DIVERSITY
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Since the year 2000, Ankeny has grown by 154%, growing more diverse and multicultural. In turn, the student population has grown more diverse and multicultural.
A robust Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program is necessary to help students feel welcome in Ankeny Schools.
As a member of the Ankeny School Board, I will advocate for:
-The DEI Director to be fully supported by the board.
-Funding to be made available to fully develop a DEI program.
-The board to make a long term commitment to implementing DEI policies and programs.
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Students and communities benefit alike from having a diverse school staff.
As a member of the Ankeny School Board, I will work to recruit qualified LGBTQ+ candidates and candidates of color to Ankeny Schools.
Furthermore, I will work to retain our diverse staff after they have been hired, creating an environment where they can grow and succeed professionally.
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In 2021, the Ankeny School Board moved to ban a number of books. After significant backlash, the Board only banned the book "Gender Queer" by Maia Kobabe.
As a country built on freedom of speech, thought and expression, the very idea of censoring books runs counter to our founding principles.
As a member of the Ankeny School Board, I will oppose book bans whenever and however possible.