Forum on Integration & Equity in Our Schools, hosted by Coalition on Race

New Jersey ranks as one of the best public education systems in the country and yet there are wide disparities for students that are connected to race, place and socio-economic status. Even diverse communities like South Orange/Maplewood that are intentional about integration struggle to maintain integrated schools and classrooms, and to serve all students equitably. As the school district is poised to integrate its elementary schools and the state is facing new challenges to integrate all schools, the Schools Committee of the Community Coalition on Race is hosting a forum on Tuesday, October 2nd, 7:30 pm at Montrose School Auditorium that will set the context on school integration efforts.

Speakers include Assemblywoman Mila Jasey and nationally-recognized expert in civil rights Professor Elise Boddie. Executive Director Nancy Gagnier will introduce the evening by presenting demographic information on our towns and schools. Ms. Jasey, a former SOMSD Board of Education member and current State Assemblywoman, will discuss school integration efforts in the district over the last 30 years. Professor Boddie will discuss school integration in the region and the state—achievements, failures and visions for the near future.

The Schools Committee advocates for integrated schools and classrooms, a diverse teaching staff and ameliorating the racial academic gap. They work from the premise that racially integrated schools benefit all students in a range of academic and social skills and that integrated schools and classrooms that serve all students equitably are critical to stable community integration. Come with your questions and ideas for intentional integration and achieving equity in SOMA and beyond.