Serving all aspects of The 一本道app, equity, diversity, and inclusion supports equitable change in academic, social, and cultural development.\u00a0 We support teaching & learning, professional development, community engagement, and human resources, co-creating opportunities for growth, dialogue, and access.<\/p>\r\n
Bellingham Public Schools continues to sharpen our focus on equitable change, recognizing the benefits of growth in our community. We are proud to be a constant work in progress. We are committed to providing and sustaining inclusive education for each student in our district.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n
To accomplish our mission, we will develop and support initiatives to:<\/p>\r\n
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The Cultural Calendar and Resources Kit<\/strong><\/a> is an online archive and resource with links and teaching tools.<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n Addressing Hate Speech and Dehumanizing Language in Schools\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\r\n In the school environment, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion is essential for the well-being of students and the broader community. However, schools may also face challenges such as hate speech and dehumanizing language. As educators, administrators, and parents, it’s imperative that we work together to address these issues and create a safe and supportive learning environment for all.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Understanding Hate Speech and Dehumanizing Language:<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Hate speech and dehumanizing language are harmful behaviors that target individuals or groups based on various identities. This type of language and behavior creates divisiveness and hostile environments, impacting student learning and development.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Education is Key<\/span><\/b>: We are implementing a Dehumanizing Language lesson in schools to help students understand diversity, empathy, and respectful communication. Students will learn to recognize and challenge hate speech and dehumanizing language, empowering them to become allies and advocates for positive change.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Lead by Example<\/span><\/b>: We will model inclusive and respectful behaviors, showing them how empathy and understanding in our interactions with others provides supportive environments where each student can thrive.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Diverse means of Dialogue<\/span><\/b>: There are many ways for students to engage in meaningful conversations about diversity and inclusion. Student clubs, direct communication with teachers, conversations with school counselors, and cultural events provide exposure and community resources.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Policy<\/span><\/b> and Procedures:<\/span><\/b> Bellingham Public Schools has clear and transparent policies and procedures to address <\/span>bias incidents and hate speech<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>harassment, intimidation, and bullying<\/span><\/a>, and <\/span>discrimination<\/span><\/a>. The <\/span>student discipline policy<\/span><\/a> outlines corrective measures associated with various scenarios.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n We provide support and resources for students who may be targets of discrimination and will educate and hold individuals accountable for their actions. We firmly believe that students have the right to an education unobstructed by bias, hate, and dehumanization.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Things We See in Our Schools<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Teaching and Learning Resources (make this an accordion)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n N-Word: <\/span><\/b>The n-word continues to disrupt classrooms, hallways, athletic events, and social media conversations. Policy 3209 states that every student has the right \u201cto be free from bias- and hate-motivated speech and behavior in our educational environments\u201d and \u201chate speech and behavior includes, but is not limited to verbal, written, and drawn slurs\u2026\u201d <\/span>In this video, Elizabeth Stordeur Pryor examines use of the n-word and reshapes thinking around its complicated history.<\/span><\/a> The video is used to prepare staff and clips of the video are shared with students in the lesson.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n What does dehumanize mean? <\/span><\/b>Dehumanization occurs when someone treats another person as if they are less important or valuable than others, intentionally acting as if they don’t matter. This can happen with words, by excluding others, or making fun of individuals because of their identities. Dehumanization is hurtful and can make people feel like they’re not worthy of respect.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n
\r\nTeaching and Learning Resources<\/h2>\r\n
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