This course will examine contemporary issues in US education through the use of economic theory and current research literature. Particular attention will be paid to the causes and consequences of the racial and socioeconomic academic achievement gap. Topics include (but are not limited to): teacher selection and evaluation, school choice, standardized testing and accountability measures, access to high-quality education, and the implications of current education reform measures. Prerequisites: Intro to Micro (Econ 103), Intro to Macro (Econ 104).