Board’s Eye View: A message from the F-M Board of Education

We are excited for the start of the 2021-22 school year! While a new year always feels like a fresh start, there are many initiatives that we are carrying forward, namely our work in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

In spring 2021, the New York State Board of Regents called on all schools in New York state to develop policies that advance diversity, equity and inclusion as a priority in their schools.

Here at F-M, we had already begun discussions at the board, district and school levels about how to integrate DEI into the programs and services we offer our students. We are working on our policy statement and when done, we will share it on our website for all to see.

DEI is not a separate curriculum or class; it should be woven into the very fabric of our school district. We are reviewing information from the state, the New York State School Boards Association and other school districts to ensure that the policy we put in place reflects best practices, our district’s vision and mission and the values and expectations of our students, staff and community.

There has been much discussion across the country and within our local community about school district roles when it comes to discussing these issues. Our responsibility is to ensure that all students receive an education that allows them to reach their full potential and that they are doing so in an environment in which they feel safe. It is incumbent upon us to create opportunities for all students to succeed no matter who they are, where they live, where they go to school or where they come from.

In addition, we want everyone engaged with us, whether they are our staff, students and their families or community members, to be proud of their ties to our district and to feel welcome, included, respected and valued. We are committed to building a culture that encourages, supports and celebrates the diverse voices of our students, staff and community.

Our work has included book readings, trainings with DEI experts, meetings with groups of students and families and listening to our community’s concerns about how we plan to embed DEI practices into our school community. This work will continue and evolve. We look forward to sharing at board meetings and through the district website our progress.

If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to the superintendent through our Let’s Talk communications portal on the district website or to the board via email at board@fmschools.org.

We wish you all the best for 2021-22!