Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Justice

At The School in Rose Valley, we believe that diversity strengthens our community as we work, play, and learn together. We strive to foster a culture of mutual respect and inclusion. We value the multifaceted experiences within and outside of our community. Students, families, and colleagues are encouraged to seek out meaningful exploration and connection in the world around them.

Our commitment to diversity is reflected in our mission to create an environment where every individual feels embraced, valued, empowered, and challenged. At SRV, we actively engage in conversations, curriculum, and activities around diversity. This ensures that students, teachers, staff members, and families alike can discuss and address everyday issues that shape children’s understandings of our diverse world.

Students eating lunch outside during their day at the School of Rose Valley

Students Playing outside jumping around having fun during their day at the School in Rose Valley

Student using a sock puppet to learn and use creativity at the School in Rose Valley with a teacher

Here's how our student's define DEIJ...

At The School in Rose Valley, we understand that diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice are more than just words—they are the very foundations of our community. Recognizing their importance, we invited students from various classes to define these concepts in their own words. Their thoughtful and authentic perspectives highlight not only what DEIJ means to them personally, but also how these values shape our shared learning and living environment. As you explore their definitions, you’ll discover the vibrant tapestry of experiences and insights that truly make our community unique.

Diversity

“It means differences of people.”
“It’s you!”
“People are different in so many ways!”

Equity

“It’s an idea that means loving.”
“It’s the same rules for everyone.”
“Equity is all people being on the same terms and having the same resources and opportunities.”

Inclusion

“Including everyone in the community.”
“It means to let people go into your game.”
“Don’t exclude people (exclude means you say you can’t play with us, or there’s no more space).”

Justice

“Freedom.”
“Equal rights for people.”
“Equality and fighting for the truth and all rights that should be given.“

Partnerships & Beyond

We also recognize the importance of seeking and supporting diversity within our own school and beyond. Our partnership with the Greater Philadelphia Diversity Collaborative (GPDC) allows us to connect with peer schools and engage in meaningful dialogue through conferences and events. Initiatives such as the Nurturing Critically Engaged Citizens: Preschool to Second-Grade Educator’s Diversity Summit and The Elementary Student Diversity Day: Pieces of the Puzzle for students in grades 3–6 reflect our commitment to nurturing inclusivity from the earliest ages.

SRV’s dedication to diversity goes beyond our campus. By forming lasting partnerships with local organizations, we create mutually enriching experiences that support our mission. Through these collaborations, we ensure that issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion remain a vital part of our community, fostering a place where all individuals can thrive and contribute.

At SRV, diversity is more than an aspiration—it is an active practice. We continuously strive to build an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming environment where everyone’s unique perspective enriches our shared journey.

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Photo of the cafeteria staff at the School in Rose Valley in prep for student's lunch time

Family Involvement

At The School in Rose Valley, deep connections and lifelong friendships are the heart of our community. Students, parents, grandparents, staff, and alumni come together each year to support and celebrate SRV, finding countless ways to stay involved and contribute...

Sustainability

Our sustainability practices are driven by the understanding that environmental well-being is deeply interconnected with social and economic health. With this in mind, we have integrated sustainability into our decision-making processes alongside financial and social considerations.

Community

By intentionally keeping our school small, we cultivate a close-knit environment where students, parents, and staff form deep connections. This sense of community is nurtured through shared values, meaningful traditions, and a commitment to genuine citizenship, involving both the joys...