DEIB Update

As we embark on year three of the DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging) Office, we are reflecting on how the past two years have gone and feeling excited about what is coming next. 

This year, we collaborated on two events that we hope will become staples of the Sturgis experience for students in the coming years. In September, we held our second annual Fiesta Latina and in February, we had a Welcome Event for incoming students. Both were well attended, vibrant events that showcased the diversity of our community and the wealth of experiences we have  to draw on. Whether it was pictures of Dr. O’Kane in Spanish speaking countries, art from Mrs. Abel’s travels, or the fancy footwork of our students doing Zumba (taught in Spanish) on the dance floor, the Fiesta Latina celebrated the rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Given our many Brazilian Portuguese speakers, this year we also included some Brazilian foods and music. In February at the Welcome Event, current students were able to show off all their knowledge about student life, academics, clubs, and the International Baccalaureate to over 600 excited students and family members who had won the lottery. 529 Main St was alive with excitement about welcoming these newest members of our academic community. 

Next year, we are very excited about the implementation of two Equity Teams, one at West and one at East. Iona Masil will be heading the team at East and Savannah Moynihan will be heading the one at West. Both teachers bring a strong commitment to student achievement, a deep understanding of Sturgis, and form great connections with students. I’m looking forward to seeing how they continue the work of making Sturgis a more inclusive place to learn. Please stay tuned for more information about these Equity Teams in the fall. 

This year, we implemented some optional professional development opportunities for teachers that took place on Mondays after school. We had a presentation on Anti Semitism, a conversation with Children’s Cove about mandated reporting, Active Bystander workshops, and a presentation on Promoting Resilience for LGBTQ+ students from the Safe Schools Coalition. Next year, we will be expanding on this program with even more programming and will be offering a film series that parents and caregivers will be invited to as well. 

The last two years have been busy for Melissa Rais and I as we established this office and defined and demonstrated the ways that we can enhance our mission of “IB for All”. We have met with teachers, students, and administrators to find ways to reduce barriers to access for any student striving to participate fully in our academic and co-curricular programs. At the end of this year, Melissa will be returning to teaching Spanish full-time, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for the foundational contributions she made to building a DEIB presence at Sturgis. Her support and caring for the students was steadfast, and she was willing to pitch in to make whatever we dreamed up a reality. The Fiesta Latina wouldn’t be what it is now without her vision! I am very grateful to have had her support these last two years.