On April 4, 2008 the Sheff v. O’Neill Stipulation and Proposed Order was discussed in order to meet the goals that would decrease racial, ethnic, and economic isolation in Hartford public schools. Originally these goals were set in Phase 1 of the stipulation, however failed in June of 2007. As new ideas were set in order to change Hartford Public Schools, the first goal was to “increase the number of Hartford resident minority students in a reduced isolation education setting” (5). Starting from the 2008-2009 school year continuing through the 2013-2014 year, it was goal that at least 80% of the demand of minority students were placed into those settings. In order to reach those specific goals Voluntary Interdistrict Programs were designed to reduce desegregation. Such programs include magnet, charter, vocational, technical and open choice schools that “Hartford minority students shall have readily available opportunities to submit an approved application for placement” (6).
The state had set up a goal measurement plan by reviewing the requests of seats in Voluntary Interdistrict Programs by minority students of Hartford in April of the third year then again in November of the fourth year. If less than 65% of seats for minority students are not met then the State along with the Regional School Choice Office will make slight changes to the Comprehensive Management Plan. The CMP itself contains many goals, which include academic and social support services for participating students, summer programs, and most importantly the opportunity for students to enjoy their education in nonracially isolated schools (10-12). Established by the State, the Sheff Office was responsible to create, develop and oversee the CMP as well as monitor and strategize for the progress of reducing isolation of the Hartford minority students; also known as “Sheff programing”, which include opening and expanding new inter-district and magnet schools (12-13). In order to recognize the status of Phase II both parties agreed upon quarterly meetings and annual conferences to discuss any updates, obstacles or achievements that have been made.
Discussion Questions
- How is Phase II different from the previous stipulations that have failed in the past?
- How can reduction in racial isolation effect student performance?
- Is a five year plan enough time to implement all of the stipulations goals?