Equity Vision Implementation - Public Schools
The NEASC Commission on Public Schools is establishing an Equity Committee comprised of commissioners, educators from member schools, and staff members to review and update key materials used by schools through the accreditation process to ensure that reflection on diversity, equity, and inclusion is central to the process. The Self-Reflection Guide and visiting team handbooks will be updated. The Commission will develop working definitions of key terms and additional resources to guide schools through the Accreditation and school improvement processes. In addition, special attention is being devoted to updating the Commission guidance and policy regarding library/media centers to ensure equitable access to learning support and resources for all students. Finally, the Commission on Public Schools staff members are committed to developing individual and shared understandings of diversity, equity, and inclusion through professional learning, experiences, and reflection.
Please contact Alyson Geary, Director for Accreditation and School Improvement, Public Schools, at ageary@neasc.org.
Our definitions
Diversity
The existence of a range of human differences and aspects of identity, including but not limited to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, economic status, language, ability, and religion.
Equity
Ensuring that everyone has what they need to fully participate. Equity is achieved when disparities of historically under-represented groups are eliminated and therefore outcomes cannot be predicted by identity.
Inclusion
All members of the community/organization are actively and intentionally made visible, heard, considered, and valued, and recognize the unique experiences of historically marginalized groups.