• DEI
Highlights from the Report on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Catherine Ronan Karrels '86, Head of School

In the spirit of Goal III, our students deepen their understanding of various cultures and faiths, discover their talents and gifts, and consider how to serve those around them through Social Action, division-specific programming, arts, athletics, campus events, and conferences.

In June 2024, Head of School Catherine Ronan Karrels ’86 shared a report on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work underway at Stone Ridge and explored how our efforts relate to and support the School’s mission and philosophy. Here, we outline updates from each division as shared in the report.

Lower School

  • Grade 2 engaged in project work on family cultures and celebrated with family members as cultural guest experts. Grade 4 engaged in project work about equitable food systems, with a specific focus on how all people can access healthy, fresh, and locally grown food.
     
  • The Lower School Library added a variety of reading materials to the collection, ensuring that all of our students could see images of themselves in the literature they read. This effort supports ongoing curricular work.

Middle School

  • Led by faculty facilitators, the Middle School Diversity Club provided a supportive space for students to engage in discussion about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Throughout the year, students planned activities and presentations for Cultural Programs with the broader community.
     
  • Advisory Lessons were centered around Identity and Community frameworks, helping students to engage in deeper learning about themselves and their peers.
     
  • Friday Flex Programs were structured to include diversity and inclusion activities and featured speakers.

Upper School

  • Upper School Diversity Culture Groups (DCGs) uplifted and celebrated the rich diversity of our student community through regularly planned activities, information sessions, fundraising efforts, and presentations at Upper School assemblies. These student-led groups, supported by faculty and administration, for the 2023–24 academic year included: Allies, AsianAppreciAsian, Black Student Alliance (BSA), Jewish Student Union (JSU), Middle Eastern Student Alliance (MESA), Spectrum, and Unidas.
     
  • Five students attended the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Student Diversity Leadership Conference, and four students attended the Baltimore Student Diversity Leadership Conference.

All School

  • Stone Ridge continued its engagement with the “No Place For Hate” campaign through the Anti-Defamation League. Middle and Upper School students participated in three impactful events as part of this initiative.
     
  • On March 4, 2024, the entire school gathered for a Goal IV Multicultural Program. Our students celebrated diversity through singing, dancing, and sharing highlights from their cultures. In collaboration with DEI Practitioners, Middle and Upper School students assisted with planning for the day and other activities throughout the week. ❤