In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged in secondary education: Boys, especially those of color, are falling significantly behind their female counterparts in academic achievement.
As a freshman in education at Grambling State University’s Call Me Mister program and president-elect of Jobs for America’s Graduates’ Career Association, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges boys face in the academic landscape, both as a student and now as a student-educator.
Growing up in rural Louisiana, having a Black male teacher was like winning the scratch lottery games my grandma loved to play — very rare. But I was lucky to have two teachers in 13 years whose mere presence propelled me along my educational path.
Mr. Henderson, my sixth grade computer teacher, and Mr. Tate, my 12th grade math teacher, were more than just educators; they were beacons of possibility for me.
Before them, I struggled to find motivation in academics, often prioritizing sports over studies, like so many Black boys. But their presence and enthusiasm ignited a spark within me, revealing a path I hadn’t considered before.
Middle school was a daunting transition filled with anxiety and uncertainty. Mr. Henderson’s classroom became a haven where I finally saw a reflection of my male self in a position of authority and respect. His impact was profound, inspiring me to engage with my academics and focus less on sports.
Years later, Mr. Tate reignited that flame, believing in my potential even when I doubted myself. His guidance and support were instrumental in my high school graduation and my decision to pursue a career in education.
Research increasingly shows that young males often feel less engaged and confident in school compared to their female peers.
The lack of relatable role models can make it challenging for boys to envision themselves in leadership positions or pursue higher education. The prevailing stereotype that Black males excel primarily in sports can be limiting and overshadow their academic potential. Mr. Henderson and Mr. Tate defied those stereotypes, fostering my self-belief and expanding my horizons.
Growing up in a disadvantaged background further compounded the challenges I faced. Financial struggles overshadowed my aspirations, making careers requiring extensive education seem out of reach.
However, during my junior and senior years, Dr. Fredrick Pinkney became a pivotal mentor, introducing me to the Caddo Stars program. This initiative, pairing aspiring Black male educators with experienced teachers, provided invaluable hands-on experience and solidified my passion for teaching.
The education gap isn’t merely anecdotal; data supports these observations. Boys generally appear less engaged, confident and inclined to pursue school or related leadership roles than girls. Career specialists at Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) report that boys show less interest in careers demanding extensive education, further fueling the alarming trend.
So, why is this happening? My experience shows that many factors contribute to this growing inequity in American education.
Boys typically thrive in learning environments that incorporate competition and hands-on experiences. This is why I and many other boys are encouraged in sports but often left behind academically.
The educational system’s over-reliance on standardized testing further compounds the issue. Boys often prefer experiential learning, which contrasts sharply with testing formats favoring verbal and written skills — areas where girls typically excel.
The disproportionate number of female educators — over 77% of teachers in the U.S. identify as women — exacerbates the academic divide. When it comes to Black male educators, representation becomes minuscule. During the 2020-2021 school year, only 1.3% of the nation’s 3.8 million public school teachers were Black, non-Hispanic males.
Boys make up two-thirds of learning disability diagnoses in the United States and are often identified much later than girls for special education services. Timely intervention is crucial to address learning challenges. Parents and educators must remain vigilant, providing early support and fostering an inclusive atmosphere conducive to success for these young boys.
The widening educational gender gap is a complex issue requiring a strategic and collaborative approach. Acknowledging and addressing the multifaceted reasons behind boys falling behind their female peers is paramount. By uniting educators, policymakers and parents, we can cultivate a more equitable educational system that nurtures the potential of all students, regardless of gender.
