Process+and+Considerations+for+Leaders



**Achievement Gap: What is it?**

Differences in academic performance among groups of students which are identified by ethnicity and income level.


 * How do school leaders address it?**

The information that follows will respond to this question and help provide a direction for addressing this within your own context.

**Recommendations to Consider as School Leaders**

__Access__ Provide high-quality prekindergarten programs Enhance the allignment of educational systems from Pre-K through post-secondary endeavors Develop partnerships (community, business, social agencies, etc.) to close the gap

__Culture and Climate__ Provide all school personnel with culturally relevant professional development Create an environment of cultural proficiency (where cross-culural interactions between stakeholders are positive and productive) Stress the importance of relationships and connectedness Recognize the impact of white privilege on student achievement





__Expectations__ Assess the current accountability system Model rigor within the curriculum and programs Focus on academic rigor Provide incentives that are relevant and impactful

__Strategies__ Provide professional development on the importance and use of data Share practices that are successful Utilize creative or micro-finance funding streams to procure resources for all students Ensure that technological integration is utilized to its potential in engaging students



[|National Center for Education Statistics - Achievement Gap]