“We will be a better country if we have honest conversations about race and class…Thoughtful interaction across difference helps strengthen the fabric of our country.” – Former Secretary of Education, John King Program Evaluation Release EventSecretary John King‘s words of wisdom could not be more relevant as acts of hatred and fear dominate our headlines. Kindred was incredibly honored to have Secretary King headline our evaluation release event on October 3. As a champion of educational equity and integration, he facilitated our parent panel and shared his reflections about Kindred’s work. In Secretary King’s words, “Diversity at the door is not sufficient to create equitable [learning] environments.” Click on the video below to hear a conversation between Secretary King and Kindred board member Andre Perry. “Some things we face as Black people won’t change until White people get fed up with it.” – Kindred parent, Mike Dixon As part of our October 3 evaluation release event with Secretary King, three parents from different Kindred schools and the principal of our first partner school, Marie Reed, shared their experiences being a part of Kindred. Listen to Yu Ying parent Mike Dixon share his reflections about the importance of creating a coalition of parents across races and economic classes to lead the movement for change. Welcome Bancroft and GarrisonWe are thrilled to welcome Bancroft and Garrison elementary schools to the Kindred network this year. “We are excited to partner with Kindred to build parent-to-parent relationships at Bancroft,” said principal Art Mola. “I know our school community could do more together if relationships were deeper and there was a deeper understanding of race and equity.” Brigham Kiplinger, principal of Garrison, shared, “The growing diversity of the Garrison community presents a promising opportunity for our students to experience the joy and stimulation associated with learning with children of different backgrounds from their own. For children to benefit the most from this environment, their parents need to be connected with one another and reinforce the importance of building loving relationships with people from different cultures, races and economic status.” Meet Our Board Chair: Traci HigginsTraci Higgins joined the Kindred board in 2017 and leads the board as chairwoman. A seasoned legal professional and board member for numerous community organizations, Traci began her career as a Peace Corps volunteer and social worker. We are grateful for Traci’s leadership! Read more by clicking on the button below. Fall Giving DriveOur work has never been more important. We must bridge differences through communication that builds trust and understanding. Be on the lookout for our exciting new video — coming your way as part of our upcoming giving drive. You can donate now to get ahead of the game and support Kindred’s important work! Help us reach 300 followers! |