DEIG in! Your Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Global Education Newsletter -- October 2022

Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month

The transition from September to October marks Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month which spans from September 15- October 15th. This month is an annual celebration of the histories and cultures of the Latinx and Hispanic communities. It starts in the middle of the month instead of the first because September 15th marks the independence day of 5 Latin American Countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

At a time when Venezuelan migrants seeking relief are being used as political pawns, right here at our doorstep, celebrating the rich stories of enterprise, courage, and resilience, of the Hispanic and Latinx community feels all the more urgent. Join us in creating a just community of belonging at BB&N and beyond.

Photo: Art by Victoria Villasana Mexican Textile artist (right), and Camila Rosa a Brazilian Artist and Illustrator (left)

Elaine McNeil-Girmai - Director of the Teacher Training Institute

1) How do you identify?

I identify using she/her pronouns and culturally as African American. I am a second generation American with a strong cultural Caribbean heritage as both of my parents immigrated from Jamaica. I also have a large portion of my extended family from Ethiopia and though I do not personally identify as Ethiopian it is an important part of my family and home culture.

2) What gets you up in the morning?

The energy that comes with learning gets me out the door in the morning! Although I am primarily working with adult learners now, having worked for many years with learners from age 4 years and up, I believe that the spark of learning transcends age. The "aha moment" and the connection and understanding that come with it are what drive me to be a life-long learner. It is also what pushes me to continue to support and collaborate with adults to extend their learning and improve their professional practice.

3) What brings you joy?

I am always on the look-out for joy and there is a ton of it to be found at BB&N! The equally candid, sweet and profound messages of the children are what bring me the greatest joy. I have been fortunate to have been spending time recently visiting all of the classes at the Lower School to share a little about myself with students. They always have such amazing insights, questions and connections to share that it always leaves me with a smile!

4) What made you choose BB&N?

I choose BB&N because of its commitment to teaching and learning. I am really enjoying the opportunity to get back to the basics of the teaching practice in working with pre-service teachers in collaboration with Lesley University. After a tough few years in education, it is exciting to get back to the basics and to the best practices that lead to successful student outcomes!

5) Why is DEIG important to you?

As an educator, I have unfortunately seen the pitfalls of intolerance that arise in the classroom when diversity and equity are not supported effectively. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to support and frame the understanding of DEIG for a new group of teachers entering the field. The level of importance, time and overall commitment to DEIG that BB&N has is really exceptional. It is a great starting place not only for pre-service teachers but also to ensure that we support our growing learners as they learn to live and participate in the larger community and world!

Jessica Keimowitz - Upper School Director

1) How do you identify?

I identify as a white, cisgender, able-bodied, Jewish lesbian. I use she/her pronouns. In addition, I identify as a parent, runner, and word puzzle fan.

2) What gets you up the morning?

My alarm clock! I get up early to exercise most mornings. But what really fuels my day is the energy and enthusiasm that comes from working with talented and motivated young people, and the adults who teach and mentor them.

3) What brings you joy?

Reading, learning, and spending time with family and friends. And ice cream.

4) What made you choose BB&N?

There are so many aspects of the school that I find compelling. First, the school’s ongoing commitment to DEIG work, particularly the work toward becoming an anti-racist institution, was an important component of my decision to come to BB&N. The energy, diversity, and vibrancy of the student body was a huge part of the draw for me. I was also excited to work in a school that has the full spectrum of grades (B-12). I was also excited for a change and a new challenge, and BB&N is providing both of those for me!

5) Why is DEIG important to you?

As an educator, I firmly believe that students do their best learning when they feel seen, heard, valued, and respected. The work of DEIG is about disrupting the status quo in order to work toward a more equitable, just, and inclusive community. That work is never done, but progress can be made, and I’m excited to dig (pun intended) into this work and do my part to help make BB&N a community of authentic belonging for all members.