Page 73 - BigConversationsDismantlingRacism

ATTACHMENT 12: EXCERPTS FROM NOTES FROM SMALL GROUP
CONVERSATIONS

Small Group Sticky Notes Big Conversation 1.27.2019

Question 1: List your impressions from the panel’s conversations.

Group 256A

1. Everyone on the panel was very knowledgeable about the topic discussed and were very
passionate.
2. They shared their concerns on the issue and understood the subject.
3. I was very impressed. The questions that were asked were answered.
4. Varying degrees of opinion based on their experiences. Strong feelings about their ideals.
5. Racism is still alive in the school system.
6. Very knowledgeable panel. I think they were well prepared and made very insightful ideas.
7. Panelists were prepared and spoke from experience,
8. Calvert County is doing well – it has an Equity Policy.
9. There are not enough teachers of color who can fully understand their students and pay
attention to their individual needs.
10. There is still a lot to do in the Calvert County Schools to make equality between the white
and students of color.
11. That when a teacher can relate to the real life experiences of a student it affects the reactions
of the students.
12. There were many “heartfelt statements” and some “by the book”.
13. Good diversity of input from the community
14. Was pleased to see that a plan has been in place for diversifying the teacher workforce since
2017 and is part of the strategic plan.
15. I was also glad that policies are in place for dealing with diversity, however accountability
and measures should be in place to ensure that they are enforced.
16. Informative, Enlightening, Eye-opening.

Group 265B

1. Spot on – students and parent perspective. Difficult experiences with my son versus my
daughter -AA males.
2. All panelists were on task. Students were impressive.
3. The panelists spoke with authority and offered factual information.
4. Clarification of Roles
5. Students’ honesty from personal experience.
6. Mr. Wiggins presentation of published studies.
7. Lots to believe.
8. Hard to get people of color down here to work – there is no place for them to live.
9. People are more aware of biases and it’s a priority to deal with it in the schools. Focus
now should be how to change it and measure the change.
10. We need more focus on what happens day-to-day in the classroom and less policy
making, more “real talk” with teachers.

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