Featuring current information and challenging perspectives on the latest issues and forces shaping the American educational systemwith scholarship that is often cited as a primary sourceJoel Spring introduces readers to the historical political social and legal foundations of education and to the profession of teaching in the United States In his signature straightforward concise approach to describing complex issues he illuminates events and topics that are often overlooked or whitewashed giving students the opportunity to engage in critical thinking about education Students come away informed on the latest topics issues and data and with a strong knowledge of the forces shaping the American educational system Thoroughly updated throughout the th edition of this clear authoritative text remains fresh and up to date reflecting the many changes in education that have occurred since the publication of the previous edition such asThe effects of the pandemic on schools teachers students