An Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan is more than a document—it is a clear statement of values and purpose at a particular moment in time. While the plan offers a structured guide for the school and community’s collective efforts, it is also a living document. As our understanding grows, as the school community evolves, and as the world shifts, the way SMUS approaches this work will necessarily grow and improve too. The plan gives direction, but it also leaves room for adaptation, reflection and deeper learning.
A formal launch of The EDI Plan is also an important milestone in a journey that has been unfolding with care and intention over the past five years. The creation of this plan, along with the role at the school’s EDI Coordinator, Dacia Douhaibi, and the structures that will help bring this work to life, are rooted in the legacy of the SMUS EDI Advisory Committee. That group was formed to help guide and deepen the school’s engagement and laid critical foundations. The EDI plan is one expression of their efforts and a continuation of their work.
“Being able to share this EDI plan is an important next step in providing a clearer path for action and meaningful progress,” said Mark Turner, Head of School. “We are deeply grateful for Dacia Douhaibi’s leadership, and for the many contributions that led to the creation of both the EDI Advisory Committee and the EDI Coordinator role. Since then, individuals across all divisions have continued to guide and shape this work. These efforts have built a stronger, more inclusive community, and this plan helps us keep moving forward.”
The EDI Plan is also a result of over a year’s worth of work and engagement across all three SMUS divisions—Junior, Middle and Senior School. That time allowed for listening, reflection, and collaboration. It also meant that learning happens not just through the plan, but in the very act of developing it. The values and intentions expressed in the plan have already begun to take root. In that way, the plan does not mark the beginning of our EDI work, but rather a renewed commitment to continuing it connected to shared understanding and a plan for the work ahead.
“I am excited about the next phase of this work,” said Douhaibi. “In the coming months, we will begin developing targeted implementation plans for each area of the EDI Action Plan, and we will roll out a benchmarking process to assess our starting point and track progress over time. These next steps will help us move from intention to action and impact—and I look forward to continuing this important journey with all of you.”
Learn more and read the EDI Plan
For more information or if you have questions, please reach out to Dacia Douhaibi, EDI Coordinator, at: [email protected]
