Each of our schools has a unique culture with its own set of diverse needs, experiences, and perspectives. At the same time, we want to ensure that we provide a cohesive experience for students across the system. Ensuring that all students feel a sense of belonging in our public school system requires listening, clear communication, and collaboration. Our Equity Leaders are at the forefront of this work.
Some staff serve as equity leaders within their specific schools, providing guidance, leadership, and perspective for the important work. Equity leaders support colleagues in their own schools while also acting as liaisons to school and district leaders, and to their counterparts in the other schools, as we continue to build our capacity district-wide.
Equity leaders focus on four main areas:
| AREA |
EXAMPLES |
| Curriculum and Instruction |
School/classroom library updates
Core text updates
Engaging in an on-going cycle of curriculum review and revision
Professional development on culturally responsive practices
|
| Culture and Climate |
Student groups such as, Let’s Talk About Race, Culture and Ethnicity at WHS
Peer Leaders at TMS
Author visits, such as a recent program with Jennifer DeLeon;
GSAs at both TMS and WHS
|
| Talent Recruitment, Retention and Development |
Membership in Massachusetts Partnership for Diversity in Education
DESE’s Diversity Network and PLC
Formation of affinity groups
Creation of exit interview process
Training for hiring heads
|
| Family & Community Partnerships |
Juneteenth celebration (a collaboration between Thurston Middle School Family Welcome Club, Hale Education and Westwood METCO)
Caregiver series on talking with kids about race
Joint programming with WYFS
Caregiver book discussion groups
Partnering with PTOs on their DEI initiatives
District participation on the Town’s Human Rights Task Force
|
