From the Scholars Strategy Network, written by Colleen M. Grogan, University of Chicago.
A new generation of research on urban communities and poverty contains rich material, compelling data and fresh angles for journalists on metro beats. Much of this can be localized, and having a strong understanding of recent scholarship can deepen understanding and coverage.
As U.S. states, cities and towns seek to promote economic growth by helping to foster new businesses and innovation, universities, colleges and regional knowledge centers have become a key area of focus for policy makers. Research shows that the dynamics are complex, however.
U.S. inner-city schools often receive the lion’s share of attention from education reformers and charter school founders, but rural schools educate up to a third of America’s public school students and face challenges just as daunting as their urban counterparts.
