IntroductionEducation experts have spent many years planning and revising learning materials and assessment tools to meet the demands of diverse learners entering in the 21st century. Educators have responded to this demand by becoming more aware of the need for a multicultural education program that helps meet the needs of every diverse learner, examining their own attitudes and biased opinions toward minority students and recognizing the important role that each stakeholder plays in providing an equal education for all learners. However, despite these efforts, concern still grows over the achievement gap that remains evident among students. Despite some evidence of considerable success and progress among black, Hispanic, and socioeconomically disadvantaged students between 1970 and 1988, education reform efforts of the past decade have not resulted in significant numbers of students becoming educationally competitive or close achievement gaps (Lee, 2001). The purpose of this article is to reflect on multicultural education, the achievement gap, and the unresolved issues, perspectives, and challenges that span the 21st century. I will demonstrate my knowledge, through research, of the efforts and tactics that educators and policymakers are urged to consider to help reduce the academic disparities that continue to divide racial and ethnic groups in the future. Additionally, after viewing the required video presented by Dr. Ferguson, I will describe my views on the achievement gap and how I, as a teacher, can implement some of Dr. Ferguson's suggestions and concepts in my classroom, school and/or district. After all, we must arrive at mid-century with adults and children from all walks of life feeling like they're in the middle of paper......). Professional community and closing the student achievement gap. Advocating for What's Right: A one-day NEA symposium on critical issues for educators. Presentation delivered at Harvard University, Washington, DCFerguson, RF (October 15, 2011). Educational Excellence with Equity: A Social Movement for the 21st Century [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_KTzDUcqrk&feature=youtu.beLee, J. (2002). Trends in racial and ethnic achievement gaps: Reversing progress toward equity? Educational Researcher, 31(1), 3-12.Manning, L. & Baruth. L. (2009). Multicultural education of children and adolescents (5th ed.). Needham Heights, MA: Allyn and Bacon. Williams, B. and Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, AA (2003). Closing the achievement gap: A vision for changing beliefs and practices (2nd ed.). Alexandria, Virginia.