FAIRFAX, Va.
A new report from The College Fund/UNCF says that
African American students begin school eagerly and score about as well
as white students on tests of verbal memory and social and
developmental skills. But for many, the fourth grade marks the
beginning of a downward academic spiral.
The findings, released early this month, are compiled in a new,
370-page reference book devoted to pre-school, primary, and secondary
education of African American students. It is the second volume of a
three-part portrait of African Americans and education. According to
College Fund president and CEO, William H. Gray III, volume II of The
African American Education Data Book is less encouraging than the first
volume, devoted to higher and adult education. Volume III, which will
focus on school-to-work and college trends, is expected to be released
in August, said Dr. Michael T. Nettles, executive director of the
Frederick Patterson Research Institute, the research arm of The College
Fund/UNCF.
Volume II of the Data Book series explores the attitudes and social
behavior of African American students in relation to their educational
advancement. Parental involvement, school safety, teacher preparation,
television viewing, and economic disadvantage are among a number of
factors identified as key to the educational experience of African
Americans.
“When measured against high standards, as on the National Assessment
of Educational Progress, far too many Black children fall short,” said
Nettles.
According to Gray, volume I, which was released in March, had more
good news. Among other things, it documented the growth in college
graduation rates among African Americans, particularly women.
“This study,” Gray said, “has more negatives. Our next task is to find out why.”
