When I was in education school, we had to observe teachers in the classroom and write up our observations, like educational anthropologists. I observed a teacher who later became a colleague, a very well-respected veteran teacher. He knew what he was doing– he was enthusiastic about his subject, related warmly to students, engaged students. My notes from eight years ago read:

He is very skillful in making kids feel at ease; relates to students in personal and humorous ways. Also tries to draw out more reticent and ‘nerdy’ kids. Told me he thinks each student is gifted in some way and this seems genuine.

This was an AP history class in one of the highest scoring schools in the state, and I began wondering about equity in a competitive school culture where the playing field is not level. I saw very few kids of color in these classes. And so…