Strengthening the Assessment Trajectory: Engaging Educators in the Policy Process. Making a Measurable Difference: Case Studies from the High-Quality Assessment Project.

Opportunity gaps have plagued American education for decades. The gaps are widening, not shrinking, as economic inequality increases in U.S. society. This study draws together themes and actions taken by schools and teachers who are outliers on that trajectory: those who manage to reduce the effects of opportunity gaps in education, supporting their students to success and achievement beyond the expected. No single heroic teacher can eliminate these effects, but schools and districts, working together as a coherent system, can soften the blows and help students reach their full potential as students, as graduates, and citizens.