All In? Inequities in Hispanic Access and Enrollment in Advanced Placement

Abstract

ABSTRACT In response to the national problem of overrepresentation of Hispanic students in general education classes, this study addressed Hispanic access and enrollment in Advanced Placement (AP) coursework in Virginia, a growing destination state for many Hispanic families and students. Through a secondary data analysis of the Civil Rights Data Collection (2015–6), this study mapped patterns of disproportionality in AP access and enrollment for Hispanic students who comprise 13% of enrollment in Virginia public high schools. Although greater AP course availability was found in suburban schools, where most Hispanic students are enrolled, there was disproportionality in regard to alternative schools. Further findings document disproportionality in AP enrollment for STEM and non-STEM coursework for Hispanic students. Such findings demonstrate the need for more research and reform in regard to AP access and enrollment for systemically excluded students.