Disparities in opportunities to learn have left thousands of Texas students — particularly Black, Latino, and students from low-income backgrounds — disconnected from school.
November 10, 2020 by EdTrust 
Texas is facing a pivotal moment. The coronavirus has negatively affected Texans’ health, economic, and educational well-being. The pandemic has exacerbated inequities that have long been issues for Texans of color and Texans from low-income backgrounds. Across the country, Black, Latino, and immigrant communities are suffering from disproportionate job losses, virus infection, and death rates. In the middle of this global health crisis, the nation is experiencing another crisis — a national reckoning on race that has been spurred by extensive protests against police brutality. Adults and young people alike are demanding more from their state and local leaders. This moment will require leaders to address the educational inequities that have existed for some time, the consequences of COVID-19 that are set to make matters worse, along with the racial injustices that students of color are facing in and outside of schools.
Disparities in opportunities to learn have left thousands of Texas students — particularly Black, Latino, and students from low-income backgrounds — disconnected from school. Once school buildings closed their doors, students and their families were separated from the educators and school communities that provide the critical supports that they need. According to a poll at the beginning of school closures, only 23% of Texas parents reported that their child’s school was connecting them to resources to help with food, housing, employment, health, and other emergency needs. A statewide survey of school districts also indicated that 17% of students lack access to high-speed internet and 30% lack adequate tablets or laptops for remote learning. These barriers, if unaddressed, will have lasting impacts on the future of young Texans.
During a typical school year, schools are not only places where students engage with curriculum; they are the center of communities. Schools provide meals, counseling, and some connect students to mental and physical health supports. To keep students and families healthy during this pandemic, many schools will not operate as usual. Nevertheless, it is critical that schools continue to play a central role, provide needed resources, and foster the positive school climates necessary to promote the mental health and academic achievement of Texas students.
