Publications [#154483] of Nancy E Hill

Journal Articles

1. Hill, N. E. & Torres, K. A. (in press). Negotiating the American Dream: The Paradox of Aspirations and Achievement among Latino Students and Engagement between their Families and Schools. Journal of Social Issues.
   (last updated on 2009/01/05)

   Abstract:
   The lagging achievement of many US Latinos is staggering. For example, Latinos have the highest high school drop out rate and only 14% of 4th graders are reading at proficient levels. Further, second and third generation Latinos in the US perform less well than do recent immigrants. These statistics belie the hopes and aspirations for upward mobility, a better life, and the deep value for education that are tightly held by many Latino immigrant families. This paradox between the aspirations of Latino families and the realities of their academic success is the focus of this analysis. Current theories and policies increasingly emphasize the role of the family in improving achievement. These include current theories and research on family-school relationships and policies, such as the No Child Left Behind Act, that mandate parental involvement in education. However, the types of involvement deemed appropriate and the beliefs about involvement endorsed by Latino families and American schools are often incongruent and at times incompatible. Presented here is a critical analysis of the extant literature on family roles and achievement among Latinos, in light of current theories and policies dictating family roles.