Final answer:
The educational reforms of the 1980s and 1990s had both positive and debated success in closing the achievement gap between at-risk students and their better-off peers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The educational reforms of the 1980s and 1990s aimed to close the achievement gap between at-risk students and their better-off peers. However, the success of these reforms in achieving this goal is debated. While there were some positive outcomes, such as higher high school graduation rates and lower dropout rates, the achievement gap still persists to some extent. Factors such as socioeconomic status and family background continue to play a significant role in student performance.