Dismantling Inequitable Practices through Cultural Inclusivity and Advocacy
India White • July 15, 2024
Dismantling Inequitable Practices through Cultural Inclusivity!
In the field of mathematics education, it is crucial for teachers to be aware of and actively work towards dismantling inequitable practices that exist in the educational system. To see malpractice and not advocate for those who have suffered is simple inhumane, and goes against the better part of a leader’s character. By promoting cultural inclusivity and advocating for all students, particularly those from marginalized groups, math teachers can create a more equitable and inclusive learning environment. Let’s take a moment to explore the importance of cultural inclusivity and advocacy in mathematics education, drawing on scholarly references to provide insights and strategies for math teachers.
Why Cultural Inclusivity and Advocacy Matter in Mathematics Education
Inequitable practices in mathematics education can manifest in various ways, including disparities in achievement, access to opportunities, and representation of diverse perspectives. These inequities often stem from systemic biases and cultural misunderstandings that perpetuate academic disparities among students. By embracing cultural inclusivity and advocating for all students, math teachers can address these inequities and create a more equitable and inclusive learning environment.
This can strengthen relationships in the classroom while convincing students that every classroom is a safe place where they can learn and thrive as an independent thinker.
Research has shown that culturally responsive teaching practices can improve student engagement, motivation, and achievement in mathematics (Gay, 2000).
By incorporating students' cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives into the curriculum, math teachers can make the content more relevant and accessible to all students. Additionally, advocating for inclusive policies and practices within the educational system can help address systemic barriers that hinder the success of marginalized students in mathematics.
This is simply necessary as educators aim to move towards greater proficiency level of all learners.
8 Tips and Instructional Practices for Math Teachers for Increased Cultural Inclusivity and Advocacy
1. Build Cultural Awareness
Teachers, be intentional about truly take the time to learn about the cultural backgrounds and experiences of your students. This can help you better understand their perspectives and tailor your instruction to meet their needs. Afterwards, take a moment to celebrate cultural differences and be intentional at protecting the authenticity of cultures and ethnic groups. In their journal Math at the Core: Culturally Responsive Teaching and Math, PBS Learning Media (2024) researchers focuses on student identity and how that can increase cultural awareness while building relationships with students from diverse backgrounds. They mention some questions for math teachers to consider including:
These questions will help educators slow down enough to truly get to know each students and to frame instruction around various aspects of their culture and personalities so that all students will feel like they belong in the math classroom.
2. Incorporate Culturally Relevant Content
Teachers: as you are building your lesson plans for the week, choose to integrate diverse perspectives and examples from different cultures into your mathematics curriculum. This can help students see themselves reflected in the content and make learning more engaging. Further, it will enhance self-efficacy of all learners while creating buy-in needed for collaboration throughout the learning experience. As a result, invisible “walls” will fall, and metacognition will flow in an environment all students can trust. Some ways you can build culturally relevant content has been discussed by Larry Ferlazo’s(2020) article in Ed Week titled “12 Ways to Make Your Classroom More Culturally Relevant”, and they include: “building community, student collaboration, role models, using manipulatives and literature, and giving complex work”. Not only do these strategies help with cultural relevance, it enhances rigor for each student in the learning environment.
3. Promote Equity in Group Work
While math teachers are being thoughtful about how to empower student voice, and include all learners, they must be mindful of the dynamics within student groups and ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to contribute and learn from their peers. For instance, when assigning group work, teachers should choose to use various roles for students to make sure all students can participate in a fair manner. Further, use random ways to assign students into roles as well as for sharing out their ideas, (i.e. Popsicle sticks, Kagan groups, etc.). Also teachers must continue to double check with all students to ensure they feel like they feel like they belong and that they are being resourceful during various group activities.
Further, finding various ways to grade students in efforts to discover their unique traits while learning math can add value to each lesson. For instance, the use of culturally relevant rubrics is a clever way to approach the use of culture in the math classroom. In their article on cultural inclusivity and math rubrics, educators stated that “A cultural responsiveness rubric can help you evaluate if your math problems resonate with diverse cultures. It lets you gauge whether the task acknowledges different perspectives or merely reinforces stereotypes."
