INCLUSION & EQUITY

  • There are times when the majority must act in the best interest of the minority to create a more fair and equitable educational system.

  • The experiences of marginalized students are different and often result in opportunity and achievement gaps. Marginalization is often due to race/ethnicity, socio-economic status, gender, cognitive/physical abilities, sexual orientation, etc.

  • Research shows that minorities and students with disabilities tend to be disproportionally monitored, regulated and punished through school discipline. Research shows that LGBTQ+ students disproportionally report being subject to unsafe school climates.

  • We all carry bias that can best be challenged and overcome by listening to those most affected by it. Structural racism is real, and it is our responsibility to dismantle it.

  • Moving FORWARD TOGETHER requires us not only to provide a seat at the table for all, but to share the power distributed at the table and account for the fact that everyone at the table has different needs and barriers. It is our responsibility to provide an education to all students that results in equitable opportunities and outcomes. When we do this, everyone benefits.

MENTAL HEALTH

  • Destigmatizing mental health, prioritizing mental health education and ensuring adequate resources to meet the needs of students are key components of a successful learning environment. 

  • We can improve resilience of students with self-help strategies, peer support networks, increased access to mental health professionals and collaborative relationships with mental health organizations.

  • School should be a place where students can openly share their feelings with teachers and staff, and mental health professionals are available to support them and their families.

  • Moving FORWARD TOGETHER requires us to think differently about how we provide services in this space. While our resources are limited, the needs in this space seem infinite, which requires out of the box solutions. This work will impact our society for generations to come.

STUDENT-CENTERED LEARNING

  • Our educational approach must meet each student where they are and create an environment where they feel safe, heard, and included so they can learn and grow to their fullest potential. 

  • Students need role models who look and learn like them to be inspired, to build confidence in their own potential and to help them believe that their dreams can be achieved. 

  • Our curriculum must reflect the diversity of our community to reach and inspire all students.

  • Learning accommodations are a right that make academic outcomes more equitable.

  • Moving FORWARD TOGETHER requires us to create and develop personalized, equitable, and academically-challenging schools for all.