The Political Role of the American School

Empirical research is reviewed which suggests that the American school does not prepare students to participate responsibility and competently as citizens of a democratic society. Particular messages and practices of the school are identified which appear to work against the development of politically informed, motivated and skilled future citizens. Several alternative models of political socialization are critically assessed to determine why the model may be failing to perform its political role vital to a democracy. A model emphasizing the political beliefs and attitudes of classroom teachers is introduced. Implications of the model for changing existing practices and outcomes of political education are discussed.