The French American Academy is committed to fostering a learning environment where diversity and inclusion are appreciated and celebrated.
We consider race, ethnicity, wealth, gender, and other differences as assets to reach growth and success.
As an International school with a diverse community of students, faculty, staff, and parents, we cherish the values of diversity, inclusion, and tolerance.
Our students thrive in a multicultural environment where they learn, accept, and embrace disparities. Students gain intellectual flexibility and agile minds to manage discomfort, practice teamwork and develop character and honor. As a result, our graduates thrive as culturally aware individuals and become great citizens of the world.
Our mission is to raise awareness about the rich fabric of our community and ensure a safe and respectful environment for everyone (children, families, teachers, and staff), and to seek the truth in all aspects of life.
We believe that when we honor, support, and strengthen our diversity, we also create a sense of belonging where everyone can thrive and flourish.
The French American Academy created a Diversity & Inclusion Committee to support equitable and inclusive experiences for all our community members. The committee meets regularly and is representative of the school’s diversity. The Diversity & Inclusion Committee’s mission is to make recommendations and provide resources or training to faculty and parents. The community also creates events to support a diverse and inclusive culture.
If your want to know more about our actions beyond words, check our blog.
Parent Involvement:
We welcome parents to join the Diversity and Inclusions Committee.
Parent Education:
During parent meetings, communication, parent workshops, or special school events, we provide education and discuss diversity and inclusion with the parents.
Faculty Recruitment:
We participates in the yearly Diversity Recruitment Fair held at Stevens Coop.
The School has planned a first training session for the faculty on August 31st. Part of the conversation will be about the cultural differences toward racism between French and American countries. Another part will discuss how to talk about races in the classrooms.
Teaching Inclusion and Equity in our Curriculum:
The Diversity and Inclusion Committee works with teachers and faculty to build a curriculum that incorporates and promotes diversity and inclusiveness to enhance students’ learning and deepen in-class discussions.
Evaluation of Libraries:
We continuously add books related to diversity and classroom representation.
Examples of past Diversity and Inclusion initiatives
During its inaugural event, The Diversity and Inclusion Committee welcomed Dr. Howard Stevenson. He is a nationally recognized expert on race justice, diversity, and inclusion issues. He is Constance Clayton Professor of Urban Education and is also Professor of Africana Studies at the University of Pennsylvania.
The Diversity & Inclusion committee recently invited Kelsey Tainsh to talk to all students in 3rd grade and up. Kelsey overcome a brain tumor at 5 years old and a stroke at 15 years old. She delivered an inspirational message to our students. More specifically, her message was about:
In order to navigate the questions our children might have about race, here are resources to support these conversations and dialogue.
DEIB is important in schools because it helps to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their background or identity. This is important because it improves academic outcomes, fosters a sense of belonging and community, and promotes social and emotional well-being.
Students and families can support DEIB at FAA by: