Choosing the SEE: Celebrating the Unique Traits of Students- Building Equity in Math Classrooms through Relationship Building and Equitable Practices
India White • October 19, 2024
Choosing to See- Building Equity in the Math Classroom!
Choosing the SEE: Celebrating the Unique Traits of Students- Building Equity in Math Classrooms through Relationship Building and Equitable Practices
In today’s classrooms, one of the most powerful actions a teacher can take is to see the unique strengths and potential in every student. When students feel seen and valued, they thrive—not only academically but also personally. In the context of math education, this mindset is essential for building an equitable learning environment where every student has the chance to succeed. Through intentional relationship building and the implementation of equitable math practices, teachers can demonstrate that they care about their students' individual journeys.
Why Equity in Math Matters when Choosing to See Students
Math is often seen as a subject where the answer is either right or wrong. However, the process by which students arrive at their answers is unique to each individual. When teachers actively work to recognize and appreciate this uniqueness, they break down barriers that have historically excluded students from reaching their full potential in mathematics. In fact, equity in the classroom goes beyond providing equal resources—it’s about tailoring the learning experience so that each student, and their culture,
regardless of their background or abilities, has an opportunity to thrive.
The Key: Building Relationships through Equitable Math Practices
At the heart of equitable teaching is the teacher-student relationship. Teachers who take time to understand their students’ backgrounds, interests, and learning styles can create a classroom where every student feels seen and respected. Relationship building
in this context isn’t just about getting to know students personally, but also about understanding their academic needs and creating a safe space where students are encouraged to express their thoughts and take risks in learning.
By using equitable practices, math teachers can communicate to their students, “I see you, and I believe in your potential.” These practices include:
a. Differentiated instruction to meet students where they are academically.
b. Encouraging students to use their voice and explain their thinking during math discussions.
c. Providing multiple entry points for students to engage with math problems based on their strengths.
Equitable math practices ensure that students who may not always speak up, or who have struggled in the past, feel included and supported. Implementing these strategies can help foster a community of learners who believe in their ability to succeed in mathematics.
Strategies for Building Equity: 20 Equitable Classroom Games
Equitable practices can be fun and interactive! Below are 20 games that math teachers can incorporate into their classrooms to foster inclusivity and promote engagement:
1. Mix and Mingle: Encourages students to interact with different classmates, ensuring a variety of perspectives are heard during problem-solving.
2. Equity Sticks:
Use popsicle sticks with students’ names to randomly select participants, giving everyone an equal opportunity to contribute.
3. Think-Pair-Share:
Promotes individual reflection followed by paired discussions before sharing with the class, ensuring quieter voices are heard.
4. Peer Tutoring: Pairs students to tutor each other, creating a collaborative learning environment where each student feels empowered.
5. Role-Playing:
Allows students to explore different perspectives and develop empathy, critical for building a classroom culture of respect.
6. Circle Time:
Puts students in a circle for equal-opportunity discussions, fostering a sense of belonging and engagement.
7. Jigsaw:
Divides the class into expert groups on different topics, promoting collaboration and the value of shared learning.
8. Four Corners:
Provides students with a way to express opinions or answers physically, ensuring diverse ways of thinking are celebrated.
9. Fishbowl:
Enables in-depth discussions in small groups while others listen, promoting reflection and diverse perspectives.
10. Gallery Walk:
Encourages students to move around the room to different problem stations, allowing for small-group collaboration.
11. Silent Conversations: Gives students the opportunity to express themselves through writing, creating space for those who may not feel comfortable speaking aloud.
12. Socratic Seminars:
Facilitates structured dialogues where students engage in thoughtful questioning and answer sessions, promoting deep understanding.
13. Interactive Whiteboard:
Allows all students to contribute to a collective problem-solving process, ensuring participation from all.
14. Random Grouping: Ensures diverse interactions by randomly grouping students for activities, breaking down social barriers.
15. Snowball Toss:
Engages students by allowing them to toss around questions or ideas, adding a playful element to learning.
16. Partner Swap: Allows students to rotate partners, ensuring they work with various peers and develop diverse collaborative skills.
17. Classroom Debates: Encourages structured arguments on math-related topics, promoting critical thinking and multiple viewpoints.
18. Choice Boards:
Offers students a choice in activities or problems, empowering them to engage with content in ways that suit their strengths.
19. Digital Collaboration Tools:
Allows all students to contribute in real-time through platforms like Google Docs, providing equal opportunities for participation.
20. Brainstorm Carousel:
Rotates students through posters with different questions, ensuring everyone has the chance to share their ideas.
These activities not only build equity by promoting inclusion and active participation, but they also help teachers better understand the unique traits of each student. By using these games, teachers can create an environment where every student feels seen and has the opportunity to grow. Students will conclude that "I see you care for me, I see that my uniqueness matters and is CELEBRATED in the classroom"
Leading with Equity: Insights from Equity Counts! Diversity and Inclusion for All
The strategies above are part of a larger movement to implement equitable practices at all levels of education. Dr. India White’s Equity Counts Book collaboration
offers powerful insights into how leaders—from classroom teachers to district administrators—can implement equitable practices. This book highlights how equity is more than just a classroom strategy; it’s a philosophy that can guide educational leadership at all levels. It calls for leadership that champions fairness and inclusion, recognizing the unique traits and potential of every learner as they choose to see them.
