Equality, Equity, & Adequacy

Equality vs. equity vs. adequacy is a long-standing argument that continues to makes headlines as well as case law.  Here are a few of my thoughts.

Equality is easy.  Equality means all students receive access to the same types of basic educational programs.  While easy to implement, it is not in the best interest of our students.  Each student has different needs.  We cannot assume that a one-size-fits-all approach to education will meet the needs of an ever-changing world.  For that reason, both the courts as well as educators that utilize research-based solutions utilize an equitable approach to education.

Equity in education leads to an environment in which the system is fair and responds to the needs of individuals.  An example that I like to use is the 4 x 4 approach to high school graduation standards in Texas.  In science, each student is required to successfully complete four science courses.  There is a menu of choices available.  While certain courses are compulsory (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics), there are options. Specifically, during the fourth year students may take a science course that meets their individual interests / needs such as Forensics, Principles of Technology, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Systems, and Human Anatomy and Physiology.  The greater number of offerings a school makes available, the more equitable the situation.  Equity is a very important standard to understand and implement.

Adequate refers to the school district’s ability to provide educational programs that create success for all students --- Adequacy leads to Equity. Adequacy creates a moving target.  As society changes, so does their definition of adequate.  Likewise, the immeasurability of adequacy as a standard leads special interest groups to protest, demand, and even sue for greater access to services under the auspice of equity. 

I have learned that while equal is relatively easy to achieve, it is not the most appropriate option for public education today.  Equity is the standard to which we will be held.  It is the standard, too, to which the courts decree.  An adequate education is an equitable education and vice-versa.