The Fessenden School’s Inclusion Statement
We believe that differences of backgrounds, perspectives, and cultures are integral to preparing boys to be successful young men in a global community. Ongoing, mindful practice of inclusion requires both individual and institutional commitment to self-examination and learning. We further our mission to be a joyfully inclusive community by aligning policies, curriculum, and decision-making to support diversity and inclusion. Inclusion is at the heart of how we treat each other in our daily interactions.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Defined
The Fessenden community is continuously learning and growing in the effort to implement the School’s Inclusion Statement and ensure this is a truly joyful and inclusive place for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and families.
Diversity
Equity
Inclusion
Fessenden’s core values—honesty, compassion, and respect—are the foundation of our inclusive educational approach. Our uniquely diverse community spans the globe, bringing together students from a multitude of cultural, racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and family experiences. Our effort to build and nurture a diverse and inclusive environment has its roots in the educational mission of the School, and also supports our belief in the advancement of social justice and equity in our world.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Action
Across our community, we create spaces for open dialogue, learning, and understanding through affinity, multicultural, and discussion groups. Whether the boys are learning from our international students, engaging with our surrounding communities in ways that mean the most to them through the character education curriculum, or interacting with guest speakers about racial justice, gender roles, bullying, and more—boys are learning how to engage in a diverse community as good citizens.
This requires us to be mindful and create a space where we model what the outside world looks like, and be equipped to handle the challenges. In the classroom, lessons explore these topics from a personal and academic point of view. Parents are encouraged to contribute and connect with each other through adult affinity groups, such as AKIN, and by volunteering to be part of our Parents Association multicultural committee, Bridges.
There is a collective effort that goes into making change and understanding that everyone plays a part in creating an equitable and inclusive world.
Affinity and Multicultural Groups for Students and Families
All aspects of the Fessenden experience are associated with identity in some way, including sports, music ensembles, or grade level. Some specific aspects of identity are associated with these organizations, which provide resources and support for both students and parents.
Affinity Groups
This organization builds community and shared experiences among those who self-identify as Asian. Members attend three lunch meetings per month, which are open to Fessenden community members of any background. The Society hosts an annual Asian-themed cultural event for the entire school community.
Students of ancestry from countries where Spanish is the primary language convene to celebrate shared identities and discuss common challenges. There is not a regular meeting schedule.
This organization is a place of comfort and support to students of African descent where they can express themselves while fostering brotherhood. VOICE holds weekly lunch meetings.
Multicultural Groups
This parent-led organization develops parent and family programming and supports school-led initiatives that honor differences in backgrounds, perspectives and cultures within the Fessenden community. Events are held throughout the year.
This program is open to all Fessenden students in Grades 7-9 and seeks to empower male students with the skills and mindset to engage the full range of diversity in our school community. After an initial workshop, during which participants grapple with topics related to ethnicity, gender, and privilege, Impact participants meet monthly. Boys emerge prepared to foster diversity and make positive contributions in any school community they join after Fessenden.