Staff Reports
In a May 13 press release, Gallup-McKinley County Schools announced the formation of its Equity Council, a community advisory group that will help guide district decisions to better serve all students, especially those who have historically faced barriers to success in school.
“Establishing our Equity Council is not just a policy step, it is a statement of our values,” GMCS Interim Superintendent Jvanna Hanks II said. “Every student, parent, guardian, and staff member should feel like they belong here. This council will make sure their voices are part of how we make decisions.”
The press release stated that the GMCS Board of Education supports this initiative.
The Equity Council will provide district leadership feedback on policies and programs that promote fairness, inclusion, and student support, with representation from communities including economically disadvantaged families, Native American students, English Learners, and students with disabilities.
The Equity Council will:
Bring diverse community voices into district decision-making
Provide feedback to district leaders on policies related to equity and inclusion
Support a school culture where all students, parents, community, and staff feel respected and valued
Council applications are now open. GMCS will select up to 12 participants districtwide using the rubric established by the New Mexico Public Education Department. The district encourages students, parents, teachers, staff, and community members who are interested in supporting inclusive student success to apply.
For more information or to request an application, visit https://www.gmcs.org/page/equity-council or contact the Student Support Center at (505) 721-1000.
