Do private education management organizations (EMOs) that operate entire schools have a positive effect on student learning?
Operating public schools as businesses is a relatively new phenomenon, and the data regarding the success of private EMOs is inconclusive. The largest provider, Edison Schools Inc., claims that it can do more for less, increasing student achievement while cutting operating costs. A study conducted by Western Michigan University, however, found conflicting evidence regarding the success of Edison. According to the study, data suggests that Edison students do not perform as well as the company claims in its annual reports on student performance. Researchers found only three Edison schools where students outperformed their counterparts in traditional schools. In most instances, Edison and traditional school students performed at the same level. Though it is too early to definitively judge the effects of private EMOs on student learning, it thus far appears to be more a hit-or-miss proposition.
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- Do private education management organizations (EMOs) that operate entire schools have a positive effect on student learning?
