Managing Innovation: Models for Governing the System of Public Schools in New Orleans
The Scott S. Cowen Institute for Public Education Initiatives at Tulane University
Bureau of Governmental Research
May 2010

Abstract:

Currently, New Orleans is in the midst of a sweeping reform movement, the scale of which has been seen in few cities. Two efforts, in particular, have defined the movement: the state takeover of most public schools in New Orleans and an explosion in the number of public charter schools. New Orleans has proportionately more charter schools than any other school system in the nation. Harnessing the potential of the reform movement and addressing the challenges created by the current complex system requires a new approach to education governance. This report presents five potential models for governing public schools in New Orleans and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each.