RPCS: Stronger Together
Action Plan for Strengthening Culture and Community
I am thrilled that RPCS is moving forward in its understanding that education entails having students, faculty, staff, and parents realize that there is much to be learned from those who do not look like me or think like me or have life experiences that are like mine or to what I am accustomed. That RPCS can develop an appreciation of all those who are a part of the school is the most gratifying outcome there can be.
DIANE HUTCHINS, 1972
Alumna, Former Trustee, Member of the Alumnae Cherry Tree Council, and Founding Member of the Red and White Legacy ‘‘
Dear Members of the RPCS Community,
At RPCS, we strive to cultivate a diverse, equitable, and inclusive school community. We recognize that our work is grounded in a deep understanding of the relationship between the needs of the individual and the community. Core values define our shared commitments: building each other up; leading for the greater good; seeking and embracing diversity; centering health and wellness; and encouraging students to take a seat at the table. How we live out our values together shapes our culture and community.
The culture and community at RPCS are not static entities; they are dynamic and everevolving. They shift with time and understanding. Experiences bring enlightenment. Clarity emerges from discerning questions and persistent courage.
Any clear path forward requires a well-conceived plan We are proud to present our plan, RPCS: Stronger Together. The five clear goals of this plan are:
1.Build a foundation for an inclusive community.
2.Create a diverse and equitable workplace for employees.
3.Nurture an inclusive learning environment.
4.See, hear, and value all student voices and identities.
5.Embed our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion into our curriculum.
These goals were formed through many proactive conversations and listening sessions with our students, families, faculty, staff, and alumnae. As you review the following guiding principles and commitments for each of these goals, please note that this plan will grow and evolve as we continue to support our collective needs. We expect a dynamic learning process to unfold as a model for our students, faculty, and staff. Our community will continue to strengthen and deepen its relationships with one another through this process.
Warmly,
Joan Smith, HA, GP'24 Interim Head of School
W.Kyle Gore, P’15, P’17, P’20 President, Board of Trustees
Elisha James, P’18 Assistant Head of School for Culture, Community and Belonging
GOAL ONE: Build a Foundation for an Inclusive Community
Guiding Principle:
We will create a culture where everyone feels a sense of belonging, where there is increased collaboration among all stakeholders, and where there is a commitment to strengthening culture and community.
We are committed to the following:
• Creating an All-School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team.
• Working with our Culture, Community and Belonging Office and Committee, Board of Trustees, Parents’ Association, and Alumnae Association to align institutional goals and priorities.
• Centering our Inclusion Statement in every area of our work as an institution.
• Continuing to provide scholarships and funding to ensure equitable access to an RPCS education.
GOAL TWO: Create a Diverse and Equitable Workplace for Employees
Guiding Principle: Our intentional approach to equitable practices in recruiting and retaining employees will create a professional community that reflects a diverse range of backgrounds, interests, and experiences.
We are committed to the following:
• Hiring and retention practices intended to build and maintain a faculty, staff and administration that reflects diversity in its many facets.
• Creating a community where all students see themselves represented in the adults teaching and leading them.
• Partnering with colleges, universities, and other professional institutions to maximize exposure and recruitment of a diverse workforce.
• Building a stronger sense of belonging and connectedness for all employees by:
– Educating our community on cultural competencies to minimize the biases that show up in the workplace.
– Strengthening the onboarding and offboarding procedures and programs to support employees and maintain culture.
GOAL THREE: Nurture an Inclusive Learning Environment
Guiding Principle:
We will practice the principles of culturally responsive teaching and learning, and our community will reflect and embrace all of our students.
We are committed to the following:
• Ensuring an integrated approach to teaching students diversity, equity, and inclusion topics in developmentally appropriate ways.
• Continuing to invest in the implementation of foundational training and professional development experiences for faculty and employees, including new hires and substitute teachers.
• Investing in training and opportunities for growing and evolving in restorative practices and respectful dialogue.
• Partnering with parents to ensure that all perspectives are heard.
GOAL FOUR:
See, Hear, and Value
All Student Voices and Identities
Guiding Principle: We are committed to growing and learning as we create an educational environment where a diverse student population thrives.
We are committed to the following:
• Providing an opportunity for students to regularly share their perspectives and experiences with School leadership.
• Ensuring that our DEI, Wellness and Leadership programs continue to uphold our commitments to cultivate a strong community built upon our collaborative culture and sense of belonging.
• Maintaining an all school student wellness and engagement team that closely monitors programs and policies that support the diverse needs and identities of all students.
• Expanding faculty resources through the guidance of the Learning Support Team to enable neurodiverse students to excel in an intellectually challenging environment.
• Implementing policies and procedures which ensure a consistent approach to community, diversity, equity and belonging in all aspects of student life.
GOAL FIVE: Embed our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion into our Curriculum
Guiding Principle: Our intentional approach to teaching and the diverse ways students learn and thrive at RPCS are integral to our diversity, equity, and inclusion work.
We are committed to the following:
• Continuing to create a culturally responsive approach to teaching and learning at each division.
• Ensuring that the curriculum, educational experiences, and guest speakers represent the diverse backgrounds, experiences and identities of our students in grades K-12.
• Creating classroom communities that encourage bold and respectful dialogue and an openness to diverse ways of thinking.
• Embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion goals and feedback into the teaching and learning evaluation process for teachers.
RPCS ANTI-RACISM AND ANTIDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
We dedicate ourselves to addressing our own personal and institutional biases, practices, policies, and procedures. We affirm our commitment to identifying, addressing, and eradicating discrimination based on all oppressive acts including, but not limited to, race and religion, within our community.
You Belong. At Roland Park Country School, we strive for equity and understanding in all we do. We cultivate a safe and healthy environment where we welcome and appreciate each student, employee, family, graduate, and guest. As a joyful, diverse community, we celebrate differences for the value and strength they bring to RPCS.