As we embark upon the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, I find it appropriate to take a moment to reflect on the efforts of our organization to ensure equity for all students.
Every student graduating ready for college, careers and life takes on a special meaning today knowing that over fifty years ago students were escorted into Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas to obtain the equal rights of an education. This moment began the process of “equal access” to a quality education for all.
With overwhelming data revealing continued discrepancies in achievement across student subgroups, we press forward to refine “equal access” by focusing on the equity of education for all. Not only do students need access, but they are entitled to receive the support that will help ensure their success.
We strive to answer the questions:
- How can educators compel students to engage and take ownership of their education?
- How do we assist students in overcoming the barriers and challenges they face in obtaining an education?
- How do we create a pathway where all students graduate equipped with the skills needed to live a quality life?
These questions drive the work we do at NC New Schools/Breakthrough Learning. We embrace the immortal words of Dr. King, “Education must enable a man to become more efficient, to achieve with increasing facility the legitimate goals of his life.”
