The Race is for the Swift: An Ethnographic Study of the School Lives of High Achieving African American Female Middle School Students

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This is a comparative ethnographic study that examines the school lives of high achieving African American female students attending inner-city, suburban and charter middle schools in and around the New York City Metropolitan area, recognized for having a history of overall high student achievement, to determine school, community, family and personal factors that promote high academic achievement and attainment among the girls. This study provides valuable information to reformers currently working to improve New York City's middle schools, most of which are failing and will soon undergo reform. The researcher utilizes both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, including structured observations, focus group and semi-structured interviews, and surveys, as well as employs theme and domain analysis, to arrive at study findings.

Stream: Equity, Social Justice and Social Change; Community, Culture, Globalisation

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Dr. Donna Johnson is Associate Professor and Early Field and Clinical Practice Coordinator in the Education Department of Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York. Johnson is an educator with more than 15 years experience as a teacher, administrator, researcher and educational reformer. Dr. Johnson’s research focuses upon developing schools and capacity within schools to effectively meet the needs of the broadest cross-section of learners, particularly African American female students. In this regard, Dr. Johnson considers herself to be a Learner-centered practitioner and critical researcher.