Through the Voices of a School’s Community: Measuring Equity of Opportunity Within and Between Communities (Poster 12)

• In Event: Sunday Poster Session 11:25 am
  In Poster Session: Research, Methodology, and Data Analysis in Family, School, Community Partnerships

Abstract

In order to make equity-orientated, inclusive, and data-informed decisions, school leaders must hear the voices of parents and community members across varied segments of the population. This study explores the shared and differing understandings community members hold of the role of a school in a community and the equity of opportunity provided by that school. We conduct focus groups with school and community leaders in districts (i.e., board members, childcare providers, religious leaders, etc.) and then distribute a survey to collect the responses of the larger school-community. Through these mixed methods case studies, we aim to stimulate actionable decisions to enhance communication, interaction, and empowerment such that districts are responsive to needs across the entire community.

Authors

• Kristie LeBeau, Harvard University

• Hope G. Casto, Skidmore College

• John W. Sipple, Cornell University