background material and organizing themes for the issues that follow; each issue is then presented from two divergent viewpoints, encouraging the development of critical thinking skills within the context of education.