NMSI CEO on Celebrating Latinos in American Classrooms

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
 
According to NMSI CEO Sara Martinez Tucker, achievements of Latinos are not only those that we read or hear about in the media, but also extend to the important work that happens in American classrooms. In a commentary in the Fall 2014 issue of Latino Magazine, Tucker notes that we should also ask ourselves what more we can do to ensure that all Hispanics have the benefits that a good education brings.
 
NMSI is committed to expanding access to, and improving achievement in rigorous coursework among all students, no matter what their financial circumstances, race or gender. Results from our College Readiness Program show that we’re making great progress toward these goals. Based on College Board data from 2008 through 2014, the first-year increase in qualifying Advanced Placement® scores in math and science among African-American and Hispanic students participating in the program is 93 percent—nearly 9 times the national average. For female students, the increase is 79 percent—more than 10 times the national average.
 
By providing training and resources to support both students and teachers, NMSI is opening doors to college success for under-served student populations who have not had the encouragement to tackle challenging coursework in math, science and English until now. Although there is more work to be done to close achievement gaps that exist throughout American education, we are making measurable, sustainable and scalable progress in improving college and career readiness among our nation’s students.
 
Read Tucker’s full commentary in Latino Magazine.
 
*Advanced Placement is a registered trademark of the College Board.