How Equity in the Classroom Transforms Students and Educators

Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed in the classroom setting. Equity and inclusion are all about ensuring students feel safe, valuable, and supported by their teachers and classmates.

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Unfortunately, the education system often reinforces the inequalities it hopes to overcome. Inclusive education practices are successful when all students have the opportunities and resources they need to succeed.

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Equity in the classroom benefits teachers and students. It all begins with a teacher committed to inclusive education practices in the classroom.

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Here's a guide to the powerful impact of educational equity.

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The Value of Equity and Inclusion

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As classrooms across the country become more diverse due to refugee crises, rising inequality, and digital transformation, the need for equity and inclusion is growing. School leaders are concerned about the growing inequity among various races, disability categories, socioeconomic levels, and English learner statuses. The push for equity reaches far beyond identity and ethnic barriers to ensure all students receive the same opportunities for academic achievement.

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Equity in Education

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At its core, equity in education means giving every student the same access to learning opportunities. This requires equity in teaching methods, regardless of a student's ability, background, or circumstances. Fair education practices recognize the value and unique needs of each child and the need to support them in the best possible ways.

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In an equitable educational environment, individual differences don't hinder students from learning, exploring, and reaching their full potential. Some of these individual differences include:

• Race
• Gender
• Religion
• Culture
• Ethnicity
• Immigration status
• Sexual orientation
• Socio-economic status
• Individual experiences

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Inclusion in Education

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The goal of the inclusive classroom is to create a safe environment where student diversity is welcomed and celebrated. This involves valuing students' unique differences, including their race, language, culture, abilities, and learning styles. Inclusive classroom strategies embrace these differences and enrich the learning environment. One of the positive effects of equitable education is students who are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing and diverse world.

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Why Equity and Inclusion Matter

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Equity and inclusion have an enormous impact on individuals and society. Students who receive equal educational opportunities are more likely to graduate, excel in their chosen fields, and make a positive contribution to the world.

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Equitable education transcends boundaries to ensure that every student regardless of background feels valuable in the classroom. This fosters a sense of belonging and closes the achievement gap.

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Inclusive teaching practices promote respect, empathy, and understanding in the classroom and beyond. They help prepare students to work with others in diverse populations and fully participate to reach their potential.

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Overcoming Barriers to Achieve Equity in Education

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To create equity in the classroom, schools have several barriers to tackle. Some of the challenges for educators include:

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Socioeconomic Hurdles

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Poverty, food insecurity, and a lack of resources can deter students in the classroom. Rather than letting these circumstances hold students back, schools can offer help, support, and resources to meet students' needs. When students aren't focused on what they're lacking, they are more likely to experience academic achievement.

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Cultural and Language Gaps

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It's common for students from diverse backgrounds to feel left out or misunderstood. Feeling like you don't belong can affect how you learn and interact with others in the classroom. Teachers who understand this and use culturally responsive teaching methods can have a major impact on learning.

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Learning Differences

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Every student is different with unique circumstances and learning needs. For disadvantaged or disabled students with unique learning needs, teachers can use accessible resources and personalized learning plans to even the playing field.

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Bias and Discrimination

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Bias and discrimination are still major factors that create inequity in the classroom. Schools can minimize these issues with diversity training and a strong commitment to equity and inclusion for all students.

Students are diverse individuals. Sadly, our educational system often fails to provide for:

• Students of color
• Students in poverty
• Neurodivergent students
• Students with mental or physical disabilities
• Students from low-income households
• First-generation students

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Technology

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In many schools, students have access to technology, and schools provide a laptop or tablet to every student. Unfortunately, some students do not have access to technology or the internet at home. This can negatively impact a student's ability to access learning materials, complete homework, study for tests, or participate in long-term projects.

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Rigorous, Engaging Curriculum

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Critical thinking, inquiry, and meaningful projects are often part of AP or honors-level courses. Students in traditional classes are often missing the same rigor and engagement in their lessons. Schools that push for equity in the classroom understand that all students deserve age-appropriate, rigorous, and engaging curriculum.

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Extracurricular Activities

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Today, participating in clubs, sports, and other school activities is more than a perk. It's a prerequisite for college applications and teaches vital life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and collaboration. Lack of extracurricular activities can affect students' chances of receiving a quality college education.

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Inequities still abound in the U.S. educational system. There is unequal access to:

• Classroom supplies
• Modern textbooks
• Guidance counselors
• Tutoring
• Social workers
• Small class sizes
• Qualified teachers

Many schools, teachers, politicians, and others are working to bridge the achievement gaps and provide equal opportunities for all students. Equity and inclusion aren't new concepts. However, many teachers, parents, and students are hesitant to address the current inequities of the educational system.

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The Case for Equity

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Beyond the concept that equity is morally right, it is a winning strategy for all students. Some reasons why equity in education matters include:

• It helps underprivileged and underserved students overcome disadvantages
• It offers students the opportunity to learn according to their learning style
• It increases student access to resources they need for success
• It allows students to see individuals of various races, ethnicities, and genders in their learning materials
• It closes achievement gaps and puts students on equal footing
• It strengthens connections between the teacher and the student's family
• It guides students to success in their education, profession, and beyond
• It may improve a school district's standardized testing performance
• It has a positive impact on the community

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Some larger concepts that equity addresses include:

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Community Improvement

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Public schools are supposed to prepare students for higher education and the workforce, as well as participation in civic life. The goal is to become a good citizen.

