September 19, 2007

NCES Report Indicates Some Narrowing in Minority Achievement Gaps

Gains Obtained in Key Education Areas  

WASHINGTON-- A new National Center for Education Statistics report shows that minority groups are making progress in academic achievement and enrollment.  The report, Status and Trends in the Education of Racial and Ethnic Minorities, examines the educational progress and challenges of minority students in the United States in data compiled through 2005.  While the gap in the high school completion rate has narrowed between Black and white students, the report shows no measurable change in the gap between Hispanics and whites.

“Closing the gaps among racial and ethnic groups and between students from poor and affluent families continues to be a priority for NEA.  While we are seeing some improvements, it is important that we do more to provide our students with the resources and support they need to succeed, graduate and meet the challenges of the 21st century,” said NEA President Reg Weaver.  “We must come together to ensure that all students have access to high level classes and high quality teachers.” 

The report indicates that as of 2004 minorities made up 42 percent of public pre-kindergarten through secondary school enrollment.  With the exception of Hispanics, more minority students are attending and completing preschools, public schools and postsecondary institutions. 

As of 2005, the NCES report found that the percentage of high school dropouts between the ages of 16 and 24 was highest among the Hispanic population.  Recognizing these troubling statistics, NEA launched a 12-point plan in 2006 to address the nation’s dropout epidemic.

The plan calls for mandatory high school graduation or equivalency for everyone below the age of 21; workplace options that allow parents to be involved in their children’s education; and early intervention through universal preschool and full-day kindergarten programs.

“As a society, we cannot let a child of any ethnicity or background fall through the cracks.  We must provide teachers and education support professionals with the resources and tools they need to effectively serve all children,” said Weaver .

Status and Trends in the Education of Racial and Ethnic Minorities is available at:
http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2007/minoritytrends/

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The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee
organization, representing 3.2 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education
faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers.