Abstract
African American male students in particular have the greatest challenges within school the school system (Fremon & Hamilton, 1997). These students need patient teachers and family members to assist them in the learning process to ensure they stay motivated in school. These students have the highest incidence of high school dropout. And while some even drop out in middle school, disengagement in the learning process often begins as early as elementary school. Policymakers need to provide special programs for these students to help them accelerate in the academic environment as well as to encourage them to progress to secondary and postsecondary institutions. The classrooms are filled with students who fail to meet academic standards. Race, class, and gender all play a part in contributing to the increase in the achievement gap between White and Black students. Sources of Data Six students were surveyed to determine if they were getting the assistance needed to thrive in school. Data from the survey assessed whether or not the students felt they received adequate supplemental school and home support to be successful in school. Conclusions Reached The results of the study determined that although students possessed the academic tools to adequately succeed in school, they needed the approval of their teacher to be successful, and wanted access to personal tutoring or group tutoring.