Achievement gaps exist when groups of students with relatively equal ability do not achieve in school at the same levels. In fact, one group often far exceeds the achievement levels of others. Achievement gaps may be based on race or ethnicity, income levels, language background, disability status, and gender.

NEA members are working to improve achievement for all students and close the achievement gaps, particularly for low-income and minority students.

Asian Americans' academic success?
A groundbreaking report challenges long-held beliefs about Asian American and Pacific Islander students' academic success. Read more in  Facts, Not Fiction: Setting the Record Straight. From National Commission on Asian American and Pacific Islander Research in Education (CARE).

Becoming a culturally competent educator
Cultural competence is the key to thriving in culturally diverse classrooms and schools. And it can be learned, practiced, and institutionalized to better serve diverse students, their families, and their communities. But, how do you become a culturally competent educator? Here are Some Places to Start . 

Research linked to recommendations for closing achievement gaps
Two prominent scholars from the Civil Rights Project at UCLA present their papers:

» Gary Orfield's Race and Schools: The Need for Action

» Patricia Gándara's The Crisis in the Education of Latino Students