Ensure equity

Why
it matters

Public education is a civil right. Our students, families, and community bring their strengths, cultural identity, experiences, and historical contexts to our schools. Every school benefits from these assets.

How
we do it

We must critically examine our education system to identify the ways we have not served all students and families equitably. This means examining our current policies and practices, identifying different and disparate outcomes for each of our student groups:

  • Students of color

  • Students living in poverty or experiencing homelessness

  • Students receiving special education, highly capable, or English language learner services

  • Students who identify as LGBTQIA +

  • Students who are highly mobile or in the foster care system

  • Any other student group identified in need of support

Create an equity plan for Olympia School District.

An equity plan starts with disaggregated data that helps us understand the root causes of inequitable student outcomes in Olympia School District. Then we can use our findings to redirect resources and change practices to close opportunity gaps by providing students with the support they need to be successful. Olympia School District’s equity plan should lead to:

  • Equity analysis toolkit.

  • Equity policy and procedure.

  • Ongoing training and support for all staff on cultural competency and responsiveness.

  • New student discipline policy and procedure that reduces exclusionary discipline, requires education services during suspension or expulsion, focuses on student supports and reengagement meetings with families, and addresses disproportionate student discipline.

  • New transgender student policy and procedure that addresses gender identity and expression, and supports our transgender students to ensure they are not harassed or bullied.

  • Language and disability access plans to analyze needs and inform the district how to improve accessibility of materials, services, and participation in decision-making for:

    • Students and families of limited English language proficiency.

    • Students and families with disabilities.

What
it looks like

Students and family members are equitably represented and engaged in decision-making with Olympia School District and the school board.

Educators take an active role in identifying and dismantling systemic barriers, replacing them with programs, policies, and practices that support each and every student.

Community representatives and organizations collaborate and partner with our school district to provide wraparound support to our students and families.