When it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in an independent school community, the head of school or academic assistant head is often the most vocal spokesperson on the issues. Every role, however, has a part to play in DEI, which is why NBOA’s Senior Director Human Resources Programs Amber Stockham developed an Operational Equity and Inclusion Inventory in conjunction with Jen Cort, equity and inclusion consultant, based on work by A Step Up Academy, a PK-12 day school for children with autism in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania.. This newly developed self-audit will help every staff member who touches school business understand how they can impact feelings of inclusion and belonging among everyone in their school community.
The chief business officer, as a senior leader who works with the board to fulfill the school’s mission, can help steer school-wide efforts to assess a school’s positioning, for example. Human resources professionals have an extensive role to play, not only through recruiting, hiring, onboarding and retention, but also HR administration, performance management and strategic HR responsibilities. Operations, including facilities and maintenance; finance and accounting; enrollment; technology; communications; advancement and auxiliary and non-tuition revenue departments all have distinct contributions as well.
The tool begins with instructions and guidance on how to begin and follow through with the inventory, and includes tailored checklists in 13 different areas. This inventory is available to NBOA members as complimentary benefit and unavailable to nonmembers due to the extensive resources that accompany the tool.
Below is a sample checklist, one of 13 included in the inventory, which also includes space for notes:
