Equity Audit Report Recommendations “Step in Right Direction,” Says NK Democratic Town Committee
Thursday, February 02, 2023
The North Kingstown Democratic Town Committee on Thursday called the findings in the recently completed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) audit report a "step in the right direction" for the school district.
"The report is a step in the right direction and provides a better understanding of the North Kingstown School Department’s challenges while outlining a set of recommendations to improve equity in student learning and outcomes," said Anne Geertman, the committee chair.
The 93 page report -- which can be found here -- recommends the following.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST1. Set a clear vision and common language for equity across NKSD.
2. Develop a district-wide Equity Policy.
3. Prioritize Equity-focused Professional Development.
4. Review and revise discipline policies and practices from an equity lens.
About Audit
According to the NKDTC, the process "began over a year ago when the DEI Subcommittee proposed having an independent outside consultant examine school department policies and practices, to see where the NK school district is in terms of equity and inclusivity, especially as it relates to marginalized and underserved populations. The NKDTC supported then – and still supports today – the creation of the DEI subcommittee and the call for an independent audit."
"The NKDTC recognizes that without careful review and corrective action, systemic discrimination, bias, and inequities can persist within even the best-intentioned organizations, as this report highlights. Through examination of current and historical data, including stakeholder perception data collected through surveys and focus groups, the Equity Audit was able to identify areas of concern within the district, and provide recommendations to address them," said the committee in a statement. "This process is a crucial first step towards ensuring the school district meets the needs of all students. We applaud the district’s efforts to work toward a safer and more equitable learning environment. We believe this work will ultimately benefit all students."
“Community participation is essential to successfully and meaningfully implement the report’s recommendations,”said Geertman. “We support this effort to create substantial positive change for our community and make North Kingstown the best it can be.”
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