5 Tips for Eliminating School-to Prison Pipeline through Equitable Math Practices
India White • October 14, 2023
5 Tips to Eliminate School to Prison Pipeline!
5 Tips for Math Teachers to Combat School-to-Prison Pipeline with Equitable Math Practices
The school-to-prison pipeline is a disturbing phenomenon that disproportionately affects marginalized students, leading them from educational institutions to the criminal justice system. This usually happens from minor infractions that take place in the classroom that led to multiple unnecessary suspensions, and eventually causes learners to be expelled and enrolled in the juvenile system. For instance, there have been cases of students who were goofing off with friends, that were escorted out of their classroom by law enforcement as a result, although they did not pose a threat or harm to anyone. When these infractions add up on these students’ disciplinary records, it creates biases and has a negative psychological effect on each learner. ACLU mentions how this method of injustice has disproportionately affected students of diverse backgrounds, in particular, African American and Hispanic leaners.
Hence, as math teachers, we have a unique opportunity to challenge and disrupt this pipeline by implementing equitable math practices in our classrooms. By creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment, we can empower all students to succeed and break free from this unjust cycle!
Let’s talk about five essential tips for math teachers to diffuse school-to-prison pipeline practices with equitable math practices:
1. Cultivate a Positive Classroom Culture:
Creating a positive classroom culture is crucial for fostering an inclusive learning environment. This happens when there is cultural responsiveness, empathy, and strong relationships with students. Educators must be intentional at encouraging open dialogue, respect diverse perspectives, and actively listen to your students. When your students act out of character, or refuse to listen, take a moment to find out how to crack that shell and help them in their vulnerable state. Then, continue to establish clear expectations in a compassionate manner for behavior and ensure that all students feel safe and valued. By promoting a sense of belonging, you can help students develop a positive attitude towards math and education as a whole. Remember, you did not come to school to arrest students; you came to teach and support them as they evolve into productive citizens in society.
2. Incorporate Culturally Relevant Math:
Teachers should strive to make math relatable and culturally relevant to your students' lives. This can be accomplished as teachers integrate real-world examples, diverse mathematical contributions, and culturally significant contexts into your lessons. Choosing to celebrate learners by their cultural distinctions through prestigious leaders in their community and or highlighting neat facts about their ethnicity is key for connecting students to math. As mentioned in Ed Week, by connecting math to their experiences, you can engage students who may have previously felt disconnected from the subject and convince them that they belong.
Choose to see each learner for what they bring into the math space and give them a moment to have their voices empowered. These approaches help students see the relevance and applicability of math beyond the classroom, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the subject.
3. Provide Differentiated Instruction:
Recognize that students have different learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds. Guess what? Sometimes, students just “don’t get it” like we got it! Hence, we have to put ourselves in their shoes, and take off the hat of judgment and choose to relate to their struggle in the math class. Some students have barriers of math anxiety, fear from their guardians of math due to years of pressure at home, and a lack of support in their communities. Hence, implementing differentiated instruction strategies to meet the diverse needs of your students is needed to make sure that every angle is covered and that students can flow metacognitively as they learn the math. Choose to offer various entry points to math problems, provide multiple representations, and encourage your students to engage in collaborative problem-solving. Further, choose to challenge your learners in the math and refuse to assume that they don’t want the more challenging problems because they “can’t do that level of math yet.” By tailoring your teaching to individual students, you can ensure that everyone has an opportunity to succeed and feel valued in the math classroom.
4. Address Implicit Bias: Implicit biases can unintentionally influence our interactions with students, perpetuating inequities. Sometimes, society can make educators feel that students from underserved communities cannot do math, and simply aren’t motivated or interested. However, this has been proven several times to be incorrect. Educators, choose to reflect on your own biases and actively work to address them. Work on your level of biases and see how you can reflect in a way that will help you address any unknown biases that have been detrimental to students. Allow yourself to challenge stereotypes and assumptions about students' mathematical abilities based on their race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
Begin treating all students with equal respect and provide equitable opportunities for participation and success. Remember, your character can be measured by how you treat people that you feel are less than you that cannot do anything for you! Hence, build your character and choose to show love and compassion and treat all students…. EQUALLY. Your students are trusting you to help them learn math, so keep the main thing the main thing! By being aware of and actively combating implicit biases, you can create a fair and inclusive learning environment.
