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Diversity & Belonging

Diversity is about more than just numbers. It’s about cultivating a community of belonging where every student is known, respected, and valued for their authentic self.

We believe that everyone in our community benefits from a school environment that affirms kindness, respect, and belonging as core values. In addition, students learn best when they have a strong sense of belonging and are seen and valued for who they are.

We are dedicated to cultivating a principled community of learners that welcomes diversity, including age, culture, gender, race, faith, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and ability.

A smiling student holding something in his hands
A smiling lower school student holds up her project
A happy student holding a card against his forehead during a game

Definitions

Diversity

The range of human differences, including but not limited to age, culture, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, national origin, political beliefs, religion, faith, ethnical values, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and ability.

Equity

The practice of creating a culture that provides resources and opportunities for all members of our GDS community such that the experience of treatment is fair and reasonable while acknowledging historical, institutional, structural, and societal inequalities.

Inclusion

The practice of providing opportunities for all members of the GDS community to experience a sense of belonging that includes a feeling of connection, security, acceptance, and value.

Dr.  Ayesha Swinton

Dr. Ayesha Swinton

Director of Diversity & Belonging and Upper School World Language Teacher

Diversity & Belonging News

Community Celebrations 2022-23

The religious and cultural celebrations listed below are observed by members of the GDS community. When one of these celebrations occurs when school is in session, GDS refrains from administering tests or quizzes; having graded homework and/or significant projects due; taking field trips or other special class events; penalizing participants in extracurricular activities for missing practices or events; or scheduling special programs for students or parents.

Eid al-Adha is an Islamic holiday celebrating the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to Allah's command. Eid al-Adha begins in the evening of July 8 and ends in the evening of July 9.

Rosh Hashanah celebrates the Jewish New Year. Rosh Hashanah begins in the evening of September 25 and ends in the evening of September 27.

Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year in Judaism, with central themes of atonement and repentance. Yom Kippur begins in the evening of October 4 and ends in the evening of October 5.

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists.

Christmas is a Christian festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Chinese New Year is the festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional Chinese calendar.

Diverse group of young students smiling and holding pond samples