Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

When we say “Equity” at the School District of Philadelphia, we mean: Cultivate prosperity and liberation for students and staff, starting with historically marginalized populations, by removing barriers, increasing access and inclusion, building trusting relationships, and creating a shared culture of social responsibility and organizational accountability.

The Office of DEI works with District departments, schools, external partners, and community groups to address institutional and structural barriers that prevent the cultivation of a culture of respect, the acceleration of student achievement, and the participation in decision-making and procurement processes for diverse groups.

Events

Join us for Community Advocate Circles, Student Forums, and more!

Checkout Our Newsletter

Stay informed on DEI initiatives, events, and resources.

Cultural Calendar

Explore celebrations that honor diversity and inclusion.

Our Focus Areas

Capacity Building
Design and deliver individual, interpersonal, and institutional learning opportunities to cultivate prosperity and liberation for students and staff. Prioritize students — especially those from historically marginalized populations — by equipping teachers, school-based staff, leaders, and central office staff to remove barriers, increase access and inclusion, build relationships, and foster a culture of accountability that drives equitable change.

Policy Development
Collaborate with District departments to develop, review, and implement policies and practices that advance prosperity and liberation for students and staff, with a focus on historically marginalized populations. Apply an equity lens to all major decisions and Board policies to remove barriers, expand access, build trust, and promote social responsibility and accountability.

Cross-Departmental Collaboration
Partner with District departments to establish and sustain equitable practices that promote prosperity and liberation for students and staff. Focus on removing barriers, increasing access and inclusion, and building trust to improve social, emotional, and academic outcomes, particularly for historically marginalized students.

Partnerships
Strengthen relationships with community organizations, advocates, and city offices to foster shared learning and collaboration that drive equity throughout the District. Work together to remove barriers, increase access, build trust, and cultivate a culture of social responsibility and organizational accountability.

Programs & Initiatives

Professional Learning & Growth

Equity in Practice
A monthly lunch-and-learn initiative aimed to enhance cultural awareness and promote equitable practices among district staff and the broader community. Each month, the series highlights different cultural celebrations or pressing social issues, providing participants with insights and actionable strategies to support diverse communities within the educational environment.

Equity Professional Learning Series
A structured learning opportunity for employees to enhance their understanding of anti-racism, equity, and inclusion.

Student Voice & Leadership

Student Forums
A platform for students to share experiences and provide feedback to shape equity initiatives within the district.

Student Equity Associations (SEAs)
Student-led groups addressing inequities at the school level through discussion, advocacy, and leadership development.

Policy & Advocacy

Community Advocate Circles
A restorative justice space where community members, District leaders, and partners collaborate to address equity concerns and cultivate solutions.

Equity Lens Policy Review
The Equity Coalition Policy Review Team meets regularly to review existing program office policies that are up for Board review, apply the SDP Equity Lens, and provide actionable feedback in areas such as advancing equity, stakeholder engagement, resources, and progress monitoring.

Interested in joining? E-Mail: mgolobish@philasd.org.

Contact Us

For questions, resources, or to get involved in equity initiatives across the School District of Philadelphia, please reach out to the DEI Office at equity@philasd.org.