Lessons from Privilege: The American Prep School Tradition

Rating:
Summary: An excellent analysis of independent education
Review: Arthur Powell has once again made an excellent contribution to the analysis of independent education. Deftly weaving the history of the "prep" school, he gives insight into the current attitudes and tremendous evolution of independent schools. Both the parent of future prep student as well as educators in the system benefit tremendously from this book. Powell does not paint an entirely rosy picture; he confronts issues of institutions unwilling to change, sometimes mediocre teaching, and the hairy issues surrounding the college application process. This insight is balanced by utterly devoted teachers and institutions, the benefits of the independent school environment (little to no violence, personal attention that public schools can often not afford, and teache rs and staff highly motivated to know students and expand their horizons). Powell nevertheless provides tremendous insight into the independent school system and paints a picture of hope for a system willing and able to change with people who wish to create the best environment for children.

Rating:
Summary: Extraordinarily brilliant; anyone in Ed should read it.
Review: I went to private school so I picked this up and couldn't put it down. I think it's geared more to professional educators, but anyone interested in the future of education should read the book. Basically, the author observes some things that seem to work in private schools--that justify the expense, that make them different. This is very helpful and informative, but then he goes on to suggest how they can be utilized in the public sector, for everyone. It's a shame more schools and parents don't read this book.