Diverse by Design

 

As an intentionally diverse community…

We have a commitment to learning to live together.

 
 

key beliefs:

We believe…

  • Learning is better in a diverse environment because different perspectives deeply enrich learning.

  • Our nation needs unity where it counts. Bringing together families from across lines of difference—and inspiring them to love and support one another—is foundational to our mission of finding a calling that will change the world.

  • Rooting out bias is hard work. To stay true to our values and identities—and to stay connected and in relationship to others—we must constantly self-evaluate and take steps to grow, not only our personal attitudes and beliefs but also systems and structures.

 

Our goals:

We strive to be...

  • Inclusive—Cultivating a sense of belonging, mutual caring for one another, and shared decision making

  • Diverse—Maximizing our community’s diversity around the dimensions of race, economics, gender, age, religion, learning differences, and school background

  • Multicultural—Celebrating the diverse cultures within our community to ensure everyone feels seen in their own traditions and gains understanding of others’ ways of living, working, and collaborating

  • Caring—Every learner, family, and staff member receives the support they need to develop to their potential

  • Against racism—Actively addressing forms of discrimination through fair policies and practices, and ongoing learning and self reflection

 

what success looks like:

1. Every person at Forest feels like they belong and can be themselves.
2. Compassion, empathy, curiosity, and open mindedness cultivate character and well-being.
3. Learners seek out and have strong relationships with people who are like them, who are different than them, and who are in positions of power.
4. Our Studios are and feel truly multicultural.

 

Our Methods:

 

DIVERSE BOARD, STAFF & ADVISORS

So learners see themselves represented and identify with them as role models.

RELEVANT CONTENT & CURRICULUM

Literature, stories, examples, and sources authored by people of all backgrounds.

DIVERSE STUDENT BODY

A mosaic of learners with unique experiences and viewpoints.

ONGOING TRAINING

Led by experts, to facilitate positive interaction and help us work together effectively

 
 

questions we ask ourselves:

 

1. How can we help our stakeholders get to know and support each other?

2. How can we celebrate and leverage our similarities and differences for deep learning and empowerment? 

3. How might we utilize our hearts, minds, and service to develop both character and conviction?

4. What policies and structures of the school need to be improved—specifically how and by when?

5. How can we get feedback from stakeholders on what needs to be improved?

6. How might we maintain a robust pipeline of staff, learners, and partners?