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When content, concepts, and events are studied from many points of view, all of our students will be ready to play their roles in the life of the nation. They can help to transform the United States from what it is to what it could and should be - many groups working together to build a strong nation that celebrates its diversity.
—James Banks, Professor
University of Washington
Every learner, particularly those marginalized by the societal and educational system, must be guaranteed access to quality instruction, resources, and assessment to ensure their successful transition through complex learning experiences to the responsibilities of the workplace and active citizenship. Equity and diversity among students strengthen our schools and our society. By valuing diversity and encouraging inclusivity as educational and cultural opportunities, educators demonstrate their commitment to building both effective and equitable school practices that promote educational excellence.
Intended to increase the awareness of school staff, parents, students, and the collective learning community about equity issues, The Fourth R focuses on several key stakeholders because they assume the intensive day-to-day responsibility for students' learning and behavior. This list, however, does not diminish the important contributions that other stakeholders make to the educational process. "School staff" refers to administrators, teachers, counselors, media specialists, aides, and classified staff. The term "parents" may also include nonparental legal and temporary guardians. Each section of this publication is designed for easy reproduction for multiple uses and activities.
This handbook can assist educators in their efforts to make responsible local educational decisions with an informed and attuned understanding of equity and effective school practices. The publication is meant to help engage education stakeholders in substantive dialogue about the integral relevance of equity, multicultural education, and equal access to every student and educator. Sustaining such dialogue affirms the mutual commitment of the entire learning community to provide quality education to all learners.
When reading the The Fourth R, educators and other stakeholders are encouraged to reflect on a challenge posed by Portland's Police Chief Charles Moose: "As education leaders, what are you going to do toward equity? What efforts are you currently making, and what risks are you going to take to change your school's climate that works toward the success of every student?" This guidebook is meant to help facilitate the personal and professional growth necessary to meet this challenge.
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