Antiracist Algebra Coalition

Formed in 2021, the Antiracist Algebra Coalition connects Syracuse community members and stakeholders in education to explore the intersection of antiracism and students’ success in algebra.

All students in New York state need to pass Algebra and the Algebra Regents Exam in order to graduate high school; therefore, algebra serves as a gatekeeper for students’ success. Disproportionality in access and outcomes is often an indicator of racist policy and practice. Part of the Coalition’s work is to interrogate the practices and policies that contribute to inequities along racial lines by asking:

• How are the practices and policies governing school algebra in Syracuse “gatekeeping” Black students’ success?
• What actions need to be taken to dismantle racist policies and practices governing school Algebra in Syracuse?

The Coalition’s work includes:

• Systematic study of how antiracist algebra teaching supports students’ learning through Dr. Gholdy Muhammad’s “cultivating genius” lens of joy, criticality, intellect, skill, and identity.
• Designing and implementing social justice math units in high school and middle school, including a study of I-81 affects on Syracuse neighborhoods culminating in community event (“A Sense of Place,” May 2021).
• Holding work sessions focused on Black Brilliance and Mathematics Coaching.

Education & Advocacy Aims

• Educate ourselves: what actions need to be taken to dismantle racist policies and practices governing school algebra in Syracuse?
• Educate others: build relationships and engage in dialogue with thought leaders and community members to identify problems and solutions.
• Advocate for Change: persuade decision makers and instructional leaders to examine and dismantle racist policies and practices that shape students’ experiences in and pathways to school algebra.

For more information:

Nicole Fonger, Assistant Professor

nfonger@syr.edu|315.443.1581