Achieving Equity for Latino Students

Despite their numbers, Latinos continue to lack full and equal participation in all facets of American life, including education. This book provides a critical discussion of the role that select K–12 educational policies have and continue to play in failing Latino students. The author draws upon institutional, national, and statewide data, as well as interviews with students, teachers, and college administrators, to explore the role that public policies play in educating Latino students. The book concludes with specific recommendations that aim to raise achievement, college transition rates, and success among Latino students from preschool through college.

Chapters cover high dropout rates, access to college-preparation resources, testing and accountability, financial aid, the DREAM Act, and affirmative action.

Frances Contreras is an associate professor of Higher Education in the area of Leadership and Policy Studies in the College of Education, University of Washington in Seattle.

“This very readable book combines rigorous scholarship with clearly stated policy recommendations."
—Jorge Chapa, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign

“A compelling and comprehensive picture for the collective need to invest fully in the education of our Latino youth.”
—James M. Montoya, The College Board

“This book offers valuable insights and productive recommendations for addressing a critically important topic: how to improve educational equity for Latinos, one of our nation's fastest-growing but most-underserved populations.”
—Laura Perna, Professor, Graduate School of Education, University of Pennsylvania