At its Feb. 7 regular meeting, the Gorham School Committee passed a new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policy. This policy had been in the works for some time based upon feedback from community, staff, and others that the school system needed to provide more clear definitions of what is meant in schools when they talk about what diversity, equity and inclusion is in Gorham.

With Black History Month just wrapping up and with Women’s History Month occurring this month, this would be a good time to share.

You can view the full language of the new policy at https://tinyurl.com/3evntjkp, but it is helpful to also view the key definitions for each of these important terms. Listed here are the newly adopted definitions for each of these terms to provide clarity about what is meant when the terms Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (D.E.I.) are used in Gorham schools…

DIVERSITY

Diversity in education means appreciating and embracing the differences that make each person unique. The Gorham School Committee views the diversity of cultural backgrounds and other aspects of the human experience reflected in our district as a strength in preparing students to thrive in a global society. Respecting and celebrating those experiences and perspectives helps us move beyond tolerance to appreciation of our mutual humanity.

Diversity in education is achieved when curriculum, programs, co-curricular and extracurricular activities, reflect the diversity of our student population and include a range of perspectives and experiences, including those of underrepresented groups.

EQUITY

Educational equity means that each student receives access to resources, opportunities, and educational rigor, at the right moment in their education, to develop to their full academic and social potential. This differs from equality, which means providing the same to all. Equity recognizes that we do not all start from the same place and must acknowledge and adjust imbalances that exist. Educational equity is achieved when all students receive the resources they need to graduate prepared for success after high school.

INCLUSION

Inclusion in education is when all students feel they belong; being able to voice opinions [and ideas] and show up as one’s authentic self without judgment regardless of abilities or background. This is reflected in being heard, recognized, valued, and encouraged to contribute as part of the school community. Inclusion in education also extends to engagement with educators and parents who assist in this goal when all members of the education community are welcomed, accepted, and supported in the schools and in school-sponsored activities.