Creating an Inclusive Curriculum
- Curriculum Integration: Coordinators, along with teachers, conduct yearly inventories of lessons to guarantee they are incorporating books featuring diverse characters and stories. The DEIB office also supports teachers in planning lessons that include discussions around topics such as race, class, culture, ability, gender, and religion through texts that bring an array of representation to reflect the experiences of a multiplicity of people from different backgrounds. This ensures students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures and identities.
- Daily Acknowledgments: The School acknowledges various heritage months and other holidays and observances in the morning announcement slides, community meetings, bulletin boards, library displays, and special events, to raise awareness and celebrate the richness of histories and stories around the world.
- Targeted Lessons: Windward has also created lessons that focus on identity to support the healthy development of children living in a diverse community. This includes lessons that address behaviors that go against our values, such as the impact of microaggressions and stereotyping. The purpose is to establish a shared understanding that everyone belongs at Windward.
Empowerment and Inclusive Spaces
- Student Empowerment and Inclusive Spaces: Windward believes that students are vital in shaping an inclusive school culture. One of its goals is to nurture culturally engaged critical thinkers who are prepared to be responsible citizens in an increasingly diverse world. The School is dedicated to providing opportunities for students to engage in spaces that promote diversity and acceptance. Examples include the Middle School Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) club, which provides a voice for LGBTQ+ students, and the Advocacy Club, which empowers students’ voices within the academic system. These clubs offer safe and affirming environments where students can connect, share experiences, and develop the confidence to advocate for themselves and others.
Professional Development
- Professional Development: Windward invests in ongoing training for its faculty and staff through SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) and DEIB-focused professional development sessions integrated in the School’s new hire orientation and throughout the academic year. These trainings aim to enhance faculty and staff understanding of DEIB principles and create a supportive and inclusive classroom and work environment. The focus on professional growth helps build a community culture centered around inclusion and belonging.
- Adult Affinity Groups: The school offers affinity groups for faculty and staff based on race, sexual identity, and religious affiliations. These groups provide a supportive space for individuals to connect, share experiences, and support one another.
