As most of the nation gears up to send their children back into the physical classroom (hopefully) after months of virtual learning, parents will place a large part of their child’s development directly back into the hands of their school system.

Schools have a tremendous impact in the lives of our children. One way to help ensure that we are raising good humans is to work in tandem with our schools to help foster inclusivity – the practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized.

Every parent wants their child to feel included, accepted, to make friends and to have an overall positive experience and year in the classroom.

Here are several ways that schools can work together with parents, and their communities to help foster inclusivity.

Anyone who is a returning member of our community knows that Halloween is a special time at Oak Knoll. For all of our new students and faculty – just wait! From the sweetness and joy of the Lower School parade to the creativity and hilarity of the Upper School seniors’ costume reveal, it is another example of our unique traditions and community spirit.

For some, unfortunately, Halloween can also be a time of hurt and disappointment, when they see their culture appropriated* or reduced to a costume. We know that this is not what any member of our community would want, and so we are sharing some resources that shed light on some costumes that are sold or created nationwide that are not appropriate. This is by no means meant to be an exhaustive list, so if you are questioning if a costume not on this list is appropriate, please feel free to reach out.