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Educational Equity

Educational Equity

School board members are responsible for the “equitable and quality education of every student in the school district” and must act accordingly in their collective work as a board of education to foster excellence for every student.

The Illinois Association of School Boards recognizes that everyone benefits when all students have access to the educational resources and rigor they need, in all times and circumstances.

In light of its mission and vision, IASB undertakes equity work to provide its members with resources to develop their competence and confidence in support of educational equity. 

Illinois Association of School Boards Definition of Educational Equity

“Educational equity means that every student has access to the educational resources and rigor they need at the right moment in their education, and students’ needs are not going unmet due to race, ethnicity, dominant language, disability, gender, sexual orientation, religion, family background, and/or family income.”
(Adapted in 2018 from the Council of Chief State School Officers and Kedda Williams/Opportunity Institute)

PRESS Sample Policies to Assist School Districts

While educational equity is at the heart of all board policies, some speak to it more directly than others. IASB’s Policy Reference Educational Subscription Service (PRESS) maintains numerous sample policies concerning educational equity.

Educational Equity PRESS Materials

Doing Right By All Students - 300x imageIASB In-District Workshop: Doing Right By All Students

The Doing Right By All Students workshop supports school board members in leading with care, integrity, and a shared commitment to all learners. The workshop explores educational equity using data-driven decision-making and meaningful engagement with community stakeholders to strengthen trust. Participants will leave with a vision to guide their equity work moving forward.

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Additional Reading

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