Reframing Education Through Equity

Educational equity, the belief that everyone should have equal access to education and similar outcomes, has undergone significant evolution over the past century.

A hundred years ago, the idea of most children attending school was a distant dream. Many were required to work on farms or care for their siblings, leaving education out of reach.

But in today’s society, not only are there laws that require kids to attend school, but there are also many options for everyone.

Back in the day, there were often only one or two schools in a given town, so there was only a small chance of being admitted.

But now that everyone is not just allowed to go to school but required to do so, to what end should this idea of educational equity go?

Even within the United States, arguments can be made that not everyone gets the same educational opportunities. Just look at a major high school somewhere in Texas. Places like Allen, Highland Park, or Prestonwood have larger campuses than many four-year colleges. Not to mention the different programs, sports, cafeteria options, and advantages of attending a mega high school.

But should all schools be as extravagant as this?

Not only is it improbable, but it also doesn’t suit the needs of the common man.

This recent idea that everyone needs to attend a four-year college and get a bachelor's degree to be successful only sets students up for disappointment and failure.

Not everyone needs to go to college. There, I said it.

Meaning not all high schools need to be tailored for a prospective college student.

The idea that all students should have similar outcomes is far-fetched and frankly ridiculous. Similar in terms of overall success? Sure, but not in terms of results. Each student is unique, so giving all of them the same style of education is hindering their ability to succeed.

How about changing the definition of educational equity?

Changing it mainly in its application.

There needs to be more options for students and families. With the evolution of society, it’s clear that the current schooling model doesn’t work for everyone, so there needs to be more options.

Think of trade schools but for middle school and high school.

Structuring the days differently. Offering different courses. Giving students a different look at education. Of course, core standards would still remain the same. All students would still learn the fundamentals up to a certain age/grade level, but how they apply them would differ across schools.

Educational equity should mean that all students have the same educational opportunities, but those opportunities need to expand. There should be more charter schools, more (affordable) private schools, and more ways for students to learn skills.