Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD) has re-committed to its goal of making equity, diversity, and social justice priorities in our schools for the 2020-2021 school year. One of the methods for ensuring the goal is implemented across the spectrum is emphasizing MBUSD’s Inclusion Stand Up Commitment. The purpose of the pledge is to encourage safe environments in our schools and community for all stakeholders to engage in discussions about biases and honor everyone’s voice. The Board also intends to strengthen classroom resources throughout the district to make the curriculum and classroom experience more reflective of each student’s background and experience.
All MBUSD schools are examining ways to put this goal into action. The Mira Costa High School English Department is working towards diversifying the curriculum in English classes for grades 9-11 by adopting at least one core work of literature by an author of color. This past summer and the beginning of this school year has been dedicated to researching the many possible texts. Grade level teams will collaborate together to reach a consensus on the final book selections. Until the works are finalized, MCHS English teachers are diversifying their curriculum with short stories, poems, speeches, and other shorter works for this year.
The MBEF Board of Directors has been supporting inclusion in our schools since 2015 through the Social Inclusion Grant Program. Each year administrators, teachers, counselors, parents and students are invited to apply for small grants to inspire change and nurture a productive and honest dialogue in our schools. Originally initiated by Malissia and Ron Clinton in 2015, the Social Inclusion Grants help to bridge divides in our community and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all children. MBUSD students, teachers and administrators are encouraged to apply for small grants to introduce programs that will focus on celebrating and respecting diversity — with respect to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, economic status, ability, and culture. MBEF is currently accepting Social Inclusion Grant Applications through October 1, 2020. All are encouraged to apply!
