Seattle High School Rallies Parents to Close Achievement Gap

A Seattle high school is transforming academic challenges into a community-powered movement for change.

Garfield High School Principal Tarance Hart and community organizer Chukundi Salisbury launched monthly meetings last month to address persistent achievement gaps affecting Black and Brown students. The gatherings bring parents, educators, and former students together to create concrete solutions.

The data reveals urgent needs. While science scores improved from 23 percent to 52 percent proficiency over four years, math dropped from 46 percent to 38 percent. Black students scored 38 percent in English compared to 75 to 80 percent for other groups, and just 12 percent in math.

Rather than dwelling on problems, organizers focused on mobilizing resources. Salisbury called on former students and community members to volunteer as tutors, mentors, and campus support.

"We are reclaiming the idea that it really takes a village," Salisbury said. "Come to the village. We need everybody involved to be right here."

Seattle City Council President Joy Hollingsworth attended the meeting, asking the community for specific action items. Parents responded with requests for tutoring programs, culturally responsive teaching, and stronger family-school partnerships.

The initiative draws inspiration from a recent report highlighting disparities but channels that awareness into momentum. Monthly meetings will track progress on measurable goals and ensure accountability from school leaders and city officials.

The Ripple Effect

The movement extends beyond test scores. Parents and educators emphasized creating a supportive environment where students can thrive emotionally and academically.

Salisbury highlighted the importance of seeing students as whole people, not just statistics. He urged community members to get involved in whatever capacity matches their skills, from academics to athletics to simply being a supportive presence in hallways.

The meetings also address school climate and student wellbeing. Organizers stressed that sustained engagement, not one-time events, will drive lasting change.

Parents left the gathering with renewed hope and clear next steps. The community committed to returning monthly to share updates, celebrate progress, and adjust strategies based on what works.

Other schools watching the effort may find a roadmap for addressing similar challenges. The model proves that transparent data plus community action can spark meaningful change.

This grassroots approach puts solutions in the hands of those who know students best: their families, neighbors, and dedicated educators willing to show up month after month until every student succeeds.