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Unequal Foundations: Racial Disparities in School Building Conditions in New York State. EdWorkingPaper No. 25-1251

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Unequal Foundations: Racial Disparities in School Building Conditions in New York State. EdWorkingPaper No. 25-1251
Language: English
Authors: Sodiq Ambali, Miyeun Jung, Lucy C. Sorensen, Annenberg Institute for School Reform at Brown University
Source: Annenberg Institute for School Reform at Brown University. 2025.
Availability: Annenberg Institute for School Reform at Brown University. Brown University Box 1985, Providence, RI 02912. Tel: 401-863-7990; Fax: 401-863-1290; e-mail: annenberg@brown.edu; Web site: https://annenberg.brown.edu/
Peer Reviewed: N
Page Count: 45
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Reports - Research
Descriptors: School Buildings, Racial Differences, Public Schools, Educational Facilities, Taxes, Equal Education, Educational Environment, White Students, Minority Group Students, Racial Composition, Aesthetics, Health, Socioeconomic Status
Geographic Terms: New York
Abstract: School infrastructure is a critical yet often overlooked factor shaping student health, learning, and well-being. This study examines racial disparities in public school building conditions across New York State using data from building inspections linked to demographic and fiscal data. Schools serving more students of color are significantly more likely to have poor overall conditions, inadequate ventilation, mold, and reduced access to athletic fields, gymnasiums, and health offices. A Kitagawa-Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition shows that local property taxes are the largest contributor to racial gaps in building quality, while progressive state building aid helps reduce these disparities. These findings highlight persistent infrastructure inequities and the need for targeted investments to ensure all students have access to safe and supportive learning environments.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: ED678185
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:School infrastructure is a critical yet often overlooked factor shaping student health, learning, and well-being. This study examines racial disparities in public school building conditions across New York State using data from building inspections linked to demographic and fiscal data. Schools serving more students of color are significantly more likely to have poor overall conditions, inadequate ventilation, mold, and reduced access to athletic fields, gymnasiums, and health offices. A Kitagawa-Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition shows that local property taxes are the largest contributor to racial gaps in building quality, while progressive state building aid helps reduce these disparities. These findings highlight persistent infrastructure inequities and the need for targeted investments to ensure all students have access to safe and supportive learning environments.