Questions About LAUSD's Black Student Achievement Program
The Los Angeles Unified School District's Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP) has received significant funding increases, but questions remain about its effectiveness and measurable outcomes. The program recently received an additional $25 million allocation, bringing total funding to approximately $175 million since its inception.
What Does the Program Do?
According to recent reporting, the Black Student Achievement Program is "less geared toward direct academic support" and instead focuses on:
Additional counseling services
Restorative justice staff
Cultural activities
Field trips to historically black colleges and universities
Social events and community-building activities
The program operates across roughly 50 LAUSD campuses, serving a student population where Black students make up 7% of the district.
Key Concerns Raised
Lack of Clear Academic Metrics: Critics question how the program's success will be measured, particularly since it explicitly states it's not focused on direct academic support. This raises questions about accountability for the substantial taxpayer investment.
Limited Visibility: Some parents and community members report being unaware of the program's activities at their schools, despite the significant funding allocation.
Achievement Gap Persistence: While the program aims to close achievement gaps between Black and non-Black students, recent data shows Black students continue to lag behind in graduation rates and academic performance.
Program Scope and Funding
The program has grown significantly since its board approval in 2021, with schools including:
Fairfax High School
Hamilton High School
Dorsey High School
King/Drew Magnet High School
Various middle schools across the district
Community Input Needed
Parents and students in LAUSD schools are being asked to share their experiences with the Black Student Achievement Program. Questions include:
Are you aware of BSAP activities at your school?
How do students learn about and get involved in the program?
What specific benefits have you observed?
The program has faced some opposition from parent groups who argued it discriminated against students of other races, leading to some modifications. However, the district maintains its commitment to supporting all students while addressing specific needs within the Black student community.
With such substantial funding allocated, the community deserves transparency about how these resources are being used and what measurable outcomes are being achieved.
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