Edmonds School District EQUITY ALLIANCE Come join us! Third Thursday of the month

Welcome Colleagues! Edmonds School District Equity Alliance was formed in the spring of 2007 to promote an inclusive community. We welcome all district employess to attend our meetings to listen, be heard and to thoughtfully discuss possibilities and solutions. And then to plan and work to influence and create positive change in our work and communities. Our meetings are scheduled for the 3rd Thursday of the month. We created a split schedule to account for the difference in school release times. Secondary staff, 330p to 500p Elementary staff, 430p to 600p All ESD district staff and community partners are welcome to attend. Contact Arlie Neskahi, Multicultural & Family Outreach Coordinator, 425-431-7128, neskahia@edmonds.wednet.edu with any questions.

Our main discussions have been around these areas; English Language Learners Effective engagement of diverse families Ensuring that marginalized persons/communities have a voice We will be working on ideas and plans for effective solutions through networking, collaboration and meaningful relationships.

Last year in one of our exercises, we came up with these verbal snippets which capture the heart of our group.

By welcoming others and being inclusive we can form a sense of belonging and thus, build relationships.   When we use our voice in a collaborative environment, it results in a sense of belonging and strong community.   My voice welcomes diversity that includes all to belong.  Success for all comes from being part of a community built on equitable and collaborative relationships.   In healthy relationships, people feel they have a voice, they feel welcome and included. . I want to be part of a welcoming, inclusive community which ensures all students & staff have a voice, enabling them to reach their full potential & experience success.   The welcoming voice of community gives you a feeling of belonging.   Without a true sense of belonging and community, the issues of social justice and equity will never be met.   Social justice supports community and inclusiveness which results in belonging.   True diversity develops feelings of belonging, is inclusive of all and creates unexpected relationships.   One day all students will feel included, with their own voices heard, belonging to the community, feeling connected...

Arlie Neskahi
Multicultural & Family Outreach Coordinator
Edmonds School District #15
425-431-7128
neskahia@edmonds.wednet.edu