Photo by Kristen Joy Emack.
We’ve been long aware of persistent gaps in opportunities for Black and Brown students in Cambridge. The most recent data in our new research report is a stark call to action.
The gaps appear as early as third grade when 44% of Black students and 59% of Latinx learners meet or exceed grade-level expectations in state testing compared to 80% of their white and Asian peers. These gaps are baked into the system which only sets 47% proficiency as a goal for Black students. And just over a third of Black residents aged 25-64 have a bachelor’s degree or higher, yet 80% of the city’s total population holds at least a bachelor’s degree and more than 60% hold a master’s or higher.
So we’re asking ourselves, Why are we still here? And, most importantly, what are we going to do about it?
Next week, these questions drive our two-part virtual forum featuring local leaders, held in partnership with My Brother’s Keeper Cambridge Task Force. Learn more below and please RSVP to join us.
Part One:
Wednesday, May 19, 8 to 9:30am: “Educational Disparities in Cambridge Schools: Why are we still here?” Our Board Member Lori Lander hosts this conversation on the persistent lag in education goals for and achievement by Black and Brown students in Cambridge Public Schools, featuring school and civic leaders who have tackled these issues in the past and the present.
Part Two:
Thursday, May 20, 6:30 to 8pm: “Educational Disparities in Cambridge Schools: What are we going to do about it? The clock starts now!” As part of its Public Square series, MBK Cambridge moves the conversation toward action. What can we start doing NOW so that we see measurable progress within three years? Join local leaders in conversation.
