All Children Can Learn- The Unmet Promise: A Study of Ability Grouping and Tracking in North Carolina Schools

  • The study finds that ability grouping and tracking are commonly practiced in North Carolina schools, based on the assumptions that ability is fixed and can be accurately assessed and curriculum and instruction must be tailored to meet ability levels.
  • The study found unequal educational opportunities and outcomes for students.
  • Poor and minority children were disproportionately represented in lower ability groups and curriculum tracks.
  • The authors make policy recommendations for the State Board of Education including implementation of a three year plan for de-tracking the schools.