It&rsquo;s fantastic to see stories like this.  Perhaps now more than ever we need to be motivated by results-oriented good news rather than deflating negative data.

We should learn from the success of Jumoke Academy and look for ways to replicate their success in more of our communities across the state.

Nonetheless, to get to the heart of the achievement gap issue, we have to consider societal change.  The problem has to be attacked from multiple angles and in a comprehensive and fundamental way.  Entire communities must be mobilized in support of educational initiatives because the problem affects not just the kids, but the long term success of the community.

Part of the challenge is that we are getting into battle too late in the game.  By the time kids are in their teens, the patterns of success or failure are well established.  

There is a lot of research that investment in early childhood education is an extremely efficient method of tackling this kind of challenge.  Perhaps this is where we need to get started (while continuing the great and creative work of schools like the Jumoke Academy and the Trailblazer&rsquo;s Academy in Stamford).

Michael Johnston
CEO
United Way of Western Connecticut