Staff Diversity Committee

Beginning with the 2018-19 school year, approximately 30 staff members who expressed an interest or expertise with our diversity work, have been meeting monthly to examine best practices in the classrooms regarding inclusion.  The committee is doing a book study on the book:  Being the Change by Sara Ahmed.

Topics of our discussion include strategies to explore and affirm identities and to build the skill of active listening. We have also discussed the challenges of social comprehension and experiences and challenges we face in being culturally responsive in our classroom.  We plan to dive into topics like microagressions, bias, and becoming more informed this semester.

Staff Development

Beginning with the 2017-18 school year, WTHS staff have been involved in ongoing professional development as it pertains to creating and maintaining a culture of respect and inclusion.  Departments have had training on culturally sensitive dialogue, curriculum content and materials have been reviewed for cultural sensitivity, and all staff have participated in an orientation regarding general biases.  Additionally, athletic coaches attended a separate training on establishing inclusive cultures within their respective athletic programs.