While the Newtown Board of Education’s definition for diversity includes those who are “Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC),” it also includes many others including those who have differing physical/cognitive abilities, gender/sexual identities, religions, etc. The District DEI Statement more clearly defines the benefits that it’s DEI efforts may bring to the classroom for all students (see: https://www.newtown.k12.ct.us/DEI).
Also, in general, a resolution does not carry the weight of a policy or strategic plan. That said, the Board of Education formalized the resolution by adopting a policy (see: https://newtown-policies.campuscontact.com/0523-EquityandDiversity) and by including it’s DEI statement in the District’s strategic plan (see: https://www.newtown.k12.ct.us/_theme/files/Superintendent/Copy%20of%20Newtown%20Strategic%20Plan_doc%206_12_23.pdf, page 10).
Those who wish to see the DEI resolution can find it here: https://newtown-policies.campuscontact.com/ResolutionDiversityEquity.
There is no byline on this story for a reason: it was not written by a Newtown Bee reporter. This was a press release provided by NAFC to recap the event.
"Although the event was closed to the public" I am glad to hear the reporter found it exciting! A shame that "the rare opportunity to talk openly and honestly about race" was only available to those that are 'in the club' so to speak.
