In SAU16, educational equity means assessing the unique and different needs of our learners and meeting those needs by fairly allocating resources, access, support, and opportunity so that all students can achieve optimal learning outcomes. Through the framework of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), we work to ensure that students receive the appropriate interventions and resources to support their academic, social, and emotional growth. Working towards equity may also involve addressing barriers that students face as well as assessing policies, practices, and institutional cultures (e.g. core values, norms and expectations, communication styles, etc.) for fairness.

Resources on MTSS

https://www.education.nh.gov/who-we-are/division-of-learner-support/bureau-of-student-wellness/office-of-social-and-emotional-wellness/mtssb

Belonging in SAU16 means that students, families, and staff are valued as full members of their schools and broader communities, are accountable to one another, and can thrive.

SAU 16 engages all community members from the organization’s seven school districts. Collectively, we aim to ensure that our schools are places where individuals of all backgrounds and experiences are welcomed and where personal narratives are heard, included, and valued. Our vision is that all students will grow with confidence, empathy, and understanding of what is right so that they may advocate for these ideals in the world.

SAU 16 holds as a core value the respect and celebration of all human differences. We believe it is our moral responsibility to share with our students and families their power to pursue justice for all people. We are committed to taking risks and making mistakes, learning how to try on new ideas and perspectives and being vulnerable to opportunities in which we have no experience.

SAU 16 also addresses barriers that students face through the Anti-Discriminatory Task Force (ADTF). The ADTF, established at the end of the 2018-2019 school year, is a collaboration of school system staff and community members from the Greater Exeter area who respond to cases of alleged discrimination in our schools. While not the primary investigators of school incidents, the ADTF reviews redacted information from school cases to determine root causes and makes recommendations for corrective action.

These are a few of the examples of the steps we are taking to support our mission around creating equitable educational experiences for everyone. They are initial building blocks that we will add to and expand upon in the coming years. Please continue to visit the SAU 16 website for updates and ways to engage in this critical discussion.

Related Policies:

NONDISCRIMINATION, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT and

DISTRICT ANTI-DISCRIMINATION PLAN

TITLE IX PROHIBITION OF SEX DISCRIMINATION AND SEX-BASED

HARASSMENT: POLICY AND GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY

STUDENT SAFETY AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION JICK

– BULLYING