The Gifted Gap, STEM Education, and Economic Immobility

Abstract

Systemic inequities in educational opportunities contribute to reduced economic mobility. Extensive research has documented disproportionality in gifted education at national and state levels. However, limited research examines inequities in gifted education within districts. Informed by critical systems theory (CST), this research provides an analysis of the Gifted Gap in a school district serving a growing metropolitan area with surprisingly limited economic mobility. Results reveal underrepresentation of students experiencing poverty, and Black and Latinx students of all socioeconomic groups in gifted education programs. Inequities in gifted education create systemic barriers including reduced enrollment in Advanced Placement (AP) courses, a factor that impedes college completion and participation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) research and innovation. Reducing gifted education disproportionality is a promising way to increase economic mobility and broaden participation in STEM.