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The Power of Early Learning
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The City of Decatur was identified as the second-wealthiest city in the state in 2023, and as having the largest wealth gap in the country. The economic disparity can be seen in CSD's achievement gap. City Schools of Decatur ranks highly in academic performance overall, but the achievement gap is wide for economically disadvantaged students, particularly in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Roughly 70% of all CSD students meet or exceed grade-level expectations, but only 23% of economically disadvantaged students meet these same standards.
Improving standardized test scores and narrowing achievement gaps across different demographic groups has historically been a challenge, as has ensuring equal access to resources, opportunities, and support for all students, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. By addressing these academic and equity challenges, the City Schools of Decatur aims to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
This achievement gap is a complex issue intertwined with economic, systemic, and social elements that create an uneven playing field for students. CSD’s Early Learning Strategy seeks to confront these academic and equity challenges in part by establishing a new early learning center.
Source: https://midb.umn.edu/news/first-1000-days-critical-time-childrens-brain-development