This year I was lucky enough to join a group of teachers and students to the People of Color Conference in Denver Colorado.  Not only was this an eye opening experience, but it also enabled me to network with other lower school teachers and talk about how they promote diversity and inclusion within their own schools. 

         I discovered many different areas that should be discussed and taught in schools; race, religion, ethnicity, socio-economic status, ability, gender and age.  As you can imagine these areas are vast and it takes strategic planning and action to make our students aware of these issues, and respect the dignity of the people identified in "The Big 8."  We talked about ways to start affinity groups within schools, ways to incorporate the "big 8" in our curriculum, and build a community where diversity and inclusion is a part of our mission.

          I truly benefited from the sessions and workshops I attended.  Furthermore, with my new knowledge and tools the lower school students and teachers will benefit as well.  We have purchased a significant amount of professional development literature, as well as children's literature for everyone to share.

-(Stephanie Duggan)