Diversity and Inclusion Policy

At LightStars Academy, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and visitors. We believe that diversity and inclusion are integral to the well-being, personal growth, and academic success of our community. Our goal is to celebrate and promote the unique identities, perspectives, and talents of all individuals, fostering a culture of respect, understanding, and collaboration.

Why Have This Policy?

This policy aims to ensure that LightStars Academy is a school where diversity is recognized as a strength, and inclusion is embedded in all aspects of school life. We seek to:

• • Promote understanding, respect, and appreciation of diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.
  • Ensure equal opportunities and treatment for all members of the school community, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, socio-economic status, or any other characteristic.
  • Support the academic, social, and emotional development of all students, providing an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Who Does it Cover?

This policy applies to all students, staff, administrators, and visitors at LightStars Academy both on and off school premises, during school activities, and within the school community at large.

Our Commitment to Diversity

We recognize and value the differences among our students and staff. LightStars Academy will:

• • Encourage a diverse student body by promoting equal access to education, resources, and extracurricular opportunities.
  • Implement recruitment and hiring practices that foster diversity within the school staff and administration.
  • Provide curricula and resources that reflect diverse perspectives, cultures, histories, and viewpoints.
  • Celebrate cultural diversity through school-wide events, activities, and initiatives.
  • Continuously assess and revise policies and practices to eliminate barriers that may contribute to inequality.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

Inclusion is about creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their background, feels respected, supported, and valued. At LightStars Academy, we are committed to:

• • Ensuring all students, regardless of their differences, feel safe and welcome in the school community.
  • Promoting positive behaviors, understanding, and collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Offering training for staff, students, and parents on issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Providing resources and support for students with disabilities, English language learners, and other students with specific needs.
  • Establishing anti-bullying policies and practices that specifically address discrimination and harassment related to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and other forms of identity.

Respect for Gender Identity

At LightStars Academy, we affirm the importance of respecting each individual’s gender identity and pronouns. All students and staff are encouraged to:

• • Introduce themselves with their name and pronouns (e.g., she/her, he/him, they/them) in the classroom and during school activities.
  • Respect others by using their correct pronouns, as shared by the individual.
  • Understand that a person’s gender identity and pronouns may not always align with traditional gender norms, and it is important to honor their expressed preferences.
  • Correct themselves if they use incorrect pronouns and continue to use the correct pronouns moving forward. Mistakes are natural, but ongoing respect is essential.
  • Create an environment where everyone feels safe to express their gender identity and pronouns without fear of judgment, harassment, or exclusion.

Staff will receive training on understanding gender identity and pronouns, and this practice will be supported in all school communications, including forms, attendance records, and student interactions.

Prevention of Discrimination and Harassment

LightStars Academy is dedicated to maintaining an environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We will not tolerate any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying. All members of our school community are expected to:

• • Treat others with respect and empathy.
  • Recognize and challenge personal biases and prejudices.
  • Take responsibility for creating a positive, welcoming environment for everyone.

Discrimination, harassment, or bullying based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic will result in disciplinary action in accordance with the school’s student conduct policies.

Support and Resources

We will ensure that students have access to the support they need to succeed. This includes:

• • Access to school counselors, mental health resources, and peer support programs, as they become available.
  • Cultural competency and sensitivity training for staff and students.
  • Special education resources for students with disabilities and support for students with specific needs (e.g., English language learners).
  • Creating safe spaces for students from underrepresented groups to gather and receive support.

Accountability and Reporting

All members of the school community have a responsibility to uphold the values of diversity and inclusion. Any incidents of discrimination, harassment, or exclusion should be reported to school staff. LightStars Academy will:

• • Ensure there are clear and confidential channels for reporting concerns related to discrimination or exclusion.
  • Investigate all reports promptly and take appropriate actions based on the severity of the incident.
  • Provide a process for students, staff, and parents to engage in ongoing dialogue around diversity and inclusion issues.
  • Regularly evaluate and review the effectiveness of this policy and make adjustments as needed.

Our Conclusion is Inclusion

LightStars Academy is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion where all students and staff can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By embracing and celebrating our differences, we prepare our students to be thoughtful, responsible, and compassionate citizens in an increasingly diverse world.

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness.