“Future of Diversity”

I hope that this note finds you well.  I am catching up on life at LREI having happily returned to the school from three days at a conference at Georgetown Day School, just outside of Washington, DC.  The conference focused on the “Future of Diversity.”  LREI was invited to attend along with 30 or so other schools, each institution sending the head of school, the lead diversity practitioner (for us, Chap, our Director of Diversity and Community) and a trustee (LREI parent Regina Trumbull.)   While somewhat disappointed in the lack of conversation about what the future is for the diversity of the wider communities in which the schools are located, the LREI team engaged in generative, thoughtful conversation with each other and with colleagues from other schools.  These conversations are directly related to our strategic initiatives.  There is much to learn and plan for as we look around us at changing needs, opportunities and demographics.

From time to time during my discussions with the other attendees I made reference to the community discussions—open conversations, affinity groups, and the like—that our community has on a regular basis.  I was surprised at how surprised those from others schools were about the level of parental participation in diversity, social justice, and multicultural activities and conversations at LREI.  One of the factors that makes our work in this area so fruitful is our partnership with LREI’s parent body and families.  Your willingness to struggle through uncomfortable conversations is a model for your children and a true strength of the community. That so many of you join in these discussions is quite encouraging. I was proud to brag about you for a couple of days.

I encourage you to join an affinity group—check out the Parents Association page or connect with Chap (schapman@lrei.org) –for more information.  I also invite you to participate in the three discussions entitled, “How to Raise an Ally” that Chap leads. These are currently scheduled for November 11, 2014, January 27, 2015, and April 28, 2015, all beginning at 8:45a.m. in the Sixth Avenue cafeteria.

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