One of the cornerstones of The Clipper Experience: Our Framework for Student Success is an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). We believe it is essential for students and adults of all backgrounds and identities to feel safe and welcome in our schools. We are working to eradicate any bias and disparities related to race, ethnicity, gender, language, ability, national origin, and socio-economic status. Our objective is to ensure equal access to opportunities and academic excellence for all Clippers.
To that end, the district is undertaking an external equity audit designed to examine the experiences of members of the FPS community, to engage in self-reflection, and to identify ways to foster a greater sense of equity and belonging for all.
We partnered with Mid-Atlantic Equity Consortium, Inc. (MAEC)through a grant from the US Department of Education. MAEC is a national nonprofit organization with experience in conducting equity audits in school districts. In order to develop preliminary findings for the equity audit, MAEC will gather different types of information in three major phases:
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Data Analysis(Summer/Fall 2023): The MAEC team compiled and examined data about our schools and students, including graduation rates, test scores, attendance, retention, disciplinary actions, school climate, and more. The analysis of these data sources aims to highlight any disparities between various student subgroups.
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School Teams Self-Assessment(Fall 2023): Each school convened a cross-functional Consensus Team of about 10 staff members (administrators, teachers, support staff) to conduct a school self-assessment using an equity audit tool provided by MAEC.
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Surveys(Winter 2023-24): Students in grades 4-12, parents/guardians, and school staff are invited to complete an anonymous survey. Read more for additional information about the student survey.
Based on the information collected through these three phases, MAEC will present preliminary findings in the Spring of 2024. The district will work with school-based equity teams to develop DEIB plans to guide the work moving forward.
Ultimately, the District aims to ensure the thriving success of all students across all schools.
Additional Resources about the Equity Audit
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Falmouth Equity Audit Surveys Schedule:
Questions?
If you have questions about the equity audit, please speak to your school principal or contact:
Henry St. Julien
Director of Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging
508-548-0151, ext.172
[email protected]