‘Equity’ is a lofty term that can surpass many heights, but what does it really mean, and how can educators approach equity concerns with concrete strategies? Equity in the Classroom, a new Scholastic Professional title, utilizes ten veteran educational leaders’ experiences, and addresses the issue of equity through a series of highly personalized essays. A rich culmination of varying viewpoints and experiences, this title provides educators quantifiable methods and actions toward creating an inclusive classroom, as well as an abundance of research-based theories to help inform a culturally responsive pedagogy.
“What I love about this book is that it’s coming from different people who work in education—a district superintendent, education professors, classroom teachers, a child psychologist, a social worker—it’s all different points of view available in one place for administrators, principals, teachers, and whoever else is interested in promoting equity in the classroom,” said the book’s editor Maria L. Chang, Editorial Director, Scholastic Teachables & Classroom Activities.
To learn more about Equity in the Classroom, click here.
The writers behind this title recognize that injustice is real and pervasive. They know that strong bias and inequitable systems exist at nearly every level of society, and likewise uphold the belief that educators hold an ongoing responsibility to help dismantle them. Predominantly, Equity in the Classroom aims to strengthen the realities of having a just school system, a system that not only shapes kids into learners, but one that encourages humanity, joy, and freedom.
These writers – each a person of color and all from different spheres of education – discuss ways in which teachers can honor children, regardless of their ethnic, cultural, linguistic or racial background, and create a space for excellence. The topics discussed range from “Third Grade Literacy Proficiency in Brown and Black Youth,” to “Maximizing Field Tips to Close Opportunity Gaps.”
Tai Jones, a contributor, conveys:
“We are living through a crisis and an opportunity at the same time,” Tai said. “The book catalogues wonderful opportunities to maximize this moment and make the world a better place. It’s not if we have the opportunity to make a difference—it’s when. When we have that opportunity, it is our job, our duty, and our responsibility. This book gives educators the tools to incorporate equity into the work you show up every day to do.”
To hear more about these authors and explore the work they do, follow @ScholasticED on Twitter and @Scholastic Teachers on Facebook!
