Race Matters: How Race Affects Education Opportunities

By the Annie E. Casey Foundation

November 26, 2006

Summary

We know what works to educate children — quality teachers, small classes, after-school programs. But, do we understand the educational inequality permeating our poorer school districts due to embedded racial inequity and unequal access to education?

Embedded racial inequities produce unequal opportunities for educational success. Systematic policies, practices and stereotypes work against children and youth of color to affect their opportunity for achieving educational success. We need to understand the consequences of these embedded racial inequities, how disparities are produced and how they can be eliminated to ensure that all children and youth have the same opportunity for educational success.

This is part of a comprehensive Race Matters toolkit. For more information, visit the Race Matters Institute website.

Key Race and Education Inequality Takeaway

How Does Race Affect Education Opportunities?

The wealthiest 10% of U.S. school districts spend nearly 10 times more than the poorest 10%.

Findings & Stats

Race and Education Inequality Statements & Quotations