In Elmira, our goal is to design an evolving educational system that aligns our practices in and out of school in ways that provide fairness, inclusion and support to students, families, district staff and the community
Diversity: Includes but is not limited to race, color, ethnicity, nationality, religion, socioeconomic status, veteran status, education, marital status, language, age, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, mental or physical ability, genetic information, and learning styles.
Inclusion: Authentically bringing traditionally excluded individuals and/or groups into processes, activities, and decision/policy making in a way that shares power and ensures equal access to opportunities and resources.
Equity: The guarantee of fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of all groups.
Source: NYSED Framework on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in New York’s Schools: A Call to Action
Initiatives & Upcoming Learning Opportunities
Express Equity: Cultivating Cultures of Equity and Excellence
The Express Equity group’s mission is to design an Elmira educational system that aligns our practices in and out of school in ways that provide fairness and inclusion. The work of this group will continue with further discussion, professional development, and action as a way to support students, families, district staff and the community. The group has three working groups focused on:
1. Human Resources and Training Opportunities
2. Curriculum and Instruction
3. Community Connections/Relationships
My Brother’s Keeper
The Elmira City School District has been awarded the NYSED "My Brother's Keeper" Grant Award, providing funds from 2021-2025 to support programming. The New York State My Brother’s Keeper initiative seeks to “Change the Narrative” of boys and young men of color, and all students, by closing and eliminating the opportunity gaps they face and helping them to reach their full potential. To this end, grant-funded opportunities are available in specific areas to develop programs and strategies to help boys and young men of color and all students realize their full potential. Are you interested in applying to be a mentor (6-hours a week/paid position).
>>Click here to learn more about the grant and how to become involved.
Finger Lakes Youth Forum
The Finger Lakes Youth Forum is a place created for students, by students to talk about issues that matter. The forum is sponsored by the Office of Racial Equality and Social Unity at Corning Incorporated in partnership with the Community Foundation. Student leaders invite their peers to monthly Zoom meetings to discuss issues they care about and inspire change in their schools and communities.
>>Click here to learn more about the Finger Lakes Youth Forum and register for upcoming forums
Culturally Responsive-Sustaining (CR-S) Education Framework
The CR-S framework enhances educators’ capacity in creating student-centered learning environments that: affirms students’ cultural identities; engages students in rigorous learning opportunities; enhances students' ability to positively and proactively engage with difference; elevates marginalized voices; prepares students for social change.
We recognize that this work is already happening across many of our schools. We look forward to working together to level up and sustain efforts made by our teachers and staff.
>>Learn more about the Culturally-Sustaining Education Framework
Training & Professional Development Learning Opportunities
The Elmira City School District is committed to providing ongoing learning opportunities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Education Coordinator, in collaboration with others, will facilitate workshops designed to enhance the multicultural skills of teachers and staff within the District. Session topics include, but are not limited to: anti-racism; asset-based pedagogies; cultivating love and joy in education; culturally responsive education; fostering LGBTQIA+ welcoming and affirming environments; implicit bias; inclusive and equitable hiring practices.
All training will center the assets and strengths that ECSD staff and teachers bring to the workplace.
>>
Learn more about upcoming diversity-related professional learning opportunities
>>
Request a diversity-related workshop
Meet the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Education Coordinator
 |
|
Jarvis Marlow-McCowin, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Education Coordinator
|
Jarvis Marlow-McCowin (pronouns: he/him/his) joins the Elmira City School District from Cornell University, where he was the Associate Director for Multicultural Student Leadership & Empowerment. He has served in various roles in higher education related to student success, multicultural affairs, faculty and staff development, and equal employment opportunity. As the DEI Education Coordinator, Jarvis will work closely with District and school leadership to foster an educational ecosystem based on a fundamental value of diversity, inclusion, equity, access, and opportunity. Jarvis holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s degree in Educational Policy and Leadership Studies from The University of Iowa, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Community Research and Action at Binghamton University.