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February 2008 — Vol. 86, No. 1

7 reasons high school reform is urgently needed

 

  1. Connecticut has large achievement gaps. About 58% of grade 10 white students met goal on all four sections of the 2007 CAPT, compared with 18% of Hispanic students and 15% of black students. On the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) for grade 8 reading and math, Connecticut has the largest and second-largest achievement gaps between minority and white students. Graduation rates in urban districts are well under 50%, compared with about 88% statewide.

  2. Benchmark test scores are declining or flat. State mastery test scores are flat. SAT math and reading scores declined by 8 points each in 2006 and 2007. On the NAEP, grade 8 math and reading proficiency have not increased since 2003; science not since 2000.

  3. High numbers of Connecticut college students must take remedial courses. About 23% of Connecticut community college students are enrolled in at least one basic skills course in math or English during any semester. In some community colleges, 80% of freshmen are in at least one remedial course. The estimated costs of remedial education (fall 2005) in the Connecticut State University System and the Community College System total more than $10.8 million.

  4. High school diplomas have low economic value. The annual median income for a Connecticut employee with only a high school diploma in 2005 was $30,766 — below the $35,000–$38,000 needed to maintain a family here (U.S. Census Bureau).

  5. Graduates are unprepared for the workplace and postsecondary education. Workplace skill requirements have increased dramatically over the last two decades, while the rigor and challenge of high school academic programs have changed little. Many employers face a workforce crisis. Some manufacturers are turning away orders because they cannot find skilled workers.

  6. Approximately 100 Connecticut school districts could face sanctions under the No Child Left Behind Act by 2010-2011.

  7. Large percentages of students are dropping out of high school and entering the adult education system. These students are participating in the General Educational Development (GED) program instead of pursuing a traditional high school diploma.

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