Achievement Gap
The Education Committee is very much aware of the gap in educational performance between children of different races and of different economic groups in Connecticut. There is an even greater achievement gap between students with disabilities and their typical peers. Despite considerable sums spent on special education over the last 45 years, that gap has not narrowed and, indeed, may have expanded. While focusing on the racial and economic achievement gap, the Legislature needs to focus as well on the huge achievement gap based on disability. The vast majority of students with disabilities are capable of progressing on grade level provided they receive proper individualized instruction and support.
