1 of 19

Introduction

to Equity

Hamden Public Schools

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

2 of 19

2

Every school system is unique, but they are connected by a shared aspiration: that all students have an educational experience preparing them to be effective lifelong learners and contributors.

Objectives:

Identify elements of PRIDE, as defined in the Hamden Diversity Statement

Review 3 Guiding Principles & Accomplishments (to date)

Gain a common understanding of (Educational) Equity

Share suggestions of ways to increase Equity

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

3 of 19

GROUND RULES

Listen actively -- respect others when they are talking.
Speak from your own experience instead of generalizing ("I" instead of "they," "we," and "you").
This is a safe space to respectfully challenge one another by asking questions, but refrain from personal attacks -- focus on ideas.
Participate to the fullest of your ability -- community growth depends on the inclusion of every individual voice.
Instead of lessening somebody else's story with your own spin on her or his experience, share your own story and experience.
The goal is not to agree -- it is to gain a deeper understanding.
Be conscious of body language and nonverbal responses -- they can be as harmful as words.

◤

4 of 19

�

4

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

5 of 19

Breakout Session�20 minute session

How does your school community currently demonstrate the aspects highlighted in the diversity statement? Be prepared to share with the larger group.

5

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

6 of 19

Guiding Principles

6

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

7 of 19

Guiding Principle 1: Diversity & Inclusivity

Reaffirm the district’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity by acknowledging implicit biases and privilege, actively dismantling systemic racism and equitably allocating resources to remediate

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

8 of 19

8

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

Talking points:

· The resources and services from the district/partners and the coordination of efforts to them to families should be applauded. (Whitsons, Right at Schools) - free breakfast & lunch for 1^st time ever; district is also subsidizing the cost for childcare after school due to earlier dismissal/at home learning day.

· Initial and on-going monthly distribution of supplies/materials for DL

· District provided hotspots and free service offer from Comcast to help students connect

· Distribution, repair or replacement of devices for students who needed them

· Above and beyond efforts by teachers and admin to connect and communicate families through Zoom and other means (ie. ‘Talking Points’ app that allows us to communicate with parents and families of ELs in their native language

9 of 19

Guiding Principle 2: Common Language

Be intentional and purposeful by providing clarity of direction and defining key terms to build common understanding/language.

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

10 of 19

Guiding Principle 3: Inclusivity & Equity

Build awareness of key elements of an inclusive classroom/school/district as well as the role and responsibility of all staff to set the tone for a safe respectful culture.

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

Talking Points @ some accomplishments to date this school year

In order to move this work forward in our district, the district has a responsibility to provide PD so that all stakeholders are prepared to engage in this work. Professional development is critical to the success of our efforts to increase Equity.

We also have to be prepared to self reflect and examine our own beliefs, biases and practices.

· Directors are working with Kellen Nixon to review curriculum to integrate curriculum with materials that are reflective of and relevant to students’ lives; and creating opportunity for ALL students’ voices.

· Todd White is working with administrators on coaching teachers to employ culturally responsive practices

· Dr LaSalle is working with principals to establish Equity teams to help do the heavy lifting to advance this work at the school level.

11 of 19

Individual Reflection

(5 minutes)

Our guiding principles direct our work. What specific actions will YOU take to ensure an equitable environment for all?

11

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

12 of 19

Chatroom Feedback

What’s your definition of equity?

Use the chatroom function to answer the following.

12

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

13 of 19

Equality vs. Equity

13

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

14 of 19

HPS Definition of Equity

A measure of achievement, fairness, and opportunity in education that does not allow socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability or religion to be an obstacle to learning.

Equity in education requires putting systems in place to ensure that every child has an equal chance for success.

14

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

15 of 19

Building Critical Consciousness for Educational Equity

15

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

16 of 19

Breakout Session

You will have 10 minutes to discuss this thought provoking question

Discuss how WE could make our school/district a more equitable environment for ALL students. Be prepared to share your ideas with the larger group.

16

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

17 of 19

Make Change…

Take time this afternoon to plan a win for your students.

Plan your work and work your plan.

17

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

18 of 19

18

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY

19 of 19

We can do hard things!

This work is …

ongoing
transformative
messy
timely
uncomfortable
necessary

…this is what we all need!

19

BEST FOR You�ORGANICS COMPANY