How to solve the problem? Change these harmful policies and practices.
First, schools need to be financed by statewide tax systems, as they are in Vermontand Hawaii, instead of by local property taxes.
Second, funding should be needs-based, as it is in Hawaii and in New Jersey’s high-poverty Abbott districts, which, under a court order, receive higher per-pupil funding to equalize access to quality education. All children must be educated to high levels, regardless of family circumstance.
Finally, the teaching profession must be reformed so that all teachers — new ones and veterans — have a solid grounding in their subject areas and in appropriate teaching methods for their students. This knowledge has to be refreshed regularly. And teachers must be empowered to incorporate this knowledge into the organization of their schools, so it can reach their students.
These are big changes, but they are needed if we are truly to raise the bar on achievement for all students.
Michael Holzman is a researcher and author. He has served as consultant to numerous foundations and is the author of the Schott Foundation’s series “Public Education and Black Male Students: A State Report Card.”
Eric J. Cooper is the founder and president of the National Urban Alliance for Effective Education, a nonprofit professional development organization that provides student-focused professional development, advocacy and organizational guidance to accelerate student achievement. He can be reached at e_cooper@nuatc.org.