Trading Collective for Individual Accountability in Privatized Systems of Education

• In Event: Education Employment and Personnel

Abstract

This study interrogates Milton Friedman’s central argument about vouchers and market accountability by asking three questions about the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP): In what ways are customers accountable for choices in a publicly funded voucher program? In what ways has the legislature enforced public collective accountability as a condition for private school participation? When the legislature requires acquiescence to public accountability provisions by private school participants in a voucher program, what does the legislative history reveal about the impetus of that requirement? The study also compares the MPCP accountability provisions with those that bind Wisconsin public schools. Findings to date indicate that the legislature has increased accountability demands for participating private schools, often motivated by published scandals.

Author

• Julie F. Mead, University of Wisconsin - Madison