Determinants of Ethnic Differences in School Modality Choices during the COVID-19 Crisis

Authors

Andrew Camp, University of Arkansas, FayettevilleFollow
Gema Zamarro, University of Arkansas, FayettevilleFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-1-2021

Keywords

Learning options, racial gaps, Covid-19

Abstract

A growing body of research and popular reporting shows racial differences in school modality choices during the COVID-19 crisis, with white students more likely to attend school in person. This in-person learning gap raises serious equity concerns. We use unique panel survey data to explore possible explanations. We find that a combination of factors may explain these differences. School districts’ offerings, political partisanship, and local COVID-19 outbreaks are all meaningfully associated with and plausibly explain the in-person learning racial gap. As schools start offering more in-person learning, significant efforts may be necessary to ensure that families and students attend those in-person learning opportunities.

Series Title

EDRE Working Paper

Series Number

2021-04

Citation

Camp, A., & Zamarro, G. (2021). Determinants of Ethnic Differences in School Modality Choices during the COVID-19 Crisis. Education Reform Faculty and Graduate Students Publications. Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/edrepub/122