NC Achievement Gaps: Strategies & Insights for Improvement

North Carolina -- September 11, 2024: The 2023-24 Accountability Report from the North Carolina Department of

Public Instruction (NCDPI) has highlighted persistent disparities in academic performance among different student groups. 

The data shows that while overall student performance has improved in some areas, such as graduation rates and math proficiency, there remain gaps in achievement that affect many Black and Hispanic students. These trends reflect broader national patterns and call for targeted strategies to support equitable educational outcomes.

Performance Trends in North Carolina

In North Carolina, the most recent data indicates improvements in some academic areas, such as a slight increase in graduation rates and gains in math proficiency for students across the state. However, there are still notable differences in performance levels across different racial and ethnic groups. For example, while the overall percentage of students achieving grade-level proficiency has increased, students from Black and Hispanic backgrounds are less likely to meet these benchmarks compared to their White and Asian peers(NC DPI

The performance gaps observed in North Carolina are consistent with national data. Reports from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) show similar patterns of disparities in academic achievement across the country, often driven by complex factors like access to resources, varying levels of support, and differences in instructional quality. These disparities suggest the need for focused efforts to address the unique challenges faced by different student groups. (NC DPI)

Successful Strategies in Other States

Several states have implemented innovative strategies to address performance disparities and have seen positive results. These strategies provide valuable insights that could inform North Carolina's efforts:

Massachusetts: The state has invested heavily in early literacy programs, expanding access to high-quality preschool education and focusing on foundational reading skills from a young age. This approach has led to notable improvements in reading proficiency, particularly for students who were initially performing below grade level. Massachusetts' emphasis on teacher professional development and data-driven instruction has been key to narrowing achievement gaps.

Tennessee: Through the "Read to be Ready" initiative, Tennessee has targeted literacy improvement by providing extensive teacher coaching, supporting summer reading programs, and increasing funding for literacy efforts in schools. As a result, the state has observed gains in early-grade reading proficiency, particularly among students who previously struggled with literacy.

California: The state's Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) allocates additional resources to districts with higher populations of disadvantaged students. This funding model allows schools to implement tailored interventions, such as extended learning time, targeted tutoring, and socio-emotional support programs. These efforts have contributed to positive outcomes in student engagement and academic achievement.

Key Strategies for Success
The success seen in other states can be attributed to a combination of targeted strategies, including:

Early Interventions and Literacy Programs: Programs that focus on early literacy and foundational skills, as seen in Massachusetts and Tennessee, have proven effective in supporting students who may struggle academically. Expanding access to quality preschool programs and providing targeted teacher training on the science of reading can lay a strong foundation for all students.

Data-Driven Decision Making: States like California and Massachusetts have utilized student performance data to identify gaps early and to provide tailored interventions. Using data to inform decisions allows for a more targeted approach to resource allocation and support.

Equitable Funding Models: California's equitable funding approach ensures that districts with higher needs receive more resources to implement interventions that directly address barriers to learning. This model can provide a more level playing field for all students.

Extended Learning Opportunities: Florida's use of extended learning programs, such as after-school tutoring and summer learning, has demonstrated the benefits of providing additional instructional time to help students catch up academically.
Recommendations for North Carolina
To improve outcomes for students affected by achievement gaps, North Carolina could consider adopting several strategies proven successful in other states:

Expand Early Literacy and Intervention Programs: By investing in early childhood education and literacy programs, North Carolina can address achievement gaps before they widen. Providing professional development for teachers focusing on the science of reading and early interventions could significantly impact student outcomes.

Implement Equitable Funding Models: North Carolina could consider an approach similar to California's, where additional resources are allocated to schools and districts with higher needs to provide targeted support and interventions.

Adopt Data-Driven Approaches: Utilizing student performance data to drive decision-making and resource allocation can help identify gaps early and focus support where it is most needed.
Increase Access to Extended Learning Opportunities: Offering more after-school programs, summer learning, and targeted tutoring can help close gaps by providing additional instructional time for students who need it most.

Support Socio-Emotional Learning and Well-being: Providing mental health resources and creating supportive learning environments can help address non-academic barriers to learning, improving engagement and achievement for all students.

Moving Forward

While North Carolina has made some progress, there is still much work to be done to close achievement gaps and ensure all students have equal opportunities for success. By learning from successful strategies in other states and committing to data-driven, equitable, and targeted interventions, North Carolina can create a more inclusive and effective education system that meets the needs of all its students.

WNCTimes

Image: WNCTimes