The course examines current empirical research on important topics in educational policy today with an explicit focus on the improvement of urban schools. Students will first deepen their understanding of the ways socioeconomic circumstances contribute to persistent and growing gaps in academic outcomes along lines of race and income. Second, this course will evaluate the effectiveness of specific social policy interventions (e.g. healthcare reforms, housing vouchers, income transfers, promise neighborhoods, expanded pre-k) in lowering barriers to low-income children's academic success and narrowing inequities. Finally, students will examine the intersections of inequality, social policy, and contemporary education policy trends, including finance reform, accountability, and school choice and diversity plans.
Credits: 3.0