- The article reviews the research on the academic outcomes and long-term consequences of desegregated schooling and summarizes the literature on how to effectively desegregate schools.
- Studies show that achievement is improved most when desegregation begins in early grades, is metropolitan wide, and takes place in predominantly white schools with a critical mass of black students.
- Research suggests that school desegregation can address some underlying causes of social inequality and adult segregation.
- Consistent research shows that majority and minority segregation is perpetuated throughout the life cycle. School desegregation can indirectly affect career outcomes through attending desegregated colleges or choosing more technical and scientific majors.
- For blacks, both college and elementary-secondary desegregation are significantly related to employment desegregation.
- School desegregation promotes interracial contact and relationships by changing white attitudes and behaviors and reduces social-psychological barriers to integration for blacks.