In these turbulent times educators are prevailing over chaos and working relentlessly to ensure all students are educated to high levels. We celebrate them for their fearless and tireless commitment to their students.
The past three months have been more chaotic for educators than normal. Educators face challenges each day as they work to ensure ALL students master grade level literacy and mathematics at a minimum. This is difficult work as students’ needs vary greatly. Educators spend hours planning, preparing, and collaborating with others to ensure that hurdles that interfere with the learning of students are minimized. They tackle hurdles such as trauma or other mental health issues, poverty with inadequate nutrition and housing, language barriers, poor physical health, and disabilities that require additional supports.
Adding to the burden, that educators carry, has been the directive from the current administration to eliminate any DEI programs. The administration believes that Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs provide unfair advantages to some students over others. What they misunderstand is that these programs, especially programs focused on equity even the playing field so that all students master the rigorous standards set by their state.
Equity in education is simply doing whatever it takes to ensure each child has what they need to succeed and meet the standards in school. All children need to know that they are valued members of their school and that their teachers care deeply for them. They need to see themselves belonging in the curriculum provided and the instructional methods used. And yes, some children need more mental health supports, while some need more physical supports, and others need more specialized instruction. These supports allow them to reach the same standards as other students. These supports do not give them an advantage over other students; rather they even the playing field. Providing this type of education is what good schools do every day regardless of which administration is in power.
Schools are being threatened if they do not give up DEI programs and sign a letter certifying that they are not engaged in DEI programs. Thousands of educators are saying no despite the threats. They will not marginalize students who are already marginalized by society. They are saying we will do whatever it takes to ensure all of our students master rigorous standards, not just some of them, but all of them. They are saying they will meet the federal laws that require all students to have the supports they need for success in school.
Educators are standing up for the students and saying we will do whatever it takes for all students to succeed, despite the threats and chaotic times. Here are a few examples. Check them out and take courage from these brave educators. Join them in ensuring every student has whatever they need to master their state’s standards.
I am extremely grateful for the educators standing on the front line, ensuring every student has whatever it takes for them to be highly educated. We see you. We support you.
This blog is written by Dr. GwenCarol Holmes, a long-time educator and passionate advocate for all students mastering rigorous standards.