History of Racial Inequality
Throughout history, racial inequality in education has been a prevalent issue. As late as the 1960s, Native American, Latino and African-American students were educated in entirely segregated schools. Those schools were funded at a much lower rate than schools where white students attended. Even in recent times, almost two thirds of minority students attended a school where they were the minority. Data prepared in New York, Alabama, Texas and other states have uncovered undeniable data that schools who have a greater number of colored students have less resources for teachers, course offerings and sports. Darling-Hammond, Linda. “Unequal Opportunity: Race and Education.” Brookings, Brookings, 28 July 2016, www.brookings.edu/articles/unequal-opportunity-race-and-education/. It is an unfortunate fact that economically, minorities have suffered from lack of equality in education throughout history.
Why Money Matters
It has been argued that money doesn’t make a difference in the terms of quality of education. However, studies have shown that money makes all the difference. Darling-Hammond, Linda. “Unequal Opportunity: Race and Education.” Brookings, Brookings, 28 July 2016, www.brookings.edu/articles/unequal-opportunity-race-and-education/. When there is less money, schools cannot afford to hire more qualified teachers for classes. There are also less teachers in general, which makes class sizes larger. Larger class sizes mean that each student receives less one on one attention, which can lead to students becoming frustrated and struggling. When there is a lack of money, sports equipment and textbooks may hardly be refreshed. A lack of equipment can lead to safety concerns, while old textbooks can provide outdated information that isn’t challenging enough.
It cannot be denied that money matters to a school. Of course, that money has to be well spent, but not every school is receiving a budget that is easily worked within and that harms minorities most of all.
How To Change Things
It is more than possible to change how things are done in the school system. States can take steps to level out the budget for each district. Add benefits for educators to get degrees in subjects that lack subjects. In fact, raising teachers salaries across the board would make the job more appealing and raise the quality of applicants. In certain schools were some areas like sports are highly favored over others, adjust how the budget is allocated. Devote the needed dollar amount to making sure textbooks and curriculum is up to date. Accurate information and challenging classwork will help students succeed.
There is no doubt that it is possible to change things. It will take work, but the issue matters. Everyone, no matter their skin color, deserves an education that will allow them to succeed.