5. Foster Student Agency and Empowerment:
Empower students to take ownership of their learning and make decisions about their mathematical journey. This can only be effectively done when teachers have developed a love and compassion for EACH learner and is truly an advocate for their students. Choose to encourage student voice and choice in the classroom, allowing them to explore topics of interest and solve problems in ways that resonate with them. Refuse to allow any form of dehumanization in your class, whether that’s students being exposed to racism, bullying, or hatred in any other form. Provide opportunities for students to collaborate, share their ideas, and engage in critical thinking. By fostering student agency
you can help students develop a sense of ownership and confidence in their mathematical abilities, reducing the likelihood of disengagement and negative outcomes.
Conclusion
As math teachers, we have a responsibility to challenge and dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline by implementing equitable math practices. Your kids need you to protect them, not sign them up for prison. By cultivating a positive classroom culture, incorporating culturally relevant math, providing differentiated instruction, addressing implicit bias, and fostering student agency, we can create an inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive. Let us commit to breaking the cycle and empowering our students to reach their full potential, both academically and personally. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that every student has an equitable opportunity to succeed in math and beyond.
🎙️ Let’s Get Gritty: How Grit Carried Alexander Rivera Across the Graduation Stage This week’s episode of the Let’s Get Gritty podcast is one you don’t want to miss. We had the incredible honor of sitting down with Alexander Rivera, a recent high school graduate who beat the odds with one powerful trait—GRIT. Alexander’s story is more than just a celebration of academic achievement. It’s a living testament to how resilience, perseverance, and the right support system can transform a young life. In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Alexander shares how Dr. India White’s G.R.I.T. framework—which focuses on Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management—helped him push through obstacles that once seemed insurmountable. 🎓 From Setbacks to Success Alexander opens up about the challenges he faced during his educational journey, from personal struggles to academic hurdles. But instead of giving up, he pressed forward—step by gritty step. He attributes much of his transformation to learning how to: *Develop a growth mindset when failure felt final * Bounce back with resilience after every setback * Believe in his own ability even when others doubted * Manage his time intentionally to meet his goals With this mindset, and through the support of educators and mentors who believed in him, Alexander proudly walked the graduation stage this week—a moment he once thought would never come. 🍎 Nuggets of Wisdom for Educators, Families & Leaders In the episode, Alexander doesn’t just share his story—he delivers gold. He offers practical advice for: * Teachers: “Don’t give up on students. See past their struggle and speak to their potential. It’s your voice that sticks in our heads.” * Students: “You’re not alone. Keep pushing. Grit isn't about perfection—it's about consistency.” * Parents: “Your encouragement matters more than you realize. Even if your child doesn’t say it, they hear you.” * Principals & Superintendents: “Create opportunities for students to recover, grow, and prove themselves. Every student deserves a second chance—and sometimes a third.” 🙏 Gratitude and Paying It Forward Alexander shares his deep gratitude to Dr. India White for her mentorship, wisdom, and for showing him what it looks like to lead with grit. He also gives heartfelt thanks to The Honorable Susan Valdes, who stood by him and helped pave a path for his success. But Alexander isn’t stopping here. He’s committed to paying it forward—to becoming an educator who pours into the next generation, just as others did for him. His goal? To help students not just survive school, but thrive with grit. 💥 Final Thoughts Alexander Rivera reminds us that grit is not reserved for the gifted—it’s grown in the trenches of trial. His journey encourages us all to see every student as capable of greatness, if we’re willing to support, uplift, and believe in them—relentlessly. 👏 Tune in to this powerful episode of Let’s Get Gritty to hear Alexander’s full story. Then ask yourself: How can I help build grit in someone today? 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. \#LetsGetGritty #GRIT #StudentSuccess #DrIndiaWhite #AlexanderRivera #PayItForward #GritInEducation #GraduationVictory #BuildingGRIT
Join us on the grit and equity talks podcast as we talk about grit rebuttals!
