Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB)
OUR VISION AND MISSION
Benchmark School strives to build a culture that honors the dignity and value of every race, religion, ethnicity, economic means, family structure, physical ability, age, sex, sexual identity, gender identity, and approach to learning. Individual introspection, open dialogue, and institutional reflection are critical and ongoing elements to building a just, equitable, and inclusive school community.
We embrace and affirm diverse beliefs and backgrounds in our curriculum, professional development, hiring practices, admissions, professional relationships, event programming, and most especially, among the lived relationships of our students. We believe this work is a responsibility held by all and done for all.
Benchmark's Cycle of DEIB Inquiry
OUR PROCESS
The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Working Group is a standing committee composed of faculty, staff, administration, and trustees. Its purpose is to be the sustainable structure that advances the school’s work in diversity, equity and inclusion in all areas of the institution from the classroom to the broader community of faculty, staff, students, parents and trustees.
The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Working Group’s focus includes the following strategic areas:
1. Curriculum Development and Delivery
2. Policy and Governance
3. Faculty and Staff Experience
4. Student Life
5. Family Experience and Belonging
A dedicated subcommittee for each strategic area researches, learns, listens, articulates best practices, consults, and provides important recommendations. These recommendations are further solidified through a strategic plan. Each subcommittee applies a “systems thinking approach” to problem solving.
In addition to undertaking the work above, the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Working Group will conduct periodic needs assessments to discern the priorities for the school’s commitment to DEIB.
Greater Philadelphia Diversity Collaborative
Benchmark School is a member of the Greater Philadelphia Diversity Collaborative, a consortium of smaller independent schools who have banded together to share resources around diversity.
Benchmark School is proud to be active in GPDC's Elementary Student Diversity Days, with both students taking part as participants and teachers leading workshops and activities.