08/26/2020
A Diversity & Equity Advisory Committee for Rockwall ISD would represent an institutional commitment to the fundamental standard that all students - regardless of their background, gender or sexual expression, income, race, or religion - should feel included and be supported. Our Rockwall ISD teachers and campus leaders should be committed to this standard and virtually all the people we discussed with were.
In early June, we met with Rockwall Heath High School & Rockwall High School principals, Kevin Samples and Todd Bradford where we learned how even with well-intended campus leadership, the District will have to provide critical support to ensure a greater commitment to diversity & equity. Both were in support for DEAC.
In early July, we met with Rockwall Heath associate principal, Kirstin Marceau, where we discussed the importance of DEAC for Rockwall ISD in conjunction with anti-racism committees at the campus level to cultivate an environment that moves towards racial reconciliation. This meeting was followed by a conversation with Doug Frank, the district’s English & Language Arts coordinator who mentioned the work he has been shepherding to cultivate a more inclusive curriculum for those classrooms. Both were in support for DEAC.
In between these major meetings, we had conversations with numerous teachers, PTA members, & school board candidates where we explained why DEAC would be valuable for Rockwall ISD and virtually all were in support.
After presenting the insights of these discussions with RISD Superintendent, John Villarreal, he provided a verbal affirmation that he would personally establish a diversity council by the start of the school. We have continued to push for this initiative, and have received the support of many community members.
