Education is one of the most valued aspects of society. The policies that have been implemented in education thus far have contributed to increased equity, but there is still work to be done. The distribution of resources remains inequitable in most school districts in this country.  I have experienced this firsthand in the education I received in a rural school, and have witnessed this in the school I am currently working in to complete my practicum. Many districts have inequitable district lines that impact the makeup of the school population. The systems in this country do not address the barriers that exist for many families as a result of lack of access to healthcare, adequate housing, quality food and livable wages. Education is important, but until everyone has the resources to be successful in educational institutions we must continue to advocate for increased justice within all systems in this country. Following bills that can impact these systems, and advocating at a macro level is something that could greatly improve outcomes for the injustices that persist.

Skills, competencies &/or capacities learned

• Research and apply knowledge of diverse populations to enhance client well-being. 
• Use knowledge of the effects of oppression, discrimination, and historical trauma on client and client systems to guide treatment planning and intervention.
• Apply knowledge of personal experiences, biases, and thinking patterns and how this may impact work with clients.
• Apply an anti-oppressive stance when working with clients.
• Apply knowledge of inequitable systems to support marginalized and connect them to resources.
• Apply critical thinking to assess availability of resources for clients to advocate for them.