Foundations for Success: Case Studies of How Urban School Systems Improve Student Achievement

This exploratory study is a compilation of case studies conducted to see how urban districts can aid student achievement. Four urban districts were selected for this study based on their ability to show gains in student achievement: Houston Independent School District, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Sacramento Unified School District, and part of the Chancellor’s District of New York City. Data from the study districts were analyzed with findings from two comparison districts. Although many of the findings came from the elementary school level, much of the discussion is based on districtwide practices.