A recent LinkedIn study revealed that nearly 70% of American jobs require a bachelor's degree. The pivotal role of higher education in shaping future generations cannot be overstated. And yet, only one in four Black New Yorkers hold a college degree compared to 64% of white New Yorkers. This stark contrast not only translates to limited access to professional opportunities but also hinders long-term career prospects and lifetime earnings. This disparity highlights the urgent need for a focus on a college-prep education for all students.
According to the Brookings Institution, studies show that without a college degree, children born in the lowest fifth of the income distribution have a 45% chance of staying in the bottom, and just a 5% chance of moving to the top. However, with a college degree, their prospects improve dramatically: their chances of making it to the top rise to 19%, while the likelihood of leaving the bottom boosts to 84%, highlighting the transformative power of education.
To prepare students for the future, schools today need to urgently focus on building college-prep curriculums that provide the necessary rigor to enable students to achieve success in higher education and gain access to the vast career opportunities they may pursue. Unfortunately, a college-prep education remains out of reach for many students, particularly those within our underserved and low-income communities.
For instance, Black and Latinx students in urban areas often face significant economic barriers to accessing high-quality education, which hinders their prospects. At Brooklyn LAB, 98% of our students identify as people of color and close to 80% come from disadvantaged communities. The average Black or Latinx household earns about half of what the average white household earns. These disparities impact our students’ futures, their earning potential, and the economic stability of their communities.
Our world is evolving rapidly, demanding more from our students than ever before. Future jobs and success require a combination of critical thinking, creativity and adaptability that only thorough academic preparation can provide.
Studies show that a college degree often translates into better job prospects, improved health outcomes, and an enhanced quality of life. By prioritizing college preparation, schools can empower students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in a higher education setting and to aspire for more despite their background. We can show our students that no matter their race, socio-economic status, or zip code, they can learn and achieve at high levels if given the right support.
Critics argue that focusing exclusively on college readiness puts too much pressure and marginalizes students who may not see themselves in a traditional college setting. However, this perspective misses the point. Too many believe that children of color can’t succeed in college and beyond because our society has reinforced a culture of low expectations, preventing all students from accessing the environments and opportunities that push them to succeed.
Focusing on college goes beyond simply meeting academic requirements; it encompasses emotional support, mentorship and exposure to a wealth of opportunities. College prep is designed to empower every student, ensuring they are not only ready for the rigors of college academics but are also equipped with vital life skills that will serve them well beyond their educational journey.
A commitment to a college-prep curriculum not only prepares students for a bright future but also instills the belief that no one should be locked out of the American dream.
Dr. Garland Thomas-McDavid is the chief executive officer of Brooklyn LAB Charter School, a sixth to 12th grade charter school in New York. A Brooklyn native, Dr. Thomas-McDavid returned home in 2022 to run Lab after over two decades leading schools in Chicago.
