The events of 2020 sparked national dialogue about institutional bias. Organizations from a host of different industries have since sharpened their focus on diversity, equity and inclusion DEI.
This renewed commitment is important for all sectors, but perhaps most imperative to education. We are not immune to the challenges of inequity based on race, skin color, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, religious affiliation - the list goes on.
In fact, our own students, parents, and patrons have expressed increasing concern about equity and inclusion in our classrooms and schools. They have cited disproportionate statistics in student achievement, exclusion of marginalized populations, expressions of hate and racism, and the need for a more culturally diverse staff.
Each student who enters our doors and crosses our graduation stage must have equal access to a first-class education. Skin color, economic status, zip code, gender identity, or religious affiliation or other factors cannot be a predictor of success. In fact, our mission statement reads:
Academy District 20 will educate every student in a safe and nurturing environment and provide comprehensive and challenging curricular and extracurricular opportunities that meet the unique needs of every individual, expand their interests, enhance their abilities and equip them with the knowledge, skills, and character essential to being a responsible citizen of our community, our nation, and the world.