Equity in Education Month
March 2025

To celebrate and support the commitment to each child in Virginia’s public education system receiving what they need and when they need it to advance positive student outcomes, the VSBA Board of Directors has designated the month of March as VSBA Equity in Education Month.

Equity in education is a significant challenge nationwide. According to the National Center for Education statistics, most public-school students are students of color, and more than half of public-school students qualify for subsidized meals due to low family income. 

Analysis of student performance data since the COVID-19 pandemic indicates students from every part of our Commonwealth are striving to reach pre-pandemic academic levels.  Additionally, large numbers of Virginia’s students are facing heightened mental health conditions. We must ensure that all students, no matter their zip code or size of their school division, receive the support necessary to achieve positive academic outcomes and well-being. When inequity in education persists, there is a cost to all involved, including missed opportunities for economic development, increased need for community support, and fewer Virginians ready to serve and lead.

School board members, superintendents, teachers, and families play a critical role in creating a climate and curriculum where all students receive the resources they need, so they graduate prepared for success after high school.  School Boards may indeed be the genesis of transformation our students deserve.

Click here to download the 2024 Equity in Education Month Guide.

Click here to view the “Understanding Equity vs. Equality in Education” document.

VSBA President Dr. JoWanda Rollins-Fells PSA 

Students and Schools in Challenging Environments Task Force