Closing the Achievement Gap Via Reducing the Opportunity Gap: YAAACE’s Social Inclusion Framework Within the Jane and Finch Community

Abstract

This chapter uses comparative spatial analysis and Critical Race Theory to outline an overview of systemic and institutional barriers impeding academic achievement of racialized students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds living in under-resourced racialized communities in Toronto, Canada. Youth Association for Academics, Athletics, and Character Education (YAAACE), a nonprofit community organization in the Jane and Finch neighborhood, is examined as a case study in closing the achievement gap in the community by investing in minimizing the inequality of opportunity impacting young children, youth, and families in the area. The collaborative synergic model of YAAACE from a Social Inclusion Strategy framework that takes into consideration participants’ identities and developmental needs and the community’s spatial dynamics and demographics exemplifies an effective approach to mitigating systemic and structural barriers impeding academic achievement of racialized students for upward social mobility. YAAACE’s unique model for teaching and learning and offering holistic services can be used as a tool and a spark for further discussion in how we can use alternative approaches to close the achievement gap and expand the limited hegemonic definition of success that is normalized and perpetuated in schools focusing exclusively on academics which marginalizes and oppresses racialized identities and their needs.