LM Feb.2021_lo

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and acknowledge the contributions of persons from varied cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds to fully appreciate all of humanity. Why was it important for your district to change its approach to teaching Black history? Q The current teaching of Black history in our system is incomplete, diluted and narrowed minded. We must teach our children about power, equity and oppression so they can learn and not repeat that painful mistakes of history. They deserve truth and the entire story. A Your district had deep discussions and put forward a plan to address racially disproportionate discipline. What advice do you have for your peers who are looking to address racial inequities in their districts? Q

We used the Root Cause Analysis Model to help us to get to the core. We also explore gaps, strengths and weaknesses. Each school

in Peoria Public Schools designed a plan that works specifically for the building that aligned with their data. Some of their activities included training, staff conversation, book studies and so on. Also, in our system there is continuous and consistent review of discipline data using protocols, utilizing a problem- solving team to solve problems, strong SEL programming and training and leveraging community resources. Is there anything school leaders can do to increase the pool of African Americans going into education as a career? Q

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I like the idea of removing the barriers and instead help them in every way possible to get the education necessary to be educators. What

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5 LM February 2021