Our graduation rates, MCAS scores, and student discipline data all show a significant disparity for our students of color, English Language Learners, economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities. These students deserve better from our school system. 

​

• In the state’s 2019 annual accountability survey, Arlington’s overall score was just 71% and for the subgroup “special education” we scored only 51%. These students include all of our children with IEP’s, representing 15% of the student population. This includes almost 1000 of our students.

• Our students of color make up 30% of the student population yet 50-60% of our suspensions.

• 30% of our student population identify as people of color; however less than 10% of our educators identify as people of color. Kids need to be able to see themselves reflected in their educators in order to visualize their own potential. To ensure equal educational outcomes and to address the disparity gaps in our school system, we need to provide our students with role models who can identify with our students’ cultures and experiences.

• Arlington prides itself on an incredible district wide  96% graduation rate. However data shows that graduation rates are significantly lower for our high needs students and as low as 79% for our economically disadvantaged students.

​

 As your school committee member I will advocate for: 

• prioritizing Superintendent candidates with a proven track record of tackling disparity issues in their prior districts

• social emotional learning measurements to be worked into student progress reports

• executive functioning skills support for all of our students

• an appropriate intervention and early identification plan for addressing the needs of our struggling readers, per the new dyslexia bill that passed last year

• pursuing  alternative disciplinary action for students who are caught vaping, which currently accounts for the majority of APS suspensions