4. Provide Multiple Pathways to Success
When planning for success of students each semester, teachers must recognize that students may have different learning styles and strengths. To best support these learning styles, teachers can offer multiple ways for students to demonstrate their understanding of mathematical concepts. As students are expressing various ways of how they came up with solutions or rationale, effective practices include teachers ceasing the opportunity to share it out with their peers and encourage thinking beyond the page and into real world scenarios.
As educators think about ways to promote success in the classroom, they can continue to provide various ways for students to express their learning. For instance, in their article, “How Do We Support Students in Reflecting on Mathematics”, Cynthia Dore (2017) spoke about how teachers can “provide opportunities for students to reflect on their learning and to increase their metacognition (their thinking about their thinking).” Dore elaborated on various methods, including having students participate in “think-alouds by having them work in pairs” and answering various questions including, “and reflect on their process for solving a math problem, addressing questions during reflection in the math classroom such as: “What steps did you take? What did you do when you ran into an obstacle? How did you check your answers?
It’s imperative to also provide closure to each lesson via a math exit slip, reflection in a math journal, or a whole class discussion on what was taught and what should be discussed the next day.
5. Encourage Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
When striving for true inclusivity, math teachers should aim to foster a classroom environment that values diverse perspectives and encourages students to think critically about mathematical concepts and real-world applications. It’s imperative that teachers become a defender against any comments, curriculum, or external content that would dehumanize any student or their background while they are discussing their thoughts about math in the classroom. Teachers need to work towards convincing their students that their class is always a place where they will be protected and feel safe. In their article titled, “How to Encourage Critical Thinking in Math”, Mary Montero mentions these 3 strategies for teachers to consider:
6. Advocate for Students while Addressing Stereotypes and Biases
Addressing stereotypes and biases is not always an easy task for teachers. However, once it is addressed for the best interests of students, it can truly improve the learning environment by assisting in stronger advocacy for students and strengthening student confidence levels. In their article titled “Getting Students on the Road to Self Efficacy”, Adrienne Waller (2021) mentioned how students from marginalized backgrounds must learn how to take up self-advocacy in the classroom. They elaborate, stating that “Self-advocacy must be taught and encouraged. It benefits all students, but is particularly important for students who have been historically marginalized because of their cultural or language background, or because of a disability.”
Self-advocacy is essential as we strive to close the achievement gap and helps students navigate through their journey as learners.
Along with teaching self-advocacy, teachers must always have a protective lens while choosing to challenge stereotypes and biases that may impact students' confidence and achievement in mathematics. In addition, teachers must work to create a supportive and inclusive classroom where all students feel valued and respected. It takes courage and willingness to take a risk. Hence, teachers must be brave enough to have a conversation around how to protect the learning environment and to show equal love and support for all people.
While advocating for students, it helps strengthen their math identity altogether. In their article titled, “Getting Students on the Road to Self Advocacy”, Adrienne Waller (2022) mentions how advocacy for students “makes learning manageable and prevents students from drawing global conclusions about their performance, such as “I am just not good at math.” Further, Waller spoke about how student self-advocacy also benefits their teachers by assisting them with “the questions that students ask, the help they need…that can help teachers to fine-tune their instruction.” Further, self-advocacy helps teachers break outside of their comfort zone and take a positive “risk” and defy the odds as they hear from learners who they may not regularly call on. This enhances every educator’s ability to think outside the box as they experiment with various ways to make a positive example out of marginalized groups of learners.
7. Collaborate with Families and Communities
In efforts to truly service all students while bridging the gap, teachers must be proactive at collaborating with families and with communities connected to their school. A few was teachers can support families is by intentionally engaging families and communities in the learning process and by seeking their input on how to best support students from diverse backgrounds. Teachers: choose to reach out to families via surveys, parent nights, and other community events to find out opinions and recommendations from parents and guardians regarding how to best serve their children. Join with families in your community to make sure all students have what they need to excel in school. In their blog on “8 Strategies for Culturally Responsive Family Engagement”, Brookes Publishing mentioned that in effort to connect with families, teachers should consider various ways to be culturally responsive including: conducting a cultural audit, acknowledge and interrupt implicit racial biases that are rooted in anti-Blackness, developing authentic, trusting relationships through home visits and more.
