Overcoming the Achievement Gap in America

Abstract

There are enormous economic benefits to closing achievement gaps in America, and significant economic costs if we fail. Advancing an opportunity agenda that expands equity is critical but, closing achievement gaps and raising achievement outcomes will require more than just changes within school systems. Communities must also address the social and economic factors outside the classroom that impact students' success, including the very complex issues of economic inequality and socioeconomic segregation in housing which, intersect with race and ethnicity to impact educational opportunity and outcomes.