The Monroe School District (MSD) Board of Directors firmly believes that being anti-racist, and eliminating racial inequities, discrimination, and institutional bias will increase achievement and graduation rates for our students while closing achievement and opportunity gaps. We are committed to providing an environment for our students where dreams and goals are nurtured, history and cultural heritage are celebrated, love of learning is fostered, and educational, physical, emotional, and social needs are met.

The MSD Board of Directors has previously adopted policies and procedures to address issues and concerns regarding equality, discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying. The following policies and procedures provide protections for students and staff:

• Policy and Procedure – 3210 – Nondiscrimination (Students)
• Policy and Procedure – 3207 – Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (Students)
• Policy and Procedure – 3211 – Gender Inclusive Schools (Students)
• Policy and Procedure - 5010 – Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action (Staff)

As a board, we have the privilege and responsibility to uphold policies, support the superintendent, and hold the system accountable to educate all students. With that in mind, the immediate steps underway include:

• Executive staff are meeting with outside professionals and screening proposals related to identifying the scope of race and equity work within our schools and developing a plan moving forward
• Administrative staff will participate in professional development regarding race, diversity, and equity during August
• Training for all administrative staff on harassment, intimidation, and bullying specific to recognizing and responding to reports or concerns is scheduled for August
• Coordination with MEA is underway to schedule professional development for all certificated staff related to race and equity
• New employee training will include a dedicated segment focusing on diversity, race, and equity

The MSD Board of Directors is committed to ensuring that all students have equitable access to and provision of resources based on their unique needs, including but not limited to, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability. Additionally English language learning, advanced learning, free and reduced-price lunches, special education, and homelessness support.

It is our commitment that equity will be used as a fundamental lens for decision-making at all levels of our school system.