Inclusion at Aspen Academy | Be Kind | Pre K, Elementary & Middle School

CULTURE, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Celebrating Culture, Diversity & Inclusion

At Aspen Academy, we proudly uphold the values of being kind; doing good, working hard, and making the world better. These principles are at the heart of our commitment to fostering cultural competency, diversity and inclusion.

Cultural competency is defined as the ability to effectively interact with people from cultures different from one’s own, especially through a knowledge and appreciation of cultural differences.

Cultural dimensions can include, but are not limited to:

Race/ ethnicity
National origin/ nationality
Age/ generation
Religion- practicing, background, affiliations, etc.
Ability/Disability
Geographic Origin
Occupation
Education
Sexuality
Language spoken
Gender
Neurodiversity
Socio-economic
Family culture
Political affiliation

Our Mission and Vision
Mission: We edify and inspire students, parents, and educators to grow, learn, and lead.
Vision: We are a national leader in innovative and transformative education.

Our mission and vision are a testament to our dedication to nurturing leaders who not only excel academically but also embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential components of their journey to be an effective and culturally competent citizen and leader.

We are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive community among our students, families, professional team members and stakeholders. Our commitment to being kind and doing good create a welcoming environment where every individual feels valued and included.

Diversity Fosters Excellence
We firmly believe that a broadly diverse community fosters empathy, enriches teaching and learning, and promotes intellectual excellence and strong character. Our excellence is intrinsically linked to the diversity within our community.

Mutual Regard and Respect
We hold everyone within our school community in mutual regard and respect. Our multitude of histories, perspectives and identities are an essential part of the Aspen experience. Conduct that is disrespectful, disparaging, or unprofessional is strictly prohibited, as is harassment based on any protected basis, including but not limited to race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.

Leadership Through Inclusivity
We recognize that the leadership skills of our students are shaped by their ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. We actively engage our students with the broader community, encouraging them to become responsible, thoughtful contributors to society.

A Foundation for Tomorrow's Leaders
A learning environment enriched with diverse viewpoints and backgrounds is essential to a complete educational experience. Our commitment to making the world better is deeply rooted in our belief that cultural competency, diversity and inclusion serve as anchors for the leaders of tomorrow.

Aspen Academy stands as a beacon of values-driven education, where Be Kind, Do Good, Work Hard, and Make the World Better intersect with our mission, vision, and unique leadership development program to create an exceptional educational experience for all.

Join us on this journey of embracing diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion, where our values guide us toward a brighter, more inclusive future. Together, we learn, grow, and strive for a more inclusive world, where every individual's voice is heard, valued, and respected.

Student Engagement

Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI): The Intercultural Development Inventory provides a framework to support our students' intercultural competence. It helps them develop the knowledge and skills necessary to engage effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Daily Personal Leadership Development Class: We integrate the daily leadership development class’ lessons into the curriculum to ensure that our students are developing mastery of durable skills to be competent and empathetic leaders.
STAMP (Students Taking Action and Making Progress) Conference: This is an annual event where our students come together to take action and make progress in addressing issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It's a platform for our young leaders to drive positive change.
Citizenship: During our citizenship development programs and events, we focus on teaching our students the importance of being engaged citizens in an interdependent world. They learn about civic responsibility, justice, and the value of diversity through various activities and discussions.
Civil Rights Washington DC Trip: Our Washington DC trip is an educational journey where middle school students explore the historical landmarks and events that have shaped our nation's civil rights movement. It's an immersive experience that deepens their understanding of equity and justice.
Clubs and Groups: Students are encouraged to start clubs and groups that will enrich their own personal experience and growth.
- SILC (Student Inclusion Leadership Club): This is a student-led organization dedicated to promoting inclusion and diversity within our school community. SILC members actively engage in projects and initiatives that celebrate our differences and bring us closer together.
- Student Affinity Groups: Student Affinity Groups provide a safe space for students who share a common identity or interest to come together. These groups foster community building, empowerment, and positive self-awareness. Affinity groups help students celebrate their uniqueness while fostering inclusivity.

