Diversity, Equity, Action
Embedded in Miquon’s philosophy is the belief that a strong school community is enriched by individuals who bring a wide range of talents, perspectives, identities, experiences, and ways of learning.We are committed to building a community of students, families, and staff that truly represents the economic, racial, cultural, and social backgrounds found in the greater Philadelphia area. We value the many personalities, interests, strengths, and learning styles that children bring to our classrooms and believe every member of our community deserves to be known, respected, and valued.
Learning in Action
At Miquon, diversity, equity, and action are woven throughout everyday school life and are also taught in a dedicated block. From preschool through sixth grade, children are encouraged to know themselves, appreciate the experiences of others, recognize unfairness, and develop the confidence to make a positive difference in their communities.
This work begins with learning how to be part of a community. Through classroom meetings, collaborative problem-solving, carefully chosen books, our social studies curriculum, and inquiry-based projects, students practice listening to different perspectives, asking thoughtful questions, and resolving conflicts with empathy and respect.
As students grow, they examine history through multiple perspectives, explore issues of fairness and justice, and learn that they can be thoughtful upstanders when they encounter bias or exclusion. Whether discussing a picture book, studying the Lenape perspective on Pennsylvania history, or responding to a real-world question raised by students themselves, children learn that their voices matter and that meaningful action often begins with curiosity, compassion, and conversation.
Staff Work
Supporting this work requires continual learning and reflection. Miquon educators bring a depth and richness of experience to their work with children and families, drawing on professional learning, personal experience, and the perspectives of our students and community.
We regularly devote time during meetings and professional development to ongoing work in diversity, equity, and action. Staff members have participated in programs including the National Association of Independent Schools People of Color Conference, the White Privilege Conference, Routes to Roots, and SEED training.
Our learning has also included partnerships with The Race Institute, the Mazzoni Center, CHOP's Gender and Sexuality Development Program, and the Attic Youth Center. Faculty draw upon resources including Learning for Justice, Pollyanna, and Responsive Classroom, as well as the work of educators, researchers, and community leaders whose expertise helps inform our curriculum and classroom practice.
This ongoing learning strengthens our ability to support every child in developing a positive sense of self, understanding others with empathy, and engaging thoughtfully with the world around them.
Board Work: Equity, Community, and Culture Committee
The Miquon School Board of Directors’ Equity, Community, and Culture Committee gauges the community’s thoughts around equity and diversity and plans activities.
Through surveys and community meetings, the group is striving to provide opportunities for Miquon community members to share their individual voice on this important topic.
Ultimately, this work will inform the development of a strategic plan for diversity, equity, and action at Miquon.
Events and Special Programs
Events are seen as one (but not the only) method to raise awareness and celebrate the diversity of those around us. Miquon has twice hosted the area’s Elementary School Diversity Day, an awareness-building event put together by the Greater Philadelphia Diversity Collaborative. Over one-hundred students and teachers from several area independent schools participate in art projects, cooperative games, team building activities, and sessions ranging from “We’re in this Together” to “What is Social Justice?”
Other recent programs for our students and community include:
- Campus-wide read-ins, inspired by the National African-American Read In
- Brown Excellence, an affinity group of staff and students that meets one to two times per month
- Participation in the MLK Day of Service
- Special assemblies, such as ones featuring percussionist Hafez Kotain from Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture