Research Library
All Students Reaching the Top: Strategies for Closing Academic Achievement Gaps
Author: Bennett, A.
Publisher: Learning Point
Publication Date: 2004
Summary or Abstract: This report was prepared by the National Study Group for the Affirmative Development of Academic Ability to address academic underperformance of students of color. The report recognizes academic ability as a “malleable ability” and that closing the achievement gap necessitates the affirmative development of academic ability and promotion of intellective competence through interventions in homes, communities, and schools including 1) high-quality teaching and instruction in classrooms, 2) trusting relationships in schools, and 3) supports for pro-academic behavior in schools and communities. The competencies discussed in the report focus not only on what learners need to know and know how to do, but also on what learners are to be and become as members of humane communities. National, state, and local recommendations are offered. A glossary is also included in the report defining such terms as affirmative development, intellective competence, and academic intellective.