Creating Clarity on Equity in Schools→

Pedro & Joaquin Noguera, writing on equity leadership for ASCD:

"Based on our years of experience as researchers and thought partners with district and school leaders, we have found that leaders who have made the greatest progress in advancing equity, and who are best able to withstand political attacks, are those who are able to articulate a clear vision, devise concrete strategies, set measurable goals, and implement an action plan."

A vision for equity is more than a poster on the wall; it's a continuous conversation with the community. Leaders must regularly engage with the entire community to make sure the vision is not only clear but also actionable and aligned with collectively shared values. This isn't just a procedural step during strategic planning; it's the foundation for any meaningful effort to advance equity in our schools.

Aligning Classroom Practices with Community Aspirations for Deeper Learning

Yesterday, I shared the BCPS Graduate Profile video, describing what the Bay City community collectively wants for graduates. Today, I want to share its companion video describing our Deeper Learning initiative, where theory becomes part of our teaching practice.

By aligning instruction with the skills and values our community holds dear, we create a more cohesive and effective educational experience. This isn't just about ticking boxes on a standard assessment; it's about synchronizing our educational goals with real-world needs and expectations. When every stakeholder, from teachers and administrators to parents and community leaders, is on the same page, that's when we see transformative growth in our students.