Social Justice and Diversity

Woodstock Day School actively fosters a commitment to social justice through a range of in-school and co-curricular activities. Our approach to supporting social justice is framed by three key lenses that align with students’ growth.

Raising Awareness about Differences (Early Childhood)

In the earliest grades, we focus on cultivating awareness about differences. Children are encouraged to engage in open discussions about distinctions between themselves, their families, and their friends. Through daily interactions, young learners develop a foundation of respect and understanding for diversity.

Teaching about Bias and Inequality (Lower School to Middle School)

As students progress, they delve into learning about oppression. Our curriculum includes critical examination of historical events, such as Columbus’ endeavors, with a focus on analyzing language used to describe indigenous people. Even at a young age, students are empowered to take actions that stimulate discussions and plant seeds of understanding about inequality.

Taking Action (Middle School to High School)

To break the cycles of oppression, students in the upper grades learn various strategies to take impactful action. This includes fundraising efforts, field trips to gain firsthand insights into social issues, and purchasing items for less fortunate families in the community. Upper School students actively participate in civic engagement activities and study the speeches and writings of advocates for the oppressed, fostering a deeper understanding of the problems at hand.

LGBTQ Clubs

LGBTQ clubs in Middle School and Upper School play a vital role in conducting workshops on raising consciousness and addressing misgendering. Club representatives regularly attend the GLSEN Student Leadership Conference, and our students take the initiative to organize events, such as”Queer Con,” a regional conference for GSA’s and LGBTQ and allied youth.