How Grit Framework and Grit Workbook Aligns to Florida's Resiliency Standards
India White • July 15, 2024
How G.R.I.T Framework and G.R.I.T. Workbook Align to Resiliency Standards!
How the G.R.I.T Framework and G.R.I.T. Workbook Align to Florida Resiliency Standards
Dr. India White's GREAT Resilience In Time (G.R.I.T.) Workbook for Teachers, her G.R.I.T. Framework, and her TEDx talk "The Power of Grit" align comprehensively with the Florida Health Standards and the 11 Resiliency Skills outlined in Section 1003.42(2)(n)4., Florida Statutes (F.S.). These standards emphasize essential life skills that build confidence, support mental and emotional health, and enable students to overcome challenges. Here’s a detailed explanation of this alignment:
I. Self-awareness and Self-management
Dr. White's G.R.I.T. Framework includes a self-assessment component that encourages teachers and students to reflect on their resilience, growth mindset, self-efficacy, and time management. This self-awareness is foundational for effective self-management. By understanding their strengths and areas for improvement, individuals can better regulate their emotions and behaviors, aligning with the self-awareness and self-management goals of the standards.
1) Responsible Decision-making
The G.R.I.T. Workbook provides practical exercises and scenarios that help students and teachers make thoughtful and informed decisions. By fostering a growth mindset, Dr. White emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication, encouraging responsible decision-making that considers long-term outcomes rather than immediate gratification.
II. Resiliency
Resiliency is a core focus of Dr. White’s G.R.I.T. resources. Her TEDx talk highlights the ability to bounce back from setbacks and maintain a positive outlook in the face of adversity. The workbook includes specific activities to build resilience, such as reflective questions and goal-setting exercises that encourage students to persist through challenges.
III. Relationship Skills and Conflict Resolution
Dr. White’s emphasis on a growth mindset and understanding diverse perspectives promotes better relationship skills and conflict resolution. By encouraging empathy and open-mindedness, her framework helps students navigate interpersonal conflicts and build stronger, more respectful relationships.
IV. Understanding and Respecting Other Viewpoints and Backgrounds
The G.R.I.T. Framework’s focus on a growth mindset also supports the understanding and respect for diverse viewpoints. Dr. White teaches that challenges and failures are opportunities for growth, which includes learning from others' experiences and perspectives.
V. Developing Leadership and Interpersonal Skills (Grades 9-12)
For high school students, Dr. White’s resources address the development of leadership, interpersonal skills, organization skills, and other critical life skills. Her workbook includes exercises on goal setting, time management, and self-efficacy, which are essential for creating resumes, exploring career pathways, and preparing for employment. These activities align with the standards' focus on preparing students for future careers and responsibilities.
VI. Florida Health Standards Alignment
Dr. White’s G.R.I.T. Framework aligns with the Florida Health Standards, specifically HE.912.R.4.1, which emphasizes the importance of character and grit in achieving successful outcomes. By teaching students to persevere, manage stress, and stay motivated, Dr. White’s resources directly support these educational goals.
VII. Alignment with 11 Resiliency Skills
Dr. India White’s G.R.I.T. Framework and Workbook are meticulously aligned with the 11 resiliency skills outlined in Florida's educational standards. Each skill is addressed through specific components of the framework, fostering comprehensive personal and professional development.
1. Grit
Dr. White’s G.R.I.T. Framework is fundamentally designed to cultivate grit, defined as the combination of passion and perseverance toward long-term goals. Through her self-assessment tools and reflective exercises, teachers and students are encouraged to identify their core passions and commit to pursuing them persistently. This focus on sustained effort and dedication, even in the face of challenges, embodies the essence of grit, helping individuals to build a strong, resilient character that is essential for success.
2. Resilience
Resilience is explicitly addressed within the resilience category of Dr. White's G.R.I.T. Framework. The workbook includes activities and questions that prompt individuals to reflect on their ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to change. By encouraging the practice of maintaining a positive outlook and developing strategies to overcome obstacles, Dr. White’s resources help students and teachers build resilience, ensuring they can recover from difficulties and continue moving forward with determination.
3. Perseverance
Perseverance is a recurring theme in both the growth mindset and resilience components of the G.R.I.T. Framework. Dr. White emphasizes the importance of persistence through failure and challenges, teaching that setbacks are opportunities for growth and learning. Through guided exercises, individuals are encouraged to set long-term goals, develop a plan to achieve them, and remain committed to their efforts despite difficulties. This relentless pursuit of goals is a key aspect of perseverance.
