We’ve heard the words diversity, equity, and inclusion. We’ve had opportunities to hear from DEI experts and engage in discussions focusing on equity issues in teaching and learning. However, the knowledge gleaned from these experiences does not easily translate into equity in action. In Spring 2023, the Skyline College CTTL launched the Equity Scholars Faculty Coaching Program, supported by a two-year grant from the CCC Chancellor’s Office Institutional Effectiveness Division to bridge that gap. The Equity Scholars Faculty Coaching program matches faculty coaches with mentees to facilitate equity-minded practices and critical reflection in their daily practice.
The Culturally Responsive Pedagogy and Practices Innovative Best Practices Grant provides funding for faculty coaches to attend the National Equity Project’s Coaching for Equity training and supports them throughout their coaching journey. We want to acknowledge the Equity Scholars who have committed to helping their peers: Luciana Castro, Katie Hern, Vincent Kang, Elaine Francisco, Sima Karve, Jesse Raskin, Andrilla Stephens, Tony Viertel, and Arnetta Villela.
“Being a peer mentor in the Equity Scholars program at Skyline College has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” says Equity Coach Jesse Raskin. “It’s helped me deepen my understanding of equity in education while working alongside colleagues to find real ways to make our campus more inclusive. Mentoring has allowed me to see things from new perspectives and reflect more deeply on my work.”
The Equity Scholars Faculty Coaching Program has supported 11 mentees as they complete the online Culturally Responsive Teaching Course while working with their peer mentors. The program is currently open to participants for Spring 2024. Apply to become a mentee, or contact the CTTL to become an Equity Coach. Visit the CTTL website to learn more about the Equity Scholars program and explore other equity training options.
Article by Kim Saccio, co-Distance Education Coordinator, Skyline College CTTL