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!
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
From Rotten Moments to Sweet Blessings: What Banana Bread and Fermented Foods Teach Us About Life Sometimes life hands us what feels like rotten bananas; situations that seem spoiled, broken, or beyond hope. Maybe it’s a tough season of loss, failure, disappointment, or uncertainty. Yet, just like those overripe bananas transform into delicious banana bread, or milk ferments into nourishing cheese and yogurt, our "rotten" moments have the power to turn into something sweet and life-giving. Why Rottenness Can Be Good In the culinary world, fermentation, a process that uses “rottenness” to transform foods , creates some of the healthiest, most flavorful staples we enjoy: yogurt, cheese, sauerkraut, kimchi, and more. This “rottenness” isn’t waste; it’s a powerful agent of change that unlocks nutrients, improves digestion, and promotes health. Similarly, life’s difficult seasons are not the end. They are part of a process— a fermentation of our character, faith, and grit When we lean into these moments with grit—great resilience in time—we develop strength, wisdom, and sweetness in our souls that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. 7 Ways to Overcome a Negative Mindset and Embrace Grit in Rotten Seasons 1. Acknowledge Your Feelings Without Defeat It’s okay to feel hurt, frustrated, or discouraged. But remember, these feelings don’t define you. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” 2. Shift Your Perspective to Growth View challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Romans 5:3-4 reminds us, “Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Just like looking at a bunch of rotten bananas can seem discouraging until you shift your thinking and see them as a perfect ingredient for banana bread, choose to see your moments of rottenness as a game changer for your destiny! 3. Practice Patience Through the Process Good things take time— like fermentation and baking . Wait on God’s timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a time for everything.” Think of how spoiled milk seems disgusting and gut wrenching, until you learn of how wonderful of an ingredient it becomes for homemade cheese! Trust the process, and know that it will all work out in your favor! 4. Cultivate Resilience by Staying Connected Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you to keep going. Galatians 6:2 teaches, “Carry each other’s burdens.” Sometimes, that person might be the catalyst for a new direction, new energy and exponential success. 5. Focus on Small, Consistent Steps Break down overwhelming problems into manageable pieces. Z echariah 4:10 encourages, “Do not despise these small beginnings. ” Don't lose sight on your progress, your identity or your purpose. 6. Renew Your Mind Daily Replace negative thoughts with truth and hope from Scripture. Philippians 4:8 advises, “Think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure.” Remember that God is not dead, and he sees exactly how his plan in your life will manifest. Leave your worries on the throne and know he will justfiy you. 7. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection Every small victory is a sign of growth and sweet fruit to come. J ames 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres.” Just as you are making banana bread, cheese, yogurt and other wonderful foods, you know that there might be bumps along the way, but keep pressing on! The final product is worth the moments of struggle disappointment and rottenness. You will smile in the end. Conclusion Remember, just as rotten bananas, milk, and vegetables become nourishing foods through a process of transformation, your tough seasons are preparing you for a sweeter, stronger tomorrow . Stay gritty, endure the process, and trust that God is turning your struggles into something beautiful. For more encouragement and practical ways to build grit in your life, visit my website at www.india-white.com . You can also watch my TEDx Talk, The Power of G.R.I.T., for a motivating boost to help you keep pushing through life’s challenges. Keep rising. Keep growing. Your sweetness is coming.
🚀 Ready to Get Pumped Up About Life Again? 🌟 Listen to my TEDx talk, and let’s reignite that fire inside you! 🔥 It’s time to get serious and start making those dreams happen! 💪 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! 🎤✨ #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
🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 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! 🚀💡 #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: 🎥 [ “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 📘 Let’s explore how educators can integrate these principles to help every student not only persist—but thrive. 1. Cultivate a Supportive Community ✅ 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. ✅ 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 ✅ 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. ✅ 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 ✅ 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. ✅ Foster Collaboration Group work and peer learning cultivate community resilience and affirm the idea that we rise together. 4. Embrace Culturally Relevant Teaching ✅ 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). ✅ Encourage Critical Consciousness Help students think deeply about social justice, equity, and their own role in fostering inclusive environments. 5. Build Strong Mathematical Identities ✅ 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 . ✅ 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 :) ✅ 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. ✅ 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: 🔗( 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. 💪📚 #GRITinEducation #EquityInLearning #CulturallyRelevantTeaching #StudentEmpowerment #TeacherLeadership #GrowthMindset #DrIndiaWhite
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