Every Student Belongs: Updated Model policy ACB and ACB-AR

Oregon Department of Education recognizes that student health and safety are at the cornerstone of education and that every student is entitled to a high-quality educational experience, free from discrimination or harassment based on perceived race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin, and without fear or hatred, racism or violence. Staff and leaders are also entitled to work in environments that are free from discrimination or harassment, and visitors should be able to participate in school activities without fear for their safety.

In Oregon, we value both freedom and responsibility and are charged with ensuring that Every Student Belongs. The Every Student Belongs OAR is an important step in creating safe and inclusive school climates where all who participate in our school communities feel welcome. This means affording our school communities the freedom of expression while removing barriers to students’ educational progress, including the prohibition of the display of hate symbols that incite fear and violence and cause emotional distress and trauma. The presence of symbols of hate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin causes harm and significantly disrupts the operation of schools. When one person in a school community is treated poorly, everyone suffers.

As with all OARs, the safety and health of students is our first priority. Together, we must protect the health of our school communities by removing any and all barriers that impede a student’s ability to thrive. It is our collective responsibility to make certain that Every Student Belongs.

Please review the policies below and submit any questions or suggestions to Penny Grotting, Superintendent, North Central ESD.

Thank you for supporting the health and safety of our students and educators.

Penny Grotting
Superintendent
North Central ESD

All Students Belong: ACB G1 - Revised

Bias Incident Complaint Procedure: ACB AR G1 - Revised