Mathematically Maintained Inequality: Racialized Organizations and Selective Organizational Change

• In Event: Tracking Inequity: Ability Grouping and Institutions

Abstract

Organizational change for socioeconomic and racial equity is often theorized as all-or-nothing, yet change can be selective. Here, we interrogate the case of a school that detracked mathematics placements by SES but not by race/ethnicity. Using survey and achievement data (n=1285), 998 observation hours, and 69 interviews, we find selective change resolves contradictory pressures and maintains organizational legitimacy—through “neutral” detracking policies that disadvantage Black and Latinx students; the construction of mathematics as an “exception”; and acquiescence to external pressures constituting a racialized organizational field. Overall, we show how and why organizations maintain racial inequity, even as they change.

Authors

• Cassidy Puckett, Emory University

• Brian E. Gravel, Tufts University