The New Leader Teaching Diversity In Rochester Schools

ROCHESTER, MI — Rochester school leaders say they are committed to teaching diversity and inclusion in the classroom and had a recent new announcement about how they are making that possible.

The Rochester Community School District announced that Robin Carter has been appointed as the full-time instructional equity program director.

“We are thrilled that Robin will continue the great work to enhance our district’s diversity and inclusion awareness initiatives,” said Superintendent Robert Shaner, Ph.D. “All people, no matter their ethnicity, socioeconomic classes, gender, language, or sexual orientation, must feel safe, valued, and respected. At RCS, we are committed to ensuring that the proper resources are available to move forward with this very important work.”

Carter joined Rochester Community Schools in 2016 as the career and technical / career-focused education coordinator. During her time at RCS, Robin accepted additional responsibilities in the areas of 504 compliancy and oversaw many of the diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

Carter’s research primarily focuses the kindergarten through 12th grade educational system as it relates to institutionalized racism, racial identity development, cultural proficiency, culturally responsive teaching, and stereotyping threats. She has facilitated various social justice topics and presented at several conferences, such as the Facing Race Conference and the National Conference on Race and Ethnicity (NCORE). Robin also serves as an active member of Michigan Round Table (The HUB, Flint).

Carter holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations from Georgia State University, a Master of Science degree from Central Michigan University, and an Educational Specialist Post-Master’s degree from Oakland University.

“I am so proud that Rochester Community Schools is committed to continuing the journey towards cultural proficiency,” said Carter. “The district is taking a proactive approach to build awareness and trust, while educating our community.”

Over the past few years, the district partnered with Dr. Jay Marks, a Diversity and Equity Consultant at Oakland Schools, engaged in reading and discussing the book, “Cultural Proficiency: A Manual for School Leaders,” re-energize the districtwide diversity committee, and engaged students to better understand the culture and climate in the schools.

“Although we are making strides towards cultural proficiency, there is still much more work to be done. We are thankful to have the community assist us on our journey,” said Shaner.

Current initiatives include:

• Providing administrators at each grade level with guidance and resources on how to best respond to students when difficult topics, such as national news incidents, surface at school.
• Engaging representatives from all schools and departments across the district in cultural proficiency leadership training.

• Reminding staff members to be intentional about reviewing our Respect Code with students. “We will never tolerate acts of harassment, bullying, prejudice, or discrimination,” said Shaner.
• Working with students at the secondary level and staff to be thoughtful about their social media posts.
• Coordinating efforts with our Diversity and Inclusion Parent Network to ensure students and staff of various races and ethnicities, socioeconomic classes, genders, languages, religion, and sexual orientations are made to feel welcome in our community.

The district also recently invited key community stakeholders to view a private showing of the movie, The Hate U Give,” which was followed by meaningful discussion.

“The Rochester Community School District abides by a respect code and will not tolerate acts of harassment, bullying, prejudice, or discrimination.” said Shaner. “We stand firm in our beliefs that all members of our community must feel safe, valued and respected.”

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