The Educational Equity Committee (EEC) and the New Hartford Central School District are continuing to work together to overcome racism and inequality of any type in our community, especially in education.
The EEC, which was formed in March 2022, works collaboratively with the district to address diversity, equity and inclusion within the school community. The committee is composed of parents, community members, students, teachers, administrators and board members.
Since its inception, the EEC has been an advisory committee to the New Hartford Board of Education. Moving forward, the EEC will be a board committee. As a result, committee reports will now be included as part of regular board meetings. This move will ensure the EEC will remain a focus for the district and the board. In addition, community engagement meetings will happen during the school year to gather feedback.
Since the fall of 2023, in collaboration with Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES, students from New Hartford and other area school districts have been meeting about elevating students’ voices. The district will continue to collaborate with these students and provide feedback to the EEC.
In June 2024, the district conducted a school climate survey with students in grades 7-12. Participating students responded to questions, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics, that prompted them to evaluate their perspective of school engagement, safety and environment. Once a full analysis of the responses has been completed, the district will be able to identify strengths and areas of growth to drive future planning within our schools and the work being accomplished with the EEC. Survey results will be shared with all district stakeholders in the early part of the 2024-25 school year.
Prior to the conclusion of the 2023-24 school year, Social Studies teachers and English-Language Arts teachers in grades 7-12 completed Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CRSE) training at the recommendation of the EEC. The trainings help promote positive academic outcomes and a student-centered learning environment for all. CRSE is supported by the New York State Education Department. District educators have also participated in professional learning to understand the importance and impact of racial literacy in an educational setting. Future trainings are being planned.
Administrators have also participated in trainings around these topics. Several administrators and staff continue to study the book, “Grading for Equity: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How It Can Transform Schools and Classrooms“ by Joe Feldman. The book will help district leaders promote inclusive education and grading practices.
The district, the board and the EEC are committed to the work outlined above and any additional steps to make all feel empowered and welcomed in the school community.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Director of Student Services Josh Gifford at jgifford@nhart.org or Superintendent of Schools Dr. Cosimo Tangorra at ctangorra@nhart.org.