Equity through SEL in the Math Classroom
India White • April 26, 2022
Equity Through SEL - Dr. India White
Equity Through SEL- Dr. India White
The term equity refers to the principle of fairness. When pertaining to education, by definition, equity has been known to NCTM as providing reasonable and appropriate accommodations as necessary while being fair and serving all students as needed in the classroom (NCTM, 2000). In a school environment, for instance, equity can be realized as a tool used to help with the principle of cohesion in the learning environment between students and teacher as well as those children of different social and educational backgrounds. Elements such as relationship building, and communication are most important at an early stage of social and emotional development for such an outcome in learning. While it is often used interchangeably with the related principle of equality, equity encompasses a wide variety of educational models, programs, and strategies that may be considered fair, but not necessarily equal. Further, there are elements such as students feeling safe about opening up verbally when talking to others such as how their day went. Effective learning environments will allow for that space for learners to confide in each other and the teacher in a classroom setting.
Socio-emotional Learning and Equitable Supports
SEL or socio-emotional learning is the tool used to allow for communication and relationship building to grow and cultivate into exactly what each learner needs to learn for him or her to succeed. We define social and emotional learning (SEL) as an integral part of education and human developmental process. It is part of that process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel, and show empathy for others, establish and supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions. This is known as the CASEL 5 (CASEL, 2021). Each area of this framework addresses five broad and interrelated topics of competence and highlights examples for each: self-awareness, self-management maintain, social awareness, relationship building skills, and decision-making. As these areas interact, they impact the classroom climate, schoolwide culture, practices and policies, partnerships and aligned opportunities for successful learning. Through socio-emotional supports for learners, equitable practices can be established.
The Importance of Socio-Emotional Learning in the Math Classroom
Students who persevere tend to remain persistence are both social-emotional skills especially those children who successful in learning mathematics. The process of identifying a problem, looking for a solution, and persisting despite obstacles is highly relevant to learning mathematics. There’s a deep connection between persistence and math. Being able to encourage persistence is where those social and emotional learning skills come in.
There are several simple ways one can develop such skills in a classroom setting. First, for those children of preschool age, games that teach how to take turns, how to wait one’s turn, and how to win and lose graciously are most important. By playing such games, you are not only teaching those math skills needed to move forward as they develop, but also supporting those approaches to SEL learning.
In addition to games, the Education Development Center revealed how doing puzzles and folding origami figures are great ways to promote the mathematical skills of spatial relationships and geometric reasoning principles (EDC, 2020). Puzzles also help children see the fun and beauty in math and to find satisfaction in solving a challenging problem. These activities also support mathematical habits of mind that are needed to be successful in math, like problem-solving, patience and perseverance—which are also important social and emotional skills.
For middle schoolers, let them solve non-mathematical problems. Kids in this age group are resourceful enough at fixing computer problems, television problems, smart-phone problems, or anything in between because of their innate curiosity. Thus, problem-solving and persistence are both social-emotional skills that are key to success in mathematics (EDC, 2020). The process of identifying a problem, looking for a solution, and persisting despite obstacles is highly relevant to learning mathematics. Parents can use these experiences as an opportunity to talk about persisting in mathematics—especially with students who feel like they struggle to do math.
How to Establish Equitable Practices through Socio-Emotional Learning
When establishing equitable practices in the classroom, it is imperative that teachers know their students. Ask yourself some questions: “Do I know their personalities? Do I have a good relationship with my students?” “Do I truly care about the academic progress and success of my students?” Once you have answered these questions truthfully, take time and make charts, schedules, outlines, in which you are able to categorize students in a way that will be productive, culturally relevant and includes various strengths of each learner. For instance, Dr. Kagan has established various grouping strategies for teachers to keep their classes blended, challenging and fun (Kagan, 2022). Choosing to look through the teacher roster, look at achievement levels, ethnicities, and genders, and intentionally blending these for unique discussions will help maintain an environment that is accepting, and cultivates socio-emotional learning.