Further, take advantage of various community groups that unite families, and various groups within social media that provide advocacy and support for families.
8. Advocate for Inclusive Policies
When discussing including, experts have defined inclusivity as, “a commitment to providing every student with equitable opportunities to engage with mathematical concepts, develop problem-solving skills, and achieve mathematical proficiency. It recognizes that learners come from diverse backgrounds, possess varying abilities, and learn in unique ways.”
They also mention how when approaching inclusivity, there are various lenses a teacher can see inclusivity through and specific categories in which to approach inclusivity including: diverse student populations, varied learning styles, equity and access, individualized support, equitable practices, real-world relevance, enhanced problem solving skills, and preparing for future careers for all learners, IEP Plans, assessments and more.
As teachers choose to do what’s best for all students and advocate for policies and practices that promote equity and inclusivity within the school and district, there efforts will collectively bridge the achievement gap. May every teacher and leader be a voice for change and work towards creating a more equitable mathematics education system. Teachers must make sure that they are linked with other leaders who also support this work and can find ways to ensure that all students are being serviced in an equitable manner while also upholding policies within your district and or state.
Conclusion
By implementing these tips and instructional practices, math teachers can contribute to dismantling inequitable practices and promoting cultural inclusivity and advocacy in mathematics education. Through their efforts, teachers can create a more equitable and inclusive learning environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed in mathematics. Teachers: remember that your role extends beyond teaching mathematical concepts in the classroom. You have the power to create a positive and inclusive learning environment that supports all students on their mathematical journey. Let's work together to dismantle inequitable practices and promote cultural inclusivity and advocacy in mathematics education.
Making Parity and Belonging Work in the Math Classroom: Strategies for Educators Creating a classroom environment where all students feel a sense of parity and belonging is crucial for fostering academic success, particularly in mathematics. This not only enhances students’ engagement but also contributes to improved learning outcomes. Drawing on recent research and the grit framework (Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy and Time Management), educators can implement several practical strategies to make parity and belonging work effectively in their math classrooms. Understanding Parity and Belonging Parity refers to the equitable treatment of all students, providing equal opportunities for success regardless of their backgrounds. Belonging, on the other hand, is about cultivating an inclusive atmosphere where students feel accepted and valued. When students experience both parity and belonging, they are more likely to exhibit grit—the perseverance and passion for long-term goals—which is essential for overcoming challenges in mathematics. Tips for Fostering Parity and Belonging in Math Classes Here are 10 actionable strategies that educators can implement to cultivate parity and belonging in their mathematics classrooms: 1. Integrate Diverse Mathematical Perspectives: - Incorporate mathematicians and mathematical contributions from various cultures into your curriculum. This not only validates diverse identities but also enhances students' understanding of mathematics as a universal discipline. For example, explore the contributions of Arab mathematicians to algebra or the use of geometry in ancient African cultures. As educators integrate diverse perspectives, student belonging levels increase and students feel like their opinions matter during mathematical discourse. 2. Use Real-World Applications: - Connect math concepts to real-life situations that resonate with students' experiences. For instance, when teaching percentages, you might analyze data related to local economic issues or community projects, allowing students to see the relevance of math in their lives (Ladson-Billings, 1994). As students are able to make these connections along with completing culturally relevant math tasks, the math will come alive and students will develop an intrinsic motivation for learning new content in their class. 