Equity refers to the fair treatment, access, and opportunity for all individuals, regardless of their differences, to achieve their full potential. In the context of a school setting, equity means that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status, religion, or other factors.
- It promotes academic achievement and reduces the achievement gap.
Research has shown that equitable school practices can improve academic achievement and reduce the achievement gap between students from different backgrounds (Gándara & Contreras, 2009; Losen & Gillespie, 2012). By ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education, resources, and support, schools can create a level playing field that allows every student to reach their full potential.
- It supports social-emotional development and mental health.
Equitable school practices can also support the social-emotional development and mental health of students. When students feel valued and supported, they are more likely to feel connected to their school community, develop positive relationships with peers and adults, and have a greater sense of belonging (Cohen & Geier, 2010; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).
- It prepares students for a diverse and interconnected world.
It helps prepare students for a diverse and interconnected world by promoting cultural competence and understanding. When students are exposed to diverse perspectives and experiences, they are better equipped to navigate and succeed in a global society (Gay, 2018; National Education Association, 2015).
- It promotes social justice and reduces discrimination.
Equitable school practices can promote social justice and reduce discrimination by addressing systemic inequalities and biases in education. When schools actively work to dismantle oppressive systems and create more inclusive environments, they are better able to promote equity and reduce discrimination (Dixson & Rousseau, 2006; Ladson-Billings, 2006).
- It benefits society as a whole.
Equity in our schools benefits society as a whole by creating a more just and equitable society. When all individuals have equal access to education and opportunities, they are more likely to become productive members of society and contribute to the greater good (Darling-Hammond et al., 2019; National Conference of State Legislatures, 2018).
References:
Cohen, J. S., & Geier, V. (2010). School climate research summary: August 2010. National School Climate Center.
Darling-Hammond, L., Hyler, M. E., & Gardner, M. (2019). Effective teacher professional development. Learning Policy Institute.
Dixson, A. D., & Rousseau, C. K. (2006). And we are still not saved: Critical race theory in education ten years later. Race Ethnicity and Education, 9(1), 1-28.
Gándara, P., & Contreras, F. (2009). The Latino education crisis: The consequences of failed social policies. Harvard University Press.
Gay, G. (2018). Culturally responsive teaching: Theory, research, and practice. Teachers College Press.
Ladson-Billings, G. (2006). From the achievement gap to the education debt: Understanding achievement in US schools. Educational Researcher, 35(7), 3-12.
Losen, D. J., & Gillespie, J. (2012). Opportunities suspended: The devastating consequences of zero tolerance and school discipline policies. The Civil Rights Project at UCLA.
National Conference of State Legislatures. (2018). State strategies to promote educational equity. Retrieved from https://www.ncsl.org/research
Terri Goldson 