Dec. 2023

Our Anti-Bias Antiracism (AB/AR) theme this year is Identity Awareness and Action. This month's AB/AR shout out goes to Fairview Elementary School!!! A special shout out to Ms. Nykia Jones who helped students understand the importance of honoring Native Heritage Month with equity and antiracism in mind! Click here to see some photos of how she and Dr. Cofield co-taught sixth graders about our district Land Acknowledgement, microaggressions, misconceptions of Native Americans, and productive ways we can be disrupters of harm!

STUDENTS!!! As we continue to think about identity, equity, and antiracism this year, this month gives us a chance to focus on those with disabilities. Promoting equity and inclusion for people with disabilities intersects with broader conversations about antiracism and identity. Understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities within the framework of equity and antiracism is essential for building a truly inclusive school setting. 

Click here to watch a video about disability identity and justice. Think about your background, experiences, and observations in and out of school and consider how to work towards creating an inclusive environment where all have equal opportunities and are valued for their unique contributions. (Bonus: learn about how to be an ally since we are honoring Disability History this month of December!) 

Staff can also click here for the Dec. Staff AB/AR Links for a shared drive of some sample ideas and an Educator Resources connecting our theme to opportunities we can provide in our school communities for students, staff, and families around Identity Awareness and Action; resources curated by Newsela; and support to continue celebrating Disability History Month! Also, our Voluntary AB/AR PD Series! See more here.

HUSD Families/Community! We encourage you to watch this video with your child(ren) and  share stories and advice on how best to best support those in our community with disabilities.  (Bonus: Help the youth in your life understand what it means to be an ally and give them specific examples. You can also check out the CDC's examples of what to consider when it comes to being an ally for those with disabilities here).