Street-Level Democrats: Realizing the Potential of School, University, and Community Coalitions

Abstract

Faculty members pursue external grants to support educational initiatives, but must do so mindfully because grants inadvertently can undermine core instructional activities. To reach full leadership potential, faculty members should act as “street-level democrats,” focused on the needs of students, teachers, and the communities served. This article illustrates how the leaders of the Massachusetts Coalition for Teacher Quality and Student Achievement used this concept to enhance the preparation of student teachers to work in urban school systems.