Issue link: http://latinschool.uberflip.com/i/326961
29 L AT I N S C H O O L O F C H I C A G O support systems does the school have in place? How can the school ensure that these students thrive at Latin and beyond? As Latin embarked on its most recent strategic planning process, it took another step forward with the articulation of the following core value of the school: "We embrace diversity within our school and in Chicago, knowing that it deepens our learning and enhances our empathy." is core value serves as a reminder of Latin's role and responsibility as one of the city's top educational institutions and the significance of diversity to learning and in fostering the values that will help students to become positive change agents. During the 2013-14 school year, dozens of faculty, staff and students embraced this core value as they participated in numerous equity and inclusion efforts, both large and small, in all three divisions of the school. Often grassroots, with one teacher or student deciding to pursue a passion in this area, these initiatives have added vibrancy to the conversation about diversity and have pushed our community to challenge itself in new ways. "We embrace diversity within our school and in Chicago, knowing that it deepens our learning and enhances our empathy." to Diversity and Inclusiveness In the following pages, we highlight some of the people who have made a commitment to diversity through their work in their classes, in developing curriculum or in their discussions about creating a school-wide multicultural pedagogy. Outside the classroom, they have contributed as members and leaders of affinity groups and clubs, through professional development and by creating safe and supportive spaces for students and faculty to discuss the often-uncomfortable issues surrounding diversity in thoughtful and honest ways. With these initiatives, the establishment of a K-12 Diversity Council and the creation of roles like the advocate for middle and upper school students of color and the middle school justice and equity intern, Latin is ready to embrace the next challenges in being a truly excellent school.