All students have an inalienable right to an equitable, enriching, and empowering education. Yet, today's teachers face the challenge of reaching a diverse population of students and striving for a balance between cultural differences and achievement.

In "Challenging Mediocrity," author and educator Larthenia Howard explores possible causes for the achievement gaps between subgroups as outlined by the federal No Child Left Behind Act's AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress) guidelines. Teachers are encouraged to reflect not only on practices that directly affect a student's success, but also on...