Six RCDS Upper School student leaders participated in the 27th Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC). Trained adult and peer facilitators led the multiracial, multicultural gathering of upper school student leaders, which this year was guided by the theme “Reckoning with Impacts, Rolling with Just Intent.” The five-day virtual conference helped over 2,000 participating student delegates from across the United States and abroad build new, diverse networks as they developed cross-cultural communication skills, designed effective strategies for social justice, and learned the foundations of allyship.
This year, RCDS also partnered with Hackley School to co-host in-person gatherings for participants from each school. Hackley welcomed students for an opening session, and RCDS hosted the culminating event. At each gathering, students participated in the virtual conference sessions and then engaged in thoughtful discussions with peers and teachers.
Concurrently, eight RCDS faculty and staff delegates participated the NAIS People of Color Conference (POCC), which supports educators at all levels in becoming active leaders in improving the interracial, interethnic, and intercultural climate in their school communities.
Both conferences fostered meaningful connections and productive dialogue. Later in the year, RCDS student and faculty participants will share their insights from the experience to the greater community.
“Part of what makes SDLC and POCC so special is the energy that comes from a diverse group of committed folks from all over the country coming together, unified in purpose. I am especially proud of our student leaders for connecting with our fellow Fairchester students at Hackley and modeling partnership as a way of leading.”--Ali Morgan, Director of Diversity & Inclusion