Social Justice Approach. The text argues that schools must be places of extraordinary educational quality as well as institutions for social justice. It also explores the tensions between the democratic aims of schools and the competition for scarce high quality opportunities.

Strong Coverage of Foundations. The text presents educational foundations and history as alive and active in today’s schools. Students can use these foundations to make sense of “headline” issues, such as charter schools, vouchers, standards, and bilingual education.

Focus on Diversity. Issues of diversity and multiculturalism are infused throughout the discussion of traditional elements of schools and teaching: learning, curriculum, instruction, etc.

Integrated Themes. Two themes weave the chapters into a coherent story: first, that learning is a social and cultural activity; second, that the United States is a multicultural society.

Teacher Perspectives. Teachers, many of them in their first year of teaching, contribute sections discussing dilemmas and inspiring successes that relate to the text.

Research and Practice. The text provides solid research to scaffold cognitive, sociocultural, and constructivist perspectives on learning. Teachers cited in the book report how they use theory to respond to multiple and complex challenges in ways that are consistent with democratic values.

Coverage of Standards and "No Child Left Behind." The text includes sections on national standards in the core academic subjects, and discusses the controversies surrounding their development and use as well as the impact of "No Child Left Behind" on teaching and learning.