Dr. Sharla Benson-Brown’s research focus is primarily qualitative in nature, with emphasis on educational issues (preschool to postsecondary). Her in-depth work on race, intergenerational inequality, social class status and macro and micro structures has led her to an awareness of the disconnect between parents of school age children of color, and the expectations of school.

Benson-Brown previously taught seventh and eighth grade social studies in South Carolina’s public schools. For the past two years she has been the instructor of a Communities in Schools course at the University of South Carolina. In this course Benson-Brown has focused on the institutional and individual actions and its intended and unintended impact on students. She has also guest-lectured in other multicultural education courses.
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What Should Parents Know About School?

Is Your Child on the High or Low End of the Achievement Gap?

Despite the fact that children of all race and ethnicities attend school together there are still vast inequities. Many parents may not think that inequities in test scores are prevalent. But indeed they are. It is important for all parents to understand that inequities are not just about dilapidated buildings or a shortage of a highly qualified teachers.

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Objective Statements

  • Make use of sound research to provide clarity in establishing how educational experiences are impacted by social, political and economic factors.
  • Promote fairness and increase achievement for children of color.
  • Empower parents of children of color to make sure schools benefit their children.
  • Make clear to parents of children of color how to partner with schools to close the achievement gap.

What plans do you have for the kids this summer? Perhaps your kid’s summer days will look like the Country Time Lemonade Commercials where kids swing from a tire tethered to a tree and disobediently run across fresh mowed grass that mirrors a buzz cut.  Or perhaps their summer will look like Spike Lee’s Crooklyn where endless games of hopscotch, tag, double Dutch competitions and water gun fights are played

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