Gritty Strategies for Thriving in Schools Amid Budget Cuts As school districts across the United States brace for nearly $7 billion in budget cuts for the upcoming academic year (Hersher, 2025), teachers and administrators are facing the daunting task of doing more with less. While these financial constraints can feel overwhelming, impacting everything from special education to extracurricular activities, they also present a unique opportunity: to rise with GRIT. Drawing from Dr. India White’s Grit Framework, which emphasizes growth mindset, resilience, self-efficacy, and time management, this blog offers practical, research-based strategies for educators determined to not just survive, but thrive, during these challenging times. 1. Cultivate a Growth Mindset in Staff and Students During budget shortfalls, it’s easy to focus on what’s lacking. But fostering a growth mindset,t he belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed, can spark transformation across your school community. According to Dweck (2006), students and educators who embrace a growth mindset are more likely to persist through adversity and show improved academic outcomes. Celebrate small wins, reframe setbacks as learning moments, and create a culture where effort is as valued as outcome. 💡 Tip: Post quotes or examples of growth in action in classrooms and staff rooms to reinforce the mindset daily. 2. Collaborate and Maximize Collective Resources With fewer funds available, collaboration becomes essential. Teachers can form professional learning communities (PLCs) to share lesson plans, instructional strategies, and creative workarounds. Beyond the school walls, building partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and families can bring in vital support. As noted by NPR, budget cuts often open up new grant opportunities and public-private partnerships, especially for educators who can demonstrate innovation (Hersher, 2025). 💡 Tip: Designate a team or “innovation committee” to search for and apply for grants, sponsorships, and in-kind donations. 3. Leverage Low-Cost and Free Technology Technology can help stretch limited resources , allowing teachers to enhance instruction without additional expenses. Digital platforms, educational apps, and open educational resources (OER) can supplement instruction and boost student engagement. Investing time in professional development focused on edtech ensures educators are confident in using tools that enhance—not complicate—the learning process. 💡 Tip: Use tools like Google Classroom, Khan Academy, Desmos, and Flip to support blended and flipped instruction models. 4. Prioritize Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) In times of stress and uncertainty, students' mental health and emotional well-being must remain a top priority. SEL programs help students build emotional intelligence, empathy, and resilience; traits that directly influence academic achievement and school climate. The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL, 2021) reports that SEL positively impacts classroom behavior, emotional regulation, and long-term life outcomes. 💡 Tip: Incorporate daily SEL check-ins, gratitude journals, or mindfulness breaks, even if just for a few minutes each day. 5. Stay Informed and Advocate Educators must remain proactive by staying up-to-date on funding policies, legislation, and opportunities to advocate for their students. Knowledge is power; staying informed helps teachers push for what’s needed at the school, district, and even state levels. 💡 Tip: Subscribe to education policy newsletters or join advocacy groups to stay in the loop and mobilize when needed. 6. Foster Grit in Students Through Real-World Challenges Now more than ever, students need to learn how to persevere in the face of difficulty. Dr. India White’s Grit Framework encourages educators to instill the values of resilience, purpose, and perseverance. Incorporate problem-based learning, goal-setting activities, and reflective journaling. When students are given ownership of their growth journey, they rise to the challenge. 💡 Tip: Celebrate grit—not just grades. Acknowledge students who push through obstacles, take initiative, or support their peers. Final Thoughts: Turn Cuts Into Catalysts While budget cuts present undeniable challenges, they also provide a powerful moment to reflect, reset, and reimagine. Educators who lean into grit, collaboration, and creative thinking can transform adversity into innovation. By focusing on what we can do—and drawing strength from one another—we ensure that every student has a fighting chance to succeed, regardless of circumstance. Quick Gritty Tips Recap 1) Foster a growth mindset in classrooms and staff meetings. 2) Build collaborative partnerships within and outside of your school. 3) Integrate cost-effective technology and OER resources. 4) Keep social-emotional learning at the forefront. 5) Stay informed and proactive about funding changes and opportunities. 6) Embed grit-based learning experiences to develop student resilience. References Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning. (2021). Effective Social and Emotional Learning Programs: Middle and High School Edition. Dweck, C. S. (2006). *Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House. Hersher, R. (2025). Trump School Funding Grants.NPR. Retrieved from (https://www.npr.org/2025/07/01/nx-s1-5453457/trump-school-funding-grants) White, I. (2021). Grit Workbook for Teachers. Retrieved from https://www.india-white.com . Are you ready to implement these strategies in your school? Let’s connect! Dr. India White offers Grit Workshops, Grit Training, and Leadership Coaching to help educators overcome challenges and inspire excellence. 👉 Schedule a consultation or workshop today! Together, we can rise above budget cuts—and lead with purpose, passion, and GRIT. 💪📘✏️
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Join on the Grit and Equity Talks Podcast with Dr. India White as we talk about Grit!
