Systems Change as Interest Convergence

Abstract

This dissertation of praxis is a critical policy analysis of federal, state, and local policy artifacts with an application of interest convergence as the primary tool for analysis. This dissertation explores two pertinent case studies from the location of public school systems leadership perspectives: (1) the case of Special Education programming and funding in context with systems’ initiatives focused on language of Inclusion; and (2) the case of school choice practices within a district that offers neighborhood comprehensive schools, choice schools, and alternative or re-engagement schools. These cases both reflect how policy and funding operate across institutions under an increasingly neoliberal, capitalist context where public schools systems leaders are placed at the intersection of policy and practice and shape systemic practices and conditions within their local context.