At Buckley, we believe that our differences are a source of collective strength, and strive to cultivate a community where equity and justice are at the forefront, and where every human being is valued and feels a true sense of belonging.

Our Diversity Statement

Our diversity statement affirmed by The Buckley School Board of Trustees calls us to:

  • Establish The Buckley School at the forefront of all independent schools for which diversity, equity, and inclusion are invaluable components of an academic and co-curricular experience, preparing students for college and navigating a global community.
  • Expand the Diversity Initiative with sustainable programs, trainings, professional development opportunities, guest speakers, educational field trips, and other activities to continuously educate all community members.
  • Make equity and inclusion a strategic focus of curriculum development to ensure that the initiative is systematically infused into each classroom and every component of Buckley's philosophy.
  • Increase diversity by actively seeking new and improved ways to retain, support, and recruit diverse student body, faculty, and staff.

The Board of Trustees also promotes these initiatives through the work of its DEI committee.

Read our DEI Strategic Plan

Valued & Empowered

At Buckley, equity and inclusion are foundational, shaping everything from  curriculum design to event planning. Our dynamic social justice symposia, coffeehouses, guest speakers, and lunchtime club meetings ensure that every voice is valued and every individual feels empowered to participate fully in our community. 

 

Fostering a K-12 Community of Belonging

  • Lower School Clubs Exploring Culture, Identity, and Community
  • Middle & Upper School Affinity Groups
  • Cultural Celebrations Throughout the Year
  • Student-Led Conversations that Foster Understanding and Connection
  • Parent Learning and Discussion Opportunities
  • Family Networks that Build Lasting Connections
  • Board Leadership Supporting a Culture of Belonging

DEI Assemblies

Students lead monthly assemblies that spark curiosity, encourage meaningful conversations, and help our community learn from one another. Past topics have included women leaders of color, LGBTQ+ art and expression, antisemitism, Black hair, microfinance, long COVID, mental health, and women in Iran.

 

 

 

 

    Intersections of Identity

    Every ninth grade student at Buckley takes this signature course, which builds awareness, leadership skills, and identity development. Students explore big themes such as power, systems of oppression, gentrification, and how dominant culture plays out in the media and creation of self-image.

    Family Networks

    Buckley's family networks bring together family members and students with common identities to share experiences and form connections. Led by parents and guardians, these networks receive support from the Office of DEI and the Parents' Association.

     

     

     

     

    Student Affinity Groups

    Buckley offers several student-led affinity groups, each supported by a faculty advisor. Designed for Middle and Upper School students, these groups provide welcoming spaces to connect, build community, and share experiences related to identity, interests, and lived experiences through conversation and student-led activities on and off campus.

     

     

     

     

    Sharing Our Stories

    Identity and self-discovery play an important role in helping students understand themselves and one another. Students explore aspects of identity including ability, age, ethnicity, family structure, gender, race, religion, and socioeconomic background. In the Lower School, this learning comes to life through programs such as Sharing Our Stories during weekly assemblies.

     

     

     

    DEI Office

     

    Related Stories