The Costs of Conflict: The Fiscal Impact of Culturally Divisive Conflict on Public Schools in the United States
by John Rogers, Rachel White, Robert Shand, and Joseph Kahne
This study examines the extent to which school districts and superintendents are experiencing culturally divisive conflict and the costs of such conflict incurred by school districts during the 2023-24 school year. Our measures assess conflict that violates democratic principles, with a particular emphasis on threatening behavior, violent rhetoric, and the spread of misinformation. Culturally divisive conflict differs from political contention in education more broadly. There will always be different viewpoints in a diverse society about the purpose of public education and how schools should advance societal goals. Such disagreement is not just inevitable but also potentially a source for democratic engagement. Yet, the project of democratic governance requires shared commitments to acknowledging the dignity of all community members, embracing respectful dialogue, evidence-based decision-making, and engaging others with mutual respect and civil discourse. It is vital for educational leaders and for the broader public to work to diminish the opportunities for conflict entrepreneurs to disrupt, distract, and gain power. Rejecting conflict entrepreneurs would help ensure that community members communicate their disagreements in a manner consistent with democratic principles. Additionally, such action would save a great deal of money that could then be spent to support our schools.
Selected Press
Los Angeles Times: Opinion: The fights over culturally divisive issues in schools? They cost billions that could be spent helping kids
The Guardian: US public schools burned up nearly $3.2bn fending off rightwing culture attacks – report
Education Week: How the Culture Wars Are Costing Schools Billions