In public education, teachers do not choose their students. We embrace our diversity and differentiate to meet the needs of each of our students. Well, that's what I believe we're supposed to do. However, today, our education system is racially inequitable. My hometown was predominantly white, whereas my first job in Colorado I taught students who were on the poverty line. The resources, budgeting, and bias in education became so clear and evident when comparing my two different worlds. I grew conscious and understood the terms "color-blindness", "passive racism" and "racial inequity" on a more personal level.
As I developed this new perspective and heart for our students of color, I reflected, a fourth time, on my Assessment Design Checklist (ADC). Educators (and the public) have become aware of the injustice in our education system, but not necessarily the assessment bias (Kendi, 2016). When it comes to the test-prep, test resources and testing accommodations, white students are at an advantage with our low-income (majority Hispanic and black) and fall behind in scores. When we think of assessments, Kendi reminds:
“These tests have failed time and again to achieve their intended purposes: measuring intelligence and predicting future academic and professional success. The tests, not the black test-takers, have been underachieving”
Reviewing my ADC I decided to add an additional question as I continue to evaluate my assessments. Based on Kendi's article, I added Is this assessment race-neutral? I think this question will help me most specifically reflect on the racial bias of my assessment I can carry over into my classroom.
The more I learn about ethical choices, digital-integration, feedback, and accessibility I continue to reflect on my ADC. I become more critical and aware of my assessments' content and purpose.
Resources:
Kendi, I. X. (2016). Why standardized tests have standardized postracial ideology: Putting "race-neutral" admissions standards on trial. The American Association of University Professors. https://www.aaup.org/article/why-standardized-tests-have-standardized-postracial-ideology#.XwtOY5NKiuU.
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