Kristen Mariotti, Senior Associate Director of Admission The Ethel Walker School, CT

Every minority student on campus should be served in a way that is equitable and assures retention.

According to Beverly D. Tatum in “Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?” the ABC’s of creating inclusive learning environments are affirming identity, building community, and cultivating leadership. Students must see themselves reflected in their environment, in the curriculum, and in the faculty. Encouraging students to engage in affinity groups with other students of the same cultural or ethnic background helps to affirm identity as well as to build community. In addition, recruiting faculty of color should be a top priority for schools working toward helping to build community. Teachers of color currently comprise only 15% of our faculties.

Ethel Walker School has a model program for supporting a diverse population, including an Equity and Social Justice team.