The Value of Culturally Responsive Executive Functioning Coaching: Empowering BIPOC Students

At North Star Academics, we understand the critical role executive functioning plays in student achievement. Our approach tailors strategies that not only enhance executive functioning skills but also resonate with each student's individual identity, fostering an environment where cultural diversity is recognized as an asset to learning and personal growth. Embracing this ethos, we integrate Culturally Responsive Executive Functioning Coaching (CREFC) into our programs, ensuring our teaching methods are inclusive and relevant to each learner's cultural context.

CREFC is an educational approach that recognizes the diverse cultural background of each student. This style of executive function coaching is responsive to and respectful of students' cultural contexts, including their family structures, community values, and individual experiences. CREFC emphasizes understanding students within their own cultural and social environments rather than comparing them to a standardized norm, often associated with white, middle-class backgrounds.

BIPOC students (Black Indigenous People of Color) often face unique challenges resulting from systemic inequities and biases within the education system. CREFC strategies acknowledge the cultural backgrounds, experiences and perspectives of BIPOC students, while fostering an inclusive learning environment where students feel valued, seen and empowered. 

Studies show when coaching strategies are tailored to align with students' cultural contexts, they experience improved executive functioning, academic performance, and self-regulation (Rodriguez et al., 2020). These results underscore the importance of culturally responsive coaching practices that improve the student’s ability to engage, relate and develop a sense of self-efficacy and belonging.  

At North Star, our method of CREFC goes beyond skill development. We also foster a sense of identity, socio-emotional support and cultural validation crucial for BIPOC students to navigate school environments and relationships.  A critical aspect of CREFC is addressing cultural biases within educational systems. This advocacy requires educators and institutions to examine their own biases and assumptions, and deepen their understanding of diverse cultural experiences and learning styles. By actively seeking knowledge and engaging in cross-cultural learning, educators can combat cultural biases, create a safe and inclusive environment promoting student success, and provide targeted support that respects and celebrates BIPOC student identities.

Let us continue to advocate for and implement the strategies of Culturally Responsive Executive Functioning Coaching (CREFC) for BIPOC students. North Star Academics strives to uphold educational equity and ensure that all students of color have the support and resources they need to thrive.

To find out more, book a free coaching consultation with North Star Academics or schedule a teacher training for your school or team.  

Reference:

Miller-Cotto, D., Smith, L.V., Ribner, A.D., & Wang, A.H. (2021). Changing the conversation: A culturally responsive perspective on executive functions for minoritized children and their families. Infant and Child Development. Manuscript accepted for publication. 

Rodriguez, M. M., Smith, L. V., Garcia, S. B., & Johnson, A. M. (2020). Culturally Responsive Executive Functioning Coaching: Empowering Minority Students. Journal of Educational Psychology, 112(4), 871-888.