How can you improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged students?

3 Create a safe and supportive environment

A third way to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged students is to create a safe and supportive environment for them, both in and out of school. A safe and supportive environment can foster a sense of belonging, respect, and trust among students, teachers, and families. It can also address the social and emotional needs of students who may experience trauma, stress, or isolation due to their circumstances. A safe and supportive environment can include implementing anti-bullying, anti-discrimination, and anti-violence policies and practices, providing counseling and mental health services, and creating spaces and activities that promote diversity, inclusion, and collaboration. You can help by creating a positive and welcoming culture in your classroom, school, or community, or by supporting programs and initiatives that promote safety and well-being for disadvantaged students.

5 Encourage student voice and agency

A fifth way to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged students is to encourage their voice and agency in their education. Voice and agency refer to the ability and opportunity of students to express their opinions, preferences, and needs, and to influence the decisions and actions that affect their education. Voice and agency can empower students to take ownership of their learning, to advocate for their rights and interests, and to contribute to their communities and society. Voice and agency can also foster creativity, critical thinking, and leadership skills that can prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. You can help by listening to and respecting students' voices, involving them in co-designing and co-evaluating their learning experiences, and providing them with platforms and opportunities to share their ideas and actions with others.

6 Collaborate with others

A sixth way to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged students is to collaborate with others who share your vision and mission. Improving education for disadvantaged students is not a task that can be done by one person or one organization alone. It requires the collective effort and commitment of multiple stakeholders, including educators, parents, families, students, donors, policymakers, researchers, and civil society. By collaborating with others, you can leverage the strengths, resources, and expertise of different partners, learn from their experiences and best practices, and coordinate your actions and strategies to achieve greater impact and sustainability. You can help by joining or forming networks, coalitions, or alliances that work towards improving education for disadvantaged students, or by supporting existing ones that align with your goals and values.