Commitment to strengthening DEI at S-G continues; seeking individuals to serve on DEI committees

Dear S-G Community, 

I wanted to share some exciting developments with you! For the last two years, the district has partnered with Tangible Development (TD), a Capital Region-based diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) consulting firm to explore ways to foster a more equitable and respectful culture within our schools.

As part of the district’s ongoing commitment to this important work, two committees have been created: the Superintendent’s DEI Council and the DEI Strategic Planning Group.  

We are seeking individuals who are passionate about creating an educational environment that values DEI and wish to create a culture that is equitable and respectful for all students, families, and staff.  Members of both committees would need the capacity to participate in the following meetings:

    • Monthly one-hour virtual meetings starting May 16, 4-5 p.m. (virtual)
    • Full-day capacity workshops on July 16-17 (in-person)

      Your insights and experiences will be invaluable in developing comprehensive strategies that align with the diversity of our community.    

      To express interest in becoming a member of our DEI committees, please complete the interest form below. The deadline for submissions is April 24. 

      We believe these next steps are essential for creating lasting change within our organization. By working together and committing ourselves to these goals, we will engage in productive and respectful discussions around important issues.

      Thank you for your dedication to creating a better future for our students.

      Sincerely,

      Susan M. Swartz
      Superintendent of Schools

      DEI Strategic Planning Group

      The DEI Strategic Planning Group will work to identify focus areas and establish goals for short and long-term systemic change. The working group will use the information and data from the district’s Phase 1 DEI assessment to set SMART goals and create action plans. The group will be comprised of staff members, high school students, and community members. 

      This committee will work with TD to achieve the following: 

      1. Create a DEI Commitment Statement that underscores the district’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
      2. Create a draft Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategic Plan that focuses on embedding DEI into every aspect of the organization. 
      3. Design and implement professional development supporting the strategic plan that shifts the “work” of promoting DEI across the organization to our stakeholders. 

      This working group will meet at least once a month until the established goals and objectives are met. In turn, they will share progress, documented findings, reports, recommendations and action taken in meeting minutes with the Superintendent’s DEI Council. 

      Superintendent’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council

      The Superintendent’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council will work collaboratively toward identifying, understanding, and addressing challenges related to diversity, equity, and inclusion – ultimately promoting the success of all students. The Council will also be comprised of staff members, high school students, and community members.

      The council will work to achieve the following goals and objectives: 

      1. Create a common understanding and language around the data gathered during Phase 1 of the project to identify areas that require attention and improvement. 
      2. Encourage dialogue and engagement with students, staff, parents, guardians, and community members to build a sense of partnership in the district’s DEI initiatives. 
      3. Serve as advisors to the Superintendent regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts taking place in our schools and the community.
      4. Monitor the work of the DEI Strategic Planning Work Group inclusive of initiatives and strategies. 

      The Superintendent’s DEI Council will meet at least once every other month, to discuss DEI related matters and progress towards the established goals and objectives. 

      The findings, recommendations, and actions will be documented in meeting minutes and reports that will be shared out with the school community. 

      The council will also provide regular updates and progress reports to the school administration and the Board of Education. These reports shall include an overview of activities, findings, recommendations, and any recommended changes to policies, procedures, or initiatives. The effectiveness and necessity of this committee will be periodically reviewed by the school administration and the Board of Education.