Equity Journey Introduction

What is Equity?

Equity in education requires putting systems in place to ensure that every child has an equal chance for success. It requires understanding the unique challenges and barriers faced by individual students or by populations of students and providing additional support to help them overcome those barriers. While this in itself may not ensure equal outcomes, educators strive to ensure that every child has equal opportunity for success.

Commitment to Equity - 10 Month Equity Journey

Joliet Public Schools District 86 is a mirror image of our changing world. The Joliet community consists of an array of cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. Our diversity is a great asset and we continue to work towards ensuring our schools and community are equitable and inclusive for all.

An important step in our District's commitment to Equity starts with building awareness. Joliet Public Schools District 86 is launching a 10-Month Equity Journey. This experience is designed to share information, spark personal and professional growth, and foster a respectful discussion about equity in education.

Each month a topic will be introduced along with relevant readings and/or videos, activities, action steps, and reflection questions to help us further learn, reflect, and grow. Families and community members are invited to participate as well.

During the next 10 months, we will cover the following topics together:

• September - Equity in Education
• October - Culture...Awareness, Acknowledgement, Affirmation,
• November - What does History have to do with it?
• December - The Power of Being an Ally
• January - It starts with US - Implicit Bias
• February - What is Privilege, Anyway?
• March - Interrupting Oppression and "Isms"
• April - Brain Science
• May - Creating Inclusive Learning Environments
• June - Wrap-Up and Opportunities Ahead

Not everyone will agree with everything that is shared during this journey, and that is OK. We all have unique perspectives and life experiences, and that is important to recognize. All we ask is that you don't become distracted by that which you disagree with, but there is so much here that can help bring us together in a meaningful way. Please stay focused on the broader message being shared.

Welcome to the Joliet Public Schools District 86 Equity Journey!