Msvl. WA - The Marysville School District Board of Directors took action to adopt a long-awaited equity policy at their regular session board meeting on November 3, 2021. The policy follows the adoption of an equity statement and the signing of a joint statement in October solidifying each entity’s collective commitment to equity and inclusion. “The development of an equity policy is something we have had in the works for a long time,” said board member Chris Nation. “I am very excited to see it come to fruition” he added. The new policy reads in part:
“The Marysville School District is committed to working collaboratively with Marysville communities and The Tulalip Tribes to provide equitable opportunities for students and staff to learn and work in an environment that is safe and supportive for all regardless of race*, ethnicity*, language, immigration* and socioeconomic status*, gender, health and mental health status, range of abilities*, age, sexual orientation, gender expression or gender identity, transgender status, spiritual and religious status, and additional group-based identities. These categorizations continue to be the most persistent predictors of students’ educational performance. This is in direct conflict with the undeniable truth that every student and staff member has limitless potential.”
Eneille Nelson, Executive Director of Equity and Family Engagement, led the work of creating the policy with the help of three equity advisory committees comprised of students, parents, community members, and staff. “They were so committed to seeing this through and making certain that all voices were heard. I am so appreciative of their dedication, hard work, and ‘heart’ work to develop a policy that holds each of us accountable to our students, families, community, and each other” she shared.
The school district is poised to forge ahead. The next steps include publishing the policy broadly and posting it in all schools and district facilities. Mrs. Nelson and the department team will also update the equity action plan - a living document that will be reviewed on a regular basis. The district is also planning professional development sessions for staff in addition to their annual training.
Interim Superintendent, Dr. Chris Pearson, thanked the equity advisory teams and committee and the equity and family engagement team for the many hours dedicated to the work and for their focus on completing the policy. “I am proud of the steps that have been taken to create these foundational documents and partnerships that are solidly grounded in creating a sense of belonging for our students, families, and community members” shared Dr. Chris Pearson, Interim Superintendent.
Click HERE to read the full version of the equity policy. For questions regarding the equity policy or the equity work in the Marysville School District, contact Eneille Nelson, Executive Director of Equity and Family Engagement at eneille_nelson@msd25.org, or call (360) 965-0018.