During a recent board meeting, Shoreline School District officials presented an update on their ongoing equity alignment efforts, emphasizing the integration of equity practices into their strategic planning and budget considerations. District Academic Officer Mike Van Orden and Director of Equitable Leadership Pedagogy and Family Engagement, Chuan May, led the discussion, highlighting the district's commitment to equity as outlined in their race and equity policy.

The presentation underscored the importance of accountability in equity initiatives, detailing how the district aims to align its practices with its strategic plan despite facing budgetary challenges. Van Orden acknowledged that while the current report may not fully reflect the strategic plan's indicators, it serves as a foundation for future improvements.

Key areas of focus included the implementation of equitable literacy practices, particularly at the elementary level, where the district is exploring low-cost, evidence-based curricula that reflect diverse perspectives. The middle and high school levels are also prioritizing social and emotional learning, alongside ongoing professional development in ethnic studies.

The district's commitment to anti-racism was highlighted, with discussions on enhancing school climate and staff training to address the root causes of inequity. The board was informed about the integration of equity into the new teacher evaluation framework, which emphasizes culturally responsive teaching and family engagement.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the district's multi-tiered system of support (MTSS), which aims to provide tailored academic and social-emotional assistance to students. Teams within schools are being guided to analyze disaggregated data to ensure equitable outcomes for all student groups.

The presentation concluded with a commitment to continuous reflection and adaptation of equity practices, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially. The district plans to provide further updates on their progress in January, reinforcing their dedication to fostering an inclusive educational environment.