Equitable Policies for Educational Success

Benefits of Equitable Policies

Due to the systemic structure of education within the United States, systems and policies that have been established over time have been more of a detriment than a benefit to the educational gain and advantage of particular groups of students, specifically students of color. From testing policies, educational plans, and disciplinary policies, these policies have fallen short of being equitable. In their educational research dealing with Equitable Issues, NCES (2002) found that there were areas of focus that needed to be addressed whenever dealing with these issues including questions regarding 1) Policy questions which addresses a) Access Issues, and b) Equity Issues; and 2) How Access to College is Distributed to various populations. 

Some of the questions addressing access issues for students that were posed included:

 1)Is there equal access to postsecondary education for different groups?

2) Do different groups of students have differential access to different types of high schools?

3) Is there equal access to a positive school climate and other positive environmental features?

Unfortunately, studies have shown that students of color do not have the same level of access to technology, educational opportunities (gifted placement, advanced placement courses, dual enrollment) than their White peers. Although the instructional systems were not intentionally created to impact various subsets of learners, data has revealed that these systems that have remained intact are not causing a negative effect on students of colors’ ability to perform and achieve academically. Hence, NCES conducted this longitudinal study to find out how the achievement of various subsets could be enhanced as various policies were revisited to see how they could become more equitable.

NCES continued with questions regarding equitable, including questions to see where there is an equitable distribution of educational inputs and resources to various students and if schools that serve poor and minority learners offer fewer advanced placement/honors courses. Also, they looked to see what administrative practices were in place and how they affect academic progress and access of learners. When investigating various policies and systems that make up a school and or district culture, leaders can be assured to progress towards equitable policies that can help all students succeed.

Creating Equitable Systems

Some ways that leaders can begin their journey on dismantling inequitable systems include:

1.     Reverse Negative Impact that Current Systems have on Student Performance

a. In order to see a change in academic performance, many systems that hindered particular subsets of learners must be revisited and adjusted to best fit the needs of all learners. Many systems that incorporate the idea of restorative justice and provide equitable access are ideal for helping all learners succeed.

2.     Revisit and Strengthen Current systems to better the Learning Environment

a. Certain systems need to be revisited to update the way of work and current expectations for student achievement. Incorporating particular systems, i.e. PBIS systems, are a great way to begin the work of providing an equitable environment for all learners.

3.     Advocate for Students of Color, and Students with Disabilities when creating new policies and amending old policies

a. The best thing students of color and students with disabilities need is an adult that demonstrates how much they care about them through advocating for them. Many times, students of color do not have the same access to vital information that can help them succeed, and as a result, they struggle academically. Taking the time to advocate for students of color and students with disabilities when discussing policies is a healthy and beneficial practice that can ensure that all learners are being intentionally supported throughout their journey towards academic success.

 Conclusion

As the world continues to evolve, so must the lens in which educators and leaders see the world of education. The way of work must continue to adjust with the modern needs of all learners. To provide equitable policies, leaders must choose to look at the current policies and systems that are in place and create equitable systems that will provide equal access and opportunity for all learners no matter their background or condition.