Frequently Asked Questions

Working together with students, staff and families to help reduce and eventually eliminate educational disparities based on race, language, gender, sexual orientation, cultural differences, economics, and other dimensions of difference. The goal is for all students to experience academic, social and emotional success.

The district’s goal is to ensure access, opportunities and a sense of belonging for students and staff in their school community. This work is a natural progression of ELEVATE, our strategic plan, in which the community identified a goal to know every student by name, strength and need.

We've established a safe climate that allows staff and students to engage in open conversations about persistent inequities, identify the root causes of inequities in educational systems, focus on practical applications of culturally responsive practices for classroom teachers, and create a long-term, sustainable plan for systemic transformation.

Universal Prevention for All Students 

Protocol, interventions and strategies for addressing racial slurs and dehumanizing language

Protocol and Strategies

• Develop fair and equitable processes and behavior expectations (consider using Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports [PBIS] structures)

• Ensure that behavior expectations are “over communicated” and reviewed with staff, students and parents 

• Communicate expectations in school-wide assemblies, advisory, email, newsletters, websites, student/parent handbook, etc. 

• As a school/classroom, define respect and dignity

• Identify areas of growth to problem solve with appropriate school teams

• Review lessons and behavior expectations regularly, e.g., first week of school, after extended breaks, when a “reset” is needed, etc. 

• Avoid “power struggles”. Focus on developing, and/or preserving the relationship with the student in order to address the inappropriate language or dehumanizing behavior

• Avoid sarcasm and humiliation when engaging with students 

• When addressing racial slurs and hate speech, be sure to review District Policy 5000 3.1: Student Code of Conduct and District Policy 8400: Nondiscrimination 

Interventions and Sample Talking Points

• Start the conversation on a positive note and tone to establish a positive rapport with student

• Describe inappropriate behavior (“We don’t use that language here, that language is offensive and inappropriate.”)

• Describe appropriate replacement skill/language/behavior (Model an appropriate way to greet friends.)

• Give a reason (“We are committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment.”)

• Practice (When appropriate, pull the student aside to have a conversation and attempt to practice appropriate ways to engage with friends.)

• Give feedback (Describe appropriate behaviors displayed by the student.)

• Praise good behavior (Reinforce positive behaviors with all students.)