Excellence with equity: the importance of school factors for student success in unfavourable circumstances

Abstract

This study analyzes the determinants of success of a group of public schools that served students of low socioeconomic status (Excellence with Equity study). Based on Prova Brazil data, we test whether there is a difference between the prevalence of school factors in the 215 schools identified by the Excellence with Equity study compared to schools with similar characteristics in 2007 but which did not show the same performance regarding the learning of their students thereafter. Taking into account statistical significance, results show that the treatment schools have principals who have been more highly rated by teachers for their leadership attributes; better facilities and operating conditions; more cohesive management and teaching teams; better working conditions for teachers; more learning opportunities; and less school violence. It is also possible to infer that the presence of better educational and infrastructure-related conditions in treatment schools may be a result of the effective management of resource.