District leaders join student-organized panel to address gender equality and promote inclusive campus community
Coinciding with Women's Equality Day on Tuesday, Aug. 26, Clairemont High School will host its first Women's Equality Day leadership panel featuring six women executives from the San Diego Unified School District. The event, organized by student leader Kelly Loomis, will bring together district officials to examine gender stereotypes, discuss women's equality, and promote inclusion within the campus community.
The event launches a planned guest speaker series throughout the academic year focused on celebrating cultural differences and fostering dialogue about diversity and inclusion.
"As a woman who has dedicated her life to education and as the first Latina to serve as superintendent of this district, I understand deeply the importance of creating spaces where all voices are heard and valued," said Dr. Fabi Bagula, Superintendent of San Diego Unified School District. "When our students see women in leadership positions addressing the challenges and opportunities that affect their futures, we are living our mission to ensure all students graduate with the skills, motivation, curiosity and resilience to lead and participate in the society of tomorrow. This panel represents the very best of what happens when we center student voices and empower them to drive meaningful change."
The initiative was spearheaded by Loomis, Clairemont High School's ASB Commissioner of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, who envisioned the event as a way to enhance inclusion within the campus community.
"As the new ASB Commissioner of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, I wanted to create opportunities for our school community to have important conversations about equality in a respectful way," said Loomis. "I believe when we celebrate what makes each of us unique and hear from people in leadership roles, it brings our students and staff together and makes our school a better place for everyone."
The panel will feature:
- Dr. Fabi Bagula, Superintendent, San Diego Unified School District
- Dr. Erin Richison, Senior Executive Director of School Networks, San Diego Unified School District
- Nicole DeWitt, Deputy Superintendent, San Diego Unified School District
- Dr. Angelia Watkins, Executive Director of Special Education, San Diego Unified School District
- Kristine Morshead, Senior Executive Director of Human Resources, San Diego Unified School District
- Karly Johnstone, Principal, Clairemont High School, San Diego Unified School District
The event represents San Diego Unified's commitment to student-led diversity and inclusion initiatives, demonstrating the district's dedication to amplifying student voices and empowering them to become advocates for positive change in their communities.
"This student-led initiative reflects our district's values of fostering an inclusive educational environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued," said Principal Karly Johnstone. "Kelly's leadership in organizing this panel demonstrates how our students are taking ownership of creating the inclusive school culture they want to see."
The panel discussion will take place Tuesday, Aug. 26, at 11 a.m. at Clairemont High School, located at 4150 Ute Drive, San Diego, CA 92117.