A New Optimism for Zip Code and Destiny: Promises and Limitations of Middle School Reform in Areas of Concentrated Poverty

Abstract

This paper begins with the meaning and trends concerning educational disadvantage and high-poverty schools. I then provide an explanation for some of the factors—both external and internal to schools—that contribute to formation and persistence of the learning and developmental gap. Although an extensive amount of literature praises early childhood intervention as the most promising way to improve educational opportunities and life outcomes of poor children, this paper focuses on the need to provide children with an excellent education at all stages of their public school career. Research has shown that middle school—6th through 8th grade—is a crucial time in determining a child's future successes. Intervention, high quality instruction and an overall positive school experience can have a huge impact on a student at this stage. The second half of the paper identifies and explains school reform efforts that are most promising for middle school students in high poverty communities, and provides moral and economic justifications for these reforms. [From Introduction]