WHY EQUITY PRACTICES ARE IMPORTANT IN MIDDLE SCHOOL

In the education space, we hear a lot about how important early childhood interventions are. We know this is true, but as our Scholars head back to the classroom, we want to share why equity practices are especially crucial to students during their middle school years. 

The metrics of being a successful middle-school student may not be as obvious as  high school, since there is no degree presented. However, the road to a successful high school graduation is paved in middle school.

Sadly, we see the results of this right here at home. While 81.4% of CCSD students in 2022 graduated within four years of starting high school, only 51.5 percent of district students in North Las Vegas graduated. Compared to 92.1% in Henderson and the disparity becomes obvious.*

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on equity in education, with the understanding that all students deserve an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. Equity practices, particularly in middle grades education, are crucial in ensuring that students receive the support and resources they need to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

Pre-teens and teens need safe inclusive spaces since they are going through significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes. By fostering inclusive classrooms, educators can create a safe space where students can freely express their thoughts, opinions, and concerns without fear of judgment or discrimination. When students feel a sense of belonging, they are more likely to actively participate in discussions, collaborate with peers, and engage in the learning process, leading to improved academic outcomes.

Equity practices recognize that students have unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles. During the critical middle-school years, students’ learning needs become more complex. Implementing equity practices involves differentiating instruction to meet individual students’ needs, ensuring that every student receives the appropriate level of challenge and support. By tailoring instruction, educators empower students to reach their full potential, cultivating a growth mindset and fostering a love for learning.

In cities like Las Vegas, students come from diverse cultural backgrounds, and equity practices emphasize the importance of embracing and celebrating this diversity. By integrating culturally relevant materials, literature, and examples, educators promote a sense of cultural pride, foster mutual respect, and increase student engagement. This enables students to develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and a broader worldview, preparing them to be responsible global citizens.

Middle-grade students face unique social and emotional challenges as they navigate adolescence. By creating opportunities for students to develop interpersonal skills, self-awareness, empathy, and resilience, implementing restorative practices, counseling services, and social-emotional learning programs, schools can help students build positive relationships, manage their emotions, and navigate conflicts constructively.

CORE has proven time and again that it is through equity practices that we can build a more equitable and just education system, where all students are empowered to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or circumstances.