Apply the Framework
Now that we have the framework for defining equity, let’s look at some examples. As you read these examples, ask yourself whether the speaker is defining an input model or an output model of equity.
A MEMBER OF THE SCHOOL BOARD
Ellen Balthazar, 21-year member of the Eanes School Board, defining equity:
“[Of the DEI words, equity is the] most misunderstood. Where the most immediate impact comes in, take two fifth-grade boys. One has special needs. So the instruction that he receives needs to address that special need, so he can be successful in math. Other student is a math whiz, so what he needs is that compacted 5th/6th math course, that advanced math he can take in 5th grade. The resources they are given are not equal, but they are equitable because each student is getting what they need to be successful, so that’s what the equity is about is figuring out how each student gets what they need to be successful.“
A MEMBER OF THE E4E COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Kristin Shaw, member of E4E Communications Committee, in an April 2022 Twitter discussion said Eanes4Equity defines equity as “equity of opportunity, not of outcomes.”
A FOUNDING MEMBER OF E4E
Darshana Kalikstein, one of founders of Eanes4Equity, defining not just equity, but the whole idea of DEI (answering “what is DEI fighting for?”):
“I think it is creating an environment where each kid’s unique needs are met so they can reach their full potential, so they get the opportunities to reach their full potential.”
So how’d you do? Did you see that they are all three arguing for an input model of equity? Under this model, schools consider each student as an individual and try to determine the student’s unique needs:
- Each student getting what they need to be successful
- Opportunity, not outcomes
- Each kid’s unique needs are met, opportunities to reach full potential
These three speakers want you to know that everything is ok. In very soothing words with very soothing tones, they want you to know there’s just nothing to worry about. No, no, Eanes isn’t doing the bad version of equity. The School Board is working toward the good version. Trust us. Trust us. Shhhhh.