Giving Compass' Take:

• Panel discussions held by the United Negro College Fund focused on the importance of African-American participation in ed reforms to ensure their interests are represented. 

• How can those working in ed reform better engage minorities in their work to ensure changes benefit everyone? 

• Read about black leadership in schools. 

It’s essential for African-American students, parents, and community leaders to have a voice in education reform to overcome long-standing distrust and empower children to succeed, advocates said.

Harrell and Del Pilar spoke at panel discussions held by the United Negro College Fund to discuss a new report on African-American youths’ perception of K-12 education and how to better engage black voices in education reform efforts.

The report found:

  • 70 percent said success in school was a top priority, and 89 percent said it’s important to get a postsecondary education.
  • 65 percent felt their high schools prepared them for college.
  • 43 percent felt safe at school.
  • One-third felt their race may limit their opportunities in life.

There should be better alignment between pre-K-12 and higher education systems, and data should be used to improve outcomes — for example, showing high schools where their graduates needed remediation — and not to punish, Del Pilar said.

Other panelists suggested mentoring, a greater emphasis on college-going in early grades, and improved math education as other important steps.

Read the full article about African-American voices in ed reform by Carolyn Phenicie at The 74.