Celebrating Culture and Race: Establishing Equitable Math Practices in the Classroom
India White • September 5, 2023
Celebrating Culture and Race through Equitable Math Practices!

Celebrating Culture and Race: Establishing Equitable Math Practices in the Classroom
In today's diverse classrooms, it is crucial for teachers to embrace and celebrate the cultural and racial backgrounds of their students. Currently, studies have shown that in schools where at least 90% of students were minorities, the share of teachers who were Hispanic was 28%, while 20% of teachers were Black, 5% were Asian and 43% were White. Across schools where at least 90% of students were White, nearly all teachers (97%) also were White.
With such a significant demographic gap, teachers must be equipped with tools to properly connect with and celebrate learners for varying ethnic backgrounds. Hence, by incorporating students' culture and race into math instruction, educators can create an inclusive learning environment that promotes equitable math practices. Let’s now explore the importance of celebrating culture and race in the math classroom and provide three tips supported by scholarly research to help teachers establish equitable math practices.
1. Incorporate Culturally Relevant Math Tasks
Research has shown that incorporating culturally relevant math tasks can enhance students' engagement and achievement in mathematics
(Gutiérrez, 2013). In her article titled, Mathematics Teachers’ Use of the Culturally Relevant Cognitive Demanding Mathematics Task Framework and Rubric in the Classroom, Central Connecticut State University Math Professor, who specializes in culturally relevance, Dr. Shelly Jones mentions how schools often do not meet the needs of culturally different students because there is not a social context for learning which would allow students of diverse backgrounds to access knowledge in ways that are comfortable and familiar to them. In efforts to combat the lack of relevance and cultural connection in the math classroom, teachers can select math problems or activities that reflect the cultural backgrounds and experiences of their students. For example, using real-life scenarios and prominent figures of various cultural groups that relate to students' cultures or incorporating culturally diverse mathematicians and their contributions can help students see the relevance of math in their own lives (NCTM, 2018).
This approach not only promotes cultural appreciation but also helps students connect math concepts to their own experiences, making learning more meaningful. As teachers guide students through math with a culturally relevant lens, it will increase the sense of belonging and math identity of all learners.
2. Foster Collaborative Learning and Discussion
Creating opportunities for collaborative learning and discussion can promote equity in the math classroom. Research suggests that collaborative learning environments can help students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and improve problem-solving skills
(Cohen & Lotan, 2014). Hence, teachers should encourage students to work in groups with diverse students, where they can exchange their cultural perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. As they do this, students will grasp a stronger sense of knowledge of the content, and benefit from the mathematical discourse experienced with their peers. Further, it will support teacher in their efforts to build a healthy metacognitive flow as teachers scaffold learners into thinking about their thoughts and thinking about the math. Cohen and Lotan (2014) mention how teachers can utilize this in group discussions, stating that it is “important that the group discussion be articulate and thoughtful” …and that “teachers should consider using a specific skill builder designed to teach the kinds of “talk” you want to hear (p. 48).” By valuing and respecting each student's contributions, teachers can create an inclusive space where all voices are heard and valued.
3. Provide Culturally Responsive Assessment
Assessment plays a crucial role in promoting equitable math practices. Teachers should ensure that their assessment methods are culturally responsive and fair to all students. For example, offering multiple ways for students to demonstrate their understanding of math concepts,
such as through written work, oral presentations, or visual representations, can accommodate different learning styles and cultural preferences (NCTM, 2018). Further, teachers should include real-world examples that embrace various cultural groups and ethnic activities and ideas that could enhance appreciation of various cultures for all students. These should be intentional efforts that are factored in such that all learners can see themselves in the math, gain confidence in their own ability, know that they belong,
and that their cultural group is comprised of distinguished leaders who’ve accomplished great contributions in STEM fields and other areas that are notable in society.
Additionally, teachers should be mindful of potential biases
in assessment questions or grading practices that may disadvantage certain cultural or racial groups, along with any biases that they may be working through. Regularly reviewing and reflecting on assessment practices can help teachers identify and address any potential inequities. As educators make sure that they have utilized their time and resources to provide a culturally responsive assessment that fits the needs of all learners, they can be assured that they will provide equity and access for all students when they need it the most during each assessment.
Conclusion
Celebrating culture and race in the math classroom is essential for establishing equitable math practices during instruction. By incorporating culturally relevant math tasks, fostering collaborative learning and discussion, and providing culturally responsive assessments for all students, teachers can create an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and empowered to succeed. Further, they will strengthen each students’ sense of belonging and increase their level of confidence as independent math thinkers. Embracing diversity and promoting equity in math education not only enhances students' learning experiences but also prepares them to thrive in a multicultural world. Choose to celebrate culture and race in your math classroom today!
