High Schools in Crisis - by Ellen Hall & Richard Handley (Paperback)

About the Book

This book exposes the degree of rage today's teenagers feel and how our nation's schools are failing them, not just academically, but in just about every way imaginable. Hall and Handley propose practical techniques, procedures, and core values that can make high school a safe learning environment once again. Drawing from their many years of experience administering a high school that provided a safe and fulfilling learning environment, they introduce readers to teaching techniques, administrative policies, and design ideas that encourage students to speak out, express their indomitable idealism, and feel welcome and accepted.

The learning process works best when students are supported, encouraged, and accepted. The authors tell the story of a special school--Mountain View--that upholds a strong belief in the value of each student through smaller classes, experiential learning, and an awareness of community in and out of school. This book describes the journeys of students who were angry, unsure, or struggling with various labels of learning disabilities, as well as students who were successful in the traditional educational system but sought more opportunities for creativity and self-expression. Their stories are told in the context of how to build and run a school that is keenly attuned to teenagers' needs. Twenty Questions for Parents help to pinpoint issues and difficulties children may be struggling with. Also included is a bibliography of helpful sources and suggested readings. In keeping with the efforts of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to support small high schools around the United States, this book provides a blueprint for parents, school districts, and communities.

Book Synopsis

This book exposes the degree of rage today's teenagers feel and how our nation's schools are failing them, not just academically, but in just about every way imaginable. Hall and Handley propose practical techniques, procedures, and core values that can make high school a safe learning environment once again. Drawing from their many years of experience administering a high school that provided a safe and fulfilling learning environment, they introduce readers to teaching techniques, administrative policies, and design ideas that encourage students to speak out, express their indomitable idealism, and feel welcome and accepted.

The learning process works best when students are supported, encouraged, and accepted. The authors tell the story of a special school--Mountain View--that upholds a strong belief in the value of each student through smaller classes, experiential learning, and an awareness of community in and out of school. This book describes the journeys of students who were angry, unsure, or struggling with various labels of learning disabilities, as well as students who were successful in the traditional educational system but sought more opportunities for creativity and self-expression. Their stories are told in the context of how to build and run a school that is keenly attuned to teenagers' needs. Twenty Questions for Parents help to pinpoint issues and difficulties children may be struggling with. Also included is a bibliography of helpful sources and suggested readings. In keeping with the efforts of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to support small high schools around the United States, this book provides a blueprint for parents, school districts, and communities.

Review Quotes

"[C]ontains information on how classrooms can be designed for optimal student involvement, how a creative curriculum can elicit enthusiasm, and how learning disabilities can be handled without resorting to special education....Recommended. All levels." --Choice

"Parents who are seeking educational alternatives to the public high school will benefit from this book....Written in a straightforward tone, this book honestly and candidly discusses problems with public education. It is appropriate for public librarians who are assisting parents and teens with their educational goals." --VOYA

"This valuable resource for parents also includes a bibliography of helpful sources and suggested readings." --Booklist

About the Author

ELLEN HALL is director of Oak Grove School, an alternative pre-K-12 school in Ojai, California, and the author of Listen to Your Inner Voice (2001).

RICHARD HANDLEY is a features reporter for the Ventura County Reporter.