This information was supplied by Tony Watkins, M.A.A., Student, Family, and Community Supports, Albuquerque Public Schools. I am indebted for his service.
The importance of using and promoting research-based approaches is essential for increasing graduation rates . It came up recently in the context of ethnic studies programs, specifically the Mexican American Studies Program in Tucson. The program has been audited three times, and each time it has proven to be a success. Here is one study that shows its impact on graduation rates:
https://big.assets.huffingtonpost.com/Mexican-American-Studies_11.14.12.pdf
When curriculum and instruction resonated with the histories and identities of students and families, when students were equipped with a critical analysis of the root causes of inequities, and when students became advocates for themselves and their communities, graduation rates increased. The program, as many of you know, was outlawed by the State of Arizona, but is now in the process of being reinstated after advocates challenged the decision in court.
The APS family engagement policy developed by Families United for Education (attached) calls for “”¦utilizing the histories and cultures of our families as a foundation (for education)” and it calls for “equitable and effective systems”. It is my hope that Mission Graduate can help ensure its execution in our schools.