Hello CAMT Family, A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the session Peter and I presented on "From Productive Struggle to Perseverance." We are so grateful for your energy, your insights, and your deep commitment to growing gritty learners in the math classroom. As you return to your schools and teams, I encourage you to keep in mind the difference between state and traits . Struggle is often a state—temporary and situational—but perseverance is a trait—something we can build and nurture over time. Let’s continue to help our students shift from temporary struggle to lifelong perseverance by developing resilience, self-efficacy, and a growth mindset and time management in our schools . As a special thank you for attending, I’m offering my G.R.I.T. Workbook at a conference-exclusive price of only $15! This resource is filled with practical strategies and reflections to help students and educators build Great Resilience in Time. Grab your copy and order for your school here ! 👉 To grab your discounted workbook or to schedule a workshop, G.R.I.T. training, or educational consultation, click the link below and book your appointment today: 1) Free Consultation Appointment : 2) Book Dr. India White here : Finally, I want to take a moment to say that my thoughts and prayers are with all of Texas as you navigate the aftermath of the recent floods. We see you. We stand with you. And we are lifting you up. Let’s stay connected, keep building G.R.I.T., and continue turning moments of struggle into stepping stones for success. With gratitude and perseverance, Dr. India White Let's Stay Connected! Email: indiawhiteconsulting@gmail.com X: Indispeaknteach Blusheky: drindiagrit IG: Indi238 FB: Msindiawhite YT: Theindiawhite Tiktok: drindiawhite
From Rotten Moments to Sweet Blessings: What Banana Bread and Fermented Foods Teach Us About Life Sometimes life hands us what feels like rotten bananas; situations that seem spoiled, broken, or beyond hope. Maybe it’s a tough season of loss, failure, disappointment, or uncertainty. Yet, just like those overripe bananas transform into delicious banana bread, or milk ferments into nourishing cheese and yogurt, our "rotten" moments have the power to turn into something sweet and life-giving. Why Rottenness Can Be Good In the culinary world, fermentation, a process that uses “rottenness” to transform foods , creates some of the healthiest, most flavorful staples we enjoy: yogurt, cheese, sauerkraut, kimchi, and more. This “rottenness” isn’t waste; it’s a powerful agent of change that unlocks nutrients, improves digestion, and promotes health. Similarly, life’s difficult seasons are not the end. They are part of a process— a fermentation of our character, faith, and grit When we lean into these moments with grit—great resilience in time—we develop strength, wisdom, and sweetness in our souls that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. 7 Ways to Overcome a Negative Mindset and Embrace Grit in Rotten Seasons 1. Acknowledge Your Feelings Without Defeat It’s okay to feel hurt, frustrated, or discouraged. But remember, these feelings don’t define you. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” 2. Shift Your Perspective to Growth View challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Romans 5:3-4 reminds us, “Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Just like looking at a bunch of rotten bananas can seem discouraging until you shift your thinking and see them as a perfect ingredient for banana bread, choose to see your moments of rottenness as a game changer for your destiny! 3. Practice Patience Through the Process Good things take time— like fermentation and baking . Wait on God’s timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a time for everything.” Think of how spoiled milk seems disgusting and gut wrenching, until you learn of how wonderful of an ingredient it becomes for homemade cheese! Trust the process, and know that it will all work out in your favor! 4. Cultivate Resilience by Staying Connected Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you to keep going. Galatians 6:2 teaches, “Carry each other’s burdens.” Sometimes, that person might be the catalyst for a new direction, new energy and exponential success. 5. Focus on Small, Consistent Steps Break down overwhelming problems into manageable pieces. Z echariah 4:10 encourages, “Do not despise these small beginnings. ” Don't lose sight on your progress, your identity or your purpose. 6. Renew Your Mind Daily Replace negative thoughts with truth and hope from Scripture. Philippians 4:8 advises, “Think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure.” Remember that God is not dead, and he sees exactly how his plan in your life will manifest. Leave your worries on the throne and know he will justfiy you. 7. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection Every small victory is a sign of growth and sweet fruit to come. J ames 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres.” Just as you are making banana bread, cheese, yogurt and other wonderful foods, you know that there might be bumps along the way, but keep pressing on! The final product is worth the moments of struggle disappointment and rottenness. You will smile in the end. Conclusion Remember, just as rotten bananas, milk, and vegetables become nourishing foods through a process of transformation, your tough seasons are preparing you for a sweeter, stronger tomorrow . Stay gritty, endure the process, and trust that God is turning your struggles into something beautiful. For more encouragement and practical ways to build grit in your life, visit my website at www.india-white.com . You can also watch my TEDx Talk, The Power of G.R.I.T., for a motivating boost to help you keep pushing through life’s challenges. Keep rising. Keep growing. Your sweetness is coming.
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Join us on the Grit and Equity Talks with Dr. India White, featuring Choosing to See Co-Author and Equity Expert, Dr. Pam Seda! #drindiawhite #pamseda #choosingtosee #equity #icucareframework #nctm #ncsm