An in-depth look at academically selective public high schools in
America
What is the best education for exceptionally able and high-achieving
youngsters? Can the United States strengthen its future intellectual
leadership, economic vitality, and scientific prowess without
sacrificing equal opportunity? There are no easy answers but, as Chester
Finn and Jessica Hockett show, for more than 100,000 students each year,
the solution is to enroll in an academically selective public high
school. Exam Schools is the first-ever close-up look at this small,
sometimes controversial, yet crucial segment of American public
education. This groundbreaking book discusses how these schools
work--and their critical role in nurturing the country's brightest
students.
The 165 schools identified by Finn and Hockett are located in thirty
states, plus the District of Columbia. While some are world renowned,
such as Boston Latin and Bronx Science, others are known only in their
own communities. The authors survey the schools on issues ranging from
admissions and student diversity to teacher selection. They probe
sources of political support, curriculum, instructional styles,
educational effectiveness, and institutional autonomy. Some of their
findings are surprising: Los Angeles, for example, has no "exam schools"
while New York City has dozens. Asian-American students are
overrepresented--but so are African-American pupils. Culminating with
in-depth profiles of eleven exam schools and thoughtful reflection on
policy implications, Finn and Hockett ultimately consider whether the
country would be better off with more such schools.
At a time of keen attention to the faltering education system, Exam
Schools sheds positive light on a group of schools that could well
provide a transformative roadmap for many of America's children.
