22nd Annual Student Research Conference
Adapting to Need: A Study of St. Louis Public High Schools
Amber M. Jones
Dr. Elaine McDuff, Faculty Mentor
This is a study of St. Louis schools to identify and compare programs and curriculum specifically geared to address challenges to achievement faced by low income students. Three St. Louis schools were chosen to participate in the study. Educators were asked about programs and curriculum, the philosophy behind such programs, and their levels of success. The four main criteria used to evaluate the results are: if the programs create and/or support high expectations, continual positive reinforcement, compliance with a mission statement, and how long the program has been in effect (Stringer, M.A.T.C.H). Secondary criteria included: tutoring/ one-on-one help, collaboration with local universities, and support for teachers and faculty (Stringer, Borman). Interviews showed that low income student achievement was a concern however no programs were specifically designed for them. The programs that were in place were successful in all of the primary criteria but few had elements of the secondary criteria.
Keywords: low income students, St. Louis school district, socioeconomic achievement gap
Topic(s):Education
Sociology/Anthropology
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 7-1
Location: VH 1320
Time: 8:15