3. Create Collaborative Learning Environments: - Encourage group work and collaborative problem-solving. This fosters a sense of community and belonging as students learn to rely on and support one another. By leveraging diverse strengths within groups, educators can create an inclusive atmosphere that encourages engagement and perseverance (Vygotsky, 1978). This also helps clear up any misconceptions students might have about their ability to comprehed the math they are learning along with strengthening student voice during instruction. 4. Focus on Growth Mindset: - Reinforce the idea of a growth mindset by celebrating effort and resilience. Highlight stories of famous mathematicians who overcame challenges. Use language that emphasizes improvement and learning from mistakes, which helps students develop grit. Research shows that students with a growth mindset are more likely to persist in the face of difficulties (Dweck, 2006). Further, through a growth mindset, students will become naturally resilient while building the inner fortitude needed to persist. Further, they will increase in their self-efficacy levels, believing that they CAN do math. 5. Implement Culturally Relevant Pedagogy: - Teachers should consider tailoring teaching methods to reflect the cultural backgrounds of their students. This can involve using culturally relevant examples in math problems or incorporating students' experiences into lessons. Culturally relevant pedagogy fosters a connection between math and students’ lives, enhancing their engagement (Gay, 2000). Further, this boosts inspiration and motivation levels, and contributes to strengthening teacher-student and peer relationships. 6. Encourage Individual Goal Setting: - Have students set personal academic goals related to their math learning. This practice promotes ownership of their education and encourages them to take responsibility for their progress, reinforcing their sense of belonging and engagement. Use the grit framework to support students in understanding their motivations for setting these goals. Furhter, combine the grit framework with positive affirmation grit statements to boost students' perspectives on grit along with their grit levels in every category of the framework. 7. Provide Constructive and Timely Feedback: - Offer regular, specific feedback that focuses on individual strengths and areas for growth. This approach not only supports learning but also helps students feel valued and understood. Personalized feedback fosters a positive learning environment and encourages persistence (Wang & Degol, 2013). As students persist, they will work on honing in on their mathematical abilities while becoming more efficent in math and their ability to express themselves in the math classroom. 8. Use Varied Assessment Methods: - Employ diverse assessment methods that allow all students to demonstrate their understanding. This could include projects, presentations, and creative assignments in addition to traditional tests. Varied assessments cater to different learning styles and abilities, promoting equity in demonstrating mastery of concepts. Further, this speaks to each students' learning styles for better instructional delivery. 9. Create a Safe Learning Environment: - Establish classroom norms that promote respect and acceptance. Encourage students to share their thoughts and ideas without the fear of judgment. A safe learning space allows students to take risks in their learning, which is vital for developing grit and resilience. As this happens, math anxiety will be replaced with a confident student who believes in themselves and can recognize their math identity. 10. Foster Relationships with Families: - Engage with students’ families and communities to create a supportive network that reinforces the values of parity and belonging. Family involvement can positively impact student motivation and achievement, creating a partnership that supports students’ educational journeys. This helps keep everyone invovled and abreast as each leader contributes to building the whole child. Conclusion Implementing strategies to foster parity and belonging in math classrooms is essential for creating an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. By embracing diverse perspectives, promoting collaboration, and reinforcing a growth mindset, educators can empower students to cultivate grit and resilience in their mathematical journeys. Adopting these practices not only enhances student engagement but also leads to improved academic outcomes and a lasting appreciation for mathematics. Parity and belonging is essential for every classroom and is the glue that holds learning together for all students. References 1. Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House. 2. Gay, G. (2000). Culturally Responsive Teaching: Theory, Research, and Practice. Teachers College Press. 3. Ladson-Billings, G. (1994). The Dreamkeepers: Successful Teachers of African American Children. Jossey-Bass. 4. Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press. 5. Wang, M.-T., & Degol, J. L. (2013). Academic Perseverance: Antecedents and Consequences. Educational Psychologist, 48(3), 185-195.
