Privatization in the Public School System:: a Silver Bullet or a Quick Fix?

In the past decade, many public school systems across the United States have opted to contract various services to private companies. This study will examine the advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing traditionally public sector jobs to private sector businesses. The companies that have emerged to supply the human resources to the public school systems are also examined. Particular attention is paid to the causes and benefits of privatization. Although Educational Management Organizations often target administrative positions, this research considers positions in the transportation, foodservice, custodial, maintenance, and teaching departments. Employees of public school systems may view privatization as a threat to their jobs and communities. Outsourcing, whether it be in the public school system or the manufacturing industry will no doubt have effects on local communities. Through analysis of reported data, published accounts, interviews, and the personal experiences of the author, this study addresses the effectiveness and efficiency of outsourcing compared to public administration of services within the public school system. If privatization becomes standard practice within public school systems, it may lead to dramatic changes in the infrastructure and funding of public schools.