Equity program

The Minnesota Department of Education defines educational equity as: "the condition of justice, fairness, and inclusion in our systems of education so that all students have access to the opportunities to learn and develop to their fullest potentials. The pursuit of educational equity recognizes the historical conditions and barriers that have prevented opportunity and success in learning for students based on their races, incomes, and other social conditions. Eliminating those structural and institutional barriers to educational opportunities requires systematic change that allows for distribution of resources, information, and other support depending on the student's situation to ensure an equitable outcome. Equity is different from equality. Equity is a principle that is based upon justness and fairness, while equality demands everyone be treated at the same level."

Short documents and guides to help you understand equity and implement best practices in your school and life. 

• Ensure equity in learning
• Choose inclusive learning and communication in your classroom
• Choose anti-bias and anti-racist classroom texts
• Talk with students about respect
• Talk with caregivers about respect
• Recognize and address harmful language
• Recognize and address harmful language - Part 2 (external link)
• Request a book >

• Indigenous Peoples Day Toolkit

MN Statute requires Cultural Competency training for educators to renew their teaching license with PELSB (Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board). Sourcewell has developed a PELSB-approved training that meets all components of PELSB’s definition. 

• Request a customized full or partial training at your school >
• Register for an upcoming training >

Elevate Community Impact Series is all about creating a safe learning place for adults in school and community settings that are ready to engage in learning about people, groups, and cultures you may not have the opportunity to discuss in your typical work day. Each series focuses on different people or identity groups and is designed to promote change and build capacity for more equitable spaces and experiences for all. Trained Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity (SEED) leaders, Rachel Logan and Lisa Worden host and facilitate the learning series for people who are interested in challenging their own personal beliefs and practices while connecting with others along the same journey. 

• Register for an upcoming training
• Request an Elevate Community Impact Series at your school
  Requires a group of 10 or more. Choose from a variety of subjects. Topic ideas

The Excavating Excellence Leadership Cohort focuses on helping educators address biases and inequities at their roots to create long-lasting positive change in their schools. Participate in a cohort and you will learn and have support in adapting and advocating for policies and practices that foster schoolwide equitable learning environments, enhancing engagement, and making achievement for all students your ultimate goal.

• Register for upcoming cohort opportunities

Looking for a support tailored to your school’s needs? Contact us to learn more. We can support your team in strategically addressing systems improvement through an equity lens, including examining policies, procedures, curriculum, and instruction for potential barriers to success for each student. Onsite professional development can also be provided. Sample options include implicit bias training, examining inequities in school systems, or anti-racism work.

Additional equity trainings are regularly offered at Sourcewell. Check the training page for up-to-date offerings.