The quarterly Washington Township schools Equity Council meetings begin on Tuesday, Nov. 7, and the district is gathering feedback on its vision for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
The district charged itself in 2021 with fostering diversity and equity regardless of ability, race, gender, sexuality, age, faith, national origin or political perspective through the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB). It was established to help the district continue as a leading comprehensive P-12 district committed to addressing issues that result in positive outcomes for schools, according to the district website.
An equity council makes recommendations that could impact district policy and presents them to the district superintendent and the school board for review and a required vote.
The mission of the DEIB office is to help identify opportunities to support the school community and promote diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging. It does that by developing and sustaining collaborative relationships that result in a more diverse and inclusive community and drive district-wide initiatives and equitable opportunities, notes the district website.
When students have opportunities to see themselves in text and school programming, it increases their pride, confidence, and self-esteem, the district maintains. When they are exposed to others’ lived experiences, the students build empathy and understanding
For more information, visit wtps.org.
