A policy study about equity and college access: the Missouri A+ schools program

Abstract

The Outstanding Schools Act of 1993 transformed Missouri education. With the act containing several measures to improve the delivery of education in the state, a key program embedded in the text of the act is the A+ Schools Program. To many educators, this program has done more for the quality of education than any other reform effort. However, from 1997 to 2010, several issues surrounding the A+ Schools Program shifted from the original intent. The current constituents and intent seem to have diverged from the original, and not all students in the state have access to the pathways program and the opportunities college provides. The program is transformational-for those fortunate to attend an A+ designated school. For some students in rural and inner city environments, college is not accessible, and for students not served by the program, opportunities related to college access are lost. To a degree, the program promotes status quo and social inequity.