Comparison of academic success variables of black male high school graduates with other racial and gender populations in the Broward County School District, Florida

Black males in the United States and Florida are falling behind other groups in almost every measurement of academic success. Inadequate preparation in high school often discourages them from seeking postsecondary education, and reduces their chances of obtaining gainful employment. This study compared the variables which can predict academic success (number of college preparation courses, high school GPA, class rank, and standardized test scores) of black males with that of other racial populations and gender. The sample was limited to seniors who graduated in 1994 from the Broward County public schools and attempted the Florida college entry-level placement test. The study used a causal comparative research design. The null hypothesis was tested using a MANOVA to simultaneously study the multiple dependent variables (factors used to predict college success) by race and gender. If there were differences, an ANOVA was used to test for statistical difference in each dependent variable individually. Results indicate that there are significant differences in the potential for success when race and gender were considered. The Wilks's Lambda for gender had a value of.85 (p <.001), and a value of.82 (p <.001) for race. Verbal and math mean scores on the SAT revealed that black female students earned the lowest scores, followed by black male students. The findings further showed that black males had the lowest grade point average and attempted fewer college preparatory courses when compared to other racial groups and gender. Black males had the second lowest class rank at the time of graduation (Hispanic males had the lowest class rank).