In this one volume, William “Bill” Jeynes has conducted massive meta-analyses related to the achievement gap in the U.S.; he has drawn from multiple disciplines; and even offers us a surprising view of history starting before the nation’s founding. In this one text, Jeynes provides the richest and most complete picture of the factors related to the U.S. achievement gap. He reveals factors some of which we commonly know and others that will surprise the reader. There simply is no better source for understanding the troubling U.S. achievement gap. He concludes by thinking afresh about our taking on a transdisciplinary assault, pulling all the actors together.

Mary Poplin, Faculty in the School of Educational Studies, Claremont Graduate University

William Jeynes masterfully outlines the complex problems of the achievement gap, from historical to current day issues. His data-driven book shows us why families matter and makes an undeniable call for homes, schools, faith-based institutions, and other community organizations to work together.

Susan J. Paik, Claremont Graduate University

Jeynes’ work approaches the achievement gap through a variety of frameworks that will surely elicit much discussion, debate, and pushback for education workers who have made the compelling argument that there actually exists an opportunity gap. I certainly look forward to listening and participating in these important conversations, as Jeynes and other education researchers clamor for justice for children, youth, and families using these competing ways of examining schooling disparities for marginalized groups in the United States.

Rene Antrop-Gonzalez, Metropolitan State University