Anti-Racism Resolution
Resolution Supporting the Development of an Anti-Racist School Climate by the Board of School Directors of the Centennial School District
WHEREAS, we are deeply saddened and outraged by the recent killing of George Floyd and the violence against Black men and women. The subsequent protests have shined a spotlight on the harmful effects of racism and inequality. Furthermore, the public response has highlighted the racial trauma that our Black students, families, staff, and communities have not only endured for centuries but continue to face today.
WHEREAS, we must recognize that racism and hate have no place in our schools and society. However, we must understand that racism is systemic, and it is unconsciously and consciously rooted into our institutions, policies, and practices. Consequently, we acknowledge that we must look at our own school policies and practices through an anti-racist and equity lens to address traces of racism and inequity that still exist within our own school community.
WHEREAS, we must center the voices of staff, students, families, and communities who have historically endured discrimination and marginalization. Their lived experiences and stories require attention, require respect, require empathy, and most importantly require action. Therefore, it is essential that we establish an expectation that a persity of students, families, and community members, specifically those that have been ignored, discriminated against, and marginalized, are heard and included on substantive school and district issues.
WHEREAS, we must better educate ourselves and seek to educate the community on the historical and current impact of racism and discrimination on our students, families, and communities, as well as understand our role in perpetuating such inequity. Through continuous professional development and opportunities for honest dialogue and listening sessions, we hope to build partnerships in the community focused on overcoming racism and other barriers. By doing so, we can create opportunities to ensure that each child has the tools and supports needed to thrive.
WHEREAS, we must advocate to advance civil rights and cultivate an anti-racist school climate necessary to meet the needs of ALL students in our care. Our students, no matter their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, language ability, disability, and other identities, deserve to feel safe, to feel seen, and to feel affirmed.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Centennial School Board, unequivocally stand firm in our collective responsibility to foster an equitable and inclusive environment for every student, staff member, parent, and community member. We commit to use our role as school board directors to recognize, respond, and speak out against injustice and racial inequity in our school community. In support of this goal, the Centennial School Board commits to the following action steps.
The Centennial School District (the district) has developed a district-wide Equity Team with a representative from each building, Administration, and the Board of School Directors.
Penn Equity and Excellence Consortia conducted an Equity Audit of the district which was adopted by the Board of Directors on May 14, 2019.
The district created an Equity Liaison position as a representative from each building in the district.
Identified student leaders at the secondary levels for a student's voice.
Member of the Delaware Valley Consortium for Excellence and Equity.
A Book Club was created using a Centennial Education Foundation Grant centered around race and ethnicity.
Professional development from Penn and the Peace Center speaking with teachers encouraging conversation about race and ethnicity.
The district has representatives on the PSBA Task Force.
The Equity Team is working on developing an Equity Statement for the district.
The Equity Team is looking at data through the equity lens.
The Equity Team is working with parents to establish a Parent Equity Committee.
A statement was emailed to the faculty and staff from the Superintendent, Dr. David Baugh, regarding recent tragic events and requested a moment of silence. Teachers who were participating in professional development paused for a moment of silence.
The Board President, Andrew Dixon, has requested a moment of silence before each Board meeting to acknowledge the recent tragic events.
Adopted this June day of 23,2020.