Contributing Editor: Dr. Amy Hildenbrand, Director of Publications
Center for Responsive Schools (CRS) is committed to supporting learning communities where all students are welcomed and find hope and joy every day. CRS recognizes diversity, inclusion, and equity as essential to positive and healthy school and classroom communities.
The year 2020 has forced a spotlight on equity, first with the pandemic and then with cries for social justice. Equity is not the same as equality, which means treating everyone the same and providing the same opportunities and resources. Equity goes beyond that, providing individualized support and addressing the barriers students face based on race, gender, and other factors. Understanding these key differences will allow us to move forward and turn our vision for school communities into reality.
This issue is filled with diverse voices and perspectives surrounding the topic of social-emotional learning and equity. Dr. Abul Pitre and Dr. Terrence McAllister share the importance of teachers and administrators building strong multicultural classrooms. Caltha Crowe offers advice to prevent bullying by ensuring equity for all students. Ina Pannell-Saint Surin shares Responsive Classroom practices to help bring equity into the classroom, and Emily Hemingway explores how the power of teacher beliefs can combat inequities. Riverview Charter School’s journey will inspire you and provide a road map to their success.
This issue will offer you ideas, next steps, support, and hope. Working together, we’ll forge a new path forward to meet the needs of every student, every day.