Smart School Reforms Can Benefit African American Students

Dan Lips / December 23, 2009

Writing on Townhall.com, Dr. Walter Williams asks an important question: “What’s to be done about this tragic state of black education?”

Williams highlights the shockingly low test scores of students in predominantly African American cities like Detroit, where only 3 percent of 4th grade students scored proficient on the NAEP exam. He also examines a number of problems that contribute to the failing condition of black education in America, including: too much trust in the education establishment’s favored—but unsuccessful—policy solutions (including more school funding and teacher pay), a lack of parental and student commitment to education, and a shortage of talented teachers.

Unfortunately, Williams sees little reason for hope: “Prospects for improvement in black education are not likely given the cozy relationship between black politicians, civil rights organizations and teacher unions.” (more…)