"If the Boston school system, from the top down, starts expecting more of the kids, I think they will definitely rise to the challenge," she said.

Panelists also urged the audience to volunteer in the public schools.

"We think it's important that we have as many people coming into the Boston school system as possible," Jackson said. "[African-American and Latino] kids tutoring at schools gives hope to not only the teachers, but the children."

"I think you can help demystify schooling....Service now and service later--African-American people have always known that it's very important for us to give back," she continued.

Other panelists agreed with Jackson's remarks.

"If there was just one adult with small groups of kids, the kids could really learn," said Hannah Schneeberg, a Boston public school teacher.

"Come in to the schools," said Kemp, and gave examples of the capacities in which students can work, including working in a lab or starting a student newspaper.

"There's sort of a perception that black Harvard students do not volunteer," Richmond said, but pointed out that although black students may "avoid" Phillips Brooks House Association, many are involved in other public service programs.