Accessibility/DEI/Inclusive Programing

  1. Reframing/Redefining “Family”
    1. What is a family?
      1. Foster
      2. Single parent/guardian
      3. LGBTQ+ parent/guardian
      4. Kinship guardian
    2. “The child you are representing”
    3. Many cultural examples of chosen families, found families (aunties, uncles, calling cousins “sister” and “brother,’ etc.)
    4. Legal and functional definitions are found in school systems, but families determine who is a “family” member. 
  2. Family Engagement means the WHOLE family, including children/youth.
    1. PTA “family” – modeling positive behaviors
    2. Why not have PTA meetings with the involvement of children?
      1. STEM nights
      2. Showcase science fair, musical, upper grade (MS/HS) clubs at elementary PTA meetings 
      3. TikTok dance challenges? Short reels?
      4. Homework help night
      5. Recruiting HS community service students
      6. Demystifying Regents exams
    3. Hold short PTA events before events
      1. Parent-Teacher conferences: ask a teacher to explain and give examples of the type of questions parents should ask
      2. Showcase music groups (orchestra, band, chorus) but use a couple of students to provide awareness of the different programs
      3. Speech/OT/PT – meet the specialist teachers
      4. Meet the Guidance dept before College Fairs
    4. Hold PTA meetings in the community – libraries, churches, community centers
  3. Using considerate, deliberate language in how we talk about “Family” – moving beyond “parents” and “mom/dad”