Final answer:
The main reason Latino immigrant youth felt their teachers were racist was due to school structures like tracking and standardized tests favoring disparities in educational opportunities.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the study of Latino immigrant youth mentioned by Katz, the main reason students perceived their teachers to be racist was C. school structure based on tracking, resegregation, and standardized tests. This perception is rooted in the disparities in educational opportunities and outcomes, wherein students from wealthy families receive different opportunities compared to those of lower socioeconomic status, which often includes many Latino immigrant youth. The tracking system, along with resegregation practices and an overemphasis on standardized testing, has contributed to the perception of racism, as these structures can systematically disadvantage students of color and those from less affluent backgrounds.
Evidence of systemic bias is also seen in the graduation rates; where Black and Hispanic students graduate at lower rates compared to their White and Asian peers. Such trends suggest the persistent effects of racism and other forms of discrimination in schooling that perpetuate educational inequalities. Therefore, addressing the structural issues within the educational system is critical to achieving equality in education for all students.