Diversity is a process, not a product. While there is much work to be done, Hewitt will continue to set goals and provide guidance to make sure faculty, parents and students are working independently and together towards integrating diversity into the life of the school, and achieving specific goals that support all facets of the school community.
Initiatives for the 2011-2012 School Year
Microaggressions Workshop
The lower and middle school teachers attended a workshop at Hewitt this spring on microaggressions. These are brief, everyday exchanges involving subtle racism, sexism and heterosexism. Led by three facilitators from The Trinity School, the workshop introduced the concept of microaggressions and asked teachers to examine instances observed in their classrooms. Recognizing microaggressions and brainstorming ways in which to help students talk through them will continue to be a focus for the upcoming school year.
From Diversity to Community Conference
Hewitt was one of thirteen schools in New York City that sent delegations to the conference hosted by The Dalton School. A group of ten faculty members, administrators, parents and an alumna attended. After watching inspiring presentations participants met in groups based on their roles at school, addressed challenges, shared best practices and began the planning process for next year’s diversity initiatives.
Diversity Educators Council (DEC)
All faculty and staff were invited to be part of a Diversity Educators Council. The response was strong, and those interested will be taking part in summer training surrounding different issues of diversity.
Parent Diversity Group
The Parent Diversity Group met twice this spring, with the support of the Independent School Diversity Network. Leadership for the group has been taken on by current parents who will host several group discussions throughout the 2011-2012 school year, as well as plan some all-school events. This group will function under the umbrella of the Parents’ Association.
Setting Goals
Derrick Gay, an educational consultant, who presented at the opening faculty meeting in September 2010, will join the Leadership Team this summer. Throughout the school year, Mr. Gay will help set goals for the 2011-2012 school year around diversity and help to support all facets of the school community including the board, the DEC, faculty and staff, the Parent Diversity Group, parents and students.
