LCUSD workshop invites parents to speak frankly on diversity, inclusion
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When it comes to the success or failure of local schools, much stock is placed in academic performance. But when it comes to fostering diversity and making sure all students feel included, how do La Cañada Unified schools rank?
A frank discussion on student equity — what’s working and what’s not — will be at the heart of a Family Learning Series workshop planned for the La Cañada High School auditorium Tuesday, Nov. 5 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., and again on Wednesday, Nov. 6, from 8:30 to 10 a.m.
The workshops are intended to give parents a voice and participatory role in the work being conducted by LCUSD Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Christina Hale-Elliott, hired in September on a one-year contract.
Hale-Elliott has been visiting schools throughout the district, soliciting input from administrators, teachers and counselors on successes and challenges around diversity and inclusion. She’s conducted small focus groups with some parents and has plans to survey students in the coming months.
The upcoming workshops will ask parents and guardians to share their experiences with the district, and to describe what may be needed at LCUSD schools.
“What I really wanted to make sure I’ve done is get feedback from parents,” she said. “Everybody has their own perspectives, so hearing from parents about what success looks like to them is vitally important.”
After gathering feedback and poring over data, Hale-Elliott will develop a strengths-and-needs assessment of all the district’s schools and determine an action plan for the remainder of the school year and beyond.
“I’m hoping by the end of November we would have a clear understanding of where the district is now, what are the most pressing next steps for the remainder of this year,” she said.
Parents are invited to attend the Family Learning Series workshop to learn more about the work that’s being done and join an open discussion about challenges around diversity, equity and inclusion and what success looks like to them.
FYI: LCUSD’s Family Learning Series workshop: “Cultivating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” takes place Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and again Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. in the La Cañada High School auditorium, 4463 Oak Grove Drive. All parents and guardians of TK-12 students are invited to attend.
