We are committed to equity because leading for equity is the ethical thing to do. Equity requires

that we champion the individual cultures, identities, talents, abilities, languages, and interests of

every child. The goal of equity is achieved when we have broken the historical patterns of inequity

that have resulted in far too few of our students succeeding at high levels. To do this, we must

work to eliminate barriers and ensure that all our students have the supports they need to reach

their full potential. We can do this if we are reflective, data-driven, and equitably distribute our

resources to ensure access and opportunity for our historically marginalized student populations.

Our students deserve the highest quality instruction. This means that our classrooms must be

places where every child participates in engaging, rigorous, and culturally/linguistically

responsive learning experiences every day. This also means that our schools foster a

sense of belonging because they are vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming centers of learning.

To do this, we must focus our efforts on the pursuit of excellence for all by ensuring that

every child receives the necessary opportunities and resources to meet their unique needs

and aspirations. We must also deliver the highest quality supports to our teachers and leaders.

We define equity as the "quality or ideal of being just and fair, regardless of economic, social,

cultural, and human differences among and between persons." To reach this ideal, we must

invite our stakeholders, internal and external, into authentic dialogue about how to achieve

equity. Achieving equity across the district requires attention from every member of our

community. The APS Center for Equity and Social Justice will collaborate with every district

office and school, families and community stakeholders to ensure that each undertaking is

pursued with equity as a goal.

The APS Center for Equity and Social Justice (APS CES) will be established in 2021 as the

district’s first office devoted solely to advancing equity in education.

The APS CES will examine current policies and practices, work to interrupt and eliminate

inequitable practices, and create inclusive and just conditions for all students, in particular

ensuring that our most vulnerable and marginalized students receive a quality education,

including the necessary social-emotional supports, and enroll in supportive postsecondary

institutions.