The Changing Role of Interest Groups in Education: Nationalization and the New Politics of Education Productivity

Abstract

The politics of education in the United States has changed in recent decades from one approximating professionally dominated subgovernments to issue networks, which are characterized by more ideational, macropolitical interest groups as well as shifting and unstable coalitions. This transformation is caused, first, by the growth of national discourse and federal power The two often go hand in hand but are not synonymous, and nationalizing influences have expanded despite unresolved debate about the federal role in education. Other courses include the intensified debate, divergent demands for reform of public schools, and the expanding role of the political right. The new politics of education productivity has reshaped the way discourse on education policy is conducted and the perceptions of common interests. Despite nationalizing trends in setting policy agendas, implementation of reforms is dominated by local politics, where micropolitical interests often frustrate reformers. This tension is built into our political system.