Equity in the Classroom

Equity is a term we hear a lot these days, but what does it really mean? How can teachers ensure that every student gets what he or she needs to learn and succeed? Education leaders from around the country share their thoughts through essays that explore topics such as: how to achieve equity for all students; creating equity awareness in teachers; working with families and communities to close the opportunity gap; setting high expectations to raise academic achievement; and more.

Providing equal resources, strategies, and opportunities to students is essential, but putting that thought into action can be easier said than done. This collection of essays from professionals of color in various areas of the educational world lays the groundwork for this imperative but sometimes daunting task. The purpose of this book is to offer the historical context of inequality and how it has been influenced by culture, help educators see that inequality is still present in today's classrooms, and show teachers how to grow as educators and make their classrooms more egalitarian. The introduction urges educators to examine their unconscious biases and acknowledge that traditional thought processes can be harmful to the goal of equity in the classroom. Each essay examines a different facet of equality for students while dispensing thoughtful advice, lesson plans, necessary changes, and ways to encourage student voices within the schools. Together, this ambitious and important collection of essays provides the framework to dismantle stymied educational practices and move progressively forward with students' interest at the forefront. It urges teachers to connect with parents, community, and students, and to listen and use their innate empathy and ability to give equal voice to everyone. It will also inspire readers to uncover the bias in their own educational systems and shows multiple strategies for creating a balanced classroom environment. Overall, this book is a wonderful introduction for those who are looking to level the playing field by helping them understand why things must be changed and how to go about it. VERDICT Well-researched and wonderfully helpful, this collection is a must-have for teachers of all age groups.-Rachel Joinerα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.