Blog Layout
Cultivating Grit in Underserved Math Students
India White • December 19, 2023
8 Tips for Cultivating Grit in Underserved Math Students
8 Tips for Cultivating Grit in Underserved Students in the Math Classroom!
Cultivating grit in underserved students in the math classroom is crucial for their long-term success. Grit, defined as perseverance and passion for long-term goals, can help students overcome challenges and setbacks, leading to improved academic outcomes. Through my acronym of G.R.I.T., Great Resilience in Time, students can be reminded that there are goals worth striving for as they learn in the math classroom. Teachers have the power to help cultivate grit in students who battle various challenges including math anxiety, fear of failure, learning gaps and more.
Here are 8 tips to cultivate grit in underserved students in the math classroom:
1. Set high expectations:
Teachers must be intentional in communicating high expectations for all students, regardless of their background or previous academic performance. Let them know that you believe in their ability to succeed in math and that hard work and effort are essential. Further, when establishing high expectations, teachers must make sure that all students are clear on the desired expectations and that each expectation established is reasonable and fair for all learners. Dr. John Hattie talks about providing Teacher Clarity as a tool teachers can use
to help learners succeed in the classroom. In addition, NCTM elaborates on setting high expectations in their position paper titled “High Expectations in the Mathematics Classroom”, mentioning that when teachers set high expectations, “Thoughtful and purposeful planning is key (e.g., anticipating misconceptions, considering different strategies, generating questions that students might ask) in supporting student perseverance….” Hence, teachers must be mindful of how they communicate their expectations for behavior and learning in the classroom with all students.
2.Teaching a Growth Mindset: Teachers can help their students develop a growth mindset by emphasizing that intelligence and math skills can be developed through effort and practice. When students are facing productive struggle during instructional delivery, they might feel like giving up as they grapple for the answers. Teachers must be on the prowl to see who they can scaffold during these tough mental moments for their students and reassure their students that they are there to support them as they are thinking about their thinking while striving towards proficiency. Researchers talk about how Growth Mindset should be viewed as an Academic Mindset, mentioning that of 4 parts of their academic mindset, one key mindset for students to embrace is that “ My ability and my competency grow with my effort”, helping students to conclude that growth is always a part of their learning experience. Teachers are advocates for learners and help build confidence of their students in crucial moments of productive struggle. Teachers have the power to build the confidence of their students as they encourage them to view mistakes and challenges as opportunities for learning and growth.
3. Provide a supportive classroom environment:
Create a safe and supportive classroom environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and making mistakes. Encourage collaboration and peer support, as this can help students develop resilience and perseverance. Sometimes, the best thing teachers can do for students is provide moments for collaboration, whether that’s through establishing cooperative learning opportunities, i.e. Kagan, Marzano structures, digital learning moments via Kahoot, Blicket, or through Project Based Learning Opportunities.
4. Break down complex problems: Math can be intimidating for many students, especially those from underserved backgrounds. Hence, it’s not enough for teachers to ask, “Any questions?” and move on in the lesson after a 5 second moment of silence. Teachers must be intentional on breaking down complex math problems into smaller, manageable steps for students. Further, they must use various equitable practices, and be consider of English Language students who might need more visuals, thesaurus, and chances to collaborate with peers for clarity on the topic. Further, teachers must be aware of the fact that they might have to explain various tasks and questions that might not be culturally relevant for diverse learners. Sometimes, a lack of relevance can impact how a student interprets math, causing gaps in comprehension.
As teachers choose to use equitable math practice to ensure that all students understand the concepts being taught AND they have the tools they need to grow in proficiency and excel academically, this will help students build confidence in their math identity and develop problem-solving skills gradually.
5. Celebrate effort and progress: Recognize and celebrate students' efforts and progress, rather than solely focusing on the final outcome. It’s imperative that students be scaffolded through productive struggle with positive feedback and specific praise, i.e. “I like how you factored on problem #4” or “I liked how you elaborated on how you understood the problem in your short answer on problem # 6”. When teachers are intentional in providing specific praise and feedback to students, this encourages them to reflect on their growth and highlight the progress they have made, even if they haven't yet reached their desired goals. Sometimes, the only praise students are receiving is when they are on campus, in their teacher’s classroom. Teachers can even invite other educators and administrators along to celebrate progress of all students throughout the year via principal visits, learning walks in the hallway and more.
6. Provide targeted support during productive struggle: Teachers should take the opportunity during instructional delivery and reflection to identify specific areas where students may be struggling and provide targeted support. In addition, they should be proactive in offering additional resources for practice, and more access to the math outside of the classroom including extra tutoring, practice materials, and math nights in the community and other resources that assist in helping all students build their math skills and confidence. Teachers should communicate frequently with parents and guardians notifying them of updates and opportunities for students to have access to more practice, i.e. math boot camps, after school tutoring programs, and more.
