Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB)

At Menlo School, equity, diversity, and inclusion are at the core of our organizational identity. Through our daily efforts, the School demonstrates a shared commitment to the development of all stakeholders by supporting a campus ethos where equity, diversity, and inclusion reflect the major cornerstones of our community.

 As an institution, we are steeped in researched-based best practices. Students and faculty regularly engage material that is enhanced by the multiplicity of voices, viewpoints, and lived experiences within our School and global contexts. Through our purposeful efforts, we fundamentally believe that we can become better people when we recognize, appreciate, and authentically embrace experiences other than our own. 

Programs and Strategic Plan: The academic program includes courses that explore literature, languages, and histories from around the world and frequently take a global perspective. Specifically, the required Freshman Seminar on Identity explores the relationship between identity and community. Menlo hosts many events and speakers for students, faculty, and parents on diversity and global issues. Students and faculty also organize on-campus events that celebrate diverse cultures, such as Hispanic Heritage Month events, the biannual International Fair, and performances by groups from around the world.

EDI Strategic Plan Advisory Committee: The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategic Plan Advisory Committee (EDISPAC), guided by the School’s mission and vision, is charged with advancing complex and productive conversations regarding the School’s EDI Strategic Plan. 

Academic Enrichment and Excellence: The Kickstart program is an academic enrichment program designed to ease students’ transition into Menlo School.

Affinity Groups: Menlo School has created and cultivated safe spaces for students, families, and staff based on self-identified characteristics such as race, religion, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, etc. It is our hope that by establishing and supporting sacred spaces, all stakeholders feel empowered and bring the fullness of their person to the campus.

EDI Community Learning Nights: Throughout the year, learning nights will provide families opportunities to learn from content experts, engage and develop authentic relationships within the context of the School community. 

EDI Professional Development: Through faculty-led cultural competency professional development sessions, probing questions will be answered through collaborative learning and individual inquiry. Each faculty member will understand cultural awareness and access new knowledge to lead with confidence, humility, and joy. 

EDI Learning Resources: Throughout the year, a variety of equity, diversity, and inclusion resources will be posted to our site. Topics will vary; feel free to engage at your level of interest!

EDI Video Library: Missed an event? Want to learn about EDI work at Menlo? Catch up on equity, diversity, and inclusion speakers, town halls, and meetings throughout the school year.