Neoliberal Networks and Grassroots Organizations in North Carolina's Education Policy Arena: A Tale of Two Coalitions

• In Event: 26.047 - Mobilizing Support and Opposition in Education: Influence in the 21st Century

Abstract

North Carolina is a critical case where the neoliberal agenda has become pronounced in policies impacting education; these legislative actions have been met with opposition from a diverse network of stakeholders and constituents. This case study compares the national neoliberal network and the local pro-public education grassroots coalition in North Carolina by examining 1) the education policy goals of each, 2) strategies each coalition uses to reach these goals, and 3) policy outcomes, as measured by education bills signed into law in the 2013-2014 legislative sessions. Document analysis and interviews with key organization members and education activists reveal traditional and novel strategies both coalitions are using to influence the education policy agenda, with implications for future advocacy coalition research.

Authors

• Ariel Tichnor-Wagner

• Mark Johnson, The Learning Partnership

• Catherine Marshall, University of North Carolina