Dear Superintendent Tomlinson and Board of Education,

I am writing to express my concern with how the Broadalbin-Perth School District has handled diversity and inclusion, especially in light of recent events. The district has a vital role to play in fostering a safe and inclusive environment at school. All students, regardless of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status, deserve to be treated equally. I urge you to take actions to ensure that this is the case at our school. 

This document outlines concrete actions that can be taken by the district to create a more inclusive environment. They are divided into the following categories: 

1. Speak Out: Ensure students and community members that the district stands against racism
2. Train: Educate staff to foster a more inclusive environment at school
3. Educate: Adjust the curriculum at the school to include intersectionality and diversity
4. Expose: As a predominantly white community, it is vital that our students are actively exposed to other cultures in school
5. Empower: Provide students with the support needed to make changes

It is essential that the school takes the following actions immediately:

1. Make a statement condemning racism and expressing the district's commitment to equality and inclusion at school
2. Require all faculty and staff to participate in annual diversity and inclusion training
3. Create a task force to tackle some of the actions outlined in this document. This task force will be responsible for exploring ways to diversify our education at all levels, expose students to other cultures, and empower students to make a difference.

I sincerely hope that the district is able to recognize the responsibility they have to promote diversity and inclusion in our community. I, and those who have signed below, believe that it is necessary for the district to take immediate action as outlined above. 

Sincerely,

Zoe Simonson

BP Alumni, Class of 2016