School Attendance Zone Boundary Changes and Segregation in a Suburban Black Enclave

• In Event: Who's Included and Excluded? Student Assignment Policies and Engagement Practices in Gentrifying and Segregated Systems

Abstract

This mixed methods case study examines school attendance zone boundary (AZB) changes in Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), Maryland between 1990 and 2020. Suburban school districts across the country are experiencing racial demographic change, and researchers have documented how the associated (re)drawing of AZBs can perpetuate segregation and inequity. As an affluent, majority Black suburb, PGCPS represents a unique site in which to explore how populations have changed over time and the extent to which AZB changes have contributed to segregation. Preliminary findings indicate widespread boundary changes and the existence of several segregated enclave schools. This study furthers our understanding of how AZBs shape access to educational opportunity and can help to inform more equitable future AZB changes.

Authors

• Sarah Asson, Pennsylvania State University
  Presenting Author

• Erica Frankenberg, Pennsylvania State University
  Presenting Author

• Chris Fowler, Pennsylvania State University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Ruth Krebs Buck, Pennsylvania State University
  Non-Presenting Author