Dabney Brice and Anna Frey, 2014 CCSD alumni, have written a petition letter to the Cornwall Central School District calling for changes to curriculum and staff that would better address the needs and experiences of students of color.
The pair stated on social media, “As CCSD alumni, we believe that education from an early age is key to creating change in this country, where everyone is treated equally. And we all have a part to play in ensuring that happens in our community.”
The petition addresses a lack of diversity in the curriculum, in staff and administration, as well as underwhelming response from schools to address incidents of racial discrimination and the bullying of students of color.
As stated in the letter, “The curriculum has little to no comprehensive lessons, materials, nor dialogue about race and cultural competency. There are neither spaces nor courses that specifically address the experiences of non-white peoples nor celebrate their accomplishments and contributions to our society.”
However, Frey and Brice also included a number of recommended measures they’d like to see implemented by the school district. Suggestions include “Conduct a full review of curriculum and curricular materials to encourage inclusivity and representation in every classroom”, “Readdress the disciplinary system within our schools” and “Establish a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council” amongst others.
Make A Difference Cornwall, who organized the June 14 March on Main Street, has been helping the duo spread their petition.
At the time of writing this, the petition has garnered nearly 700 signatures, many from CCSD alumni, current students, and community members.
Supporters have until Monday, June 29 to add their names. To read the petition letter in full, and sign your name, visit MAD’s website at and click on the “Open Letter to Cornwall” button.
For those unable to view the petition, you can see a screenshot here.
