Rethinking Fairness in Education: A Choir Perspective

“I treat all students fairly” is a common principle among educators, but fairness and equality are not the same thing. In fact, striving for equality in the classroom can unintentionally limit student growth. Instead, adopting an equity-focused mindset allows every student to receive the support, challenges, and opportunities they truly need to succeed.

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The Difference Between Equality and Equity

Equality means giving every student the same thing—one solo per singer, equal turns in the front row, or identical assignments for all. While this may seem fair on the surface, it fails to acknowledge that students have different needs, abilities, and aspirations. Treating everyone the same does not ensure success; it merely ensures uniformity, which can leave some students struggling while others remain unchallenged.

Equity, on the other hand, means providing each student with what they need to grow. One student may need leadership opportunities, while another requires additional vocal coaching. Some students thrive on being challenged with advanced repertoire, while others need encouragement and foundational skill-building. By embracing equity, we create a choir environment that fosters both individual and collective excellence.

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Applying Equity in the Choir Classroom

A choir director who values equity recognizes that each singer is unique and provides opportunities accordingly. Here’s how equity can be applied in a choral setting:

  • Choice-Based Challenge Levels: Students select the difficulty level of their assignments, based on both their current skill level and their motivation to improve. This ensures that they are challenged appropriately while also encouraging personal growth and responsibility.
  • Solo Repertoire for Independence and Growth: Teaching solo repertoire provides students with the opportunity to develop independence and showcase their unique voice. Every student learns a new classical solo each year, ensuring continuous progress. While solos are primarily taught to all students, they are also tailored to fit the needs and vocal abilities of each singer, helping them develop their strengths and address their challenges.
  • Student-Centered Opportunities: Leadership roles, solos, and conducting experiences are earned based on merit and readiness rather than given out equally for fairness’ sake.
  • Targeted Support for Struggling Students: Extra support is provided for students who are struggling with any skills—whether it’s vocal technique, sight-singing, ear-training, or holding their part. We focus our energy on what each student needs, ensuring that no one is left behind. This also means we take the time to truly understand each student and their individual learning process. In many cases, student leaders can be part of the solution—while a struggling student gets the help they need, the student leader gains valuable experience in mentorship and leadership.

Equity does not mean making excuses for students or lowering expectations. Instead, it means meeting students where they are and guiding them forward. It ensures that top students continue to excel without neglecting those who need extra support.

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Seeing Each Student as an Individual

In a one-on-one voice lesson, the teacher tailors instruction to the student’s specific needs. When leading an entire choir, directors must adopt a similar mindset—seeing each student as an individual and providing them with the tools necessary for their unique journey.

So, the next time you hear someone say, “I treat every student equally,” consider how that mindset might be holding some students back. By shifting our focus to equity, we create a choir classroom where every singer has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.

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Supporting Choir Directors on Their Equity Journey

Creating an equitable choir classroom takes intentionality, strategy, and support. I work with choral directors across the country through my mentorship program, helping them develop stronger, more inclusive choral programs that elevate every student. If you’re interested in learning how to apply equity in your own choir classroom, visit www.choralclarity.com/mentorship to learn more about my mentorship opportunities.