"A balanced and historical analysis of the limits and impact of federal aid that encompasses varied perspectives on the perpetual struggle concerning who should control American education in our federal system. The book provides an incisive preview of what ESSA can and might stimulate in state and local school contexts."
--Michael Kirst, president, California State Board of Education, and professor emeritus, Stanford University

"This ESSA primer is a must-read for education policy makers. Diving into the history, politics, policy, and the possible opportunities and potential pitfalls, it vividly captures the enduring tension between the American values of liberty and equality, as well as the perennial debate around local control and federal involvement. Shedding light on how philosophy meets reality, this is an invaluable resource on how principles, process, and practice collide, and a clear affirmation of the game-changing role of educators in our classrooms and schools."
--Hanna Skandera, secretary of education, New Mexico Public Education Department

Frederick M. Hess is director of education policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute. Max Eden is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute. Mitchell D. Chester is the Massachusetts Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education.