7. Foster a sense of purpose: Teachers can help foster a sense of purpose in the math classroom as they help students connect their math learning to real-world applications and their personal goals. Teachers can show relevance of math by helping to connect it to tangible passions of their students. When students ask, “When am I ever going to use this?” teachers should be able to explain various concepts and convince students on how they are connected to the real world, (i.e., quadratic functions can be used in engineering, and etc.)
Show them how math skills can be valuable in various careers and everyday life, and reassure them that the possess the skills needed to be successful in particular real world STEM careers. This sense of purpose can motivate students to persist through challenges.
8. Build healthy relationships with each student:
Teachers must choose to build relationships with all learners in efforts to break down walls of mistrust, uncertainty, and anxiety that students cling to in a math classroom. As teachers build relationships by getting to know their students
and honoring various cultural differences, it will establish a sense of belonging and a desire to please their teacher from every student. When educators develop positive relationships with their students, showing genuine care and interest in their success. Hence, building trust and rapport can motivate students to persevere through challenges and seek support when needed in the math classroom as they cultivate the grit of every learner.
Conclusion
By implementing these strategies, educators can help cultivate grit in underserved students in the math classroom, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term success in their math education and beyond Teachers hold the power as a change agent to motivate students out of the rut of apathy by cultivating their grit during instruction. By choosing to implement these tips, teachers are being intentional about effectively shaping the trajectory of success for their students every day.
Need Resources? Click here for GRIT WORKBOOKS for Teachers and Students!
Forgiveness: Walking in G.R.I.T. and Grace Forgiveness isn't for the faint of heart. It takes G.R.I.T.—Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management—to truly walk in forgiveness, especially when you've been wronged, mistreated, or misunderstood. But there's no greater example of gritty forgiveness than Jesus Himself. As He hung on the cross—suffering, bleeding, and abandoned—He didn’t curse His enemies. He didn’t demand justice in that moment. Instead, He looked toward heaven and said: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). Let that sink in. The very people who had betrayed, mocked, beaten, and crucified Him were the ones He forgave. And He did it in real time, while the pain was still fresh. That’s Great Resilience In Time. And as followers of Christ, we’re called to do the same. We’re called to forgive those who have: • Abused us—physically, emotionally, or spiritually • Slandered us behind our backs • Taken advantage of our kindness • Lied to us, hurt us, or wronged us in ways words can’t capture Forgiveness doesn’t mean the pain was okay. It doesn’t mean you return to harmful situations. But it does mean we release people into God’s hands. We stop carrying the weight of bitterness. And we trust that nobody gets by—God is just, but He is also merciful. “I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” — Luke 5:32 God operates in mercy—not because people always deserve it, but because His heart is for restoration. And if we want God to operate in mercy toward us, we must be willing to pray that same mercy over those who have hurt us. Hence, I want to share with you 5 Tips for Operating in Forgiveness Through G.R.I.T. and Grace: 1. Growth Mindset: Choose to Learn, Not Linger Instead of replaying the pain, ask God what He wants to teach you through it. Every hurt can become holy ground if we allow it to transform us instead of trap us. Forgiveness is a chance to grow. Even when you find yourself lingering in the memories and wondering "What if?", choose to use the moments of hurt as an opportunity to heal and evolve into a greater version of you. 2. Resilience: Bounce Back with God’s Strength Resilience doesn’t mean you don’t feel the pain—it means you refuse to let it define you. Forgiveness builds spiritual stamina. Each time you choose grace, you build strength in your spirit. The enemy wanted that trial, setback, dissapointment to cause you to give up on God and yourself. However, you must believe that no weapon formed against you shall propser. Never allow Satan to take away your song or your purpose, no matter the weapon or vessel he chooses to attack you through. 3. Self-Efficacy: Believe You Can Forgive with God’s Help Forgiveness may feel impossible—but with God, you can do all things. Self-efficacy is about believing in your ability to move forward. Speak life over yourself: "With God’s help, I can forgive." This is not always an easy process but you can do it! Choose to speak positively about your situation. Tell God that you forgive them and take moments to think about what Jesus must have felt at the cross as he died for you. Sometimes, we are made to emulate the light of Christ so that others will have HOPE. That means we must be willing to be curicifed at thier hands for the Glory of God. However, be encouraged, for the Lord will restore you. 4. Time Management: Don’t Waste Time on Bitterness Bitterness drains energy and time. Let forgiveness help you refocus your time and emotional energy toward purpose, healing, and joy. Steward your time wisely—it’s too precious to spend in bondage. Take time for self-care. Cry it out, seek therapy, have an outlet that will help you develop and heal and mature in a healthy fashion. Understand that all of us fall short; people will most likely dissapoint you, so flow in grace. 5. Great Resilience In Time: Forgive Even When It Still Hurts Forgiveness is often a process, not a one-time event. It requires Great Resilience In Time —the ability to keep choosing grace, even when the pain is fresh. Jesus forgave while He was still on the cross. We, too, can learn to forgive even while healing. Through your forgiveness you'll find revelation that will bring your closer to your heavenly Father. Forgiveness is one of the greatest gifts you can give—to others, yes, but also to yourself. It frees your heart. It releases your soul. It makes space for God to heal what others tried to break. Jesus didn’t wait for an apology. He forgave in real time—with G.R.I.T. and grace. So today, let’s strive to do the same. Let’s live with: • A growth mindset that says, “God can use even this.” • Resilience that says, “I will not be broken.” • Self-efficacy that says, “I can do this with God.” • Time management that says, “I will not waste one more second holding a grudge.” Let’s walk in Great Resilience In Time and extend the same mercy we so desperately need. Because forgiveness isn’t weakness. It’s worship. So, wipe you tears, forgive, reset, start over, and thrive through G.R.I.T. and Grace. Love, India Want more? Visit www.india-white.com to schedule a meeting or book me for an event. Want a copy of the Grit Workbook for Clergy (Pastors) Click here!
