Success Academy

Definition

Success Academy is a network of charter schools based in New York City, known for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on standardized testing. It operates within the broader context of neoliberalism and marketization of education, promoting competition among schools and parents' choice in selecting educational institutions for their children.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Success Academy was founded in 2006 by Eva Moskowitz and has since grown to become one of the largest charter school networks in New York City.
2. The network has gained attention for its high academic performance, consistently scoring above the city and state averages on standardized tests.
3. Success Academy employs a curriculum that focuses heavily on reading and math, with an extended school day and a strong emphasis on college readiness.
4. The organization has faced criticism for its approach to discipline, which some argue can be harsh and may disproportionately affect certain student populations.
5. Success Academy advocates for school choice, arguing that families should have the ability to choose schools that best meet their children's needs, aligning with neoliberal principles.

Review Questions

• How does Success Academy exemplify the principles of marketization in education?
  • Success Academy exemplifies marketization by operating as a charter school network that emphasizes parental choice and competition among schools. By positioning itself as an alternative to traditional public schools, it attracts families seeking high academic standards for their children. This competitive model aligns with neoliberal ideals by promoting a marketplace of educational options where parents can select institutions based on performance metrics like standardized test scores.
• Evaluate the impact of Success Academy's focus on standardized testing on student learning outcomes.
  • The focus on standardized testing at Success Academy has led to impressive student achievement scores that often exceed those of traditional public schools. However, this emphasis can also narrow the curriculum, prioritizing test preparation over holistic education. Critics argue that while high test scores may reflect short-term academic gains, they might not foster deeper learning or critical thinking skills necessary for long-term success.
• Assess how Success Academy's approach to education reflects broader societal debates about school choice and equity in education.
  • Success Academy's model serves as a focal point in discussions about school choice and equity. Proponents argue that it offers underserved communities access to quality education through options outside traditional public schools. Conversely, critics highlight potential inequities created by this system, suggesting that it may exacerbate educational disparities as families with more resources can navigate the choices better than those without. This tension between choice and equity remains central to current debates around educational reform.

Related terms

Charter Schools: Publicly funded schools that operate independently of the traditional public school system, often with more flexibility in curriculum and operations.

Neoliberalism: An economic and political ideology that promotes free-market capitalism, deregulation, and reduced government involvement in public services, including education.

Standardized Testing: A form of testing that uses consistent procedures for administration and scoring to measure students' performance against a set standard.