EQUITY & BELONGING
Creating A Culture of Belonging
O’Dowd’s charism of "Finding God in All Things" compels us to envision community in diversity. We recognize the inherent dignity of all humans and we strive to understand and respond to the real-world experiences of our community. Our mission is to treat each other as Jesus would - righteously, with love and compassion.
O’Dowd’s student body represents a rich diversity of races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic backgrounds, traditions, cultures, learning styles, family compositions, and geographies. These unique and multilayered student identities create opportunities for us to learn from each other, broaden our perspectives, respect differences, and ultimately become more aware and empathic global citizens. As a Catholic community, we see all students as children of God and promote equity so that all students may thrive. As St. Irenaeus proclaims, "The glory of God is the person fully alive!"
Key Areas of Focus
Community Engagement
Building a school community that fosters a spirit of equity and belonging for all forms of diversity.
Faculty Collaboration
Equipping all faculty members to develop anti-racist and culturally-responsive curriculum.
Grounded in Catholic Social Justice
Intentionally creating a school community that is culturally responsive and inclusive, rooted in our Catholic Social Justice teaching.
Equitable, Restorative, & Accountable
Promoting a spirit of equity and accountability through a commitment to Restorative Practices.
Student Cultural & Affinity Groups
Our student cultural groups offer a space for students to build community and connections with others who share their racial identity. In affinity groups, members gain fellowship, share experiences, and develop skills around a common purpose, identity, or interest.
60%
Students of Color
14
Cultural Identity Clubs
40%
Faculty of Color
Building A Culture of Belonging: Commitment to Professional Growth
All faculty and staff, from teachers, counselors and athletic coaches, to campus ministry and administrators, participate in ongoing professional learning to promote belonging and inclusion on campus, equipping all students for success. From workshops, conferences, expert lectures and more, our faculty and staff gain best-practices to teach, coach, and guide students in culturally responsive and relevant ways.
Community Resources
These recommended resources for students and families focus on equity and belonging.
Books:
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Ibram X. Kendi, How to be an Anti-Racist
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Dashka Slater, Accountable
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Frances E. Jensen, MD, The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist's Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults
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Thomas Massero, Living Justice: Catholic Social Justice Teaching in Action
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Pope Francis, Laudato Si: On Care for our Common Home
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James Martin, SJ, Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter Into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity
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Eric Jensen, Teaching with Poverty in Mind
Videos, Podcasts, Articles & Websites:
