BETHLEHEM, Pa. — An equity and inclusivity audit of the Allentown School District is the topic of PBS39’s latest community conversation.
“Community Conversation: Allentown Schools and Social Justice” airs tonight at 6 on PBS39 and streaming at PBS39.org.
The hourlong program explores the audit that found the district not committed to equity and social justice.
PBS39 Executive Producer Brittany Sweeney hosts the program.
Educational consultants from The Howard Group conducted the audit over four months early this year. More than 5,000 students, staff and community members participated in surveys and dozens of school district leaders participated in focus groups.
The audit found white leaders in the district do not understand the need for creating an inclusive culture, and leaders of color face retaliation for exposing systemic inequities. The audit also found the Allentown School District lacks the cohesion and stability to effectively promote student success.
Appearing on the program:
- Carol Birks, Allentown schools superintendent and CEO
- Khalid Mumin, Pennsylvania Secretary of Education
- State Rep. Pete Schweyer, D-Lehigh and chairman of the House Education Committee
- Laura Cervantes, lead researcher for The Howard Group
- Jack Silva, superintendent of the Bethlehem Area School District
- Guillermo Lopez, consultant with The Guillermo Lopez DEI Institute
- Jon Drescher, Urban Principals Academy, Lehigh University
Watch at 6 tonight on PBS39 and streaming at pbs39.org