Present and Past provides a critical analysis of major public school issues. The narrative is organized around problems created in the public schools by a lack of social justice in the broader society. Rather than a chronological treatment of educational history, historical incidents and case studies are used to provide perspectives on crucial issues. The author's point of view is explicit, but throughout the text, he invites challenges to his interpretation by his readers.
"Clinton B. Allison...has produced a welcome volume in the third genre of history of education textbooks: a highly accessible, spirited, thoughtful volume that has the potential not merely to hold the interest of undergraduate students, but even to kindle genuine engagement." (Ronald E. Butchart, History of Education Quarterly)