Essex Tech Faculty Hears Message Of Equality, Diversity

DANVERS, MA — The faculty and staff at Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical High School concluded two weeks of learning how to begin the school year in a hybrid learning model Friday by hearing a message of how to begin the year with better racial sensitivity and diversity embracing.

All 250 members of the Danvers school's staff were in attendance for Dr. Adolph Brown's presentation that urged the staff to beware of implicit bias and "not judge a book by its cover."

"Our students come from a range of backgrounds, and we feel strongly that it is imperative we each do everything we can to ensure every student here has an equitable experience and feels included, valued and recognized," Superintendent Dr. Heidi Riccio said.

The socially distanced presentation featured Dr. Brown, an educator, author and clinical psychologist, who speaks to educators and students about topics that include equity and diversity. He was scheduled to speak to students as well in the spring, but that event was postponed due to the coronavirus health crisis. School officials said they hope to invite Brown back to speak with students and faculty later in the school year.

Brown talked about realizing that everyone has some implicit bias, and to acknowledge their own hardships. He also advised staff to meet students where they are emotionally and developmentally, and that students should be supported and treated equally even if their "starting points" vary.

"Dr. Brown did an excellent job of breaking down the role of an educator and our duty to fully look within ourselves to acknowledge implicit bias and how we can recognize what students need in order for them to be served equitably by their teachers, programs, school and district," Essex Tech Principal Shannon Donnelly said. "He threaded together many different aspects of life that play a role in race and equity, including mental health and the individual, providing a big picture understanding of the subject."

Dr. Brown discussed the role of supportive educators in his own development and advised to embrace positives this fall despite coronavirus-related restrictions.

"Time has a way of going on regardless of how we use it," Brown said. "So I would tell everyone, if I had another two minutes, to take their time, but don't waste their time. I really do think people hold their breath waiting for things to pass."

In recent years, Essex Tech has sought to promote and foster equality. The school was recently awarded a $79,000 state grant to help develop reformed disciplinary programs and substance-abuse education.

"I'm so thankful we were able to finally all come together on Friday, safely, to listen to Dr. Brown speak about his experiences with race and equity," Superintendent Riccio said. "It was a perfect way to set the tone as the school year begins, and to meet the students where they are, especially with all of the challenges our communities have faced (with) COVID-19."