Equity is about academic outcomes not box checker initiatives.
As the opposition to educational change grows, especially when talking about issues like learning gaps, teacher retention and inclusive environments, it’s left to teachers in the trenches to help shape our future. That burden is immense, as seen in the droves of teachers experiencing burn-out and leaving the profession in years 1-5. The sector’s lack of healthy, well supported and experienced teachers especially impacts our most vulnerable students, who often lack access to tenured, experienced teachers in the classroom.
Equity initiatives have pushed the thinking on what it means to create safe, inclusive spaces in schools. However, the impact of these initiatives has not yet shown up in the form of academic gains. My answer to this is to use SmallBites to provide more support for the classroom, which is where equitable access has never really been equitable.
Follow the podcast, connect with me on social media or host me for professional development on your campus. But mostly, listen and reflect on what ‘equity in education’ means. It’s not another PD or training module. It’s in how we show up for the students who need us most; and that starts with equitable access to good teaching.
Here are 5 learning links so you can dive deeper into today’s topic.
1. Teacher Choice Boards from Edthena (They are a competitor, but the article is great, as is the template.)
2. More Support, Less Gotcha, learn more in my interview with Kevin Leichtman.
3. Mentors Can Be Hired from companies like Edifying Teachers
4. Provide Real Mental Health Support, this EdWeek article can help.
5. Restorative Practice Is Not Just “Keep ‘Em In School Regardless”. Learn more in part one of this 3 part SmallBites Series on restorative practice.
Find Links and Additional Resources on Hedreich.com
