Achievement Gap

The achievement gap is one of the most talked about issues in U.S. education. It shows up in grades, standardized test scores, course selection, dropout rates, and college completion. This book argues that the focus on the gap is misplaced. Today, we need to look at the societal factors that have accumulated over time and have resulted in poverty level pay for teachers, lack of resources in out poorest schools and an abundance of children entering our schools unprepared. Dr. Wages has written a detailed, well documented book that can serve as an informative resource to create an awareness of the multidimensional and complex issues of poverty.

Once again Dr. Wages has shown me how limiting my paradigms have been.    Diversity goes beyond race, gender, sexual orientation, and family – it includes socioeconomic diversity.  All Americans need to focus on reducing the achievement gap.  The tips and tools in this book should be practiced by society, and employers as well as educators and parents.  America can reduce the achievement gap when we reduce our fear of people who are different from us.  We need to move from tolerance and acceptance of differences to a connected, supportive society.  It takes more than financial resources, it takes emotional and time commitments from all of us., Bridging together the barriers children face during their educational paths is critical in determining the discrepancies between levels of educational achievement in the public school system. The Achievement Gap clearly identifies obstacles specifically related to the academic success of children. Supported by relevant national statistics, Wages has created a tool which educators can easily understand and implement. The impact of poverty, family issues and ethnicity are thoroughly discussed, as is the long term affects on these students. Once these students are identified by teachers, this text can be used as a guide through the many suggestions regarding teaching methods and learning concepts. This book is an exceptional addition to the body of knowledge offered focusing on the achievement gap of our children. The diversity within these pages lends itself to be used in professional development seminars, university courses and in areas of social work. The experiences of the author are apparent in her writings as is her use of current research and data. This is a definite read not only for teachers, but anyone working with children.

Dr. Michele Wages has served in the Public Education System for 30 years serving in a variety of capacities. Currently she is an Assistant professor teaching reading development, literacy diagnosis and social studies to elementary education majors.