4. Gratitude
Gratitude is fostered through the self-reflection and positive outlook promoted by Dr. White's framework. The workbook encourages individuals to regularly reflect on their progress and appreciate the small victories along their journey. This practice of acknowledging and valuing positive experiences and contributions helps build a mindset of gratitude, which is crucial for maintaining a balanced and positive perspective in both personal and professional life.
5. Responsibility
Responsibility is promoted through the self-efficacy and responsible decision-making exercises within the G.R.I.T. Framework. By guiding individuals to take ownership of their actions, set realistic goals, and make informed decisions, Dr. White’s resources help foster a sense of responsibility. Teachers and students learn to be accountable for their progress and setbacks, understanding that their actions directly impact their success and well-being.
6. Responsible Decision-making
Responsible decision-making is integrated throughout the G.R.I.T. Framework, particularly in scenarios and reflective questions that challenge individuals to consider the consequences of their choices. Dr. White provides practical tools and exercises that help individuals weigh their options, think critically about potential outcomes, and make decisions that align with their long-term goals and values. This emphasis on thoughtful and informed decision-making is crucial for personal and professional growth.
7. Self-awareness
Self-awareness is central to the self-assessment component of the G.R.I.T. Framework. Dr. White encourages individuals to reflect deeply on their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This heightened self-awareness allows individuals to understand their motivations, recognize their emotional responses, and make adjustments to their behavior that promote personal growth and effective self-management.
8. Self-management
Self-management is developed through the time management and self-efficacy activities within Dr. White’s framework. By teaching individuals how to prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and manage their time effectively, the G.R.I.T. Workbook helps them develop the skills needed to regulate their behavior and stay focused on their objectives. These self-management skills are essential for achieving long-term success and maintaining a balanced life.
9. Mentorship
Mentorship is encouraged as part of relationship skills and supporting others within the G.R.I.T. Framework. Dr. White emphasizes the importance of building strong, supportive relationships and seeking guidance from experienced mentors. The workbook includes exercises that prompt individuals to reflect on their role as mentors and mentees, fostering a culture of support, collaboration, and mutual growth.
10. Citizenship
Citizenship is promoted through the emphasis on understanding and respecting diverse viewpoints and backgrounds. Dr. White’s framework teaches individuals to value different perspectives, fostering a sense of community and social responsibility. By encouraging empathy and open-mindedness, the G.R.I.T. Workbook helps students and teachers become active, respectful, and engaged members of their communities.
11. Honesty and Empathy
Honesty and empathy are integral to the relationship skills and conflict resolution components of the G.R.I.T. Framework. Dr. White’s resources teach individuals to communicate openly and honestly, while also understanding and respecting others’ feelings and perspectives. This focus on genuine, empathetic interactions helps build trust, resolve conflicts effectively, and foster healthy, supportive relationships.
In conclusion, Dr. India White’s G.R.I.T. Workbook for Teachers, her G.R.I.T. Framework, and her TEDx talk are meticulously aligned with Florida’s resilience standards. They provide comprehensive strategies to develop essential life skills, fostering a growth mindset and building resilience in both students and teachers, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in various aspects of life.
