A Message from our Superintendent
June 1, 2020
Dear Greendale Schools Families,
I would like to offer my sincere support to those impacted by systemic racism and the inhumane treatment by individuals within the very system intended to protect their rights. For far too long, people of color have been mistreated simply because of the color of their skin. On behalf of Greendale Schools, I extend an apology to all current and former students who have experienced hurt and bias in our schools. This was and is unacceptable and we will do better.
Dismantling bias within ourselves, our children and our communities must happen every day, not just when a brutal murder captures our attention and triggers our outrage. We are reminded through the loss of life and resulting unrest that our work requires fast action and understanding every day to transform our communities and end the suffering caused by racial injustice.
Greendale was founded with segregated housing policies that shaped its community institutions. It is necessary for our thinking and these systems to evolve and we are working to do so. Last October, community members charted a course to Welcome Diversity in Greendale. The resulting plan was adopted by community leaders and is underway. It is shared on the district and Village websites and printed copies are available at the Community Learning Center. The murders of George Floyd, Joel Acevedo, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery indicate why this work is more important than ever. I will continue to focus efforts on racial and ethnic equity and encourage continued collaboration with Village leaders.
An update on the Welcoming Diversity Action Plan will be presented to the School Board and the Village Board when they meet on Tuesday, June 9 at 7:00 p.m. Please join the meeting through the livestream on YouTube.
Tonight, the Board of Education approved the hiring of Maggy Olson as Director of Equity & Instruction for Greendale Schools. This role will provide emphasis on equity and access to excellence in educational programming for all students. Ms. Olson values this focus area greatly and her work in this role will allow her to demonstrate the firm belief that ALL students can and will be successful when there is a clear vision of equity in all programs, policies, practices, and procedures. We look forward to her leadership in our schools and continuing the professional learning for our teachers, administrators, and staff.
As you answer your children’s questions about these unsettling times, please consider the resources below for information. These links are also shared on the district website School Safety & Student Wellness page.
Sincerely,
Kim Amidzich, Superintendent
Teaching Tolerance Resources to Talk About Race
Let's Talk! Discussing Race, Racism and Other Difficult Topics With Students - Use the strategies in this resource as you prepare to talk with students about the historical roots and contemporary manifestations of racial inequality and discrimination.
Teaching About Race, Racism and Police Violence These resources can help spur discussions about implicit bias and systemic racism, and empower students to work toward a more just society.
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