A Multicase Study of Local Church Leaders\u27 Perceived Impact on Reducing Inequity in Majority-Minority Urban Schools

The purpose of this multi-case study was to explore the local churches’ perceived impact on reducing education inequity in majority-minority urban schools in the northeast and mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. In this research, education inequity is generally defined as the lack of academic resources such as school funding, experienced teachers, and technology in a community that has been historically excluded. This study was guided by social capital theory as it relates to education and how they influence community and parental involvement levels and investments that impact educational success. The research questions are as follows: (1) How do local church leaders perceive the impact of their partnership on improving educational equity and lowering the achievement gap in local schools? (2) Why do local churches provide services and resources to support educational equity? What are the experiences, barriers, and successes? (3) Why do factors such as faith and family significantly impact school outcomes? This study will be bound to local churches and school districts in the Northeast regions of the United States. The sample was composed of 8 participants from three churches and faith-based nonprofits. Data collection included individual interviews, a focus group, and surveys. Data analysis was conducted using pattern-matching logic, coding, and transcripts interpretation