School residential segregation

2006
united states

School residential segregation refers to the separation of students based on their residential location or neighborhood. This segregation occurs when students from different socioeconomic backgrounds and racial or ethnic groups are concentrated in specific neighborhoods or communities, leading to unequal access to quality education.

Residential segregation can be both socioeconomic and racial/ethnic in nature. Socioeconomic segregation refers to the clustering of students from similar income levels or socioeconomic statuses in specific neighborhoods. This can result in schools in low-income neighborhoods having fewer resources and less funding, leading to lower-quality education compared to their counterparts in wealthier areas.

Racial and ethnic segregation occurs when students from different racial or ethnic backgrounds are concentrated in specific neighborhoods. This segregation can lead to disparities in educational opportunities, as schools in racially segregated areas may have limited resources, less-experienced teachers, and higher student-to-teacher ratios compared to schools in more diverse or affluent areas. This can result in unequal educational outcomes and perpetuate educational and socioeconomic inequalities.

Residential segregation is influenced by historical and ongoing factors such as discriminatory housing practices, redlining, and socioeconomic disparities. Additionally, the self-segregation of families based on socioeconomic or racial/ethnic backgrounds also contributes to residential segregation.

Efforts to address school residential segregation include implementing policies to promote fair housing practices, providing transportation options to allow students to attend schools outside their residential zones, and promoting diversity and integration in schools. These efforts aim to ensure that all students have access to quality education regardless of their residential location. However, achieving true residential integration and eliminating school residential segregation remains a complex and ongoing challenge.

Further reading

Mouw T.; Entwisle B. (2006) "Residential segregation and interracial friendship in schools", American Journal of Sociology, 112(2), pp. 394-441. . DOI: 10.1086/506415