CSBA’s commitment to close the academic achievement gap is reflected in our vision that “... the futures of all children are driven by their aspirations, not bounded by their circumstances...” In order to close the achievement gap, the achievement of all students must be improved and we must accelerate the achievement of our lower achieving students.
In 2005, CSBA created five Student Issues Conference Groups as a long-term initiative to examine student achievement issues specifically related to four ethnic groups: American Indians, Asian Pacific Islanders, Blacks and Hispanics. A fifth conference group addresses student achievement issues of interest to county boards.
The conference groups will work in tandem with CSBA’s larger campaign to close the achievement gap.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Student Issues Conference Groups?
The conference groups are alliances comprised of people and districts that share an interest in working together to address the achievement and needs of these targeted groups of students:
- American Indians
- Asian Pacific Islanders
- Blacks
- Hispanics
- Students enrolled in a county-based community day or juvenile court school
Who can participate in the Student Issues Conference Groups?
- School board members and staff of districts or counties that serve significant populations of the targeted student groups.
- Any board members interested in these students.
- Higher education, research-based organizations, foundations and other interested groups.
- Interested community, business and other civic leaders.
How do I become a member of the Students Issues Conference Group?
- The conference groups are not task forces, committees or councils. No “membership” in a conference group is required; only “participation.”
How do I participate and when do the Conference Groups meet?
The conference group participants are encouraged to attend:
- Locally organized meetings of board members, district/county staff and others.
- The Student Issues Conference Group sessions and other workshops focused on student achievement during the CSBA Annual Education Conference and Trade Show.
- Other events and conferences, such as the Curriculum Institute and Celebrating Opportunities for Hispanic Students Conference to learn about strategies and programs to improve student learning.
How does CSBA support the work of the Student Issues Conference Groups?
CSBA encourages, convenes and provides support for groups of board members, districts and counties to work together to find solutions to common problems, share lessons learned and track progress over time. CSBA raises public awareness and provides information about the issues and needs of the targeted groups of students through our publications, information on our Web site, and targeted e-mail and mailings.
Please view conference group information for the Annual Education Conference and Trade Shows
Student Issues Conference Groups Brochure