Shaler Area School District, as part of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU), and along with all 42 school districts and five career and technical centers (CTCs) in suburban Allegheny County have issued the following joint statement reaffirming our organizations’ commitment to students and families of all backgrounds, and standing against acts of prejudice and racism.
“As Allegheny County educators, we strive to ensure welcoming, inclusive, and safe learning environments for all of our students and families. We are committed to nurturing schools where each and every child is respected and valued as an individual regardless of skin color, gender, orientation, religion, ability or disability, or any other category.
We stand together in support of our students and families of color and against acts of prejudice and racism. We will continue to work to ensure educational equity for all students and stand in solidarity with our black and brown students and families."
In recent weeks, our country has reached a breaking point, and as a school district, we have a responsibility as we prepare the next generation of leaders and citizens. The tragic death of George Floyd and other similar incidents of racial inequality highlight the importance of teaching acceptance, inclusion, and anti-racism. As educators, we need to collectively stand to abolish racism and discrimination in our school district, community, region, and world. The 42 school districts that make up Allegheny County (AIU3) collectively stand together in our commitment to create a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for all of our students and families, but we also need to join together as a school district community to do the same. Some may wonder what we can do. At this time, I think the easiest and best thing to do is listen. After listening, I believe action is required and the next steps are what we do best – love and connect, care for, and serve those around us who may need our support the most. We were created for such a time as this!
Please stand with us as we rise as a district to embrace our students and families of color. Together, we can and will make a significant difference. I know we are heading into summer during a time of great tension and unprecedented uncertainty, but I believe we can still unite as one and make a difference in our community right now. In the coming weeks, we will be convening small groups of people to have discussions about how we can and will take the next steps as a school district to understand and embrace differences. The Shaler Area School District is committed to being the change in our community, the region, and the state. Please join us as we work to educate, expose, and eradicate racism and discrimination within our community and build a culture where there is respect and love for all.