During the June 9, 2023 Board Meeting
Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI) is discussed at minute 49:40.
The Board approved the Resignation of Matt Boaz, the Executive Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. However, the Resignation does not occur until October. Mr. Boaz is currently working from home. He will be expected to work with the new DEI firm until October.
The District is in the process of hiring a DEI company to analyze Upper Arlington Schools. The company chosen, Insight Education Group, (IEG) believes systemic racism exists, and that is their starting point. It is to be a one year contract costing about $110,000. The Board was not presented the contract at the meeting. It has not been voted on yet.
If the contract is approved, there will be a formal “needs assessment.” There was mention of surveys and “Community Outreach.” One of the statements made about the data said IEG will track students and “how their success can vary depending on a student’s race, their language, income, zoning, mobility, ability and other different areas.”
Several questions need to be answered if the schools utilize Insight Education Group. Is the Mission of the Schools to “educate” the community? Where will IEG be gathering personal information on students and families? What access will IEG have to students? Can parents opt out? Contact the Board of Education if you have questions: boe@uaschools.org