Latino Education Equity Index: The Latino Education Equity Index
The future of the United States and the well-being of all Americans depend on the quality of education that our nation’s children receive. Achieving the American ideal of a society in which there is equal opportunity for all depends on access to high quality learning opportunities and resources that is universal and equitable. We know, however, that we are still far from that ideal, and that there are major differences in both educational opportunities and achievement associated with race, ethnicity and the economic circumstances of students’ families.
Latinos are the fastest growing segment of the US population, but historically have been among the least-well-served by schools. Modest progress is being made in improving educational outcomes for students from all backgrounds, including Latinos, but major gaps in achievement remain, as measured by test scores and in high school and college completion rates. These gaps in educational outcomes seriously limit the life prospects and future earnings potential of Latinos. Further, unless progress is greatly accelerated in narrowing the gaps, the enormous potential contribution of Latinos to the nation’s economic and cultural life will not be realized to its full potential.
