The African American Struggle for Secondary Schooling, 1940-1980: Closing the Graduation Gap

This comprehensive history of African American secondary education in the postwar era provides a detailed account of how African Americans narrowed the racial gap in high school completion.

The authors explore regional variations in high school attendance across the United States and examine intraracial factors that affected attendance within racial groups.

They also delve into the larger social historical context, including the national high school revolution, civil rights movement, campaigns to expand schooling, and Black migration northward.

The book highlights lessons from the past, showcasing how parents and local communities played a crucial role in the fight for access to education.

Today's major challenges, such as inner-city poverty and changing family structures, are also explored.

With a focus on the most important aspects of the book, this summary provides a compelling narrative that will captivate readers interested in African American history, education, and social justice.