WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THE SCHOOLS OF OPPORTUNITY: HOW 19 SCHOOLS CLOSE OPPORTUNITY GAPS
Open Access
Author:
Gorgas, Jessica N
Area of Honors:
Education and Public Policy
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Dana Lynn Mitra, Thesis Supervisor Dana Lynn Mitra, Thesis Honors Advisor Mindy L Kornhaber, Faculty Reader
Keywords:
opportunity gaps equity Institutional change theory Social systems theory achievement gaps
Abstract:
Opportunity gaps address the inputs of the education system— a student’s relationship to his or her learning environment and his or her access to supports— rather than the single measure of a test score resulting in an achievement gap. A focus on addressing opportunity gaps in schools draws responsibility for student learning back upon schools rather than placing blame on students or student identities (Milner, 2012). The Schools of Opportunity Project at the National Education Policy Center recognizes public schools around the United States for enacting practices which close opportunity gaps. This paper surveys the 19 Gold recognition Schools of Opportunity for significant patterns and characteristics that allow for the adoption of these practices. The Gold recognition Schools of Opportunity shared five areas through which they altered their social system and created change: student-centered practices, strong community partnerships, an asset-based approach to diversity, strong learning culture, and commitments to clear mission and vision.