Diverse by Design

 

As an intentionally diverse community…

We have a commitment to be inclusive, multicultural, equitable, antiracist, and diverse.

 
 

key beliefs:

We believe…

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

  • Our present world is too divided and needs unity. 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 achieve equity in education, 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—Supporting the distinct cultures in our community so that people from all walks of life experience familiarity with their own—and learns of others’—cultural ways of being, working, and collaborating

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

  • Antiracist—Actively addressing forms of institutional, structural, and individual racism through racial representation, equitable 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, reduce prejudice, 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 diversity 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 diverse pipeline of staff, learners, and partners (experts and users)?