Freshman Report on the Necessity of Diversity Academies

Campo Connection academies, known as diversity academies amongst students, implemented by the Leadership Equity Council are helping students feel more comfortable at school by creating a close-knit community, as well as allowing incoming freshmen to reflect back on their middle schools’ diversity programs.

Freshman Luke Martinez said, “I think [the diversity academies] are helpful because we can learn about how diversity is important in Campolindo. I learned a lot about equity and diversity [from them].”

Martinez said his last school, Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School (JMIS), implemented an “iKind” program. iKind is a program that promotes being kind to others at school by including others in activities and making them feel appreciated. It helps to create a better school atmosphere and community so that no one feels left out.

According to Martinez, the diversity academy is “more helpful because we learned a lot more about diversity and inclusion in the school.”

Freshman Anthony Sanguinetti, another former JMIS student, said, “I think the diversity academies are very helpful because it allows us to share our thoughts about Campo’s environment and give feedback.”

He added, “In middle school we had some discussions…about diversity and inclusion. I think Campo’s lectures about diversity and inclusion are way better than what we had in middle school.”

A previous Stanley Middle School student, freshman Phin Kofman’s opinion differs on the equity academies. “I think [the academies] are helpful because it is [a] dedicated time to learn about racism and equity,” Kofman said. “[However,] my middle school [had] assemblies to promote these ideas which I think is more helpful.”

Whether the middle schools used an iKind program or some other form of diversity education, most freshmen agree the diversity academies are beneficial at the high school level.