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[quote=Anonymous]I think the  Loundon  article was spot on with the notion of deliberate action. For many AA parents, and I am a single AA mom, it is not always clear which actions matter most when looking at academic achievement for  our children- especially for our sons
 Much of the advise given at schools is frankly doesn't  matter-set rules, have a routine, make sure your child reads.... (my personal experience is that teachers assume such structures are not in place when frequently they are). In reality there is an inside scoop on  academic success that is rarely put into practice.
In terms of what makes the real difference for everyone's achievement. High expectations + high support.
 Having intentional, unflinchingly clear and high expectation and a sense of efficacy to see those expectation realized seems to be the ticket.

This is something majority parents and those of higher SES  seem to take for granted due to their access and resources.It also doesn;t hurt to have ongoing practice of  mathematical reasoning and  academic English necessary for  advancement in higher level coursework. Highly educated parents realize the extent to which math and language fluency are the gatekeepers (and confidence builders) in academic  achievement and will stop at no expense to ensure that their child has that skill sets.
However beyond the skill concern there is the social drudgery of school.I have found that my son  has faced messages from school staff that  he will not measure up. As he transitions form 8th grade at  Latin to attend Walls the only comment his MS school administrator had for him were derisive ones, which really hurt his feelings. Living a dual  reality of institutionalized low expectation and high aspirations is a BURDEN. Yet such is the schooling scene for AA males and  the most frustrating part is that it is beyond their control and yet they are blamed.
What is in my control -- talking every opportunity to  remind my kiddo not to give into other peoples BS, focus on  your goals, be confident and recognize any signs of self sabotage. Take extra classes online, I hate the fact that we still have to be in 'twice as good to get half the credit' mode but were not taking chances with the future. My son wants a  PhD in a technological field and will make it-because he will receive 100% support in reaching it. Full stop. Period end of story. 
And for those on this thred who assume that 'other' parents don't care about their children's education you may want to pull you head out of your self righteousness long enough to observe just what is happening at your child's school. Is there differential engagement and discipline being practices? Are there opportunities for all children to shine or only your precious angel?. School is a reflection of society and generally speaking the view is a bit ugly when you truly open your eyes.[/quote]

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