Socio-Emotional Learning Supports: What that Looks Like in the Classroom
Can you imagine a classroom with communication flow that is cohesive and respectable all at the same time? Envision for a moment getting your classroom to a place where all you have to do is facilitate with ease because learners respect each other, hear each other’s thoughts and support one another during the learning process. This might sound like a dream out there to many teachers, but it can be a reality for all teachers with hard work. However, how do you implement equitable practices that enhance socio-emotional learning in the classroom?
First, teachers must be clear and concise when establishing classroom rules and procedures. Using conversation tools such as C.H.A.M.P.S. can assist teachers in establishing healthy classroom management that can assist in the learning environment and relationship building that will occur in the classroom (Zielinski et al.,2017). Further, teachers must clarify for learners who might not understand or may have a different perspective. Next, teachers must be able to reinforce rules and procedures in a way that is rewarding and cultivates intrinsic motivation vs. a fear students experience when they are being penalized for expressing themselves. Then, teachers must be intentional about cultivating learning for their students. Once students have norms, rules and procedures and expectations established, teachers must then work towards keeping students focused on the learning objective and criteria needed for gains and academic achievement.
As teachers are consistent with establishing these steps in their instruction, students will naturally evolve into socially and emotionally competent achievers in the classroom. As teachers wrap up their day with assessment, there should be room for reflection for learners to explain what they’ve learned, how they are feeling, and what they hope to accomplish in the future. In her article on Got SEL? Teaching Students to Describe Emotions, Martinez (2017) mentioned how this is described as “emotional literacy”, which is aligned with socio-emotional learning for all students. As they express their concerns and high moments, this will help break down any emotional barriers and continue to build trust in the classroom. Further, as teachers continue to build trust and show that they care, Doerr (2021) noted how these practices have been proven to build support and strong relationships between teachers and their students.
Conclusion
As math teachers strive to establish equity through SEL, they will be effective as they continue to be intentional about knowing their students, remain clear and concise when establishing classroom rules and procedures, and remain open minded and accepting as they embrace cultures and interests of their students.
References
3 ways to promote social and emotional learning through math. EDC. (2020, April 13). Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://www.edc.org/3-ways-promote-social-and-emotional-learning-through-math
Doerr, E. (2021, August 20). 6 ways to build strong teacher-student relationships with Sel. Social and Emotional Learning - Aperture Education. Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://apertureed.com/5-strategies-building-relationships-students/
Elizabeth Mulvahill on November 15, 2021. contest- social. share-links svg. (2021, November 17). 26 simple ways to integrate social-emotional learning throughout the day.
WeAreTeachers. Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://www.weareteachers.com/21-simple-ways-to-integrate-social-emotional-learning-throughout-the-day/
Fundamentals of sel.
CASEL. (2021, October 26). Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://casel.org/fundamentals-of-sel/
Getting started. Center on PBIS. (n.d.). Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://www.pbis.org/pbis/getting-started
Kagan. Kagan's FREE Articles - Kagan Structures: A Miracle of Active Engagement. (n.d.). Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://www.kaganonline.com/free_articles/dr_spencer_kagan/281/Kagan-Structures-A-Miracle-of-Active Engagement#: ~:text=Kagan%20Structures%20are%20instructional%20strategies%20designed%20to%20promote, particularly%20powerful%20tool%20for%20teaching%20a%20foreign%20language.
Martínez, L. (2017, February 8). Got sel? teaching students to describe emotions. Edutopia. Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://www.edutopia.org/discussion/got-sel-teaching-students-describe-emotions
Nctm.org. (2000.). Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://www.nctm.org/Standards-and-Positions/Position-Statements/Access-and-Equity-in-Mathematics-Education/
Zielinski, K., Lindsey, Abe, Kristin, Draper, N., Melissa, Thomas, F., Walia, D., & Classroom Behavior: 12 Principles to Live By – Paper Airplanes says: (2017, March 9).
Introduction to champs. Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://minds-in-bloom.com/introduction-to-champs/
🎙️ 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
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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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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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