Discussion with Dr. John Deasy: A Remarkable Morning for KOREH L.A.
What a great way to start the week! We're inspired after breakfast at The Jewish Federation with Dr. John Deasy, the Superintendent at the Los Angeles Unified School District. Dr. Deasy joined us to discuss current district-wide initiatives and how organizations like KOREH L.A. can best partner with LAUSD to close the achievement gap between low-income and minority students and their peers. Dr. Deasy reminded us that the act of our volunteers simply being present is invaluable to the students we reach.
Dr. Deasy passionately addressed the poverty issues many LAUSD students face. A staggering 80% of all LAUSD students attend schools where more than 75% of the students live at or below the poverty line. In some areas of the district, an average of seven children live in a two-bedroom apartment, which creates an environment that is not conducive to studies. Deasy noted that poverty often prevents parents from being active participants in their children's education.
Finally, Dr. Deasy spoke about the role volunteers play in LAUSD children's lives. He mentioned that volunteers serve as important role models for children struggling with poverty issues, educational challenges, or simply, "growing pains." Along with Dr. Deasy, KOREH L.A. is so proud of our volunteers and all the work they do for the students of LAUSD!
UPDATE 1/6/12:
This month, the Albert Shanker Institute released a report titled "Revisiting That Age-Old Question: Does Money Matter in Education?", written by Rutgers professor Bruce Baker.
Baker's report confirms that spending more money does indeed have positive affects for students. In particular, more spending on education helps to close the achievement gap between various demographics of student populations. To read more about the report, please click here.
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