Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at SMUS
St. Michaels University School (SMUS) defines Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in the broadest sense, including but not limited to sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ability, appearance, ethnicity, culture, race, beliefs, and socio-economic background. In addressing equity, diversity and inclusion at SMUS, we are guided by our core Values: respect, courage, honesty, and service.
Respect is a core Value of our community. When we’re at our best, it’s alive in every interaction and decision. At the same time, we know that we have much to learn, including what it means to be a fully equitable, diverse and inclusive community. While we do have a EDI statement co-created by students, it’s now time to formally engage with our stakeholders to draw from their experiences in a way that helps to assess our situation, establish concrete action steps, and track the degree to which our daily behaviour matches our aspirations.
Our Guide
As recommended by experts engaging in EDI work, the school agreed that it would benefit from the support of a knowledgeable and external guide.
On November 20, 2020, Mr. Mark Turner (Head of School) announced that Dr. Moussa Magassa will be taking on the role of SMUS’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Guide, as we enter into a process to engage stakeholders, formulate goals and strategies, track performance, formalize points of accountability, and establish an ongoing reflective practice.
Update: February 12, 2021
From the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Working Group
When the central importance of a capable and representative EDI Advisory Committee became clear, we turned to our community for names. We were not disappointed.
On the EDI Advisory Committee page, you’ll find a group of people with the knowledge, experience, and perspective to assist our school in undertaking an open and honest evaluation of our practice, leading to a concrete plan that will guide our daily endeavours while reshaping our systemic realities.
Along with our EDI Guide, Dr. Moussa Magassa, the Advisory Committee will determine how best to engage our wider community through surveys and focus groups. They will be seeking your input in the months ahead. After hearing from the community, members will then draft a plan to chart our course forward.
We recognize that this process will challenge some of our assumptions and approaches, and we welcome the opportunity to grow more fully into our core values of Service, Honesty, Courage, and especially, Respect. For an outline of the process we’ve undertaken to date, please reference our summary from January 15 and initial thoughts from Mr. Mark Turner.
Such was the volume of response to our calls for nominations that we were not able to extend an invitation to every applicant. Those not chosen will receive direct invitations to future consultations. In the end, Dr. Magassa’s guidance led to a committee composed of individuals who represent a wealth of stakeholder groups and expressions of diversity.
The Committee will gather for its first meeting later this month and you will hear from them as soon as they determine our path. Until then, please take a moment and read through their bios. We are excited by their character and calibre and we hope that you are equally encouraged.
Ongoing Work
While we continue with EDI work, SMUS will move forward with current and emerging strands.
Updates and Messages
Previous updates and messages in support of EDI work are available on the SMUSpaper news site.
Comments, questions and feedback on equity, diversity and inclusion at SMUS can be sent to the Working Group via Becky Anderson, Director of Junior School, at [email protected].