CoSN's Largest Event Focuses on DEI, Bringing Together 1,500 Educators
CoSN's hybrid conference in Nashville, powered by eventbrite, brought together over 1,500 district administrators and industry partners, marking the association's largest event to date. The conference, focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), offered both in-person and virtual sessions, allowing attendees to reconnect and meet new colleagues, displaying enthusiasm for being together in person.
The event kicked off with the first 'Network Meetup' hosted by CoSN's DEI committee, focusing on DEI in practice and career pathways for diversity. Attendees discussed challenges and successes in diversifying staff, including intentional outreach, exploring new geographic locations, and supporting teachers' career progression. Ensuring equitable connectivity and access in lesson plans remained crucial, with training and creative access points suggested to support teachers.
Advice included finding common ground and inviting all stakeholders to discuss implicit biases in a non-judgmental forum. One attendee shared insights from 'Belonging Through A Culture of Dignity', emphasizing inclusion, belonging, and dignity for successful equity initiatives. Some attendees noted that communities often associate 'diversity' with 'politics', making conversations challenging in rural districts. CoSN's commitment to diversifying the program was evident in the many inspiring speakers from diverse backgrounds.
The conference provided a platform for attendees to discuss and learn about DEI initiatives, with a focus on practical implementation and career pathways. The main event highlighted the importance of equitable connectivity, inclusive discussions, and diverse representation in achieving successful equity initiatives.
