Welcome to the 2024 IDEA Newsletter where you will find a place of belonging, inspiration, education, and contribution.

"Girls are performing just as well as boys on standardized tests and on international tests of science achievement," said Kathryn Stevenson, a Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management professor at North Carolina State University. "That's not really the issue. What seems to be the issue is a leaky pipeline afterwards."

You'd think the best way to get girls to succeed in school would be to design programs specifically for them - offer them mental health support or free menstrual pads. But that's not necessarily the case, according to a new study, published in May in the journal World Bank Economic Review.

Throughout history, the vision and achievements of powerful women have strengthened our Nation and opened the doors of opportunity wider for all of us.

On February 28th, Lalana Townsend of North Farmington High School delivered a captivating presentation for the City of Farmington Hills. Lalana shared information about the power of Black History and the need to grow its importance.

In the photos you see Farmington residents of different cultures and backgrounds coming together to celebrate the Lunar New Year “year of the dragon” by constructing and lighting lanterns in efforts to honor the family members that have passed on.

On February 27th, The Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion hosted Community Conversations. An evening event where over 200 guests viewed the movie Origin and took part in a panel discussion that included members of the Caste system in India, Oakland School’s DEI Coordinator, and the producer of a film that linked the alliance between black and jewish people.

Farmington STEAM Academy hosted assemblies, and decorated their classroom doors to create grade level "exhibits" that are part of their Hallways of Fame.

The Jimiri Youth Program is returning back to the Metro Detroit area. We are excited to continue our participation and partnership with this program that promotes opportunities for middle school students to build relationships, understanding, and leadership through interactive discussion on race and identity. If you would like to know more about the program, please click on the links below.

• Program details
• Jimiri promotional video
• Middle-School Student poster
• Student application form

The CP Research Network starts spreading cerebral palsy awareness 2024 with its annual photo contest. Read on to learn how to enter and win!

Ramadan, a time of spiritual growth, self-reflection, and renewal - is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the holiest months in Islam. It is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. During Ramadan, Muslim communities fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the foundation of Muslim life and practice. Ramadan culminates in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festive holiday that marks the end of the fasting period. Muslim communities gather for prayers, feasting, and community celebrations to mark the occasion. As educators, it's essential that we understand and respect the significance of Ramadan and its impact on our students and colleagues.

This year, Ramadan occurs Sunday, March 10 – Tuesday, April 9.

Here are some considerations during Ramadan

Do's:

• Be mindful that some students and colleagues may be fasting from dawn until sunset. Respect their commitment to fasting and refrain from offering food or drink during fasting hours. Allow Muslim students to use the library or gym during their lunch period so that they do not feel out of place amongst their non-fasting peers.

• Create a supportive environment by acknowledging and respecting Ramadan as a significant religious observance.

• Be flexible and understanding with students who may experience fatigue or decreased energy levels during fasting hours.

• Allow for accommodations during assessments and exams for students observing Ramadan, such as rescheduling tests or providing alternative arrangements.

• One of the obligatory five prayers takes place in the afternoon. Create/allow spaces to accommodate students and colleagues during this time.

Don'ts:

• Don't assume that all Muslim students or colleagues will be fasting during Ramadan. Respect individual choices and beliefs regarding fasting.

• Don't pressure students or colleagues to break their fast or participate in activities that conflict with their religious observance.

• Avoid scheduling strenuous physical activities or events that may be challenging for students observing fasting.

As a district, we are dedicated to promoting cultural responsiveness and competency across our organization. We recognize the importance of creating an inclusive learning environment where all students, families, and staff feel valued and respected.

National Reading Month celebrates the joy of reading and encourages people of all ages to develop and maintain a love for reading.

"Windows, Mirrors, and Sliding Glass Doors" is a concept introduced by children's book author Rudine Sims Bishop. It refers to the way in which literature can serve as windows through which readers gain insight into experiences different from their own (offering a view into other identities, cultures, and perspectives), mirrors that reflect and validate our personal experiences, and sliding glass doors that invite readers to step into the shoes of characters and explore different worlds.

During National Reading Month, educators, librarians, and book enthusiasts should emphasize the significance of diverse literature that provides both mirrors and windows for readers. By promoting books that reflect the experiences of various cultures, backgrounds, and identities, the goal is to create a more inclusive and empathetic reading experience.

For more information, please contact Gregory Smith, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

for Farmington Public Schools at gregory.smith@fpsk12.net

The government has made legal provisions to ensure that no person is discriminated against on the basis of race, color, natural origin, sex, age, or disability. In order to protect these rights and assure compliance, the Farmington Public Schools District has appointed Mr. Christopher O’Brien as Coordinator of Title IX and Section 504 and Mr. Greg Smith as Coordinator of Title VI, the Age Discrimination Act, and Title II. Inquiries concerning the application of, or grievances for, any of these regulations should be addressed to: christopher.obrien@fpsk12.net or gregory.smith@fpsk12.net.