Cultivating Equity in Education Through Equity-Mindedness

Recognizing that shaping one’s mindset is often the most effective means of creating and sustaining systemic change, we cultivate equitable educational outcomes by fostering equity-mindedness* across educational systems. Every learner deserves the opportunity to succeed. The Friday Institute is committed to removing systemic barriers for learners. We honor the voices and perspectives of those who teach, lead and learn in NC schools and beyond through public discourse and cross-stakeholder convenings.       

*We define equity-mindedness as the mode of thinking exhibited by educational stakeholders who are willing to: 1) increase their understanding of the origins and causes of persistent and systemic barriers to student success, 2) critically assess their own biases, and 3) take responsibility for the success of all learners in order to increase equity in education.

North Carolina’s At-Home Learning Initiative

The At-Home Learning Initiative was created to help solve remote learning gaps across the state, specifically for 16.9% of public school students who have a lack of access to a stable internet connection. With funds from NCDPI through the CARES Act, the Friday Institute for Educational Innovation facilitated the creation and implementation of 192 literacy and math lessons for PreK-5 students as part of the initiative for remote education. One hundred and forty-four of those lessons for PreK-3 will air on PBS North Carolina. Reaching over 5.3 million households statewide on free public television, PBS NC could fill gaps in access through the new Classroom Connection program.

A teacher instructs a student work on a computer in a computer lab A teacher instructs a student work on a computer in a computer lab

MSEN Program Brings STEM Experiences to Rural Students

MSEN is a STEM enrichment program that provides 6-12 grade students from underserved populations with experiences that will equip them to attend a four-year college or university to pursue majors in STEM fields. The NC State MSEN program has served 284 students through their Saturday Academy program and currently holds a class or after-school club in five middle schools and two high schools.

2nd Annual NC Conference for Educational Equity Inspires Hope, Opportunity and Liberation for Educators, Students

More than 670 people from public schools, businesses and community organizations participated in the 2nd annual NC Conference for Educational Equity. Read the highlights in this event recap.