The Case for School Integration

In 1954, the Supreme Court found that racial segregation is a major driver of educational inequity. When Boston refused to integrate public schools, black women from Roxbury and white suburban residents teamed up to create a new way. That’s why METCO was founded.

Racial segregation persists. Like most cities, Boston has been resegregating since the 1980s and is now more divided than ever.

That means METCO is more important than ever.

Integration benefits everyone.

Students:

  • enjoy improved academic success
  • develop cross-cultural knowledge and empathy
  • prepare for employment in a global economy
  • demonstrate higher civic engagement

Integration in suburban districts builds support for:

  • Inclusive school climate
  • Culturally responsive curriculum
  • Equitable conduct policies
  • Equitable academic policies
  • Faculty diversity