Review of Beyond Crisis: The End of Public Education In America

[Pablo Josue Mendia]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Beyond Crisis: The End of Public Education In America" by Michael P. Gurgul.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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Beyond Crisis: The End of Public Education in America by Michael P. Gurgul draws from his 35-year career in education to show parents a passionate and critical examination of America’s public school system. Gurgul's experience spans from teaching sixth graders to college students, allowing him a broad perspective on the systemic issues affecting public education.

Gurgul argues that America’s public education system is very flawed. The system’s problems are not because of a lack of resources or dedicated professionals (like teachers, administrators, etc.). Its issues are deeply rooted in the educational system, affecting students and teachers. For example, Gurgul criticizes the "one-size-fits-all" approach to education, emphasizing that teaching must be diverse to meet the needs of students. His disillusionment with the educational system has grown as the apathy among teachers, parents, administrators, and students increases. As a result, he coined the "T.J. Maxx Principle," which is the desire for many students (and some educators) to get the maximum benefit for the minimum effort.

Moreover, Gurgul laments non-accountability. He argues that excessive absenteeism, especially among lower-achieving students, and the automatic passing of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) reflect a cultural shift towards mediocrity. He suggests that the lack of accountability extends to parents and administrators (he calls them “coddlers”), who often fail to support teachers in enforcing standards and discipline.

Gurgul also addresses the impact of technology and remote learning, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. He believes that remote learning is no substitute for in-class education and criticizes the leniency shown to students during the pandemic. His traditionalist views come through strongly, as he advocates for strict discipline, enforcing dress codes, and banning phones in schools to combat distractions and promote learning.

In addition, Gurgul critiques the modern educational focus on inclusivity and diversity, expressing concerns about incorporating social and political issues (like gender identity and race) into the curriculum. He argues that such topics detract from the primary educational mission and contribute to a culture of hypersensitivity and relativism. In addition, he goes as far as considering it “emotional abuse.”

I liked that Gurgul gives us awareness of many current issues in the educational system (including overworked and underpaid workers, the carelessness of students and adults, the dependence on technology, and much more). I also liked that the book’s controversial topics would spark conversations that could be fruitful on both sides of the political spectrum. I deducted one star, however, because the book contained more than ten grammatical mistakes, which distracted me. I also deducted a star because the author seemed too close-minded, refusing to adapt to new teaching methods or compromise with opposing viewpoints. His close-mindedness (even though he had good intentions) made it difficult for me to accept his view that the educational system is “beyond crisis.” I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.

Overall, Gurgul’s personal memoir reads like a whistleblower's account. He shows his frustrating experiences and the hopeless direction of public education in America. His call to action is clear: educators, parents, and society must recognize their role in the educational system and work towards meaningful reform. I recommend this to conservative parents who want to learn about the exhausting demands of being a public educator and many of the systemic issues affecting their children. Open-minded readers who like raw accounts may enjoy it, regardless of religious or political inclinations.

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Beyond Crisis: The End of Public Education In America
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Yin Jiang]

You have given a very thorough account of the book. I almost feel as if I do not need to buy the book to read myself, as you have already explained all of it. That being said, I think that as a teacher myself I would disagree with most of the views of this book, so I am going to give it a miss. Thank you for the review!

[Areena David]

I find that reading this type of books contributes to expanding cognitive horizons, stimulates deep thinking, and offers new perspectives on various issues that impact our lives and societies.