Cultivating a Community

When considering Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, it’s essential to recognize that diversity extends beyond traditional identity markers to allow for a more comprehensive approach to creating an inclusive school culture. Celebrating cultural diversity that goes beyond traditional identity markers like race, ethnicity, gender, sex, age, ability and disability and religion are crucial focal points, but acknowledging and appreciating diversity in broader aspects, such as interest, hobbies, occupations, professions and subcultures, is equally important.  

So, in this week’s edition of our DEI Corner, I am thrilled to shine a spotlight on the incredible work happening within the English freshman grade band. Our dedicated educators Mr. Jason Simon, Mr. Sean Wheeler, and Ms. Sheena Zadai engaged their students in a captivating cultural immersion project. Having had the pleasure of witnessing students in Ms. Zadai’s class present their projects firsthand, I'm happy to share how our teachers are embodying this year’s theme of “Belonging through Cultural Connections.” 

Students were empowered to explore a myriad of cultures, from dance to rock ‘n’ roll, hip-hop, swimming, real estate, religions, nurses, police and beyond. Through this enriching experience, students not only selected diverse cultures, but delved deep into understanding them. They went beyond the surface by defining each culture, sharing personal experiences from individuals within those cultures, creating insightful interview questions to foster a deeper understanding, and participating in an observational experience of the culture. This immersion learning experience not only broadened their understanding, but also fostered a sense of inclusivity and appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures that surround us each and every day.

By showcasing such initiatives, we celebrate the commitment of our teachers to create a learning environment where diversity, equity and inclusion are not just words, but lived experiences. It’s through projects like these that we cultivate a community where every student feels a sense of belonging.