📚 Exciting news! We are thrilled to announce the official launch of our book, Effective Teaching Practices Every Teacher Must Know! Effective Teaching Practices Every Teacher Must: A New Must-Read Book for Educators In the ever-evolving world of education, staying up-to-date with effective teaching practices is crucial for educators committed to fostering student success. A new book titled "Effective Teaching Practices Every Teacher Must Know" offers an invaluable resource that brings together the insights of eight distinguished authors, including teachers, administrators, coaches, and educational representatives. This collaborative effort provides a comprehensive guide to the strategies that truly make a difference in the classroom. What’s Inside the Book? Each chapter of this enlightening book presents unique perspectives and evidence-based techniques that cater to the diverse needs of today's learners. The authors have come together to share their experiences and expertise, covering a wide range of essential topics, including: - Differentiated Instruction: Strategies to tailor lessons to meet the varied needs of students, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to succeed. - Engagement Techniques: Innovative approaches to keep students engaged and motivated throughout the learning process. - Classroom Management: Proven techniques for creating and maintaining a positive learning environment where students feel safe, respected, and ready to learn. - Assessment Practices : Insights into effective assessment strategies that provide meaningful feedback and guide instructional decisions. - Growth Mindset : Approaches to foster resilience and a love for learning in students, encouraging them to overcome challenges and embrace their potential. This book is designed to serve as a practical guide for teachers at all levels, whether they are new to the profession or seasoned veterans seeking fresh ideas. The Authors' Unique Collaboration What sets "Effective Teaching Practices Every Teacher Must Know" apart is its diverse authorship. The collaboration of eight experts brings a rich blend of experiences and viewpoints to the table. Each author contributes their unique background, whether it be in classroom teaching, administrative leadership, instructional coaching, or educational research. This variety ensures that readers receive a holistic view of effective teaching practices that can be applied in different educational contexts. Why You Should Get This Book As a teacher or educator, having access to a resource filled with practical strategies and insights can significantly enhance your teaching effectiveness. This book not only equips you with the skills to improve your own practice but also empowers you to positively impact your students' learning experiences. - Elevate Your Teaching : Learn new techniques that can transform your classroom dynamics and enhance student engagement. - Stay Current: Keep up with the latest trends and research in education to ensure your strategies align with the needs of today's learners. - Inspire Others : Share your learnings with colleagues and foster a culture of continuous improvement within your school or district. Available Now on Amazon! Don’t miss your chance to dive into "Effective Teaching Practices Every Teacher Must Know." This essential resource is now available on Amazon, making it easy to add to your professional library or share with fellow educators eager to improve their practice and student outcomes. Invest in your professional development and unlock the secrets to effective teaching today. Order your copy now and embark on a journey toward enhanced educational success for both you and your students. Happy reading! Find Your Copy Below: Paperback Hardcopy Ebook
Super excited to announce that our NEW book is here! Grab your copy of Effective Teaching Practices today! Click on the link to Pre-order your signed copy here: Or Grab a EBOOK copy from AMAZON here ! Paperback: Coming Soon! Hardcover: Coming Soon! Connect with each author below and click on their link for a direct purchase from them: Dr. India White Email: indiawhiteconsulting@gmail.com LinkedIn Page :https://www.linkedin.com/in/theindiawhite/ Sukela Curtis Email: sukelasbusiness@gmail.com LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sukela-curtis-325a342a0/ Dr. Dre Graham Email: dregraham@gmail.com LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-%C2%B3-dr%C3%A9-graham-04984532/ TJ Jemison Email: teedjvt@icloud.com LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/in/tj-jemison-48910a4/ Sean Kavanaugh Email: sean@360degreemath.com LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-kavanaugh-22a19345/ Debbie Perry Email: perrd84@gmail.com Susan Valdes Email- susanvaldes82@gmail.com LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-valdes-a18a275a/ Cheryl Wilson Email- cherylwilsonnc@gmail.com
🌟 Excited to share my experience at the FCTM Leadership Conference! It's been an amazing opportunity to connect with fellow educators and embrace the new theme of perseverance in the math classroom. The discussions and workshops have been both inspiring and fun! I’m particularly thrilled about our keynote speakers, Kevin Dykema and Jennifer Bay-Williams. Their insights promise to enrich our understanding of perseverance in teaching and learning math, providing us with valuable strategies to support our students.🎉 I’m also looking forward to our annual conference on June 24th-26th, 2025, in Jacksonville! It’s going to be a fantastic event, and I’m excited to co-chair alongside Rob Curran. Together, we aim to make this conference a memorable experience filled with learning, collaboration, and innovation.🔥 Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate math education and foster resilience in our classrooms! ✏️💡 hashtag#FCTM2025 hashtag#PerseveranceInMath hashtag#drindiawhite hashtag#tedx hashtag#MathEducation hashtag#grit hashtag#resilience hashtag#fctmath hashtag#nctm hashtag#ncsm NCTM - National Council of Teachers of MathematicsNCSM: Leadership in Mathematics Education FCTM - Florida Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Embracing Grit Through Kahoot! The Essence of Grit and Resilience Grit can be understood as a powerful form of resilience, allowing students to persist through challenges and maintain their focus on long-term goals. This quality is essential for navigating the ups and downs of their academic journeys. By introducing students to the grit framework, we aimed not only to empower them but also to cultivate critical life skills. The Grit Framework The grit framework comprises four vital pillars: 1. Growth Mindset : This pillar encourages students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles, fostering a belief that effort and perseverance lead to improvement. 