PhD Student in Educational Leadership

The most significant problem of African American students in America’s schools is the wide achievement gap in mathematics. Achievement of minority students lags behind that of Whites and non-minority students. This research will show facts as they exist today in America’s schools relating to the achievement gap dilemma. It is well known and documented that children of color are underrepresented in gifted programs. On national assessments in mathematics, Black students ’ performance continues to lag behind that of White students, with uneven progress in closing the gap. Data collected on instructional practices indicate differences between how minority and White students are taught. The NAEP data suggest that many minority students are not experiencing instructional practices consistent with the recommendation suggested by the National Council Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). American schools must provide an adequate learning environment. The authors emphasize that we must accept the challenge in finding a solution to the most significant problems in America’s schools in the 21st century