Equity in Education
In 1954, Brown vs. Board of Education ruled that segregated schools were unconstitutional. This was a step forward in equality. Yet in 2021, the quality and outcomes of school for children still differ by zip code, socioeconomic status, gender, and race, which begs the question, have we focused on equality while neglecting equity?
Equality is giving all students the same access to opportunities. Sociologist and educational researcher Dr. Pedro Noguera, reminds us that EQUITY is giving every student what they need to succeed, it is a focus on academic and developmental outcomes.
The word equity causes some to shudder, thinking it means reduced resources for their children, while others rejoice hoping relief for their children is on the way. Education equity is complex, but it is possible. At the 100 Women Strong Elevate Summit in February, I discussed insights that can dispel misconceptions and galvanize education partners around the pursuit of equity in education.
Three insights are summarized below.
Education equity recognizes that all students are different by advancing from a one-size fits all model to one that serves the needs of every student. Especially in communities like Parramore, we must shift from an “I don’t see color” mindset to one that celebrates students’ cultural differences and sustains them through learning opportunities. According to neuroscience, learning is facilitated by strengthening connections in the brain, by helping students tap into pathways that already exist. Education that is relevant to students’ lives, recognizes differences, and builds on what students know, enables new connections in the brain, and thus, learning.
Education equity is a win for all. Doing more for disadvantaged students does not mean there will be less for advantaged students. There are no winners and losers. In fact, progress in our society depends on our willingness and ability to expand opportunity to all people.
Education equity requires collaboration across stakeholders. Various environmental factors significantly impact learning, such as housing instability, access to healthy and fresh food, parent employment, mental and physical health, and safety. In fact, poverty and the accompanying toxic stress are barriers to education excellence. When an individual’s basic needs such as food, water, rest, and security are unmet, their ability the develop the relationships, esteem, and cognitive capacity to reach their full potential is impaired. However, poverty does not have the final say. Together, schools and communities can solve complex social problems that individual organizations cannot do alone.
The pursuit of equity in education is a moral imperative that requires courage and a systems level commitment to ensure that every student receives what he or she needs to succeed. The alternative leaves students disengaged and unprepared for work, postsecondary education, and life.