In this examination of the American school system, a career education expert determines how a variety of federal, state, and local policies and initiatives have affected disadvantaged inner-city youth and broadened the achievement gap between black and white students. A work in progress for 20 years, this commentary is built upon a core philosophy that all children can learn but that systematic inequalities have not yet been overcome. Known for her dedication in bringing equal opportunity to underserved children, the author lays the groundwork for future success in improving an imbalanced system.