written by David Núñez, Head of School
Dear GRS community,
Greetings, I hope you are all having a joyous and peaceful month this February. I have a couple announcements this month that I am excited to share with you all.
First of all, our new strategic plan is complete. The board and I have done our best to incorporate all the feedback we could from staff, families and students. The Leadership Team feels that the final plan is ambitious, but also attainable, and we look forward to working on through its goals for years to come!
Also, as we embrace the month of February, we're reminded that it is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the rich contributions and diverse experiences of Black individuals throughout history. At GRS, we continue to prioritize equity and inclusion, recognizing the importance of fostering an environment that embraces the uniqueness of every individual.
Over the past year, we have made significant strides in our commitment to equity, including ongoing efforts to develop and implement our Equity Action Plan. This plan, shaped by the insights from our equity audit and in collaboration with Equity Alliance MN, served as a cornerstone for the newly completed Strategic Plan and its equity focused goals.
As we commemorate Black History Month, let's not only celebrate the achievements but also engage in meaningful conversations. I echo the sentiments shared in last year's newsletter, emphasizing the importance of teaching Black history with an intersectional lens. Our goal is to move beyond the familiar narratives and embrace a more comprehensive understanding of Black experiences.
To support these efforts, Jordan, our Equity and Inclusion Facilitator, will be sending weekly communications to our staff with reminders and resources. We have compiled a collection of materials and articles that our staff can explore, fostering a deeper understanding of Black history, joy, and resilience. These resources aim to broaden our knowledge and perspectives, encouraging a more inclusive approach to teaching and learning.
Let's continue to build towards a community where the histories, stories, and voices of Black individuals are centered, honored, and uplifted every day.
If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas to add to our resource list, please feel free to reach out. Your input is invaluable as we strive to create a learning environment that reflects the diversity and richness of our GRS community.
Wishing you a month filled with meaningful conversations, celebration, and continued growth.
Peace,
David