One High School's Readiness to Address College and Career Preparation for Black, Rural Students Who Live in Poverty

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: College Access and Rural Students

Abstract

Centuries of systemic oppression caused education and workplace disparities for Black students. Communities prepare students to navigate systems of oppression to increase their chances of career success. Notably, schools are mandated to prepare students for colleges and careers and seek to influence positive economic outcomes. Research continues to indicate lower academic performance, graduation rates, and an overrepresentation in low-paying occupations for students who are Black, rural, and low-SES. These statistics paint a deficit perspective of the students and places the burden of change on them. However, rural schools are in a unique position to bring about systemic change and this qualitative study presents the findings of an assessment of one rural, high school. Implications exist for current and similar school communities.

Authors

• Janice A. Byrd, Pennsylvania State University

• Jenny L. Cureton, Kent State University