At every level, educational leaders can work to dismantle barriers that prevent students from reaching their full potential. By focusing on equitable practices and promoting the idea that every student has a unique strength to contribute, educators can foster a culture of care, respect, and excellence in math classrooms and beyond.
Conclusion
Choosing to see the unique traits of each student is one of the most powerful ways teachers can communicate that they care. By implementing equitable math practices and building relationships through inclusive strategies, teachers not only support academic success but also help students feel valued for who they are. Games like Mix and Mingle, Jigsaw, and Socratic Seminars can transform classrooms into spaces where every student is seen, heard, and given the opportunity to thrive. And with resources like Equity Counts, teachers and leaders alike can be empowered to implement practices that ensure all students succeed in mathematics, and beyond.
If you found the ideas in this blog inspiring and are interested in bringing equitable practices to your educational community, we would love to partner with you! Whether you're a school leader, university administrator, or part of an organization committed to fostering equity in education, we offer opportunities to collaborate.
You can invite us for speaking engagements, Equity Training, and Equity Consulting to help guide your team through the process of implementing equitable strategies, or purchase copies of EQUITY COUNTS!: Diversity and Inclusion for Success of All Learners to dive deeper into practical methods for cultivating fairness and inclusivity at all levels of leadership.
๏ปฟTogether, we can work toward building learning environments that truly value and support every student. Click the link to purchase your copy, and follow along as you listen to each expert on this YouTube video to learn more and take the next step in advancing equity in your institution.
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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 ! ๐ 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.
๐ Ready to Get Pumped Up About Life Again? ๐ Listen to my TEDx talk, and let’s reignite that fire inside you! ๐ฅ It’s time to get serious and start making those dreams happen! ๐ช Don’t let anything hold you back—embrace the grit and determination needed to turn your aspirations into reality. Join me on this journey to unleash your full potential! ๐คโจ #drindiawhite #grit #DreamBig #TEDxTalk https://youtu.be/R9YQOtryL7w?si=vvp_rSqMP3J2VNQ_ (I don’t own music copyright)
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
๐ Exciting News! ๐ I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be co-presenting at CAMT with the amazing Peter Liljedahl from Building Thinking Classrooms! Join us for our session where we’ll dive into empowering students to transition from perseverance to productive struggle. Let’s transform challenges into growth opportunities together! ๐๐ก #CAMT2025 #BuildingThinkingClassrooms #Education #StudentSuccess #drindiawhite #btc #grit #tedx NCTM - National Council of Teachers of Mathematics NCSM: Leadership in Mathematics Education #camt25 (I don’t own music copyright)
Dear Educators, Principals, and School Leaders, I’m excited to share that my latest newsletter has just arrived, filled with inspiring updates, resources, and tools to support your teams and students in building a culture of G.R.I.T.—Growth, Resilience, Intentional Self-Efficacy, and Time Management. As you plan your professional development sessions, conferences, or school events for the upcoming year, I’d love to partner with you. Whether it’s a keynote, workshop, or interactive training, I specialize in helping educators and school communities cultivate grit, equity, and empowerment in ways that are practical, engaging, and transformational. If you’re interested in having me speak at your school, district, or conference, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d be honored to serve your team. You can also explore my speaking topics and G.R.I.T. resources at: www.india-white.com Let’s connect, collaborate, and inspire greatness—together! Here's the link to my newsletter to share: https://www.canva.com/design/DAF_21LSLwQ/sEqABtI7pY0-Gh5vSzQnLg/edit?utm_content=DAF_21LSLwQ&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton Warmly,
Thank You, Nevada Association of School Administrators: Building a Culture of G.R.I.T. Together I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Adam Lane and the Nevada Association of School Administrators (NASA) for the incredible opportunity to speak at your recent conference. It was truly an honor to engage with such passionate, forward-thinking educational leaders who are committed to transforming schools and communities. During our time together, we explored a theme close to my heart: creating a culture of G.R.I.T.—not just in the classroom, but throughout our communities. We unpacked the G.R.I.T. Framework, which focuses on cultivating Growth Mindset, Resilience, Intentional Self-Efficacy, and Time Management in both educators and students. These four pillars are foundational for student success, especially in today’s challenging and ever-evolving educational landscape. We also discussed the critical role educators and school leaders play in modeling and reinforcing these values. From building trusting relationships to ensuring equity and access, educators are the heartbeat of our communities. When we lead with empathy, authenticity, and grit, we empower students to do the same—and we create schools where every learner feels seen, supported, and capable of greatness. To the school leaders, superintendents, and administrators who attended: thank you for your engagement, your insights, and your commitment to building a legacy of perseverance and purpose. I walked away inspired by your stories, your questions, and your unwavering dedication to improving outcomes for all students across Nevada. If you're interested in learning more about the G.R.I.T. Framework or want to access tools like the G.R.I.T. Workbook, I invite you to visit www.india-white.com/what-does-grit-mean-to-you ] And if you missed the session or want to revisit the message, you can also check out my TEDx Talk: The Power of G.R.I.T. Thank you once again, Adam and NASA, for giving me the platform to share this mission and for all you do to champion student success across Nevada and beyond. Let’s continue lifting others as we climb—one gritty step at a time.