2018-10-05-LHRC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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• LPS would like to continue exploring antecedents to the behavior and documentation of the same. • Discussed disparity in suspensions even between principals in the same grade span, and the need to clarify expectations and calibrate, which the administrators are working together to do. • Mentioned disparities also exist in municipal, state and national levels • Mentioned disparities existed not just students of color and special needs students and wanted to broaden the study. • Wants to engage community in shaping thinking on these issues. • Dr. Hackett referenced Mr. Osborne's ongoing input which is not fully reflected in the paper specifically. • Discussed equity audit. • Discussed anonymous reporting mechanism— 1) using bullying form— perhaps rebranding it 2)looking at equity audit 3) consultant 4) focus groups 5)leveling practices 6) bringing in outside experts to tackle these issues • Also, Dr. Hackett noted that she and the Administrative Council will continue to study the Attorney General's guide to civil rights in schools, alternatives to suspensions, and increasing diversity of staff. • Dr. Hackett encouraged everyone to read Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and provide feedback through the online survey. Summary of Discussion— • Ms. Brodner thanked Dr. Hackett for moving things along. • Ms. Gisolfi appreciates the immediacy of actions. • Ms. Roy echoed thanks and mentioned concerns on the focus shifting away from African American students who have a documented 5-6 x suspension rate. • Dr. Hackett responded saying that while it is true that the documented disparity in suspensions and other areas is the highest for African American students and then IEP/504 students, she wanted to be inclusive of other groups (e.g. LGBTQ and Hispanic). • Dr. Hackett discussed plans for various (specifics TBD)training across the board including active bystander training, • Dr. Hackett suggested adding a note to the parents of children who are suspended to get an announcement saying if you feel that your civil rights have been violated, you can report it to the LHRC and include a link or possibly just having a link to the LHRC reporting form on the LP website. • Mr. Osborne noted that this is a decades old problem, glad to see that it is being looked at holistically, suggested watching METCO anniversary documentary, mentioned the issues and concerns regarding reporting, and striving for excellence in this area, 1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE•LEXINGTON,MASSACHUSETTS 02420