A fresh and previously uncharted exploration of our educational system uncovers a clumsy and self-defeating "elephant in the room." Our many failed attempts at reform make it clear that we're not getting to the true, underlying sources of our difficulties. The book digs deeper than other reforms and reveals a self-destructiveness that may very well astonish you. This scientific and non-political analysis doesn't criticize school boards, teachers unions, administrators, parents, students, vouchers or charter schools. No, the problem is in the system itself. The research focuses on: Recognition of student differences. Reassessment of high-stakes testing and grading systems. Challenging the myth that all students should attend college. Matching teaching to each student's unique abilities. Opening employment opportunities for all. Showing how every child can succeed."