Our Commitment to Diversity

When I was getting to know Ellis as a candidate for the Head of School position, one of the aspects of the school that was tremendously compelling—and personally important to me—was the School's commitment to diversity. Our website states this:
The Ellis community pursues, supports, and embraces diversity of all kinds, recognizing the collective strength derived from our individual differences. The Ellis School is committed to diversity and inclusion in areas such as race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economics, ability, religion, and age.

I believe this commitment is important for three simple reasons. First, Ellis girls will be living and working in an increasingly diverse world in which being knowledgeable about, and comfortable working with, all different kinds of people will hold them in very good stead. Second, there is compelling evidence that learning is enhanced when students are surrounded by others who bring different perspectives, backgrounds, and approaches. And third, I believe it is simply the right thing for us to do.

I am proud of the many ways in which we have built and support diversity at Ellis. Thirty-four percent of students are students of color. Girls engage in rich learning about diversity, inclusivity, and cultural competency in all three divisions. We have a range of affinity and alliance groups that students can choose to join in the Upper School, with some developing in the Middle School this year as well. And we have just launched a new affinity group for our parent community called Families of Students of Color. Ciera Young provides wonderful guidance to our whole school community in her role as Director of Equity and Inclusion.

We'll be in trouble whenever we begin to think our work in this area is done, however, as there is always more we can be learning and helping our daughters to learn, and more ways in which we can work together to be sure each Ellis girl and family feels welcome, known, and included. I look forward to us continuing to learn and grow together.
 
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