Academic disparities among African American students in California remain persistent, according to recent studies.
- African American students continue to rank below the state average in both English Language Arts and Math—with the statewide average at 47%
- 35% of students performed two or more grade levels below in Math
- 22% performed two or more grade levels below in English(Schools: Panama Buena Vista Union, Bakersfield High, Kern High School Districts)
BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:
“Math, English, Arts—all that type of stuff—you build your character and you learn so much.”
My’Kayla Lewis is 7 years old. My’Kayla, who was diagnosed with autism, dyslexia, and ADHD at the age of five, says she loves to learn.
However, it has not always been easy. Her mother, Tela Herbert, claims they’ve had problems with teachers and school staff since the beginning.
Tela Herbert explains, “Sometimes when you don’t have the right diagnosis, people treat you differently. They may believe it is simply a behavioral issue or that the child is being disruptive, but this is not always the case.”
Tela is not alone. According to a recent California study, African American students continue to score lower than the state average in both English Language Arts and Math—the statewide average is 47%.
Dr. Keith Woolridge, a teacher and school board trustee for Panama Buena Vista Union School District, adds, “Making sure our teams believe in our students is critical. And applying that same philosophy in the classroom. As an African American male, I know what it’s like to feel like you don’t belong, that no one believes in you.
NARRATION:
According to Dr. Woolridge, a lack of funding for programs aimed specifically at African American students contributes significantly to the achievement gap. However, there are already solutions in place within the community.
Dr. Woolridge continues, “There are programs like the Man Up Foundation that provide mentorship and tutoring to young people. Churches are also stepping up.
Nonprofits such as Grindstone Inc. are also attempting to close the gap. Gerold Gridiron, founder and educator, says his organization focuses on making education more accessible, particularly in Kern County, where disparities are stark.
Grindstone, Inc. (2022-2023 Kern County Sample Data):
- 35% of students performed two or more grade levels below in Math
- 22% performed two or more grade levels below in English
(Schools: Panama Buena Vista Union, Bakersfield High, Kern High School Districts)
According to Gerold Gridiron, “High school seniors may not even reach pre-calculus.” So when they enter college, their chances of failing are much higher than students who have had access to those subjects.”
Gridiron teaches approximately 60 students in small group settings, in stark contrast to the overcrowded classrooms that many students encounter.
Tela Herbert reports that since enrolling her daughter in Grindstone’s programs, she has noticed a significant change in her.
Tela Herbert explains, “When you raise the bar, they can reach it.” My daughter can now focus better and face challenges with more confidence—because she finally has a foundation.”
From policy changes to grassroots programs, local leaders and parents are demonstrating that investing in students, particularly those who are often overlooked, can have a global impact.
