Helping Students of Color Overcome Imposter Syndrome through Grit!
India White • June 5, 2023
Helping Students of Color Overcome Imposter Syndrome through Grit
Helping Students of Color Overcome the Imposter Syndrome through Grit
Sometimes, entering a math classroom is like going into a warzone for many students of color. Students struggle with a low sense of self in math class, math anxiety, and a fear of failure. These various factors contribute to an overall sense of imposter syndrome in students of color. Imposter syndrome
is a common feeling among students, especially in math class. It is the feeling of being a fraud, despite having the necessary skills and knowledge. This feeling can be overwhelming and can lead to anxiety, stress, and even depression.
As students embrace these negative hurdles, they can feel powerless, and begin to doubt their abilities to perform as competent mathematicians. However, with the power of grit, students can overcome imposter syndrome and excel in math class. Here are seven tips
to help your students overcome imposter syndrome in math class through grit:
1. Embrace the struggle
According to Angela Duckworth, a leading researcher on grit, embracing struggle is a key component of grit.
When your students encounter a difficult math problem, encourage them to not give up. Instead, teach them how to embrace the struggle and keep working on the problem until they find a solution. This will help them build resilience and develop a growth mindset. Remind them to fight the urge to be average or to coast through, and to do their best to strive at excellence!
2. Set realistic goals
Setting realistic goals is essential to overcoming imposter syndrome. Don't set students up for failure through establishing unrealistic goals. Instead, set achievable goals that will challenge them, but are still within their reach. This will help them build confidence and develop a sense of accomplishment. Follow up with students on a regular basis and provide timely feedback when needed as they progress in the classroom. As you establish goals with these students and track their progress, this will shape their optimistic attitudes towards their ability to persist in the math classroom, causing them to succeed through grit.
3. Have Students Practice Self-Compassion
In her podcast on “Building Grit through Self- Compassion”, Therapist Dr. Kristen Neff defines self-compassion as a fierce accountability that is core to one’s psychological health, seeing it as an anti-dote to “shame”. Dr. Neff outlines 3 steps to truly practice self-compassion:
Hence, self-compassion is an important aspect of grit as students thrive through productive struggle in the math classroom. When students of color make mistakes or struggle with a math problem, remind them to not beat themselves up. Instead, discuss with them how they can practice self-compassion and remind them that everyone makes mistakes and struggles at times. This will help students develop a positive attitude towards their abilities and will cultivate a strong sense of self while enhancing their math identity. Further, it will help students to achieve and not feel like they can’t DO math
because they are of a particular diverse racial or ethnic background, or because they are a first-generation learner with no mentors or leaders of diverse representation in the math space for them to look up to.
4. Seek support
Seeking support from others is an important part of overcoming imposter syndrome. Take time to talk with your math students about various concepts or problems they may struggle with. Present opportunities where they can join a study group or seek support from friends and family. This will make your students feel less alone and more confident in their abilities to conceptualize math
and have a strong math voice during learning.
5. Focus on the process
Teach your learners that focusing on the process rather than the outcome is another key component of grit. Instead of them worrying about getting the right answer, encourage students to focus on the steps they need to take to solve the problem. This will help students develop a deeper understanding of the math concepts and build their ability to perform proficiently as they tackle math problems. As students focus on the process, this will give them the skills needed to remain disciplined and resilient
while achieving proficiency in their learning.
6. Celebrate successes
Celebrating the success of your students, no matter how small, is an important part of developing grit. When students solve a difficult math problem or understand a concept that they previously struggled with, take a moment to celebrate your success. This will help your students build confidence and motivate them to keep working hard. Through celebrating successes, students will know that you believe in them and that you are cheering for them. This will cause them to develop a stronger sense of trust in you as their leader, and will create a desire in them to please you through their performance and comprehension in the math classroom.
7. Embrace failure
Embracing failure is another important aspect of grit. Tell your students, “Don't be afraid to make mistakes or fail at a math problem.” Teach them to choose to use failure as an opportunity to learn
and grow. Failure is a part of achieving success. Remind your students that practice makes perfect and that as they embrace their growth mindset, they will realize that they have similar struggles to their peers, and that everyone is simply doing their best to learn math to their maximum capacity every day.
Conclusion
As students enter the classroom with various fears, anxiety and self-doubt, choose to provide an environment of hope and cultivation of math abilities by helping them overcome the imposter syndrome. Continue to remind your learners that you believe in them. Help them through these seven tips through practicing self-compassion, focusing on the process, celebrating their success, helping them to embrace failure in a positive lens. Through this, you will convince them that are NOT
powerless in the math classroom, and that they can thrive beyond any mental or emotional limitations as they DO math!!
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π Ready to Get Pumped Up About Life Again? π Listen to my TEDx talk, and let’s reignite that fire inside you! π₯ It’s time to get serious and start making those dreams happen! πͺ 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! π€β¨ #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
π Exciting News! π 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! ππ‘ #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.
