Advocating for Equitable Education

Title: Advocating for Equitable Education. 

Blog Series Name: Deficit Thinking in Education.

When I think about what it means to advocate for equitable education, I find myself reflecting on the power of our voice- both individually and collectively.

As teachers, equitable education is about giving our Mexican American students a voice in the classroom. As school leaders, it is about how we give voice to our Mexican American families.

As community members, equitable education is raising awareness of key education issues today and how they affect the Mexican American community. The research shows that underrepresented minority groups have lower achievement rates as compared to White peers AND receive more severe disciplinary punishments.

This should be discussed more than it is, not through labels, but by asking community members what supports educators need to support these communities more effectively. That’s what it means to be equitable.

 Bringing awareness does not have to be positive or negative, but simply a way to provide context for what is happening in schools for those who do not know but NEED to know, including parents.

 As I reflect on my 15 years in education, my goal moving forward is to become an advocate for equitable education. This means providing context for what is happening in schools. But the main thing it means to me is providing support for educators. My research and experience as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal have focused on Mexican American students, but these supports can benefit all students.

Supports will include resources, blogs, and contemporary research that will guide educators in serving students more effectively.

Coming up next: Mindset CoLab