2. Resilience: At the core of grit, resilience enables students to bounce back from setbacks, instilling confidence that even in the face of failure, they can learn and progress. 3. Self-Efficacy: This pillar reflects a student’s belief in their ability to succeed, motivating them to tackle challenges head-on and pursue their goals with determination. 4. Time Management: Effective time management skills are crucial for achieving long-term success. Learning to prioritize tasks and manage their time wisely helps students balance academic responsibilities while working toward their goals. Insights from Dr. India White’s TEDx Talk In her powerful TEDx talk, "The Power of Grit," Dr. India White offers profound insights into the importance of grit in education and personal development. She introduces an acronym for grit, emphasizing that it embodies "Great Resilience In Time." This concept highlights how resilience plays a pivotal role in helping individuals overcome obstacles while managing their time effectively. The Grit Kahoot Quiz The Kahoot quiz itself was designed with a variety of questions that tested not only the students' knowledge of grit but also encouraged them to reflect on their personal experiences related to perseverance. The interactive nature of Kahoot made the quiz engaging; students were eager to compete, collaborate, and learn in a fun environment. From multiple-choice questions to true-or-false statements, the quiz covered key aspects of the grit framework. Students were prompted to think critically about situations where they demonstrated grit, reinforcing the idea that struggles are an integral part of the learning process. Student Reactions The response from the students was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed how much they enjoyed the quiz format, highlighting that it made learning about grit enjoyable and memorable. The excitement in the classroom was palpable as students cheered each other on, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and motivation. Students particularly appreciated how the quiz allowed them to share their personal stories about overcoming challenges, further reinforcing the significance of grit in their lives. This collective sharing fostered a sense of community, encouraging them to support one another in their academic endeavors. Recommendations for Future Use Given the success of the Grit Kahoot quiz, students encouraged its use in future lessons. They suggested incorporating more team-based activities within the quiz to foster collaboration even further. The idea of combining competitiveness with teamwork resonated well with them, making it clear that they valued the social aspects of learning. Conclusion In conclusion, the Grit Kahoot quiz was not just a fun educational tool; it was a catalyst for meaningful discussions and personal reflections among students. By integrating this dynamic platform into our curriculum, we effectively engaged students in the grit framework, emphasizing the importance of growth mindset, resilience, self-efficacy, and time management. If you're interested in exploring the Grit Kahoot experience for your students, there are free Kahoot resources available online that you can easily access and implement in your classroom. The enthusiasm and positive feedback from our students reaffirmed the value of creative educational strategies that marry engagement with meaningful learning. As we continue to explore innovative ways to teach essential life skills, the Grit Kahoot will remain a cherished experience in our teaching toolkit. Check out the G.R.I.T. Kahoot Here: https://www.india-white.com/free-kahoot-g-r-i-t-framework-quizzes-for-administrators-teachers-students-and-leaders
Finding Strength Through Words: Students Write Their Own Grit Poems This week, I had the privilege of guiding my students through an inspiring writing activity: creating their own Grit Poems . To begin, I introduced them to my original Grit Poem, which highlights the four pillars of the G.R.I.T. Framework—Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management. Students were given two options: they could either fill in the blanks to complete a structured version of the poem, or they could choose to write freely and create their own unique piece. What unfolded was truly powerful. Student Creativity Shines The results were nothing short of amazing. Many students chose to take the creative route, expressing their grit in deeply personal and motivating ways. They wrote about fighting until the end, never giving up, and staying determined to succeed no matter the obstacles. Each stanza reflected how they see themselves growing stronger and more resilient with each challenge they face. Four Sections of Growth Connected to the G.R.I.T. Framework The structure of the poem allowed students to focus on each pillar of grit: Growth Mindset : Students wrote about believing in themselves and seeing mistakes as opportunities to learn. Resilience : They captured the power of bouncing back, describing how they rise after setbacks. Self-Efficacy: Their words showed confidence, determination, and the belief that they can achieve their goals. Time Management : Students reflected on staying disciplined, focused, and managing their time wisely to stay on track. Why It Matters This poetry activity went beyond creative expression; it allowed students to internalize the G.R.I.T. Framework in their own voice. By putting grit into words, they not only practiced literacy skills but also deepened their understanding of perseverance and determination. Looking Ahead As teachers, we know that reflection and creativity can unlock hidden potential in our students. Activities like the Grit Poem give students both ownership and pride in their learning journey. Watching them speak words of strength, determination, and resilience reminds me of why grit is so essential—not only in the classroom but in life.
