School Leaders Toolkit
An Introduction to Our Shared Materials
Resources for District and School Leaders Seeking to
Defend Public Education and Fulfill their Commitment to All Students
American education and schools are at a pivotal turning point in a highly politicized environment. As school and district leaders, you are facing challenges daily as you navigate how race and gender shape the individual and collective identities of your students, school communities and society. You are being asked to speak on divisive topics of vital importance to deeply invested audiences.
One way or another, you are all being affected by the current culture wars: Some of you are focused on building community and dialogue to avoid the potential conflicts that are happening in so many places; some of you are in the middle of crisis, seeking ways to decrease tensions, continue your diversity initiatives, and find a productive path forward; and others of you may be on the other side of the most intense clashes and working to rebuild trust and understanding in their school communities.
You are seeking ways to better understand the concerns of your community members, keep the doors of civil and productive dialogue open, and articulate your decisions and values to your school community.
Despite the conflict and confrontation, you are committed to preserving the crucial institution of public education, and upholding your charge to provide safe schools and high quality learning for all your students.
It can be hard to know what to say, what to do, and what information to trust. Our resources are designed to help you navigate complicated circumstances in your school communities in a way that will help you stay the course, engage your community members in brave and honest conversation, and articulate the purpose, reasoning and values that drive your decisions. They will be updated regularly to reflect up-to-date research and public understanding. We cannot give up the righteous work of providing young people with high quality public education that gives them well-rounded, safe and engaging educational experiences and helps them grow into empathetic, responsible community members.
We’re with you. We’re listening. Please let us know what else might be helpful for you and your peers as you continue the fundamental work of advocating for our students. Thank you for everything that you do.
Toolkit Table of Contents
For Leaders Trying to Prevent a Crisis
For Leaders In the Middle of a Crisis
For All Leaders