RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Targeted vs. General Education Investments
JF Journal of Human Resources
JO J Hum Resour
FD University of Wisconsin Press
SP 1073
OP 1112
DO 10.3368/jhr.56.4.0219-10040R2
VO 56
IS 4
A1 Setren, Elizabeth
YR 2021
UL http://jhr.uwpress.org/content/56/4/1073.abstract
AB Using novel variation in special education and English language learner classification from admissions lotteries, I find that students can achieve large academic gains without specialized services. Enrolling in a Boston charter doubles the likelihood that students lose their special education or English language learner status, but exposes students to a high-performing general education program. Effects extend to college—charters nearly double the likelihood that English language learners enroll in four-year colleges and quadruple two-year college graduation rates for special education students. Results suggest that high-quality general education practices drive the gains and find no detrimental effect from reduced classification.