There Is A Way To Boost Achievement of Low-Income Students

The economic divide is a big driver of educational inequality around the country and here in the Kansas City area. But does that have to be a given?

The hope is that the school of the future can narrow the opportunity gap between wealthy and low-income school districts. To a large extent, this means adding supports to help disadvantaged students. Education advocates say those interventions should include everything from ensuring students are well fed to providing mentors and assistance through outside nonprofits.

Perhaps then, as one local school leader said, our urban schools can produce a next generation of adults who can sever the link between poverty and inequity. A future where some kids don’t get left behind is hard to fathom for Gwen Grant, CEO of the Urban League of Greater Kansas City. But, as she noted in the video above, perhaps Kansas City will be different.

Take Note is Kansas City PBS’s multi-year education reporting project. In this season, we are examining all aspects of the school of the future. Keep an eye on the website and join the conversation at #TakeNoteKC.