How Segregation Manifests in Public High Schools across Passaic County

Segregation in New Jersey public schools is ranked among the highest in the United States due to zoning laws, all students must attend their designated school in their residential zone or the school nearest to them. Schools are faced with double segregation, which is contingent upon race and income isolation that leads to educational inequality. Passaic County comprises an array of cities and townships ranging from different household income levels and racial demographics. According to the 2020 U.S Census Bureau, Paterson has a median income of about $45,141, Passaic has a median income of $44,779, and Wayne has a median income of $127,623. Paterson is roughly 61.4% Hispanic or Latinx, 25.7% Black or African American, and 8.3% white alone. Passaic is 73.8% Hispanic or Latinx, 8.7% Black or African American, and 15.6% white alone. Wayne is 12.7% Hispanic or Latinx, 2% Black or African American, and 75.2% white alone. This study highlights the lived experiences of students who identify as first-generation and low-income who attended high schools in these cities.

Dec 07, 2022