Reducing the Achievement Gap through Curriculum Interventions
Connecticut River Academy (CTRA) is a magnet school founded to help reduce racial, ethnic and economic isolation in Hartford schools. Hartford is either contiguous or adjacent to school districts that, with one exception are virtually all-white, and without exception, are middle- or upper-class in socioeconomic composition. The educational achievement of Hartford students is not nearly as great as that of students educated in the surrounding communities. This gap is readily apparent in math courses. The majority of students entering ninth grade score two or more grade levels below the mean. Students lacking foundational skills persist in lagging behind their suburban/rural peers, jeopardizing academic success. The NCTM grant will support professional development and changes in Geometry, Algebra 1 and 2 curricula, teaching resources, and learning activities. CTRA anticipates that 80% of students will move up at least 1 or more bands in Geometry and Algebra during the next academic year.