DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
Calhoun strives to build a learning environment with our core values of diversity, equity and inclusion at the center.
We believe diversity, equity and inclusion are essential to our academic program because they create opportunities for critical thinking and analysis, social/emotional skill acquisition, self-expression and design thinking. Calhoun views DEI work as a foundational component of our educational program and of the school's mission.
John Gentile
Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Related Stories
Ben Baron, Director of Winds and Brass, developed Calhoun's Composition Initiative to "address race and gender-related inequities in student music." He commissioned three composers of diverse backgrounds to put together pieces for Calhoun's musicians.
In honor of Black History/Futures Month, first graders in Tina and Latoya's class selected three African American women who had a big impact on American culture: Katherine Johnson, Nina Simone and Mae Jemison. Students made connections between their stories, and were able to identify similar challenges they faced.
Calhoun celebrated Black History/Futures Month by reflecting on the past and current contributions of Black people to the world. We loved having conversations about how to amplify Black voices and experiences in our community. Learn more about this year's theme, Black Excellence: Everyday, Everywhere.
Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month, which is celebrated from September 15 through October 15, is about honoring and uplifting the voices of our Hispanic/Latinx community
Calhoun built upon its established diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programming by adding a number of new elements, expanding partnerships and responding to the needs of our growing community.
Calhoun celebrated Black History/Futures Month in the classroom and beyond. With special guests and community events, students across divisions engaged in work that explored this year's theme of The Future is Black: Radical Joy and Justice.
Affinity groups at Calhoun offer students the opportunity to explore their own racial identities in safe spaces. As they delve into complex and nuanced topics around race, they are supported by fellow students and facilitators who share a common identity.
During the summer of 2020, Upper Schoolers came together to found the Diversity and Accountability Board (D.A.B.). Working with administrators, D.A.B. aims to make Calhoun a more equitable community for all.
By Ellen Kwon
Upper School English teacher Ellen Kwon reflects on the process of choosing texts for her class and discusses the importance of representation as her classes explore a diverse selection of literary voices.
Asher B. '20 combined classical music and social justice for his Junior Workshop project. Through research and a discussion group, Asher's project shed light on issues of equity and diversity in the classical music community.