Will School Choice, Vouchers and Charter Schools Close the Achievement GAP?

Trenton, NJ - The Department of Education today presented results on the
New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJ ASK) and the High
School Proficiency Assessment (HSPA) for the 2010-11 school year. While
overall performance continued to hold steady or improve slightly in
nearly all grades and subjects, a persistent achievement gap remains for
economically disadvantaged, African American, and Hispanic students.
These results demonstrate the need to fully enact Governor Christie's
bold reform agenda to ensure that every student receives a quality
education and the opportunity to succeed regardless of zip code.

"We approach these results today with both confidence and humility.
Overall, New Jersey students continue to perform at extremely high
levels overall, and with few exceptions the statewide numbers continue
to inch upwards," said Acting Commissioner Cerf. "However, we have a
persistent achievement gap that leaves our economically disadvantaged,
African American, and Hispanic students far behind their peers. It is a
disgraceful legacy in New Jersey that leaves tens of thousands of
students behind each year - and has for decades. We must be honest with
ourselves and our communities about this achievement gap, and be
impatient and relentless in doing everything we can to close it once and
for all."

For more information:
http://www.state.nj.us/education/news/2012/0201test.htm