Reflecting on Grit: Student Voices Through a Grit Survey Today, my students had the opportunity to pause and reflect on what grit truly means through a Grit Reflection Survey. The survey was centered on the four pillars of the G.R.I.T. Framework, Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management, and invited students to share not only their opinions but also their personal experiences with grit. Student Reflections The responses were inspiring. Every single student expressed that they benefited from the activity in some way. For some, it served as motivation to push forward despite challenges. For others, it was a reminder to keep going and stay consistent. Students shared that having a structured space to think about grit helped them see its relevance in their own learning journey. Feedback for Growth The survey also encouraged students to offer suggestions on how the G.R.I.T. Framework could be even better. Their voices highlighted both the strengths of the framework and opportunities to make it more interactive and relatable. One common suggestion was incorporating more fun, game-like activities, something I already have in place with my Grit Kahoot, a lively and engaging way to strengthen their grit skills while having fun. Looking Ahead What excites me most is the long-term impact this reflection will have. By helping students connect their learning and perseverance to grit, they are building habits that will serve them far beyond the classroom. Reflection activities like today’s survey are not only valuable for academic growth but also for personal development, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in life. I’m eager to see how these reflections will shape their grit journey in the weeks and months ahead. As students continue engaging with the G.R.I.T. Framework—through discussions, games, and reflections—I know they will continue to grow stronger, more resilient, and more confident in their ability to succeed.
Building Strength with “Grit Rings” in the Classroom This month, my students had the chance to dive into a new activity I call Grit Rings (all rights reserved).” The goal was simple but powerful: connect the four pillars of the G.R.I.T. framework: Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management, to something students could create with their own hands. Each student designed their own “ring,” decorating it with words, images, and affirmations that reflected how they are learning to live out grit. We then linked their creations together to form a beautiful chain that now hangs proudly around the classroom. The excitement in the room was contagious! Students laughed, encouraged one another, and reflected deeply on what grit means in their lives. What was especially moving was how honest students were during this process. A few admitted they noticed a disconnect between the positive affirmations on our G.R.I.T. posters and the reality of what they wrote on their rings. But rather than being discouraged, they said it gave them something to strive toward. That honesty created space for growth—and reminded us that grit is not about perfection but persistence. The impact was clear: 100% of students reported enjoying this activity. They felt more confident, more aware of their strengths, and more motivated to improve their self-efficacy. For many, seeing their grit displayed physically around the classroom gave them a tangible reminder of what they are capable of achieving. Research continues to affirm what we experienced firsthand. Studies show that grit is strongly connected to academic success, persistence, and long-term achievement. Students who cultivate resilience and perseverance are more likely to meet their goals, push through obstacles, and maintain motivation over time. By combining research with hands-on, student-centered activities, we are helping to bridge the gap between knowing about grit and actually practicing it. The “Grit Rings” now hang as a daily reminder that growth mindset, resilience, self-efficacy, and time management are not just concepts on paper—they are tools each student can carry into every challenge they face. I can’t wait to see how these students continue to grow as leaders in their own learning. The rings may circle our classroom, but their grit will take them far beyond these walls.
