American filmmaker, Ava DuVernay stated, “When we’re talking about diversity, it’s not

a box to check. It is a reality that should be deeply felt and held and valued by all of us.”

Diversity leadership is the ability to assess and respond to the needs of all those in your charge.

A great leader creates a safe environment where the needs of individuals and groups can be met.

Great leaders understand and value diversity.

Students must have a positive learning environment in order to succeed. Students must

feel safe, physically, academically, socially, and emotionally. Listening to the needs of students

is critical. Some students are not able to communicate their needs, so a needs assessment must

be continuously evaluated. Providing relevant training for staff on diversity issues and topics

can assist in creating a culture that supports all students.

Staff must also have a positive working environment in order to foster the success of

students. A needs assessment may also be used to identify issues related to staff. An open

culture of communication aids in meeting the needs of staff.

School administrators must be able to promote sensitivity to diversity throughout the

school community. A culture that accepts and celebrates differences must be valued by leaders

for it to be valued by others. A school culture valuing diversity includes educational

programming which adapts to the needs of all. School leaders must be intentional about

honoring diversity.

Diversity is about making sure all people in your care are taken care of physically,

academically, socially, and emotionally. Diversity is deeply felt and must be valued.

Administrators have a huge responsibility to make all feel included in the school culture.