Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Celebrations & Events
Celebrating Our Diverse World
In a school district like ours, which holds the full spectrum of human qualities in high esteem and values the unique contributions of every community member, individuals find the opportunity to flourish. Our featured cultural events aim to foster a space where sharing our unique differences and commonalities becomes a bridge to understanding and appreciating our shared humanity. In this way we celebrate the diverse attributes that enrich our cultures, values, thoughts, and all aspects of our existence.
By adopting the mantra “think globally, act locally,” we encourage our students and community members to embrace the reality that we are integral parts of a multicultural world. As the systems governing our planet—spanning from politics to economies, religions, and cultures—grow ever more interconnected, our differences transform into strengths through collaboration.
Join us in these upcoming events as we journey together towards understanding, respect, and collaboration in a world that thrives on its diversity. Together, we can build a community that not only recognizes but also celebrates the strength found in our differences, moving forward with the knowledge that our collective efforts contribute to a more inclusive and interconnected world.
Recent Events
Staples Students Recognized for Biliteracy Achievements
Exemplifying a commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding, nearly 200 Staples High School students have been recognized for their commitment to achieving biliteracy in at least two languages. [Click for more]
From left to right: Anna Ji, Andrew Rebello, Jackson Tracey
Staples Students to Attend Global High School Leaders Summit in Singapore
Three Staples students, Anna Ji, Andrew Rebello and Jackson Tracey have been selected to represent Westport and the United States at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Young Leaders Summit hosted by Hwa Chong Institution (HCI), one of the premier schools in Singapore. [Click for more]
World Language Week Bridges Culture and Inclusion in Westport Schools
One thing’s for sure, whether you joined in by saying celebramos, Ràng wǒmen qìngzhù, lasst uns feiern, gaudeamus, festeggiamo or celebrons, it was all about celebrating culture, uniqueness and what brings us together during World Language Week activities at Staples High School and Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools. [Click for more]
Staples Students Inducted into Language Honor Societies
At a recent ceremony, the Westport Public Schools World Languages department honored 75 Staples High School students for their years-long commitment to fostering a deep connection to language by inducting them into one of six honor societies. [Click for more]
Pictured: Liuba Ulianova with the German inductees (left to right) Lana Diggin, Layla Retcho, Preston Siroka, Hugo Jacques
Addressing Incidents of Antisemitism and Bias in our Schools
Westport educators, local clergy, and community leaders discussed the framework and best practices for preventing and responding to identity-based bullying in our public schools in a community forum at Temple Israel.
Judith Altmann Interview
We have hosted CT Holocaust survivor, Judith Altmann for the past few years in our middle school. Watch her latest conversation with our middle school students.
Heritage Months
September
Hispanic Heritage Month Observed from September 15 to October 15. This month corresponds with Mexican Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16, and recognizes the revolution in 1810 that ended Spanish dictatorship
October
Hispanic Heritage Month Observed from September 15 to October 15. This month corresponds with Mexican Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16, and recognizes the revolution in 1810 that ended Spanish dictatorship
November
National Native American Heritage Month which celebrates the history and contributions of Native Americans.
December
Inclusive Schools Week is an annual celebration of progress made to provide a supportive, quality education to an increasingly diverse student population.
February
Black History Month in the United States and Canada. Since 1976, the month has been designated to remember the contributions of people of the African diaspora.
March
Women’s History Month, established in 1987, recognizes all women for their valuable contributions to history and society.
April
Autism Acceptance Month, established to raise awareness about and acceptance of the developmental disability that impacts an individual’s experience of the world around them.
National Arab American Heritage Month celebrates the Arab American heritage and culture and pays tribute to the contributions of Arab Americans and Arabic-speaking Americans.
May
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Asian American Heritage Month is a dedicated celebration in the United States that takes place annually in May. This month honors the rich and diverse contributions of Asian Americans in US history and culture.
Jewish American Heritage Month, which recognizes the diverse contributions of the Jewish people to American culture. Mental Health Awareness Month (or Mental Health Month), which aims to raise awareness and educate the public about mental illnesses and reduce the stigma that surrounds mental illnesses.
June
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Pride Month, established to recognize the impact that gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals have had on the world. LGBTQ+ groups note this time with Pride parades, picnics, parties, memorials for those lost to hate crimes and HIV/AIDS, and other group gatherings. The last Sunday in June is LGBTQ+ Pride Day.
The Westport Public Schools would like to acknowledge the ongoing work of the PTA DEI committees for continuously updating and improving our calendar of events.
Calendar repurposed from the Seramount Diversity Holiday Calendar 2024.
