The Norwalk Public Schools (NPS) district has undertaken a comprehensive initiative designed to examine and address educational equity in Norwalk.
This ongoing project consists of four phases of work: an examination of disproportionate representation that looks at where children of color are under-represented or over-represented in programs and situations; a community survey and focus groups; presentations to the Norwalk community on findings and recommendations; and equity literacy development of district leadership.
Recommendations from the work will also include plans for a year-long program of professional development for employees that will focus on strategies for reducing implicit bias-based beliefs.
To get a deeper perspective from the community on equity, NPS and partner Temple University will kick off a “Listening and Learning Tour” over the next several weeks. It will include surveys for parents, students and staff, as well as focus groups that will explore equity as a pillar of the conversation. A variety of focus groups will be held both virtually and in-person for staff, parents and educators.