An important book by wise authors who have learned the hard way that federal policies to address underachievement in education are failing. Although no one can offer a quick fix for America’s educational problems, this incisive book offers promising and realistic measures for helping children who are poor and often racially and linguistically isolated. The authors provide a thoughtful set of alternatives to failed federal policies that have not and cannot address the pernicious achievement gaps that endanger our democracy. — David C. Berliner, Regents’ Professor Emeritus, Arizona State University

School performance by black and Latino students has climbed markedly, by a full grade level, over the past two generations. Yet achievement disparities relative to whites have narrowed only slightly, perpetuating a grand canyon of a gap that divides America. This volume replays an instructive history—pinpointing what hasn’t worked—and then carves a path forward to build schools that narrow disparities inside classrooms, showing how educators, families, and community activists are pulling together. Each chapter builds from hard evidence, not hopeful rhetoric. It’s a must-read for those dedicated to uniting our society—an endeavor in which we all have a stake. — Bruce Fuller, professor of education and public policy, University of California, Berkeley

This book is essential reading for policy makers, researchers, and educators concerned with closing achievement gaps in American schools. It provides a novel examination of the issues and important, new directions for moving us forward. — Amanda Datnow, professor of education, University of California, San Diego

Educators and community leaders will find much in this book with which to agree, disagree, and ponder. It is worth reading. — Robert G. Smith, Education Week