Faculty Learn from One Another
Faculty Groups Inquire About Race
Every member of the faculty and staff participated in "Race Inquiry Groups" throughout the 2020-21 school year, launched in the early days of August before students arrived for the year. In these small-group meetings multiple times during the year, faculty and staff reflected together, debriefed large-group professional development, and often discussed books, podcasts, or other shared resources. Between group sessions, each faculty and staff member completes individual work and reflection meant to deepen their understanding of race and racial identity.
"I have been really grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Racial Inquiry experience. At the very beginning of the year, Ali Michael invited our team into a posture of curiosity around how race informs the way we interpret our reality and thereby manifests in our teaching practices. I have so appreciated the way Westminster has designated time for our racial inquiry work at least once each trimester and supported us in each of our individual journeys. The opportunity to engage in this work in the context of community has been such a privilege, and I have grown from the opportunity to do so with colleagues both within my division and cross divisionally. I look forward to continuing this important work next year and in the years to come!"
White People Confronting Racism Workshop
Twenty faculty and staff members from across the School took part in a three-day “White People Confronting Racism” workshop with consultant and longtime Westminster partner Dr. Ali Michael. Participants examined the historical and cultural context of racism, reflected on their own relationships with race, and worked through strategies for personal action plans.
"My goal in taking part was to learn and grow as a person and to gain understanding and perspective that will allow me to be a voice for positive change. It is such a blessing to work at a place that encourages healthy conversation and growth around tough but important issues. Athletics is such a large part of the Westminster experience and offers so many life lessons beyond the competitive arena. It’s important to take advantage of any opportunity that allows us to gain a better understanding of and appreciation for ALL the kids we impact. I left the workshop feeling like I was better equipped to understand the issues facing ALL of our student athletes."
—Scott Cain, Middle School Physical Education Teacher, Coach, and Athletics Department Coordinator of Coaching Development
Built with Shorthand