Keywords

COVID-19, Academic Performance, Emergency Education, Vulnerable Populations

Abstract

This study investigated school closures' impact on students from vulnerable populations in elementary classrooms. The research places an emphasis on the importance of an equitable and effective educational system in every community. It highlights the role of formal education in providing opportunities for social advancement and promoting the development of individuals and nations. The impact of the COVID-19 Emergency on access to quality education and the challenges and inequities faced by vulnerable populations are emphasized. This research also discusses the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations in 2015 to ensure inclusive and equitable education for all children worldwide.

Data from a large suburban school district is presented to analyze how students perform following school closures and their attempts to prevent achievement gaps. Specifically, the researcher examines how students from minority and low socioeconomic subgroups have been impacted by the COVID-19 Emergency compared to their peers.

The analysis demonstrates a significant correlation between race, socioeconomic status and student success on the Florida Standards Assessment. Due to school shutdowns, one can conclude that students from vulnerable populations struggled to access curriculum at the same rate as their non-vulnerable peers. Recommendations are made for mitigating learning loss and for preparing schools to successfully maintain the quality of education in future emergencies.

Completion Date

2024

Semester

Summer

Committee Chair

Biraimah, Karen

Degree

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

College

College of Community Innovation and Education

Department

CCIE: Curriculum and Instruction

Degree Program

Curriculum and Instruction: Global, International, and Comparative Education

Identifier

DP0028474

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0028474

Language

English

Release Date

8-15-2024

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Accessibility Status

Meets minimum standards for ETDs/HUTs

Share

COinS