Las Cruces Public Schools looking to fill two spots on its equity council
Las Cruces Public Schools is looking to fill two open positions on its equity council which was founded in 2019 shortly after the ruling in the Yazzie/Martinez lawsuit.
One seat is dedicated for an elementary school parent and the other to a Las Cruces community member. The deadline to apply is Sept. 17.
Here's information on how to apply and what an equity council does.
What is an equity council?
Equity councils provide support to school districts about policy, programs and funding to ensure students are given the proper resources in their education.
The New Mexico Public Education Department requires all districts and charter schools in the state to have equity councils after the ruling in Yazzie/Martinez v. State of New Mexico. The lawsuit found that New Mexico schools were not offering adequate resources and support especially to Native American, disabled, English-learning and economically disadvantaged students.
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While equity councils do not create actual policies, councils have the responsibility of issuing guidance and recommendations to the district regarding policies, budgets and programs.
One initial accomplishment the Las Cruces Public Schools Equity Council achieved was the passage of the JBC Equity and Excellence for All Students policy. Roberto Lozano, associate superintendent of equity, innovation, and social justice wrote about the policy for the Sun-News in 2021.
“In this policy, the board establishes a framework that promotes learning environments for all students that validate and equitably infuse a student’s home culture, language, and identity in all aspects of their learning experience,” Lozano wrote.
“Policy JBC also requires that the Equity Council be established and serve as an advisory body to the LCPS Board of Education.”
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What are the responsibilities?
Individuals in one of the seats must be willing to attend two to six hours of monthly council and committee meetings.
They also must be willing to serve a two or three-year term.
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How to apply?
An online application must be submitted by Sept. 17, 2023, for consideration. The current council will screen applicants and vote on the best fit for the positions.
The online application can be accessed at https://www.lcps.net/.
This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Las Cruces Public Schools looking to fill two spots on its equity council
