Chapter 8: A Philosophical Deconstruction of Leadership and Social Justice Associated with the High-Stakes Testing and Accountability System

Gunzenhauser (2003) defines the philosophy of education as a set of ideas and commitments about the purpose and value of education that guides our practice and helps us make choices. By understanding this philosophy, better choices are made regarding the who, what, where, when, and how of educating students, while also understanding the role of education in creating a society (Postman, 1995). Ongoing conversations with students attending public schools and their parents, building administrators, and our colleagues not only aids becoming reflective practitioners, but also permits the consideration of multiple educational perspectives. These conversations are influential as these members of society work together to identify and implement their philosophies of education and form their school community.