How to understand the structure, "between A as well as B and C " ?

Hi~ I'm confused of the structure of the part underlined.

Which interpretation do you think is accurate, natural or better?

1) It compares two different kinds of gaps: (1) gaps between the White population and children
with economic needs, (2) gaps between African American children and students
who have a disability with an individualized education plan (IEP)

2) It compares one kind of gaps: gaps between the White population and the other three groups -- children
with economic needs, African American children, students
who have a disability with an individualized education plan(IEP)

Thanks for your comments in advance~

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The story begins with our reform efforts to narrow and hopefully close
academic achievement gaps between the White population and children
with economic needs as well as African American children and students
who have a disability with an individualized education plan (IEP). Our
reform efforts focused on planning, communication, and implementation
that have now been memorialized as “The Abington Way.” With ongoing
leadership and, most important, a cooperative board of school directors,
our strategies resulted in very positive academic gains for students as well
as some unanticipated wins.