What is Education Equity?
Child Lane is committed to a philosophy and practices that infuse equity principles into all aspects of governance, programs and operational activities. This commitment to social equity goes beyond having a specific curriculum or curricular approach.
Our equity principles include the following:
Respect and value of each child’s identity, including race, ethnicity, gender, culture, language, family structure, family history, socioeconomic status, ability, strengths, and needs. Children need to start with a healthy sense of self and a level of comfort with differences. Additionally, children of every background should have the personalized support needed to reach their full potential.
Recognition of who the child is now. The philosophy and practice of social equity recognizes that who the child is now is as important as who they are becoming. Staff meet children where they are at to provide an environment that supports learning across all levels of development and curriculum.
Shared governance between teachers and children, families and teachers, and other relationships in the early childhood education (ECE) setting. Shared power and influence facilitates greater self-confidence among all parties, as all are valued equitably. Child Lane believes that performance and impact are both enhanced when individuals of varied backgrounds are a part of decision-making processes and activities.
The right to opportunities for meaningful participation for every child. This means that all children have access to and participate in activities that are of interest to them, that each child is equitably engaged, and that the activities promote a sense of affirmation and belonging. This provides children with the opportunity to develop positive identities, which plays a critical role in social and emotional learning. Children engage in activities that reflect their role as a member of a family, community, and society.
Non-bias and anti-bias classroom environments. In ECE environments where all children, staff, and families are welcome and honored, children have self-confidence, are comfortable and respectful of varied social identities, and protect the rights of others. Respect for diversity is taught, modeled, and experienced first-hand by both teachers and students alike.
Child Lane's Goals
Child Lane launched an initiative two years ago to infuse social equity practices throughout its programs, business practices and organizational culture. The goals of this strategic social equity plan are to:
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Integrate a philosophy and practice of social equity throughout Child Lane’s curriculum;
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Ensure a value for equity is reflected in all interactions with community members, including children, families, vendors, staff, volunteers, and board members;
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Create a space where children are comfortable celebrating their own identities while also embracing the diverse backgrounds of their peers;
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Possess positive attitudes toward all social groups;
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Develop a relationship between staff and families that is built on respect and appreciation of different child-rearing practices;
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Set challenging yet achievable goals for children through engaging activities and classrooms;
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Infuse equitable practices and policies in all facets of operations; and
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Ensure equitable representation in the composition of Child Lane's board of directors and staff.