A Tale of Two Cities: The Impact of School Rezoning on Black Students in Iowa

• In Event: Rezoning, Demographic Change, and Segregation in Diverse U.S. Cities

Abstract

School attendance zones encompass neighborhoods, creating schools that replicate community demographics. In the Parents Involved (2007) case, Justice Kennedy suggested that school rezoning be a tool for school integration. This case study uses two small, urban districts experiencing demographic change to investigate implementation of school rezoning and the impact on Black students. Data sources include publicly available policy documents, interviews with district administrators of color, and achievement data. Using critical policy analysis, findings indicate evidence of power and privilege (White Flight in the districts; burden for busing on students of color) as well as resistance to dominant power structures (via local elections and community forums). Findings can inform research on the ongoing avoidance of race-conscious educational policies.

Authors

• Ain A. Grooms, The University of Iowa

• Dong Hoon Shin