Black History Month

As we celebrate black history month it is crucial that we take time to not only reflect on the black history we see in America and mainstream media but also to educate ourselves on the vast history and current state of black culture in America. Some of the most worrisome statistics surround what we here at dignity revolution work to combat– achievement gaps within the school system. Black America today is filled with children being failed not only by the public education system but the greater American infrastructure. In a recent study by the National Report Card (NAEP) they surveyed eighth-graders across many public schools. The results indicate that black children are falling severely behind…  Only 9 out of 100 Black students performed at or above the NAEP proficient level in civics. Only 13 out of 100 Black students performed at or above the NAEP proficient level in math. Only 15 out of 100 Black students performed at or above the NAEP proficient level in reading (NAEP). These numbers are unacceptable and should be something any true changemaker wants to remedy. Black children unfortunately have the odds stacked against them… 

Some startling statistics:

  • 32% of black children under 18 live in poverty
  • 64% have parents whose education level is less than high school.
  • 45% live in mother-only households.
  • 35% live in father-only households

With these kinds of living situations, the ability to graduate and go on to college seems nearly inaccessible. These children need to see that they have value and their lives are worth it. They need to see more success around them so they too can be inspired to achieve. 

Sources

https://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/data/ 

https://www.nsba.org/Perspectives/2020/black-students-condition-education