204sp03 edisonschools2

Edison Schools:Solution or Illusion? : 

Edison Schools: Solution or Illusion? By: Gina Clayton and Catherine Duron CTSE 204 Spring 2003

What is an Edison school?: 

What is an Edison school? Founded by Christopher Whittle in 1992 Is the largest private manager of public schools School design outlined on their website www.edisonschools.com

How is Edison School Inc. a for-profit organization?: 

How is Edison School Inc. a for-profit organization? Step 1: Edison and district enter into a contract Step 2: District hands over money to Edison Step 3: Edison implements school reform more efficiently Step 4: Edison profits from money not spent

Proof that Edison schools work: 

Proof that Edison schools work Edison schools have improved an average of 5.5% on norm-referenced tests compared to only 2.7% in similar schools Philosophy based on research on educational practices from all over the world Technology integrated in educational program

Some Disadvantages and Statistics: 

Some Disadvantages and Statistics Ineffective implementation of Success For All program Inexperienced teachers High teacher turnover rates High class sizes Selective

A closer look: 

A closer look Edison San Francisco school teachers quitting Ranked 2 out of 10 in statewide and similar schools ranking in 1999 and 1 the next year School actually declined when Edison took over

Edison schools are a business failure.: 

Edison schools are a business failure. Stock prices plummet to $1 per share $250 million in losses Securities and Exchange Commission find Edison has misreported their revenues. 10 class action lawsuits have been filed against them. Based on an assumption that schools receive an excess of funding necessary to operate successfully. School districts have complained about hidden costs

The disadvantages of making school a business.“I think the softness of the stock price is related to the softness of their test scores and educational results.” - Bruce Fuller: 

The disadvantages of making school a business. “I think the softness of the stock price is related to the softness of their test scores and educational results.” - Bruce Fuller The future of many students is tied to a company. If business goes bankrupt schools suddenly loose funding and resources. Business models are ultimately centered around financial gain not educational goals =

Sources: 

Sources www.corpwatch.org www.aft.org www.edisonschools.com http://www.sfbg.com/News/34/42/42edisba.html www.ed-data.k12.ca.us/