Serving Our Children

Kevin P. Chavous' recent book, Serving Our Children: Charter Schools and the Reform of American Public Education, is a groundbreaking treatment of how the charter school concept can jump start education reform in America. Mr. Chavous' book has been consistently praised by both educators and book critics.

Praise for serving our children:

"Councilman Chavous is an educational visionary of our times, with a missionary zeal to make a difference in our world and with our children.

His phrase, "innovation (in education) by any means necessary," speaks to my preference of "a Ph.Do over a Ph.D," when you are dealing with communities that are in a literal state of crisis.

In the 21st Century education will be the ultimate poverty eradication tool for our children, families and communities of color, and we should all stop at nothing to insure that our children are being provided with a 21st century educational experience without exception. This is the case that Councilman Chavous makes in "Serving our Children." Bravo Kevin Chavous. Bravo.
John Bryant, Founder
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Operation HOPE, Inc.

Education reform is a key component of rebuilding neighborhoods and empowering communities. Kevin Chavous has given us a detailed, thoughtful appraisal of charter schools and how local school autonomy can change our schools. Every educator must read this book."
-Jack Kemp

"Councilman Chavous has a hands on understanding of what parents want and children need in our nation's schools. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the courage to stand for radical common sense measures necessary to reform public education. His thoughtful treatment of the DC experience with school choice is a story that all need to hear."
-Howard Fuller

"This book is an important contribution to the continuing discussion on how the public school system can be radically changed. Of particular significance is the perspective of a person of color as to why charter schools must be considered as one of several legitimate and proven alternatives to improve academic opportunities available to minority students."
-Anthony J. Colon
Vice President, Center for Community Educational Excellence, LARAZA

"Councilmember Chavous's comprehensive look at the day-to-day practices of some of the District of Columbia's most successful charter schools offers real hope for education reform in America."
Senator Mary Landrieu

"Kevin Chavous' insights into the why's and how's of the urban charter school movement are a wonderful contribution for policymakers, educators and concerned parents. His mantra of "innovation by any means necessary" is a beacon of hope for predominately African-American school districts in Washington, D.C. And across the country. As a legislator and vocal advocate, Chavous has championed Washington's robust charter school movement. Mayors and governors grappling with urban education challenges ought to consider this required reading."
Anthony A. Williams
Mayor, District of Columbia

Kevin Chavous is a bold leader who understands that American public school systems must be as diverse in instructional environments as they are in the students who attend these schools. I applaud him for taking a risk as he ventures where few are willing to go.
Jane Smith, PhD

"Like a masterful arrangement, Councilman Kevin P. Chavous has woven together a tapestry of insightful and relevant commentary on the challenges of urban education and how the emergence of school choice offers hope for its future."
Quincy Jones

"In his role as Chair of the Education Committee of the City Council, Kevin Chavous has exhibited a rare combination of intellectual courage and commitment to social change. His book chronicles a time of upheaval and opportunity with sensitivity and good common sense."
C. Vanessa Spinner
State Education Officer

See:
www.capital-books.com
www.amazon.com