Maplewood and South Orange's Black Students Face Racial Disparities, Report Says

The South Orange-Maplewood School District is still suffering from racial disparities among its black and white students, according to a recently released report from Sage Consultants.

The report – done as part of the district’s settlement with the ACLU after allegations of racial issues in 2014 – alleges that there are several problems facing black students in South Orange and Maplewood:

• School staffs don’t match the racial makeup of their students
• There may be defacto racial segregation existing in the district
• Black students are suspended at a higher rate than their counterparts
• Black students suffer from placement disparities beginning in middle school

During Monday’s Board of Education meeting, Sage Consultant Thelma Ramsey told board members that the district’s data was limited and incomplete, and recommended that the district focus on consolidating information in the future.

According to The Village Green:

“Ramsey suggested, among other strategies, that the district increase recruitment and retention efforts for staff members of color… Ramsey also recommended a district action plan that would detail specific changes ahead… She also asked the district to better broadcast opportunities for AP and Honors courses.”

• See related article: NAACP Considers Suit Against South Orange-Maplewood School District