In what ways should our research focus on the individual, the system, or both? This symposium will address this question by focusing on anti-deficit practices for research of classroom and learning environments. By examining research emphasizing a variety of approaches to inequity, this symposium aims to provide a space for moving away from deficit framing in CER and how to reorient towards anti-deficit processes. In this symposium, we also aim to define the distinction between an asset-based approach and an anti-deficit mindset and draw attention to the utility of each of these frameworks. Our goal is to highlight resources and create a community to explore reframing and its effects on our research and field. The symposium will conclude with a panel discussion of speakers to reflect on anti-deficit research methods. This symposium was submitted on behalf of a community of practice for scholars seeking to advance education research grounded in equity (#AdvancingEquityinCER).