Anne Arundel County, MD — Leaders of Anne Arundel County and Anne Arundel County Public Schools are taking aim at the achievement gap between students in the county. Of particular concern is the gap between white and African-American students.
AACPS Superintendent George Arlotto and County Executive Steuart Pittman are joining forces in an effort to identify and find solutions to fix the problem.
The Joint Initiative to Eliminate the Achievement Gap will include school system and county employees, parents, and community members who will collaborate on recommendations to eradicate gaps between student groups.
“There are many parts of this issue that we have been attacking in our schools through a variety of departments,” Dr. Arlotto said. “We must – and we will – continue that work.”
Arlotto acknowledged that factors outside of school contribute to the gap. “We are thrilled that County Executive Pittman recognizes that and is willing to invest time and resources in this critical conversation.”
They school system partnered previously with the county to tackle mental health issues facing children.
“Closing the achievement gap, particularly between white and African-American students, is a longstanding goal that we have failed to achieve despite ongoing efforts by our school system, our NAACP, and community leaders,” County Executive Pittman said. “Giving up is not an option. Instead, we are bringing together the best minds in the field, from both education and community, to identify and initiate updated strategies.”
Dr. Arlotto and County Executive Pittman will launch the initiative with a community meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, September 23, 2019, in the auditorium at Arundel High School, located at 1001 Annapolis Road in Gambrills.
School system and county data related to the issue will be presented, and those in attendance will have opportunity to identify key issues and provide input on next steps.