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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at The Orchard School:
The Orchard School seeks, embraces, values, and supports all people – students, families, faculty, staff and the larger community. To that end, Orchard educates the whole child by integrating social responsibility, moral values, respect, inclusivity and equitable treatment of all people into its curriculum and policies. This equity and inclusiveness extends to all areas of diversity - including race,ethnicity, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, physical differences,culture, family structure, socio-economic background and abilities. Respect for all persons is an Orchard value addressed every day, at every level, in the halls of The Orchard School.
This environment is achieved and maintained through school programming and structure, pedagogy, culture, policies of inclusion, financial assistance, hiring and personnel policies, classroom composition and ongoing training designed to address and further Orchard’s commitment to equity and respect. These policies and programs seek to create an environment where every Orchard community member feels valued, included and supported. Orchard’s commitment to furthering and maintaining a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment is also supported and continuously evaluated by the entire school community, which includes the Diversity Committee of the Orchard School Boardof Trustees, the Diversity Dialogue Group, Diversity Council for faculty and staff, and the Orchard Parents’ Association.
Through increased understanding and appreciation, Orchard students and those whose lives they touch will be well-prepared for, and comfortable with the challenges, opportunities and issues faced in an ever-more diverse world.
Equity and Inclusion at Orchard
The Orchard School strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, rich with diversity and based upon understanding and mutual respect for the dignity and worth of every person. An equitable and inclusive working and learning environment creates the conditions for our diverse staff and student body to maximize their contributions. Faculty, staff and parents must consider equity and inclusion when planning, organizing, and conducting any and all school acitivities and events. When questions arise, faculty, staff, and/or parents are encouraged to dialogue with the appropriate director or Head of School.