### April Newsletter: A Month of Grit and Growth April is here, and it’s shaping up to be an exciting month filled with powerful opportunities to build grit, inspire educators, and impact students. From conferences to new resources, I’m thrilled to share what’s happening this month and how you can get involved. Speaking at MCTM’s Annual Math Conference in Minnesota I’m honored to present at the Minnesota Council of Teachers of Mathematics Annual Conference this month, where I’ll be diving into how to create a Gritty Thinking Classroom. In this session, we’ll explore how the G.R.I.T. framework aligns with Peter Liljedahl’s Building Thinking Classrooms, helping educators develop a culture of perseverance, resilience, and self-efficacy in their math students. If you’re attending, I’d love to connect and discuss ways to empower students through productive struggle. G.R.I.T. Workbooks and Resources The G.R.I.T. Workbook series continues to grow, providing teachers, students, and parents with practical tools to develop growth mindset, resilience, and time management. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your own grit or help students push through challenges, these workbooks offer actionable strategies to build confidence and perseverance. G.R.I.T. Online Courses and Masterclass For those looking to take a deeper dive into grit, we’re rolling out G.R.I.T. online courses and mini-workshops designed to help educators and leaders implement grit-based strategies in their schools and classrooms. Stay tuned for our Masterclass, which will provide an interactive learning experience on how to cultivate grit in both personal and professional settings. G.R.I.T. Podcast: Conversations That Inspire The G.R.I.T. Podcast continues to feature insightful conversations with educators, leaders, and changemakers who are passionate about building perseverance and resilience. Each episode offers motivation and strategies to help you stay committed to your goals and push through challenges. Be sure to tune in for inspiring discussions that fuel personal and academic growth. Stay Connected If you’re looking for more ways to engage with the G.R.I.T. movement, be sure to check out: - www.india-white.com – Explore my work, speaking engagements, and resources - www.gritacademy.us – Learn about G.R.I.T. Academy, where we help students and educators develop the skills they need to thrive This month is all about embracing grit, growth, and resilience. Whether through conferences, podcasts, or online learning, I’m excited to continue this journey with you. Let’s keep pushing forward and building a culture of perseverance together. Stay gritty and keep striving for greatness!
Excited to Speak at MCTM’s Annual Math Conference: Building a Gritty Thinking Classroom! I can’t wait to present at MCTM’s Annual Math Conference this April in Minnesota. This opportunity is truly special because I’ll be diving into two of my passions—grit and Building Thinking Classrooms—to help educators create Gritty Thinking Classrooms that foster resilience, problem-solving, and perseverance in students. Why Grit Matters in the Math Classroom Math is not just about numbers and equations; it’s about persistence, self-efficacy, and growth mindset. So many students struggle with productive struggle, but when we intentionally build grit, they learn how to push through challenges rather than give up. By implementing Dr. India White’s G.R.I.T. framework, we help students: - Develop a growth mindset - Build resilience in problem-solving - Strengthen self-efficacy - Improve time management and perseverance Connecting Grit with Building Thinking Classrooms Peter Liljedahl’s Building Thinking Classrooms has transformed the way we engage students in math learning. When we merge BTC structures with grit, we create an environment where students: - Tackle challenging problems head-on - Collaborate with peers to build understanding - Learn to embrace struggle as part of growth - Develop confidence in their ability to succeed In my session, we’ll explore how BTC’s 14 elements align with grit and how teachers can create a culture of perseverance in their classrooms. See You in Minnesota! If you’re attending MCTM’s Annual Math Conference, I’d love to connect. Let’s talk about how to empower students to think, struggle, and grow. Together, we can build Gritty Thinking Classrooms that transform how students learn and engage with mathematics. Let’s get gritty! See you soon in Minnesota!
