THE IMPACT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS IN ISRAEL

Research investigated gaps in achievements between Jewish and Arab pupils in Israel. Research questions were: Were there significant differences in grades attained by Jewish and Arab pupils in Israel in PISA 2009 tests? Was there a correlation between the socio-economic index measured by the PISA program, and grades attained in PISA 2009 tests? Was there a correlation between the mean grades in the PISA 2009 tests and the overall organizational status of Jewish in comparison to Arab schools? Quantitative data were collected with questionnaires for pupils and principals developed by the PISA program. Data-analysis indicated significant positive correlations of the pupils' grades with the combined socio-economic index of the school pupils, and with the school climate. Positive correlations were found with the quality of educational resources and extent of school independence in allocation of resources. Pupils' achievements in the Jewish sector in reading were significantly higher than pupils' achievements in the Arab sector. Achievements of pupils from socio-economic strata above the median were higher than those of pupils from socio-economic strata below the median. The research contributes knowledge regarding factors leading to gaps in learning achievements, between different sectors. Intensive activity is needed to reduce these gaps.