Bars Quote by Andy Hargreaves
“Don't raise the bar and narrow the gap, but narrow the gap to raise the bar.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Educational Leadership, 2015
Improves standards by first raising expectations, then reducing gaps, rather than lowering standards to close gaps.
In simple terms: Raise expectations, then close gaps.
Key Takeaway
Elevate standards, then close gaps.
Themes
education
equity
standards
Mood
optimistic
strategic
Type
advice
theoretical
When to use this quote
- classroom reform
- school district planning
- teacher training
Key Concepts
gap theory
expectation setting
policy design
Questions to Reflect On
- How can schools raise standards while supporting low‑performing students?
- What resources are needed to narrow gaps effectively?
A Different Perspective
May be hard to implement without resources.
