Parents Association

McDonogh School is committed to embracing the values of diversity, equity and inclusion to achieve and maintain standards of excellence. In the Spring of 2021, the McDonogh Parents Association (MPA) bylaws were amended to include the Equity and Inclusion Committee. The bylaws provided that the Equity and Inclusion committee “shall be responsible for providing insight and recommendations, developing strategies, and coordinating and supporting programs and opportunities that ensure that the MPA continues to be inclusive, employ processes that support continuous self-reflection, representative of members from diverse backgrounds, perspectives and abilities. The Equity and Inclusion Committee will work with other MPA committees and the School to ensure that the MPA promotes an environment where there is a sense of respect, fairness and belonging. 

MPA Equity and Inclusion Committee

The MPA Equity and Inclusion Committee was created to assist with maintaining McDonogh’s standards of excellence.  The purpose of the committee is to provide support to the School community, to promote an environment where there is a sense of respect, empathy, and belonging aligned with the McDonogh mission, vision and values.

AFFINITY GROUPS

Affinity Group discussions are facilitated by parent volunteers who manage the meeting logistics, create a safe and welcoming environment that encourages and supports member participation, navigate difficult conversations in an effort to promote overall group cohesion, maintain and ensure confidentiality, and provide periodic feedback and/or suggestions to the Directors of Equity and Inclusion and the Chair of the MPA Equity and Inclusion Committee.

Several affinity groups have already been established, including:

• Black Families @ McDonogh
• Jewish Parents
• LGBTQIA+ Families

If you have an idea for a new parent affinity group or are interested in creating one, please complete this form.  Don't hesitate to contact Dr. Tia Brown McNair with any questions. 

BOOK CLUB

The MPA Book Club aims to foster a deeper understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion through engaging readings. It provides a wonderful way for us to come together in community to learn and grow. While we hope you can join us in person for our discussions, we encourage you to engage with the books on your own if that’s not possible. The topics covered in these books are enriching and provide valuable insights and conversation starters to share with your children. 

FALL SELECTION

The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together by Heather McGhee

We hope that you and your Middle School and older child will enjoy reading this selection. Please note that there are two versions of the book—one written for adults and one that has been adapted for younger readers ages 10-14.  

Discussion Dates: 

• October 10, 2024 (12:00-1:00 p.m.)
• October 29 (12:00-1:00 p.m.)

SPRING SELECTION 

I Never Thought of it That Way by Mónica Guzmán

After Winter Break, we will dive into our Spring selection. Unlike our fall selection, there is just an adult version of this text. Our discussions will occur between 12:00 and 1:00 p.m. in a hybrid format. 

Spring selection dates coming soon. 

Lunch and Learn Opportunities

Monday, September 30, 2024

11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Mullan Board Room or via Zoom (link provided at registration)

Join us for an engaging conversation with Director of Equity and Inclusion Enaye Englenton. In this session, you will learn how diversity, equity, and inclusion are integrated into our school's core principles and strategic goals and engage in a question and response session where you can share your thoughts and get answers on how DEI initiatives impact our community.

This is a hybrid event.  Join us in person in the Mullan Board Room for lunch and discussion or via Zoom. Please RSVP so that we can have an accurate headcount for lunch.

Resources

We have compiled a list of resources for parents interested in learning more about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) topics. These resources, including books, podcasts, and organizations, offer a diverse range of perspectives and insights on understanding and addressing various issues. Whether you want to facilitate inclusive conversations at home or expand your knowledge, these resources provide a rich tapestry of ideas and experiences, offering a solid starting point for meaningful exploration and growth. 

CONTACT

Chair: Dr. Tia Brown McNair P ‘26