The major controversial issues facing K-12 education will be identified, discussed in terms of pros and cons, and then discussed in relation to valid empirical and basic research that is available in the literature.

M. Scott Norton discusses the major controversial issues facing K-12 education, including educational standards, gun control, funding, teacher licensure, and many more. The reader will be able to determine just how the controversial issues weigh heavily on school program success and student learning. Although it will be difficult to reach a final recommendation or solution, the available research and reader's ability to become familiar with the topic will lead to a better understanding of why the controversies tend to go on and on.