EQUITY COMMITMENT
MCPS is committed to enhancing the success of our diverse students, staff, and community by improving their educational experiences through enriched learning opportunities, resources and programs.
WHO ARE WE?
Director of Equity and Diversity
Administrator of Equity and Compliance
The development of this position was a deliberate step by our Superintendent in prioritizing the work of equity and diversity throughout MCPS. The director ensures that equity is embedded in the work of all schools and departments and that all students, staff, and stakeholders are valued and have access to diverse learning experiences, resources, and supports. Judy Diggs is the Director of Equity and Diversity and is assisted by the Administrator of Equity and Compliance, Stacie Wright. Together, they will work with all schools, departments, and community stakeholders to develop initiatives and professional development opportunities aimed at fostering more awareness, action, and advocacy.
Additionally, they will make every effort to appropriately respond to specific situations and concerns. Depending on the particular facts and circumstances that are reported, they will typically respond by conducting an investigation, facilitating an alternative solution, or referring the matter to another department for further guidance and action.
Director of Equity and Diversity Administrator of Equity and Compliance
Guylene Wood-Setzer Stacie Wright
Phone: 540-382-5100, ext. 1029 Phone: 540-382-5100, ext. 1030
Email: gwood@mcps.org Email: staciewright@mcps.org
EQUITY LEADS
Each secondary school will have an Equity Lead. Under the leadership of the Director and the Administrator, the Equity Lead will engage school staff and students in a process that leads to improved outcomes for traditionally underserved populations. In conjunction with building administrators, they will assist in broadening the social and cultural understandings in their building through various learning activities for students and staff.
Elementary Schools
Elementary counselors will deliver lessons in the classroom, small-group or individual settings that teach the American School Counselor Association Mindsets & Behaviors for student success. They will also share strategies to address and end racism and bias in schools with families, educators, and community organizations to support student achievement and success.
Equity Advisory Team
The Equity Advisory Team serves as an advisory arm to the Equity Department by providing additional information, ideas, and support regarding matters related to equity, diversity, and inclusion in our schools. The team has been divided into the following sub-committees:
Instruction/Cultural Competence
Code of Conduct/Discipline
Student and Family Engagement
LGBTQ/Underrepresented Groups
Policy and Procedures
Minority Retention
The Advisory Team works to ensure that equity prevails in MCPS and that all students and staff are valued and affirmed.
Student and Family Engagement
Connect: MCPS is committed to providing services, programs, and resources that engage families and schools as equal partners for student success. A Family Resource and Engagement Center is being developed to connect and empower families with the division.
Empower: No one loves our students as much as their parents and caregivers, therefore we need to empower them to partner with their schools to know that what they are doing at home is valuable.