1. Problem: Significant differences between African-American sub population in Math and other populations.
Data: AA-3rd--79%, 4th--77%, 5th--79%, 6th--57%, 7th--60%, 8th--59%, 9th--43%, 10th--49% White--3rd--90%, 4th--91%, 5th--90%, 6th--88%, 7th--84%, 8th--84%, 9th--76%, 10th--82%
Possible solutions--Thoroughly examine the Math curriculum and their delivery in the average classroom, starting at Kindergarten. Ensure that there are no biases in curriculum and methods of delivery. Find Master Teachers, those that are reaching the AA sub-pop based on data and empower them to lead others through mentoring, teaming, and professional development. Work to align Best Practices throughout the district, focusing on vocabulary instruction, stragegies for solving problems, and procedures for connecting contents. Teachers should vertically team so that ALL students make seamless transitions from grade to grade and especially from elementary to middle school.
2. Problem: Significant differences between White sub-populations and all other populations in the Dropout Rate.
Data: Dropout Rate 2006-07 White--3.7%; 2006-07 AA--6.9%
Possible Solutions: Increase parent and family involvement in the total educational experience. Encourage parents to value education so that they will encourage their children to stay in school. Create a department of counselors or other professionals whose sole job is to promote family involvement. Offer parent classes that are pertinent to their lives (Homework help, resume writing, Language courses, GED, conputer literacy). Provide bus service (school buses or passes for city buses) to and from classes, with babysitting service. Offer incentives (gift cards, part time/temporary employment)for those that meet certain attendance and achievement requirements.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
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I think that studying data gathered from outside the school environment would help in addressing these problems. It seems that a cultural influence may be stronger than what influence these students are getting from the school system. The problem with any sub group is that usually the expectations from home differ from those in the school.
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