District 46 Considers Diversity Policy

Submssion by Community Consolidated School District 46

Community Consolidated School District 46 Board of Education member David A. Northern, Sr. along with Superintendent Ellen Correll and Assistant Superintendent Craig Keer presented a draft of a Diversity Proposal to the Board of Education on Wednesday, May 18, 2016.

The purpose of the initiative is to review current data and demographics and recommend possible educational goals and objectives of such a policy.

The team reviewed current achievement gaps in the district, including race and ethnicity, students with English as a Second Language, and income.

The proposed policy would have goals to provide lifelong education benefits, enhance students’ civic and democratic values, prepare students for participation in the democratic processes of our country, and improve student learning. In addition, this policy would prepare students for employment in a multicultural society, allow for deeper ways of thinking and provide opportunities for positive interactions with students of other races, ethnicities, and backgrounds.

Mr. Northern recommended the development of a Diversity Committee that would include both community and district representation. Mr. Northern also read a letter from Sr. Roycealee Wood, Superintendent of the Regional Office of Education in Lake County, supporting CCSD 46 in this proactive initiative.