A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION Directing the Legislative Research Commission to Study the Factors

UNOFFICIAL COPY AS OF 12/19/1811 REG. SESS.11 RS HCR 15/GA

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION directing the Legislative Research Commission to study the factors impacting the academic achievement of African-American male students in the public schools of the Commonwealth and the characteristics of schools that are effective in producing high levels of achievement for this population.

WHEREAS, education is a critical determinant of an individual's earning potential and the quality of life in American society; and

WHEREAS, many African-American male students have demonstrated their capability for achievement, resilience, and perseverance; and

WHEREAS, African-American male students are less likely to graduate from high school or to attend college than white students; and

WHEREAS, the unemployment rate for young African-American men is over twice the rate for young white, Hispanic, or Asian men; and

WHEREAS, African-American men are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system; and

WHEREAS, Kentucky's African-American males score lower on reading and mathematics on the National Assessment of Educational Progress than other groups; and

WHEREAS, African-American males are more likely than any other groups to be suspended or expelled from school; and

WHEREAS, African-American males are disproportionately represented in special education programs; and

WHEREAS, the peers of African-American males often reinforce attitudes and behaviors that are counterproductive to academic achievements; and

WHEREAS, African-American males often lack adult mentors and role models to reinforce the value of education, foster a feeling of hope, and build self-confidence; and

WHEREAS, some schools have developed and implemented successful strategies for keeping African-American male students in school and for achieving at high levels;

NOW, THEREFORE,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the Senate concurring therein:

Section 1. The Legislative Research Commission is hereby directed to study the factors impacting the academic achievement of African-American male students in the public schools of the Commonwealth and the characteristics of schools that are effective in producing high levels of achievement for this population.

Section 2. A draft of the study shall be completed by October 15, 2012, and presented to the Legislative Research Commission for disposition.

Section 3. Provisions of this Resolution to the contrary notwithstanding, the Legislative Research Commission shall have the authority to alternatively assign the issues identified herein to an interim joint committee or subcommittee thereof, and to designate a study completion date.

Page 1 of 2

HCR001510.100 - 410 - 3343GA