SMMUSD Focus Group Opportunity

The following is a press release from SMMUSD. En Español.

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is in the process of infusing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) across all aspects of the district. In conjunction with the Santa Monica-Malibu Classroom Teachers Association (SMMCTA), and Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the district will be conducting a foundational assessment of SMMUSD culture and structure using a DEI lens.

To facilitate this process, we have partnered with Tribesy Consulting, who will be conducting community focus groups as an integral component of the assessment process; therefore, parents and community members are encouraged to volunteer for a one-time 120-minute focus group.

Community Focus Group Purpose
Community focus groups are essential to ascertain honest and open perspectives and experiences regarding the current culture as it applies to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) concepts.

With Whom
Tribesy Consultants Reena Doyle and Gail Watts will facilitate small group dialogues.

How will the information be used?
Tribesy uses focus group feedback to establish a baseline of thought on critical social justice concepts and understand organizational dynamics and the impact of district practices. Responses will be the foundation for an organizational assessment and will be used to formulate recommendations for a roadmap to infuse diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Participation
● Participation is voluntary, and no one is required to attend.
● Volunteers are asked to be on time and attend the entire session so that facilitators can provide
context/set the stage for participation. Late arrivals may not be admitted.
● Focus groups will be an informal facilitated conversation, so participants are encouraged to dress
comfortably and bring a beverage and snack.
● Volunteers will receive a brief survey before attending their session.
● Simultaneous interpretation in Spanish will be provided.
● Individual responses are confidential.

If you are interested in volunteering, respond by Monday, May 8, 2023 using the following link: https://forms.gle/UwQHXEa5HmCvSxch9

Dates: May 15 and 16
Time: 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Commitment: 2 hours
Location: TBD in Santa Monica and Malibu

About The Author

Damien Newton

Damien is the executive director of the Southern California Streets Initiative which publishes Santa Monica Next, Streetsblog Los Angeles, Streetsblog San Francisco, Streetsblog California and Longbeachize.

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