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Schools that embrace equity and inclusion work towards these goals. Students who attend racially diverse schools are more likely to learn tolerance, acceptance, and empathy for others.

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Imbalance of Power and Privilege

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The United States has a long history of embracing the power and privilege of a select few, especially white upper-class men. Limiting access to education for others bolstered their power and privilege.

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Slaves didn't attend schools and couldn't read or write. Knowledge is power, and systematic racism tries to control who has the power.

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These antiquated beliefs were engrained into the educational system for many years. Educational equity challenges these beliefs and attempts to level the playing field and restore justice for today's students.

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Strengthens the Economy

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A healthy economy begins with high-quality education. A good education has the power to lift people up and strengthen the overall economy. Educated people are doers.

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They open businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the community. An equitable educational system can boost the economy and reduce poverty throughout the country.

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Educational equity has the potential to produce greater economic, social, and civic outcomes for individuals and the community at large. Dedicated school leaders and teachers can make a real impact with inclusive educational practices.

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The Difference Between Equity and Equality

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The terms equity and equality are often used interchangeably. Understanding the distinction is key to resolving unfair practices involving disadvantaged students. Working to achieve an equal and equitable classroom is good, but equity is the primary goal.

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Although giving every student a laptop is a worthy goal, it does not meet the needs of students who lack internet access at home. These students will struggle to keep up with assignments and stay on track with their peers.

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Equality typically centers around social issues, while equity provides resources to meet individual needs. Schools that make equity a priority strive to understand the needs of students and provide the resources they need to overcome specific challenges.

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Building Equity With Inclusive Classroom Strategies

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Closing the equity gap and creating a more inclusive educational system requires thoughtful action. Here are some steps stakeholders and educators can take to ensure every student feels valued in the classroom setting.

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Understand and Embrace Diversity

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Know your students and take a deep dive into their unique cultures, backgrounds, and needs. Recognizing diversity in the classroom allows teachers to take a more tailored approach that values every student's experiences and perspectives.

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Design Fair Funding Policies

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Design funding plans with a focus on inclusiveness. Keep all students in mind to balance funding and avoid inefficiencies, disorganization, and redundant programs.

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Create Inclusive Policy Frameworks

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Policy frameworks should center around fairness and inclusion. Review how education dollars are managed and whether all students' educational needs are being met.

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Prepare Teachers for Inclusive Teaching

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Knowledge and understanding about equity and inclusiveness are fundamental before change can occur. Educate teachers and parents about inclusive classroom strategies and how they benefit all students. Collaboration with teachers, parents, and students will enhance understanding and improve the learning environment.

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Ensure Equal Access to Resources

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All students deserve equitable access to appropriate resources. These include textbooks, supplementary materials, technology, and extracurricular opportunities. Taking measures to level the playing field ensures that certain groups of students are not left behind.

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Provide Individualized Support for Student Needs

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Every student has unique needs and deserves the same level of support. Meeting a student's individual needs could include specialized learning plans, access to tutoring, or providing counseling services to boost their educational outcomes.

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Make Learning Flexible

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The educational system should be flexible and responsive to students' individual needs. Schools should offer:

• A variety of class options for students
• An inclusive curriculum
• Diverse classroom teaching methods

Fairness and inclusiveness in the classroom provide equal opportunities for students to learn, feel safe, and work with others. Some practical tips for educational leadership to foster equity and inclusion include:

• Examine your own beliefs and biases
• Be curious about other perspectives and backgrounds
• Set clear rules to promote respect and fairness
• Use diverse teaching methods and materials to reflect student diversity
• Arrange the classroom for collaborative work and interaction
• Involve students in planning and choosing learning strategies
• Foster a safe environment where students can share their thoughts
• Boost student engagement and autonomy
• Support student learning styles with a range of materials and presentation methods
• Ensure disabled students are included in every lesson
• Continue to learn and find ways to create a more equitable classroom

Remember that every student in the classroom is different. They have unique backgrounds and needs. It's important to understand the challenges that students may be facing and offer the proper resources or support.

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The ultimate goal is to create a classroom where every student feels wanted, valued, and heard. Encourage them to express themselves and let you know about any personal, family, or school-related hardships they may be having.

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Equity training for administrators and teachers is critical for meaningful change. You must know how to remove common barriers and implement inclusive education practices to realize the positive effects of equitable education.

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You want parents on your side and advocating for equity in the school. Communicate with parents regularly and encourage them to volunteer, attend school functions and events, and get involved in their child's education.

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The Benefits of Equity in the Classroom

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The quality of a child's education directly correlates to their success later in life. A good education has the power to enhance a child's future, and all children deserve this privilege.

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Equity in the classroom ensures that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. At Embracing Equity, we help create actionable solutions for your unique challenges. If you're hoping to create a more equitable and inclusive educational environment, we are here to help.

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Contact Embracing Equity today to learn more or schedule a consultation.