One of the most important and extraordinary aspects of being a part of the Dwight-Englewood community is how passionately and scrupulously its members strive to align with the school’s mission. This is important because our mission is what draws us to this incomparable institution and reminds us who we are. In the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (D.E.I.B.) arenas, we frequently focus on the part of our mission statement that says, “[we] embrace diversity in order to develop the skills, values, and courage to meet the challenges of a changing world and make it better.” 

At D-E, our mission is to prepare students for a successful, fulfilling life. D.E.I.B. efforts contribute to that goal by fostering an environment where every child feels a sense of belonging. The goal is to ensure every student feels safe and valued, which positively impacts learning outcomes and prepares them for an increasingly global world. Best practice demonstrates that knowledge of one’s self and of others equips students to advocate for themselves, respect differences in others, and cultivate the skills to successfully collaborate with people of all backgrounds.

Please see below an example of how topics of identity may be introduced to students across each age-group in the Lower School. This example focuses on women. Different identities will be similarly focused on during specific identity-themed months or in conjunction with related subject matters being covered in the classroom. As students learn about the various identities represented across our school community and beyond, we continue to build a community where kindness and empathy are core components of being a D-E Bulldog.