The Families of Students of Color affinity group was initiated by a few interested parents to provide a safe space of reflection, dialogue, and support for parents/families of students of color. For the 2022-23 school year, the group will be led by Paddington parents Lauren Fine and Tsilat Petros.
What is an Affinity Group? An affinity group is a designated “safe space,” where everyone in that group shares a particular identity. This identity can be based on race, gender, sexual orientation, language, nationality, physical/mental ability, socio-economic class, family structure, religion, etc. Affinity groups can be a place for underrepresented people in a community to come together to feel less isolated and more connected. During affinity groups participants might share and talk about their experiences or focus on working towards a particular mission or goal. Source.
This affinity group will meet at least four times during the 2021-2022 academic year to provide an avenue for families to discuss issues, wonderings, and questions that will help nurture an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for the students and families at Paddington.
Per the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), “students of color” includes children from Black/African American, Asian American, Middle-Eastern American, American Indian/Native American, Latino/Hispanic, Pacific Islander, and multiracial backgrounds. The group is open to family members who identify as, orhave students who identify as, people of color.
"Paddington Station Preschool fosters a culture where all differences and identities among race, gender, ability, religion, ethnicity, family structure, and economic background are valued, celebrated, and recognized as an essential component of our School.
We aspire to create a sense of belonging and trust where we uphold equity as we cultivate, collaborate, and inspire members of our community. We believe that celebrating each individual and the unique experiences they bring will exponentially enhance our learning environment."