Reading and Writing Achievement

The struggle to ensure that Black and Hispanic American students achieve in reading and writing continues in 2018.  In a recent report, State of America’s Children, 2014, are abysmal statistics.  “Almost 75% of fourth and eighth grade Black and Hispanic public-school students could not read or write at grade level.”   Since reading and writing are basically the same topics, much work, still, must be done to alter this negative phenomenon, especially, since the digital era is a powerful force in their lives.

Cultural accommodation without interference is necessary to help our children of color progress in these subjects.  Since the inception of American education, Black and Hispanic students have experienced literature segregation.  Not only is it important for Black and Hispanic American students to achieve proficiency in reading and writing, they must be exposed to literature pertaining to their cultural lifestyle and history in abundance.  To deny them is a rejection of their very existence and negatively impacts their love for reading and writing and high proficiency standards.

Also, it is important to realize who is culturally accommodating them in learningrooms.  I believe professionals who are knowledgeable about Black and Hispanic American history and lifestyle are sensitive to their needs should be their teachers.  Currently, cultural accommodation is treated as a side-kick or supplemental instruction.  Change must occur soon and very soon.

Renee Coates-Smith, M.Ed.