Embracing Grit and Community in Education: Strategies and Insights for Teachers As I reflect on both shared and individual childhood experiences, I am reminded of the incredible power of grit, the passion and perseverance that fuel our journeys. Yet, one important question remains: What happens when grit alone isn't enough? In our classrooms, many students face systemic barriers that grit alone cannot overcome. That’s why it’s essential for educators to understand that grit must be supported by community, self-efficacy, and equity-driven practices. Understanding Grit in the Classroom Angela Duckworth defines grit as a sustained commitment to long-term goals despite obstacles. But through my own work and the development of the G.R.I.T. Framework, I’ve found that true grit includes more than persistence. It’s also about Growth mindset, Resilience, Intentional self-efficacy, and Time management—all supported by a strong community and a belief in one’s ability to succeed. To learn more about this approach, check out my TEDx Talk: π₯ [ “The Power of G.R.I.T.” TEDx Talk ] And if you're looking for practical tools to implement in your classroom or school community, you can explore and download the G.R.I.T. Framework and G.R.I.T. Workbook on my website, www.india-white.com π Let’s explore how educators can integrate these principles to help every student not only persist—but thrive. 1. Cultivate a Supportive Community β
Build Relationships Create a safe, inclusive environment by getting to know your students. Invite them to share their stories and experiences to strengthen classroom trust. β
Use Storytelling as Empowerment Lean into Rudine Sims Bishop’s concept of mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors—letting students see themselves, others, and opportunities through storytelling. Representation matters. 2. Acknowledge Systemic Barriers β
Name the Inequities Be honest about the social, economic, and cultural challenges your students may face. Acknowledgment leads to empowerment and helps normalize discussions around equity. β
Share Your Journey Talk about your own privileges and struggles. Vulnerability builds bridges and shows students that growth is possible; even through adversity. 3. Empower Student Leadership β
Promote Collective Agency Encourage students to be “ genius influencers ”—train them to see themselves as leaders who support one another and recognize their ability to shape positive change in their communities. β
Foster Collaboration Group work and peer learning cultivate community resilience and affirm the idea that we rise together. 4. Embrace Culturally Relevant Teaching β
Make Learning Reflective Design curriculum that reflects your students’ lived experiences and cultures . This combats bias and validates identity for all learners (Ladson-Billings, 1994). β
Encourage Critical Consciousness Help students think deeply about social justice, equity, and their own role in fostering inclusive environments. 5. Build Strong Mathematical Identities β
Promote Belonging in Math Create learning spaces where every student—especially those with disabilities or marginalized identities, which this helps students feel capable, celebrated, and seen . β
Use Real-World Connections Ground math in everyday experiences. When students see how math connects to THEIR world, they’re more likely to engage meaningfully. This helps to eliminate any invisible barriers and mistrust in the classroom. 6. Implement Dr. India’s G.R.I.T. Framework :) β
Foster Self-Efficacy Help students set achievable goals and celebrate small wins. Confidence grows when students believe their effort matters, and that you believe in them. β
Build Support Networks Facilitate relationships with mentors, peers, and community members who can serve as allies in your students’ educational journey. (Don't underestimate the power of community) Learn more and access the full G.R.I.T. Framework and accompanying workbook at: π( https://www.india-white.com/what-does-grit-mean-to-you) Final Thoughts: My Humanity Is Tied Up in Yours; We're in this Together! The journey of teaching is deeply human. Every interaction we have with students—every lesson, every word of encouragement, every challenge we help them overcome—shapes not only their lives, but our own. Let’s recommit ourselves to teaching with grit, grace, and empathy. Now, here are some Teacher Action Tips for your consideration: Make space for storytelling in your classroom. Reflect on and address systemic inequities regularly. Facilitate peer support systems. Use culturally relevant texts and lessons. Set and celebrate realistic goals with students. Show students they matter—every single day. References Duckworth, A. L., Peterson, C., Matthews, M. D., & Kelly, D. R. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 92(6), 1087–1101. Sims Bishop, R. (1990). Mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors. Perspectives, 6(3), 9–11. Ladson-Billings, G. (1994). The Dreamkeepers: Successful Teachers of African American Children. Jossey-Bass. White, I. (n.d.). G.R.I.T. Framework. Retrieved from [www.india-white.com](https://www.india-white.com/what-does-grit-mean-to-you) TEDx Talk: [The Power of G.R.I.T.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9YQOtryL7w&t=1s) Together, we can build resilient, empowered learners—one gritty classroom at a time. πͺπ #GRITinEducation #EquityInLearning #CulturallyRelevantTeaching #StudentEmpowerment #TeacherLeadership #GrowthMindset #DrIndiaWhite
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π Just wrapped up an enlightening session on the sense of belonging at the NCTM - NCTE Joint Conference! π As educators, we explored the crucial distinction between fostering a culture of inclusion versus facing feelings of dejection in our classrooms. It was inspiring to see so many passionate teachers engaged in this important dialogue. Let's continue to strive for acceptance and enrich the learning environment for all students! π #drindiawhite #inclusion #dejection #acceptance #nctm #ncte #LitMath25 #bwxme #NAACP (I don’t own copyright to music or background)
π Loving Day 2 of the NCTM-NCTE Joint Conference! πβ¨ It’s been fantastic mingling with friends, soaking in inspiring sessions, and indulging in amazing food! π½οΈπ So grateful for my incredible TRIBE! We stick together through it all! ππͺ Let’s keep the momentum going! π #drindiawhite #tedx #grit #LitMath25 #nctm #ncte (I don’t own copyright to music or location)