How can you identify equity gaps in K-12 education?

1 Data analysis

One of the most common and effective ways to identify equity gaps is to analyze data on student performance, attendance, behavior, engagement, and satisfaction. You can use various sources of data, such as standardized tests, report cards, surveys, interviews, focus groups, or observations. You can compare the data across different groups of students and look for patterns, trends, or anomalies that indicate inequities. For example, you might find that some groups of students have lower test scores, higher dropout rates, or less access to advanced courses than others.

2 Equity audit

Another way to identify equity gaps is to conduct an equity audit, which is a systematic and comprehensive assessment of the policies, practices, and resources that affect student learning and achievement. An equity audit can help you examine how your school or district allocates funds, staff, time, space, curriculum, instruction, and support to different groups of students. You can use various tools, such as checklists, rubrics, or frameworks, to evaluate the degree of equity or inequity in each area. For example, you might find that some groups of students receive less funding, fewer qualified teachers, or less academic guidance than others.

3 Stakeholder feedback

A third way to identify equity gaps is to solicit feedback from the stakeholders who are directly or indirectly involved in or affected by the education system. These stakeholders include students, parents, teachers, administrators, staff, community members, or partners. You can use various methods, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, forums, or town halls, to collect feedback from diverse and representative groups of stakeholders. You can ask them about their experiences, perceptions, opinions, or suggestions regarding equity issues in your school or district. For example, you might find that some groups of stakeholders feel excluded, marginalized, or discriminated against in the education system.

4 Equity lens

A fourth way to identify equity gaps is to apply an equity lens, which is a critical and reflective way of thinking and acting that considers the impact of your decisions and actions on different groups of students. An equity lens can help you challenge your assumptions, biases, or stereotypes that might influence your judgments or behaviors. It can also help you recognize and appreciate the diversity, strengths, and needs of your students and their families. You can use various questions, such as "Who benefits from this decision or action?" or "Who is harmed by this decision or action?" to apply an equity lens. For example, you might find that some of your decisions or actions unintentionally create or reinforce equity gaps in your school or district.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?