Editorial: Looking Forward to the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Policy

Attending a high school where the majority of the student body is white, it’s often difficult to integrate the proper rules and resources that can effectively deal with racial issues and other important ethnic/cultural education. Without exposure to a realistic diverse environment, Woodstock students are not knowledgeable about the struggles people of color face and are not prepared for living in a more diverse environment.

Of course it’s not possible to physically create a more diverse student body, but there are steps that can be taken to ensure there is a shared understanding of equity and respect within the school.

There is very little discussion centered around the recognition of cultures that aren’t the majority. The way we operate now essentially grazes over the historical and cultural importance of BIPOC (black, indigenous, and people of color). Not only does this affect those from other cultural backgrounds, but it’s setting up a false perception which doesn’t include the diversity both within and outside of our small towns. Without more education, students will unknowingly go out into the real world after high school only to be confronted with the unfortunate realization that they have grown up in a bubble, which will likely be seen as ignorance. However, this bubble does not have to be so restricting.

Recently our school district has drafted an “Equity, Inclusion and Diversity in Education Policy”, that serves a purpose to “acknowledge and eliminate all forms of racism” at WCSU. One specific goal that is written in this policy claims to widen the content that our education covers. It states, “WCSU will promote critical thinking and open dialogue regarding the history, contribution, perspectives, and structural barriers placed upon diverse ethnic and social groups, specifically those traditionally discounted in K-12 education, for all people.”

This is a big step in the right direction, as it seems the school is promising to open up this opportunity for students to learn about different cultures, history, and other important aspects of these groups that weren’t always available before. Written as a policy, it’s clear the school is prioritizing these actions, which shows great consideration and care among this community. Moving forward, students will be able to have a more well-rounded education and understanding of these topics, which will be very beneficial for the future of these students and our school community. We should establish this policy and make sure these procedures are set in order to have the correct education and a safe space for students to learn.