Achievement Gap (Boys of Baraka)

I feel that it is systematic factors that effect the "achievement gap". Several of these children grow up in areas that do not present them with the same resources of other students. Such as we saw in the film Boys of Baraka they are limited to resources because they live at a lower socioeconomic level and thus they are not afforded the same opportunities. It is unfortunate but of no surprise to me after being in this course and learning what I have learned to this point. The system is extremely harsh and it was difficult to watch the film Boys of Baraka, at many points in the film I began to tear up. I have a son who will soon be two years old and I thought about him and what kind of world he is living in. I am thankful that we are blessed but my heart hurts for those who are not as fortunate. Institutional oppression within our school systems reflects the importance of those who are in power and how they can effect minorities. Unfortunately most in power do not have the best interest of society as a whole.
I also feel that as a result of the environment the children live in individual factors come into play. Each of the young boys in the film presented adult like qualities which is a result of them having to grow up faster than they should and be men without enjoying their childhood. Their parents lifestyles and many of their living situations played a role in this.


I feel the achievement gap is yet another systematic idea set in place to keep those already down further down. You cannot measure achievement across a group of people or races without giving them the same resources to succeed to begin with! Thus there is not a true "achievement gap," just another justification for an unjust society. I agree with Steptoe's article in that teachers have to show more interest in minority students. In high school I was involved in many AP courses where I was one of the few African American students. I often felt like at times I did not receive the same guidance. I can also agree with the idea that some white parents may be more involved, however I feel that Black parents value success in education just as much but sometimes they do not have strong relationships within the community with other parents or school staff.


Coming from a biracial background I did not get the term acting white I was often told well "you aren't really black," however growing up I heard the term "acting white" directed towards my best friend. My best friend growing up was full black.She talked proper and succeeded in school. Many people would say "she talks white" or "acts white", it was always said to her in a joking way and we would all laugh. Now that I look back I never knew if it may have hurt her feelings or gave her a reason to hold back. I always saw it in a joking way but looking back now I see how stereotypes set forth in society effected our thinking at such a young age and that some people may have internalized this which in turn could have effected their behavior and achievement in school.