Q: What is DEI?
A: A good answer
Q: "Who is this website for?"
A: This website was designed for educators, school staff, parents, public officials, and members of the community who are seeking to improve their cultural competency, better understand the experiences of marginalized groups, and identify ways we can create a more inclusive environment and society for all Winthrop residents.
Q: "What is the purpose of this DEI Resource Center?"
A: This website was created in response to district-wide staff requests for assistance on how to best serve our diverse community and to provide additional resources on navigating topics surrounding DEI. This is a compilation of existing resources into a living document for those seeking to advance their education and awareness. The scope of this resource expanded beyond the school buildings to support previously established DEI efforts within the community as well as parents seeking the same types of educational resources. The site represents a "point of entry" for ALL people along different points of the ally spectrum seeking to learn more about DEI.
Q: "How do I use this tool?"
A: Look around and explore with an open, student mindset. See what resonates. Use discomfort as your compass on things to learn more about. To accommodate different learning styles and preferences, we've organized resources into the categories of READ, WATCH, & LISTEN (i.e. books, articles, videos, podcasts).
Q: "Why is this resource necessary?"
A: It’s necessary for educators to serve and support all students. Our children learn best when they feel seen, heard, and respected. This resource was designed to help us see, hear, and respect all students and families. Racism is real, and it deprives people from a full human experience. The world is diverse. If we don’t equip our staff and prepare our students to engage, support, and thrive in a diverse world, then we limit their scope and experience. We fail them both excessively and existentially.
Q: “What if I don’t agree with the information presented on the website?”
A: The resources available on this site are not part of a mandated curriculum. The students, staff, and citizens of Winthrop are entitled to their own opinions and are welcome to conduct their own research by way of legitimate and reputable sources. These compiled resources echo the commitment of Winthrop Public Schools to value the experiences of our marginalized citizens and to support the goal of continual reflective practices and self-improvement.
If you have any questions or would like information about the Winthrop Public School DEI Resource Center, please reach out to your student's counselor:
WHS: Michael Kearney mkearney@winthrop.k12.ma.us
WMS: Katie Miller kmiller@winthrop.k12.ma.us / Meghan Powers mpowers@winthrop.k12.ma.us
GFB: Alessandra Scorzella ascorzella@winthrop.k12.ma.us
ATC: Anita Preble anita.preble@winthrop.k12.ma.us