Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
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At Westchester Country Day School, faculty, students, families, administration, and the Board of Trustees are united in fostering a school culture where every individual feels seen, heard and valued. Together, we are committed to open dialogue and meaningful engagement around diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
We view this as an ongoing journey of growth. Through conversations across our community, professional development, online learning, and the creation of a comprehensive action plan, we are building a more inclusive and connected school environment, one that reflects and honors the diverse voices that make up WCDS.
“Our role is to create a school community where every student feels a sense of belonging, not because they have to fit in, but because they are seen, valued, and embraced for who they are. Belonging means students can bring their full selves into the classroom, the stage, the field, and every space in between, knowing they matter and that this is their place too."
Dr. Diana Parente, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Advisor
Our Approach to Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging
At Westchester Country Day School, our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging is woven into the fabric of who we are and what we aspire to be. Grounded in our mission and guided by our strategic plan, we work to ensure that every member of our community feels known, valued, and genuinely included.
This work is not about checking a box, it’s about honoring the dignity of each individual. We seek to understand the lived experiences and cultural traditions of our students, families, faculty, and staff. By doing so, we build a community rooted in mutual respect, authentic connection, and shared growth.
Our approach aligns with the North Carolina Educator Evaluation System (NCEES) standards and reflects core values that resonate across our campus:
- I want to learn in peace and safety—and others do, too.
- I want to have enough to eat and a stable shelter—and others do, too.
- I want to be respected and cared for—and others do, too.
As a school, we are committed to:
- Creating learning opportunities that nurture positive identity development, student voice, empathy, and leadership.
- Empowering faculty with the tools and training to foster inclusive classrooms and curricula.
- Encouraging conversations and connections that build understanding across differences.
- Ensuring every student sees themselves reflected, in the curriculum, in the community, and in the care they receive.
Belonging at WCDS means more than just being present. It means being seen, being heard, being home.
DIB Newsletter
Each month, we will send out a Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DIB) Newsletter to our entire PK–12 community. These newsletters highlight cultural moments, elevate diverse voices, and provide resources and ideas for classroom engagement.
Purpose:
- Build cultural awareness and inclusivity
- Foster shared knowledge and appreciation
- Celebrate the rich diversity within and beyond our community
The newsletters are invitations to explore, reflect and connect. All the books recommended in the newsletter are in Dr. Parente's office if you would like to read them or use them for class.
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This month at Westchester Country Day School, we are celebrating Women's History Month and all of the holidays happening in March, including Ramadan.
This month at Westchester Country Day School, we are celebrating Black History Month and all of the holidays happening in February.
This month at Westchester Country Day School, we are celebrating seasons of light and joy throughout all of the holidays of December and January.
This month at Westchester Country Day School, we are celebrating Veterans Day and November holidays.
WCDS Statement of Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
We firmly believe our continued pursuit of excellence demands an emphasis on the values of diversity¹, inclusion², and belonging³. WCDS is committed to creating and sustaining an environment of respect. We celebrate and recognize that much is learned from many different perspectives and identities in a diverse community. By honoring differences, we build a community of belonging and success for all.Approved 9/13/21 by the Board of Trustees
Diversity1
At WCDS, diversity reflects the wide range of human differences that exist within our community. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical or intellectual abilities or attributes, religious or ethical value systems, national origin, and political beliefs. We believe that learning is enriched when students engage across lines of difference and that true excellence requires the presence and contributions of many perspectives.
What does diversity work examine?
- Representation
- Categories
- Differences
Diversity asks the question: "Who is in the room?"
Inclusion2
Inclusion is the practice of bringing people together from varied backgrounds and creating conditions for all to succeed. At WCDS, inclusion lives in the ways we invite, listen to, and empower every voice. Whether through student alliances, classroom conversations, or daily interactions, we work to ensure that every community member feels they are a meaningful part of school life.
What does inclusion work examine?
- Voice
- Participation
- Feeling welcomed
Inclusion asks the question: "Has everyone been heard?"
Belonging3
Belonging is the feeling of active security, acceptance, and celebration within a group or environment. At WCDS, belonging is the heartbeat of our culture, it’s when students, families, and faculty feel not only welcomed, but truly known. We cultivate belonging by honoring identity, building relationships, and creating spaces where everyone feels safe to show up as their full selves.
What does belonging work examine?
- Identity
- Connection
- Emotional safety
Belonging asks the question: "Do I feel like I truly belong here?"
Definitions cited from: Drew, J. M. (2020). Step 2: Eliminate Confusion & Chaos. In Sharpen Your Inclusion Edge (Vol. 1, pp. 44–47). Greensboro, NC: Social Designs.
Connection is why we're here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.Brené Brown
DIB Timeline
Scroll through the slides below to see a timeline of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at Westchester Country Day School.
What's Next at WCDS
As we continue to strengthen our commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, our focus is on thoughtful integration, making sure this work is woven meaningfully into the everyday life of our school. We are prioritizing listening, reflection, and connection across all divisions through initiatives like our monthly DIB newsletters, continued professional learning, and the launch of our Parent Partnership Group to build belonging together. We’re also supporting student voices through our Student Diversity Leadership Club, which is planning events like Belonging Day, a Lunch and Learn series, and new affinity spaces.
In addition, we’re taking a closer look at our curriculum to ensure students see themselves reflected and are exposed to a broad range of perspectives. This includes an intentional review of content, resources, and classroom practices across grade levels. Two new Upper School courses, 20th Century Latin American Politics and Honor Seminar: African American History in the U.S., reflect this commitment and mark an exciting step toward a more inclusive and representative academic experience. Our goal remains clear: to create a school environment where every student feels seen, valued, and connected.
Resources
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