Diversity at Horace Mann
From the Director... Cheryl Scott-Mouzon
Greetings!
As I begin my sixth year here, I am very pleased with the growth that I have seen at Horace Mann. Both visually and subtly the vision of the Administration is being realized and the benefits are far-reaching. When I began six years ago the overall student body was 19% students of color. As we enter the 2003 - 04 school year that number has increased to 24%. My belief that it is imperative when educating tomorrow's leaders that students feel comfortable with and recognize the value of diversity is still as strong as ever. So is my belief that we should highlight diversity in a natural way within the curriculum. Horace Mann has made great strides across all divisions in incorporating readings and lessons from a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds. In an effort to address issues of diversity on a regular, more immediate basis, we have Markell Parker, an assistant teacher and diversity coordinator in the Nursery Division, Frankie Brown, a second grade teacher and diversity coordinator in the Lower Division, and Kevin Nicholas as an English teacher and diversity coordinator in the Middle Division. This year I want to continue with the wonderful progress that's been made, I would like to establish a mentoring program between Lower Division and Upper Division students, I want to continue re-connecting with our Alums of Color for I do believe that they are a very valuable, largely untapped resource that is much needed and appreciated, and I want to begin the task of raising more money for Financial Aid. It is not our intention to take away from the other fundraising efforts that go on here at Horace Mann. In the coming months, the Office of Diversity is hoping will extend the fundraising for Financial Aid to the entire HM community. We don't look at it as helping a few. Instead, we view it as benefiting the entire community. In addition to racial, ethnic, religious, gender, and sexual orientation, it is imperative to continue to strive for more socio-economic diversity as well. If you are interested in helping us with this most important project, please contact the Office of Diversity at (718)432-4114. Our work is not yet over but we can all be proud of the accomplishments that have been made thus far. As always, I welcome your emails, input, and suggestions as we work on the issues of diversity here at HM. Browse the website, come for a visit, and once again, welcome!!!