Student Voices Confirm What the Research Shows: The Power of G.R.I.T. Over the last 2–3 weeks, I had the privilege of leading students through a deep dive into G.R.I.T.. They completed the G.R.I.T. Assessment, worked through the entire G.R.I.T. Workbook for Students, and engaged with the four pillars of the framework—Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management—developed from my TEDx research, The Power of G.R.I.T. The results were inspiring. During our closing activity, a reflection game I call “ Gritty Reflections,” students shared personal testimonies of how grit had impacted their lives: “I already had grit, but I’m glad I finally know what it is.” “Grit helped me stay motivated when I wanted to give up.” “I’ll use grit to help me in the future—it’s not just for school, it’s for life.” “It was important for me to pass this class, and grit gave me the push to do it.” Their faces lit up with joy and confidence as they discovered that grit is not just a concept—it’s a mindset and a tool they can apply for success. They especially loved our G.R.I.T. Games, with the Grit Circle and Grit Cootie Catcher as clear favorites. What excites me most is that these reflections confirm what research has already shown. My dissertation on the persistence of first-generation scholars highlights that grit is a defining factor in whether students overcome barriers and persist to graduation. National data further underscores this urgency: according to the NAEP (Nation’s Report Card) 2022 and 2024 results , math proficiency among U.S. students has declined significantly, with the lowest levels in decades. Without new approaches, the gap will continue to widen. This is where G.R.I.T. matters most. By teaching students how to persevere, build self-efficacy, and manage their time, we give them tools that help create parity, belonging, and academic success nationwide and worldwide. Testimonies like the ones my students shared are not just anecdotal—they represent the lived reality that backs data, research, and educational practice. Teacher Tips: How to Facilitate Powerful Grit Testimonials Link Reflection to Research: Remind students that their voices matter and that their reflections confirm what data already says about grit and persistence. Make it Engaging: Use interactive tools like the Grit Cootie Catcher and Grit Circle to encourage every student to share. Ask Future-Focused Questions : Help students connect grit to passing the next quiz, completing the semester, and preparing for life beyond the classroom. Celebrate Growth : Applaud every testimony. When students see their voices valued, they believe more deeply in their potential. Reinforce the Bigger Picture : Connect grit to parity and belonging, showing how these skills can close gaps and build resilience across communities. Parity, Grit, and Belonging True educational success goes beyond grades—it’s about creating spaces where every student feels they belong. Grit bridges the gap to parity by equipping all learners, regardless of background, with the tools to persevere, manage time, and believe in their potential. When students cultivate grit, they not only achieve academically but also gain a sense of belonging and purpose, empowering them to thrive in classrooms, communities, and life. The data is clear, the research is strong, and now the testimonies from students prove it: grit works. And when teachers create space for students to reflect, we don’t just build academic success—we build future leaders. Let's continue this conversation to see how we can connect as we work together for the grittier and greater good of all learners! Visit www.india-white.com or email Dr. India White at indiawhiteconsulting@gmail.com
September Newsletter Blog: Building Grit in Students and Leaders This past month, I had the joy of leading a week-long G.R.I.T. Training for students, and it was nothing short of powerful. Throughout the week, students engaged in activities designed to help them understand and apply the G.R.I.T. framework—Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management. We started with the G.R.I.T. Assessment , which gave students the opportunity to reflect on their strengths and areas for growth. From there, we explored the Grit Cootie Catcher activity , which made learning fun and interactive while reinforcing important concepts. In addition, students participated in times of personal reflection, group discussion, and team-building activities that challenged them to see grit as more than just a buzzword; it became a personal commitment. Many students shared openly about the ways they want to grow in resilience and perseverance. By the end of the week, it was clear that this training equipped them not only for academic success but also for life. I am excited to continue offering this kind of training and am open to traveling and working with schools, districts, and organizations as needed. Grit changes lives, and it’s my mission to make sure students and educators alike have the tools to thrive. On my podcast, Let’s Get Gritty , I recently featured Coach Fred Bridges and Alexander, a graduate of HCPS, who shared how grit shaped their journeys. They each elaborated on the G.R.I.T. framework and gave inspiring testimonies about how determination, resilience, and mindset can carry you through challenges. As we step into this new season, I encourage you to reflect on where grit is showing up in your own life and in your work. Together, let’s keep cultivating the power of G.R.I.T. in every classroom, community, and home.