References
Cohen, E. G., & Lotan, R. A. (2014). Designing Groupwork: Strategies for the
Heterogeneous Classroom (3rd ed.). Teachers College Press.
Gutiérrez, R. (2013). The Sociopolitical Turn in Mathematics Education. Journal of Research
in Mathematics Education, 44(1), 37-68.
Jones, Shelly, "Mathematics Teachers’ Use of the Culturally Relevant Cognitively
Demanding Mathematics Task Framework and Rubric in the Classroom" (2015). NERA Conference Proceedings 2015. 12.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/nera-2015/12
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). (2018). Catalyzing Change in High
School Mathematics: Initiating Critical Conversations. Reston, VA: NCTM.
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πΈβ¨ Happy April, G.R.I.T. Family! β¨πΈ I’m so excited to share that my April Newsletter is officially LIVE! ππ½π¬ This month is filled with growth, gratitude, and powerful momentum, and I couldn’t wait to bring you along on the journey! π« π Inside this month’s newsletter: β¨ A special feature with Ultimate Medical Academy and the impactful work we’re doing with universities to build G.R.I.T. in students and leaders π Celebrating a personal milestone; I’ve completed my Master’s in Christian Leadership! π€ Speaking engagements (including the Atlanta Math Conference π) π Ways we’re continuing to support students and educators through the G.R.I.T. Framework This season is all about growth, purpose, and impact—and I’m more energized than ever to continue leading leaders nationwide and building strong character through G.R.I.T. πͺπ½π± πΌ Let’s Partner! I’m currently booking: π€ Speaking engagements π G.R.I.T. Academy tutoring π― Consulting services for schools, districts, and universities If you’re ready to bring the G.R.I.T. Movement to your organization, let’s connect! π© indiawhiteconsulting@gmail.com Let’s keep growing. Let’s keep leading. Let’s stay G.R.I.T.T.Y.! π₯π₯π hashtag#DrIndiaWhite hashtag#GRITMovement hashtag#Leadership hashtag#Education hashtag#NewsletterLaunch hashtag#GrowthMindset hashtag#Resilience hashtag#ChristianLeadership hashtag#LetsGetGritty hashtag#nctm hashtag#ncsm hashtag#bwxme hashtag#n

π A New Chapter: Leading with G.R.I.T. and Purpose I am beyond excited and deeply grateful to share that I have officially completed my Master’s degree in Christian Leadership! ππ½β¨ This journey has been one of faith, discipline, sacrifice, and perseverance. There were moments that stretched me, challenged me, and pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined—but through it all, God remained faithful. This accomplishment is not just a degree; it is a testament to the power of G.R.I.T.—Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management—in action. π± A Calling Greater Than a Credential Earning this degree represents more than academic success—it reflects a deeper calling to lead with integrity, serve with humility, and pour into others with purpose. Christian leadership is about influence, impact, and obedience to God’s direction. I am excited to continue equipping and empowering leaders nationwide to build strong character, develop resilience, and walk boldly in their purpose. Through the G.R.I.T. framework, I remain committed to helping educators, students, and leaders not only succeed academically or professionally—but thrive in every area of their lives. π A Heart of Gratitude I would not be here without the incredible support system God placed around me. To the leaders and professors at my university—thank you for your guidance, wisdom, and commitment to developing leaders who serve with excellence and faith. Your investment has made a lasting impact on my journey. To my family—thank you for your unwavering love, encouragement, and sacrifices. You have been my strength during long nights, busy seasons, and moments when I needed an extra push to keep going. To my church family—thank you for your prayers, covering, and spiritual support. Your encouragement has uplifted me more than words can express, and I am grateful to be surrounded by a community that believes in purpose and calling. π Moving Forward with Purpose As I step into this new season, I am more energized than ever to continue the work of building leaders who are grounded in faith and strengthened by G.R.I.T. The mission continues—to inspire growth, cultivate resilience, develop confident leaders, and steward time with intention. This is just the beginning. Let’s keep building. Let’s keep growing. Let’s keep leading with purpose. With gratitude and excitement, Dr. India White π

