Book description
Kentucky is nationally renowned for horses, bourbon, rich natural
resources, and unfortunately, hindered by a deficient educational
system. Though its reputation is not always justified, in national
rankings for grades K-12 and higher education, Kentucky consistently
ranks among the lowest states in education funding, literacy, and
student achievement. In A History of Education in Kentucky, William E.
Ellis illuminates the successes and failures of public and private
education in the commonwealth since its settlement. Ellis demonstrates
how political leaders in the nineteenth century created a culture that
devalued public education and refused to adequately fund it. He also
analyzes efforts by teachers and policy makers to enact vital reforms
and establish adequate, equal education, and discusses ongoing battles
related to religious instruction, integration, and the Kentucky
Education Reform Act (KERA). A History of Education in Kentucky is the
only up-to-date, single-volume history of education in the commonwealth.
Offering more than mere policy analysis, this comprehensive work tells
the story of passionate students, teachers, and leaders who have worked
for progress from the 1770s to the present day. Despite the prevailing
pessimism about education in Kentucky, Ellis acknowledges signs of a
vibrant educational atmosphere in the state. By advocating a better
understanding of the past, Ellis looks to the future and challenges
Kentuckians to avoid historic failures and build on their successes.
William E. Ellis, Foundation Professor Emeritus at Eastern Kentucky
University, is the author of several books, including The Kentucky River
and A History of Eastern Kentucky University. In 1999, he received the
Governor's Award for his book Robert Worth Bingham and the Southern
Mystique. He lives in Richmond, Kentucky.
