Equity & Belonging
We See God in All People
At Marist, we believe the way to prepare students for a life of service in a vibrantly diverse world is to actively value diversity within our own halls and to foster an environment of understanding, inclusion, self-reflection, and continuous improvement.
That is why at Marist High School, our top priority is creating a safe and nurturing learning environment for all students of all backgrounds, where they can thrive and know from day one that they are welcomed and embraced for who they are.
In July of 2021, Marist High School hired LaToya Hayes, a 17 year veteran teacher at Marist High School, as the Director of Equity and Belonging (EB). One of the many purposes of this role was to create opportunities for faculty, staff, and students to engage in meaningful cultural dialogue.
“We hope to promote and celebrate our cultural diversity. We are also planning professional development opportunities aimed at promoting heightened cultural awareness for the faculty and the staff.”
Latoya Hayes
Director of Equity & Belonging
Through our commitment to EB, Marist shares the following key definitions to understand how we as a community are working together to ensure inclusivity of all students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, community members, and more.
Diversity
“The range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and political beliefs.” (Ferris State University)”
Equity
“The fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that prevent the full participation of some groups. The principle of equity acknowledges that there are historically underserved and underrepresented populations and that fairness regarding these unbalanced conditions is necessary to provide equal opportunities to all groups.” (University of Washington)
Inclusion
“The act of creating an environment in which any individual or group will be welcomed, respected, supported and valued as a fully participating member.” (University of Washington)
EB Activities
Our goal is to improve the overall experience of each student by promoting cultural diversity and providing professional development on cultural competency. Thus far this we, we have been working and introducing the following:
- Opportunities for faculty and staff to engage in cultural and/or EB conversations in “We Are One” sessions
- Opportunities for students to engage in cultural and/or EB conversations
- Cultural celebrations and displays
Students have the opportunity to join and participate in numerous clubs and activities that celebrate the various cultures represented at Marist. Below is a list of our clubs that support and develop a culturally diverse student body.
- Black Student Union
- Latinos United
- The W.E.L.L.
- Women Empowerment
