2.  James Brown received his master of elementary education from City of University
New York - Hunter College, and his doctor of education in educational leadership
from Dowling College. He served the New York City Board of Education as middle
school administrator from 1994 through 2001, at which time he joined Baldwin
Union Free School District as middle school principal. Over James Brown's eight
year tenure at Baldwin, the New York State Education Department recognized him
as a principal at a school responsible for narrowing the achievement gap.
The achievement gap is defined by the U.S. Department of Education as the gap in
academic excellence between ethnic groups. While the definition is quite
simple, educators all around the country struggle to narrow that gap and ensure a
balanced and thorough education for all students. Studies show that ethnic groups
who do not receive a full education experience higher dropout rates, generate
more stress and crime in their communities, and suffer higher poverty rates.
Research cites complex reasons for the achievement gap. In some cases, students
may live in impoverished areas without access to good health care or educational
materials such as books in the home. Other causes for the gap originate at
school, where many administrators battle funding problems that prevent them
from stocking their schools with proper educational materials and hiring qualified
teachers.
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