As a school district, a community, a state and a country, we find ourselves facing challenges we never imagined just a few short months ago. In recent days, we have surpassed 100,000 deaths in the United States associated with the COVID-19 virus, our students have been out of school and learning remotely for months and we are now faced with growing frustrations and justified outrage associated with issues of race and inequality following the senseless death of Mr. George Floyd.
The Auburn Public Schools has and continues to be committed to equity and equality for our students, families, and staff. We believe that all human beings should be treated with respect, dignity, and kindness no matter their race, gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, or any other quality. Each day, when our students are in school, we reinforce and support this belief through our daily interactions and through the curriculum we present to and discuss with our students. We believe that these actions are directly tied to our core values: student-centered decision making; high expectations for all; all environments are safe and respectful; equitable opportunities for all; and dedicated to continuous improvement. Simply put, as a school district, we believe there is no place for racism, bigotry or hatred in our classrooms or school community.
Guided by the words of Mahatma Gandhi - “We must be the change we wish to see in the world” - we recommit to those core values and, as a community, we encourage us all to embrace this opportunity to discuss these values and how - together - we must work every day to put them into practice. Together, we must commit to being a part of a district, a community, a state and a country that values and celebrates the differences we all have that serve to make us unique and in so doing, helping to create a society that is vibrant and accepting of both our commonalities and our differences.
In keeping with our commitment to continuous learning, we share several resources that our school counselors have identified and include them here for your review and potential use with your child as you deem appropriate. Many students have questions about the protests happening across the country: What precipitated them? Why are they happening and what can we do? Other students may have questions about race and equality. We are hopeful that you find the below resources helpful.
We find ourselves in a time like no other, yet we know we will get through this TOGETHER! Together, we will continue to educate our children and build a community of acceptance. Thank you for working with us to ensure the same is true for ALL!
Embrace Race https://www.embracerace.org/
Education with an Apron
http://educationwithanapron.com/2020/05/a-white-families-guide-for-talking-about-racism/
This is also a great read aloud "Something happened in our town" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzVkf2UpyqM
Supporting Vulnerable Students in Stressful Times: Tips for Parents
https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/diversity/social-justice/supporting-vulnerable-students-in-stressful-times-tips-for-parents
Understanding Race and Privilege
https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/diversity/social-justice/understanding-race-and-privilege
Tips for talking to kids about racism
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Building-Resilience/Pages/Talking-to-Children-about-Racism.aspx
10 Tips for Teaching and Talking to Kids about Race
https://www.embracerace.org/resources/teaching-and-talking-to-kids
Talking to Kids about Racial Bias