Affirmative Action and the PSAT

We are a proud people.  When we screw up royally we are big enough to admit it and take affirmative action to fix it.

Long ago (in the 1960’s and 1970’s), affirmative action was a primary tool available to help black people access America’s unlimited opportunities.   By the 21^st century, commentaries about affirmative action have little value.  We expect those who wish to access America’s unlimited opportunities to do the hard work and make the relationships with those who can help us “live our dreams.”

A PSAT Freebie The School Board of Hillsborough County pays for high school freshmen to have access to the PSAT for free in October.  The State of Florida pays for all high school sophomores to take the same test for free as well.  The College Board gets $12 for each student taking the test.  The PSAT Score Report can give an indication of how well a student is doing towards developing the critical reading, math, and writing skills required for college access and success.

Officials at most if not all high schools arrange a time to distribute the PSAT Score Report to parents and students in January. These officials can explain what the information in the report means.  With this and other information provided during the sessions, a “go-to-college wannabe” can get a clearer picture of the preparation required to get there.  There are educators present during these sessions who have a sign on their foreheads, “Establish relationships with us and we will help you get there.”

 It will take a new brand of affirmative action on the part of leaders in the black community to guide parents and students toward these resources.  Marching and singing in January and February are great.  But will “marching and singing” result in parents and students sitting down with educators to discuss the PSAT Score Report?  Until it does, the College Board and its associates will be marching and singing …all the way to the bank! 

In His Service,

Jason