🌟 Excited to share my VCTM recap video! 🎥 Join me as I engage with teachers during my keynote, discussing strategies to best support our 8th grade math students. Together, we can make a difference! 💪📚 Check it out and let’s keep the conversation going! #drindiawhite #nctm #ncsm #vctm #vermont #nabse #naacp #education #doe
Reflection on The Power of Grit Keynote to Vermont Teachers Speaking to the dedicated educators of Vermont about the Power of Grit was an inspiring and reaffirming experience. As I shared the pillars of grit—Growth Mindset, Resilience, Time Management, and Self-Efficacy—it was evident that these concepts resonated deeply with the teachers in the room. Their commitment to fostering perseverance and confidence in their students was both heartening and energizing. Throughout the keynote, I emphasized the transformative role of a growth mindset—how students who embrace challenges and see effort as a path to mastery are more likely to persist through difficulties. I could see educators nodding in agreement as they reflected on their own students' struggles and triumphs. Encouraging students to reframe failure as a learning opportunity is a crucial shift that builds not just better mathematicians, writers, and thinkers but also more resilient individuals. Resilience was another cornerstone of the discussion. I shared stories and strategies to help students push past obstacles and develop the endurance needed to navigate academic and personal challenges. The engagement in the room reaffirmed that teachers, too, are models of resilience, especially in today’s educational climate. One of the most practical elements of the keynote focused on time management—helping students (and educators) break down overwhelming tasks, set realistic goals, and prioritize effectively. The response to this section showed that time management remains a crucial skill, not only for students learning to structure their studies but also for teachers juggling multiple responsibilities. Finally, we explored the power of self-efficacy, that deep-seated belief that one’s efforts lead to success. We discussed ways to cultivate this mindset in students through intentional feedback, scaffolding, and celebrating small wins. Seeing the teachers reflect on how they could implement these strategies in their classrooms was incredibly rewarding. This keynote reaffirmed my belief that grit is not just a personal trait—it’s a culture that educators can foster in their classrooms, schools, and communities. Vermont’s educators left the session with new insights, actionable strategies, and a renewed commitment to equipping students with the perseverance and confidence needed for success. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this message, and I look forward to seeing the impact of their work in cultivating grit across the state. Thanks Vermont Rockstars. Stay gritty!
✨ I had a phenomenal time speaking for the VCTM Rockstars in Vermont! We dove into how to reach all learners and stay motivated through grit. 💪 I can't wait to see the results from the grit assessment and framework! Stay gritty, y’all! 🌟 #drindiawhite #vctm #vermont #grit #educators #math
🌨️ Greetings from Vermont! Loving the beautiful snow! ❄️ Can’t wait to get gritty with all you rockstars! Let’s do this! 💪✨ #drindiawhite #grit #vermont #math #teachers #snow #nctm #ncsm #bwxme #nabse
🌟 Super excited to announce that I’ll be the keynote speaker at the VCTM Annual Conference in beautiful Vermont! 🎉 Huge thanks to the amazing VCTM rockstars for this incredible opportunity! Let’s dive into the power of grit together! 💪✨ I can’t wait to share insights and connect with fellow educators, students, and math enthusiasts. Join us by registering below: https://vctm.wildapricot.org/event-5950535 Let’s make this an unforgettable experience! #drindiawhite #grit #tedx #vctm #teachers #students #math (I don’t own music copyright)
Join us on the Let's Get Gritty Podcast with Dr. India White, featuring special guest Heidi Diercks, a retired educator, and life coach! Check out Heidi's coaching nuggets here :chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=89c50e1d3a&attid=0.1&permmsgid=msg-f:1826500568311074330&th=19590896f43b0e1a&view=att&zw&disp=inline&acrobatPromotionSource=GmailNativeViewer Watch on Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/.../Lets-Get-Gritty-Podcast... #drindiawhite #grit #tedx #lifecoach #education
🌟 Super grateful to announce that I’ve been selected to speak at FCTM this year! 🎉 Let’s dive into the topic of grit and its importance in education! 💪✨ Be sure to register by visiting their website. A huge thank you to the FCTM leaders for this incredible opportunity! 🙌 #DrIndiaWhite #Grit #TEDx #Math #Educators #Teachers #Students #FCTM #NCTM #NCSM