Pi Day and the Power of G.R.I.T. in Mathematics Why March 14 is More Than Just a Math Celebration Every year on March 14 (3/14), mathematicians, teachers, and students around the world celebrate Pi Day—a day dedicated to the mathematical constant π (pi). While Pi Day is often filled with pie-themed treats, math games, and creative activities, it also offers a powerful opportunity to help students develop something even more important than memorizing digits of π. It offers a chance to build G.R.I.T. As I often share in my work with educators and students, G.R.I.T. stands for Great Resilience in Time and is built on four pillars: * Growth Mindset * Resilience * Self-Efficacy * Time Management Mathematics is one of the most powerful subjects for cultivating these traits, and Pi Day gives us a fun and meaningful entry point. nderstanding π: A Lesson in Persistence At its core, π (pi) represents the relationship between a circle’s circumference and its diameter. Pi = Circumference/Diameter This constant is approximately 3.14, but mathematicians have calculated trillions of digits beyond the decimal. Think about that for a moment. The digits of π never repeat and never end. Mathematicians throughout history have spent centuries trying to calculate it more accurately. That alone is a lesson in grit. Mathematics often requires patience, perseverance, and the willingness to keep going—even when answers are not immediately obvious. How Pi Day Builds the G.R.I.T. Framework 1. Growth Mindset: Math Is About Learning, Not Perfection Pi Day reminds students that mathematics is not about getting everything right the first time. When students explore circles, approximate π, or investigate how it works, they begin to realize that mistakes are part of discovery. Encouraging students to say: β¨ “I don’t understand this yet.” instead of β “I’m bad at math.” helps shift their mindset toward growth. A growth mindset allows students to embrace mathematical challenges rather than avoid them. 2. Resilience: Productive Struggle Matters One of the most important lessons students learn through mathematics is that struggle is part of the process. When students measure circular objects in the classroom and calculate approximate values for π, they may initially get inconsistent results. Instead of giving up, they must adjust their measurements and try again. This is where resilience grows. In a G.R.I.T. classroom, we remind students: πEvery mathematician has struggled before discovering something meaningful. Pi itself was not discovered overnight—it took centuries of investigation. 3. Self-Efficacy: Building Confidence Through Exploration Self-efficacy is the belief that “I can do this.” Pi Day activities help students develop that confidence because they experience mathematics in a hands-on, engaging way . Examples include: π₯§ Measuring pies or circular objects π Finding circumference and diameter π§ Memorizing digits of π π² Playing Pi-related math games When students successfully apply math concepts in fun ways, they begin to see themselves as capable mathematicians. This belief is critical for long-term success in STEM fields. 4. Time Management: Breaking Big Problems into Steps Another key component of the G.R.I.T. Framework is time management. Mathematics often requires solving complex problems step by step. Pi Day activities can model this by showing students how mathematicians approach difficult problems. For example, students might: 1οΈβ£ Measure a circle 2οΈβ£ Record circumference 3οΈβ£ Measure diameter 4οΈβ£ Calculate the ratio Breaking the task into manageable steps teaches students that big problems become solvable when approached strategically. Pi Day Is More Than Pie While Pi Day often includes fun traditions like eating pie or reciting digits of π, its deeper value lies in the mindset it cultivates. Mathematics teaches students that: β Learning takes time β Persistence leads to discovery β Mistakes are part of the process β Confidence grows through practice These lessons extend far beyond the math classroom. They prepare students for life. Final Thoughts: Let’s Get Gritty With Math As educators, parents, and leaders, we must remember that mathematics is not just about numbers—it is about developing thinkers, problem solvers, and resilient learners. Pi Day provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate both mathematics and perseverance. When students experience math through the lens of the G.R.I.T. Framework, they begin to understand that success is not about immediate answers. It is about Great Resilience in Time. So this Pi Day, enjoy a slice of pie—but more importantly, encourage students to stay gritty, keep exploring, and never stop learning. Happy Pi Day! βπ½ Dr. India White TEDx Speaker | National Education Consultant Creator of the G.R.I.T. Framework (Great Resilience in Time) Empowering educators and students to thrive through perseverance in mathematics. Visit www.india-white.com/books to grab a copy of your Grit Workbook for Teachers!

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πβ¨ Just wrapped up Session 1 of the #STLATL Conference and it was AMAZING! ππͺ We were building grit alongside incredible teachers from Georgia, Kansas, Florida, and beyond! πβ€οΈ So grateful for the opportunity to speak and share gritty solutions that work in ALL classrooms! π«π Let’s keep the momentum going and empower our students together! π₯π‘ #drindiawhite #education #students #teachers #nctm #ncsm #nabse #bwxme #grit #math #EducationInnovation #TeacherPower #BuildingGrit #achievementgap #tedx #gritframework #WoodwardAcademy


