Shaker Heights Board Of Education Releases Statement Of Inclusiveness

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH - The Shaker Heights Board of Education issued a statement of inclusiveness on Feb. 16. The board said it felt it necessary to reassure international citizens in the community that they are welcome.

"Given the national debate about immigration, the board simply felt it important to make clear that Shaker is inclusive and welcoming to all families, locally and around the globe," said Shaker Heights City School District's Executive Director of Communications and Public Relations Scott Stephens told Patch in an email.

The board's full statement is below.

The Shaker Heights City School District wishes to reassure the many international citizens in our community that it welcomes and cherishes the rich cultural diversity of visitors and residents from every nation. The District has welcomed immigrants, international families and visiting students for decades. Students from all over the world are part of the rich tapestry that helps make the Shaker Schools unique.

For many years, our Mission Statement has included a commitment to graduating students with “knowledge of our global and multicultural society.” Building on that commitment in 2015 we became an International Baccalaureate school system for all grades preschool through 12th grade. We welcome international students and families and provide resources through our website and other means. We currently enroll students from more than 30 countries, offer English Language Learners programs, host students from sister schools in at least six countries, and offer courses in five world languages. Several buildings and programs organize social events for international families. The City of Shaker Heights collaborates in this outreach.

Providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all students has been, and remains, at the core of our mission. In light of recent controversies regarding immigration and visas, we wish to reiterate our appreciation of, and commitment to, remaining open-minded, offering respect and dignity to all newcomers, and fostering international exchanges.

Photo from Shaker Schools