In Yes! Magazine's most recent edition, dedicated to the best ideas for eliminating poverty, Kalamazoo has a place on its list of compassionate communities for the Kalamazoo Promise, a scholarship program that pays for college for everyone who attends the city's public schools. The story lists seven communities that are bringing more equality into the lives of those who live there.
The story notes that The Kalamazoo Promise has inspired at least 30 similar scholarship programs across the country.
Except: Since 2005, young families have returned to the city, and enrollment in the school district has increased 24 percent. The number of minority students taking AP courses has increased 300 percent. The city has spent more money on the district than ever before—a lot more. Test scores have improved, and GPAs have increased, most notably among black students.
For the full story, click here.
Source: Yes! Magazine
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