ERIC Number: EJ1024178
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 28
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1558-2159
EISSN: N/A
Variations on a Theme: The Shift from Distinction to Commonality in Philadelphia's Diverse Provider Model 2002-2008
Bulkley, Katrina E.; Travers, Eva
Journal of School Choice, v7 n4 p532-559 2013
Recent years have seen a growing push toward Portfolio Management Models that incorporate a variety of "providers" operating public schools. One rationale for this is that such organizations can offer distinct and innovative educational practices. This article describes the Diverse Provider Model implemented in Philadelphia from 2002-2008, and the shifts in practices by many outside providers away from distinction and toward alignment with the district approach. Drawing on institutional theory, we examine possible explanations for these shifts, including the particular structures and incentives in Philadelphia and discuss what can be learned about the prospects for innovation through outside providers.
Descriptors: School Choice, Public Schools, Educational Innovation, Privatization, Educational Practices, Theories, Urban Schools, Governance, Organizational Theories, Portfolios (Background Materials), School Districts, Longitudinal Studies, Interviews, Administrators, Principals, Teachers, Content Analysis, Coding, School Restructuring
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Pennsylvania
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A