Strength in Diversity: How Equitable Classrooms Benefit Everyone

At Just Equations, we advocate for policies grounded in facts, not ideology. It is concerning that some of the recent presidential executive orders seem to be rejecting not just empathy, but also evidence. Rather than focus on labels such as “diversity” and “equity,” policy decisions should focus on practices that strengthen our economy, foster innovation, and lead to better social outcomes for all. The research is clear: When schools commit to culturally responsive pedagogy, diverse teaching staff, and inclusive learning environments, students of all backgrounds thrive.‍

The power of culturally responsive pedagogy

Math is often taught as a subject devoid of culture and lived experience, as if students leave their “real lives” at the door when they step into a classroom. But research shows that integrating students’ cultural backgrounds into math education can enhance engagement, comprehension, and achievement. When students see their experiences reflected in the curriculum, they participate more actively, develop stronger problem-solving skills, and perform better academically.

A synthesis of peer-reviewed studies conducted at the University of Kansas found that, compared with students in traditional math classrooms, students in culturally responsive math classrooms improved their test scores and reported greater enjoyment and persistence in problem-solving. This means that culturally inclusive teaching doesn’t just help students feel more connected—it can make them better mathematicians.

Representation in the classroom matters

The impact of diversity in education extends beyond the curriculum. Students with teachers who share their racial or cultural background have been shown to achieve better academic outcomes, graduate at higher rates, and enter college at greater numbers. A landmark study from Tennessee’s Project STAR found that Black students who had a Black teacher early in their education performed significantly better in reading and math than those who did not. Other studies have shown that, when students of color have teachers who look like them, they benefit from higher expectations and stronger mentorship—two factors critical to long-term success.

Inclusive classrooms benefit everyone

The benefits of diverse and inclusive classrooms are not limited to students of color. Research from the Century Foundation and UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center shows that all students—regardless of race or background—benefit from learning in diverse environments. These students develop stronger critical-thinking skills, greater empathy, and greater facility working with people from different backgrounds—skills that are crucial in an increasingly global economy. Furthermore, early cognitive development, in particular developing strong math skills, contributes to long-term economic outcomes for students, according to the Urban Institute.

Inclusive classrooms also give students with disabilities access to mainstream classrooms, improving their academic and social outcomes. A study conducted by Indiana University’s Center on Education and Lifelong Learning found that students with disabilities performed better in math when they were integrated into general classrooms rather than segregated in programs that limit their postsecondary options. This reinforces a broader truth: When schools invest in equitable teaching practices, all students rise.

The pipeline to economic and business success

When students learn in inclusive, culturally responsive environments, they enter the workforce better equipped to collaborate, problem-solve, and drive innovation. A commitment to diversity in education pays dividends for our society far beyond the classroom.

Companies with diverse teams outperform their less diverse counterparts in both innovation and financial success. A Boston Consulting Group study found that businesses with high levels of diversity generated 45 percent of their revenue from innovation, compared with just 26 percent for less diverse companies. A 2023 McKinsey & Company study found that businesses in the top quartile for ethnic diversity were 39 percent more likely to experience above-average profitability than those in the bottom quartile.

Investing in equity is investing in the future

If we want an economy that is dynamic and competitive, we must start with an education system that reflects and supports the full diversity of our society. Education is not just a personal journey; it is the foundation for economic strength, social cohesion, and long-term prosperity.

That is why it’s so concerning that the current administration is attempting to dismantle the very agencies charged with gathering the data that inform our policies. The administration claims that the goal is to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse. How can we know the most efficient way to spend federal funds without data? Ignorance is not efficiency.

As NPR recently reported, “Critics warn that these cuts will leave policymakers flying blind, unable to make informed decisions about where resources are needed most.”

At Just Equations, we believe that making math education more equitable is not just a moral imperative—it is a policy imperative.  A strong, inclusive education system that works for all students is the bedrock of a thriving society. If we want a future led by brilliant, empathetic, critical thinkers, our policies must reflect our priorities.