Inclusion, Equity, and Belonging

At Mount Tamalpais School, we deeply value diversity. Guided by our core value to Practice Active Inclusion, we are committed to fostering a community where every student and family feels a true sense of belonging. We celebrate the many dimensions of identity and design a curriculum that helps students grow as thoughtful, empathetic, and curious learners.

This is ongoing work, and our faculty are actively learning and growing to ensure an education that is both relevant and meaningful. Guided by the Learning for Justice Social Justice Standards, we shape curriculum that reflects the diversity of our community and world while supporting academic growth and social awareness. Through national conferences, workshops, and shared study of leading texts, our educators continually strengthen their practice so our students are prepared to thrive as critical thinkers and compassionate and engaged members of their communities.

The Board of Trustees' IEB Committee provides oversight as we continue to cultivate a sense of belonging and develop an equitable and inclusive curriculum. This year, to gain alignment, the committee defined Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, as outlined below. 

Diversity

Diversity refers to the variety of differences among people, including but not limited to: race and ethnicity, cultural heritage, religious beliefs, backgrounds, socio-economic status, gender and gender identity, age, ability, neurodiversity, sexual orientation, family structure, and more. It encompasses a broad range of experiences and perspectives.

Equity

Equity is the fair treatment of all individuals, providing the unique resources and opportunities that each person needs to be successful. Unlike equality, which provides the same resources to everyone, equity recognizes that people have different starting points and face unique needs, biases, and barriers. 

Inclusion

Inclusion is the active effort to welcome, respect, celebrate, and value individuals of all backgrounds with the goal that everyone feels a genuine sense of belonging, acceptance, and participation. 
 

Belonging

Belonging is a deep sense of feeling authentically valued, accepted, and connected within a community. It means being seen, heard, and appreciated for one’s true self, without pressure