Family Engagement

Weekly Table Talk Topics: Every week, the school newsletter includes table topics for family dinner conversation Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI): Our commitment to cultural competency and inclusion extends to our families. We offer resources and opportunities for families to enhance their intercultural competence through the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). Enrolled families are encouraged to participate in the IDI assessment for their own personal growth by contacting our Head of School at kristina.scala@aspenacademy.or g. Ms. Scala is a certified Intercultural Development Facilitator who engages families in important conversations that allow for deep personal growth.
Intercultural Development Book Clubs: We organize Intercultural Development Book Clubs for families to engage in thoughtful discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion. These clubs provide a platform for shared learning and growth.
Experts: We invite experts in the domains of cultural competency, diversity, equity and inclusion to speak to our families, providing valuable insights and perspectives on fostering learning and growth as well as inclusivity within our school community.
Affinity Groups: Affinity Groups are not limited to students; we also offer them for our families. These groups provide parents with a supportive community where they can connect with others who share similar backgrounds or interests.

Faculty Engagement

Annual Intercultural Development Inventory and Personal Development Plan: Our faculty actively participates in the Annual Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) assessment and develops Personal Development Plans to enhance their cultural competency. This commitment ensures that our educators lead by example.
Culture and Inclusion Team: Our Culture and Inclusion team is a group of thoughtful members of our professional community dedicated to driving our cultural competency and inclusion initiatives.
Affinity Groups: Just like our students and families, our faculty has the opportunity to create or join Affinity Groups. These groups provide a supportive space for faculty members to connect based on shared identities or interests.
NAIS Diversity Leadership Institute and NAIS People of Color Conferences: We engage in professional development by attending events like the NAIS Diversity Leadership Institute and NAIS People of Color Conference. These experiences enrich their cultural competency and bring fresh insights to our school.

At Aspen Academy, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion, diversity, and cultural competency. Our commitment extends to students, families, and faculty, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, valued and deeply cared for within our school community.

Religion & Spiritual Life

At Aspen Academy, we celebrate the many faith traditions and spiritual diversity within our community, and along the way, nurture discovery, understanding, and dialogue. We recognize that varying perspectives exist within different faith traditions. We are clear that in our role as school, it is our role to teach students how to think critically, but not what to think. Respect and deference for our families’ beliefs and norms is a cornerstone in culturally competent educational leadership.

We encourage open dialogue on all aspects of cultural diversity, including religion. In partnership with our families, we host programs and events that deepen our cultural awareness and understanding of others' histories, norms, and beliefs, fostering appreciation for our community's spiritual tapestry.

We deeply cherish this beautiful tapestry of beliefs that our families bring, and we embrace the opportunity to learn from one another. This commitment reflects our dedication to fostering an inclusive and soulful community where all are valued and respected for their individual journeys and beliefs.

Learning, Growing, Leading: Relevant Blogs

Celebrating Spring: Cultural Celebrations and Renewal

Jessie Skipwith

At Aspen Academy, where values of kindness, diligence, and global citizenship are cherished, the richness of diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated. We are fortunate to see how these various springtime cultural celebrations, from Ramadan to Easter, Holi, and beyond, resonate with Aspen Academy's commitment to growth in cultural competency.

Women's History Month - Honoring the Past: Inspiring Futures

Jessie Skipwith

Women's History Month is a time to reflect on the remarkable achievements, struggles, and progress made by women throughout history and across different cultures. Here at Aspen Academy, this is a time to honor the trailblazers who have shattered glass ceilings, the activists who have worked - and continue to work tirelessly for equality, and the unsung heroes whose stories have often been forgotten or overlooked.

Celebrating Cultural Richness: Aspen Academy's Lunar New Year Traditions

Jess Cho and Jessie Skipwith

Aspen Academy thrives on the spirit of partnership and collaboration, where families, students, and faculty come together to create unforgettable experiences. One shining example of this collaborative effort is the remarkable Lunar New Year programming brought to our school by a dedicated parent, Mrs. Jennifer McPhie.

Welcome to Aspen Academy, a diverse and inclusive community committed to kindness, doing good, working hard, and making the world better. We celebrate our unique differences, knowing that together, we create something truly extraordinary.

As Director of Elevate, I'm excited to share that our dedication to cultural competency, diversity and inclusion is an intrinsic part of our program. Here, your child will thrive in a supportive and enriching environment, learning from a tapestry of backgrounds and experiences.

Join us in shaping future leaders who understand and appreciate the world's incredible diversity. At Aspen Academy, every child's story matters, and together, we're creating a brighter future.

Warmest regards,

Jessie Skipwith
Director of Elevate

Diversity and Inclusion Philosophy and Policy

Action Plan

Diversity and Inclusion Philosophy and Policy

ACTION PLAN