Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, & Belonging
The Ventana School community reflects the rich and beautiful diversity of Silicon Valley. Our students, families and staff come together across various identities, among them race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, family structure, language, learning styles, physical ability, religion, culture, and socioeconomic background. Our commitment to DEIJB flows out of the Ventana Values, rooted in both the Reggio Emilia approach and the Episcopal promise to “strive for justice and peace among all people” and “respect the dignity of every human being, and of the earth." Recognizing that children’s identities are ever-evolving and dynamic, and that the expression of these identities is an integral part of the adventure of learning and self-discovery, we actively create and re-create an environment that is inclusive and celebratory of all its members, striving to:
Embrace the messy yet meaningful work of deep listening and collaboration across all forms of identity;
Foster respectful dialogue and inquiry, embracing big questions as we strive to be more curious than certain;
Reflect deeply on histories of oppression and exploitation, helping children to feel hopeful about our future and empowered to create a more just and equitable world;
Encourage every member of the community in the articulation of their unique sense of self, including transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming identities;
Integrate our DEIJB commitments into curriculum, policy, and institutional norms;
Cherish our own stories, respect the stories of others, and learn to accept and repair ruptures in relationships with compassion, accountability, and kindness; and,
Nurture confident, creative, and collaborative graduates who know themselves, value their voices, and are ready and able to advocate for what is right.
