THE SCHOOL REFORM HANDBOOK
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Conclusion You Can Be a School Reformer Maybe you've learned a lot from the School Reform Handbook. Maybe you're still not sure. Whatever your goal, whatever your inclination, you can be an effective reformer with a lot of information, a lot of energy and some good direction.Remember, just because you think your own views are the ones that will work, not everyone knows the issues like you do, and many people are skeptical or suspicious of any new idea. With the media and with those you are trying to influence in your community, it is best to talk openly about all issues, rather than trying to sell them on just one in particular. Work to establish your organization as an overall education advocacy group within the community, rather than a group aligned to only one particular reform idea. Many of the ideas your group is pursuing will not be readily understood or liked by everyone — they may even seem quite controversial. Charter schools, for instance, are still a relatively new concept; testing and accountability are complex issues and most people think there are good mechanisms already in place; and while most people support the basic premise of school choice, there are many out there making it appear radical. If you are trying to wake-up and shake-up the system, chances are you'll have an uphill battle.
Win over the public and the media one step at a time. Attract them to you first, prove that you are credible, prove that you are working for the betterment of your community, and start painting a picture of what things would be like with your particular brand of school reform. But remember that even you still may be in the exploration stage of how things work, so don't sell the message that there is one easy way to solve the schools' problems. The public is wary of those who profess to have a silver bullet. Be broad, keep your goal in sight and pursue it carefully and determinedly.
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The Center for Education Reform
(CER) is a national, independent, non-profit advocacy organization founded in 1993 to provide support to individuals and groups who are working to bring fundamental reforms to their schools. CER is the leading authority for information on innovative reforms in education and works in states and communities across the country to advance the cause of educational excellence.· · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ·
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