Let’s Get Gritty at the 2nd Annual Black Kids Love Math Summit in LA! 🔥 🎉 I’m super excited to announce that I’ll be speaking at the 2nd Annual Black Kids Love Math Summit in Los Angeles! This powerful event is all about equity, excellence, and empowering Black students in mathematics—and I’m honored to be part of it. My session will focus on a topic that’s near and dear to my heart: Cultivating G.R.I.T. in the Math Classroom. During this hands-on, engaging session, attendees will: * 📘 Flip through the G.R.I.T. Student Workbook—a powerful tool designed to build Growth mindset, Resilience, self-efficacy, and Time management in students. * 💡 Explore real strategies for integrating grit-building activities into your math instruction. * 💬 Discuss how to support students through productive struggle while helping them develop the confidence to succeed in rigorous academic environments. And then, later that evening... get ready for the IGNITE session! 🔥 We’ll dive deeper into the message that “GRIT is IT” when it comes to student achievement. We’ll talk about how grit transforms classroom culture, closes equity gaps, and turns math challenges into moments of triumph—for every student. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, parent, or advocate—this is your chance to get inspired, get equipped, and get gritty. 📍Los Angeles, here we come! Let’s empower our students, celebrate their brilliance, and make sure they know—Black Kids Love Math and they can excel in it too. #drindiawhite #grit #LetsGetGritty #BlackKidsLoveMath #lausd #nctm #ncsm #bwxme #nabse #aasa #math #studentachievement #equity #resilience #gritintheclassroom #california
Spiritual Grit in Hard Times – Let’s Get Gritty Podcast Ep. 104 Recap We’re back with another powerful episode of the *Let’s Get Gritty Podcast*—and Episode 104 is one you don’t want to miss! In this special episode, we were joined by Apostle Andre Aris, Minister Ernestine, and a powerful audience of believers as we dove deep into the topic of spiritual grit during hard times. What is spiritual grit, and why does it matter? It’s that unshakable faith, perseverance, and strength we hold onto when life gets tough—when storms come, doors close, or we feel like giving up. In this episode, our guests shared raw, honest testimonies** of times they had to stand firm, trust God, and keep moving forward in the face of adversity. 💬 Highlights from the episode include: - Apostle Andre Aris encouraging listeners to "grit up spiritually" and hold onto their calling even when the path gets rocky. - Minister Ernestine reminding parents and community members that our trials are often the training grounds for our greatest breakthroughs. - Real talk with the audience—parents, students, and educators—about how to navigate faith, struggle, and purpose in everyday life. 🎧 Whether you're a teacher, a parent, a student, or a leader in your community, this episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and spiritual strength for the journey ahead. 👉 Listen to Episode 104 now on the Let’s Get Gritty Podcast (Available on all major platforms – don’t forget to subscribe!) Let’s keep pressing forward with faith, resilience, and purpose. Let’s Get Gritty—Spiritually! #LetsGetGritty #SpiritualGrit #FaithInHardTimes #TestimonyTuesday #PodcastRecap #DrIndiaWhite #PersevereWithPurpose #GritAndGrace #FaithAndGrit
Ready for the New School Year? Check Out What’s New with Dr. India White! Hey educators, leaders, and families! I’m thrilled to share my latest July newsletter, packed with exciting updates, upcoming speaking engagements, and opportunities for collaboration. As we gear up for a brand-new school year, there’s no better time to focus on what matters most—building GRIT, empowering students, and transforming education. Here’s what you’ll find inside: 🎤 Upcoming Speaking Engagements This year, I’m honored to speak at some incredible conferences and events, including: -Black Kids Love Math – 2nd Annual Math Summit -NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics) Annual Conference -NCSM (National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics) Leadership Conference ...and many more across the country! Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, or educational organization looking to ignite your audience, now is the time to book me for your next keynote, PD session, or summit. Let’s make this year powerful and purpose-driven. 🎓 Enroll Your Students in the GRIT Academy Looking for a way to support your students beyond the classroom? The GRIT Academy is now enrolling students nationwide! Our certified tutors specialize in STEM and help students not only master academic content, but also develop growth mindset, resilience, self-efficacy, and time management—the key pillars of the GRIT framework. ✨ Let’s Work Together I’d love to partner with you to empower your students, staff, or district. Check out the newsletter, explore the opportunities, and reach out to book a session or enroll your students today. 📬 Click here to view the newsletter: Let’s get gritty and make this school year the best one yet! #LetsGetGritty #GritAcademy #EducationMatters #MathEquity #BackToSchool #KeynoteSpeaker #STEMSuccess #DrIndiaWhite
🎙️ 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. 💪📘✏️
"How to Find and Keep a Good Man" is a heartfelt, empowering guide for women who are ready to break free from the cycle of unhealthy relationships and finally experience the love they deserve. Drawing from real-life wisdom, practical insights, and timeless principles, this book helps you uncover what truly matters in a partner—and how to recognize, attract, and build a lasting relationship with a good man. Whether you're single and searching, healing from heartbreak, or looking to strengthen an existing relationship, this book equips you with tools to elevate your self-worth, set healthy boundaries, and communicate with clarity and confidence. More than just dating advice, it’s a journey of self-discovery that inspires you to love wisely, choose intentionally, and walk boldly in your value. If you’re ready for real love with a real man—this book is your blueprint Grab a Copy below!
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