Envision Equity July 2023

EENQVUISIITOYNJ E F F E R S O NCOUNTYPUBLICSCHOOLS 
 DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND POVERTY DEPARTMENT JULY 2023 | ISSUE 128 And 1 More! Photo, GPehotttoy, AIbmdual Sgheasrif

INTRODUCING 
 DIYANA JONES 2 I t is with great pride and excitement that I join Photo, Abdul Sharif. the Diversity Equity and Poverty Department as Equity Specialist Principal & Schoolhouse  Support. I am passionate about diversity in curriculum, instruction and closing the achievement and opportunity gaps.  I understand the importance of eliminating racial disparities by ensuring teachers receive culture-bias professional development, implement equitable best practices, and ensure students are provided with a diverse school-wide curriculum.  I began my educational career 22 years ago with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) in 2000 as a teacher at Atkinson Elementary School.  I later moved to Engelhard Elementary as a teacher and was also the counselor there for six years before transferring to Western Middle School in 2011. I served as the counselor at Western Middle for three years before becoming the assistant principal in 2014. In 2018, I was selected as the principal at Kennedy Montessori Elementary School until June 2023. I was also an Adjunct Professor at Spalding University from 2013-2014 and  Kentucky State University from 2021-2022.    I am a proud Louisville native and a diehard CARDS Fan.  I graduated from Butler Traditional High School in 1995. I earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Western Kentucky University (WKU), a Master's degree in counseling from the University of Louisville, and my Educational Leadership Certification with Rank 1 status from WKU. I am married with two beautiful daughters, who I love dearly.  I have the same expectations for them as I do for all children, I want to see them excel and become productive human beings who have ample opportunity to become whatever they want to be when they grow up.  I am committed to Jefferson County Public Schools and ensuring educational excellence, equitable opportunities, and inclusion for all people of all backgrounds.

INTRODUCING 
 MARLON MILLER 3 “Everyone can rise above their circumstances and Photo, Abdul Sharif. achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”   ~Nelson Mandela I open with this quote from Nelson Mandela because it encapsulates my life’s testimony and guides my professional work as an educator. Life will always give you obstacles, and with dedication and passion, we can triumph. I am reminded of this as I announce my extreme excitement to join Dr. John Marshall, Chief Equity Officer, and his team in the Diversity, Equity, and Poverty (DEP) Programs Division. In my new exciting role, I will bring over 22 years of diverse experiences in Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), including teaching, athletics, and administration.   I am a twice graduate of the University of Louisville, earning my BA in Political Science in 1997 and my MA in Teaching in 2000. Education is a calling, and I was drawn to the profession because of the many positive experiences I had with teachers during my K-12 education. However, I remain in this profession because of my dedicated passion for helping prepare the next generation of leaders.     In 2000, I started my career at JCPS as a teacher at Central High School. In 2004, I accepted the position of Athletic Director and served in this position for 12 years. In 2016, I accepted the role of Assistant Principal at Carter Traditional Elementary School. In 2020, I accepted the position of Principal of Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School.   To share more about myself, I am from Campbellsville, Kentucky, a small city located approximately 80 miles south of Louisville. I am the father of one daughter, Kayden Miller, who will start her sophomore year at duPont Manual High School during the 2023-2024 school year. I am a member of Little Flock Missionary Baptist Church, located in the historic Smoketown neighborhood. I’ve been a member for 22 years and have served in many capacities, most recently being a Sunday School teacher. I am an avid fan of sports. My two favorite football teams are Florida State University and Dallas Cowboys. I enjoy reading. One of my favorite books is Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends.   As I approach this new season of my career, I do so with the same dedication and passion for working with students, encouraging them to pursue their dreams. I look forward to joining Dr. Marshall and the DEP team to help continue the mission of providing equitable academic programs and services that responds to diverse student populations in their preparation for their futures. I look forward to working with other JCPS and community partners to ensure all students are prepared for a changing workplace within a global economy.

ENVISION EQUITY JULY 2023 
 here is only one Michelle Dillard. You only need  to meet her one time to know that. Michelle L. Dillard has a story to tell. If we are lucky, maybe one day she will share that story, in its entirety, with the world. I am sure her story would be full of cheers and challenges, successes Tand failures, risks and precautions. She is a Black woman in a field that is rife with inequities - so of course she has experienced a thing or two. What humility may not let her do, is share the times that she lifted up her staff, bosses, teachers, and students - often ignoring her own needs. Michelle could lift a person up with a promise, an eye roll, a joke, a sermon, a saying, a story, a song, a very long lecture, a hug, a text, and many other ways. Her wit, work ethic, and willingness to get real results without excuses adds to why she will be missed.  I thought it best to remind JCPS what we had when we had Michelle Dillard in our ranks. She truly envisioned equity. Some people that cherish her have submitted some fond encounters they shared with the woman from Hopkinsville that called it how she saw it.   Salute to you Ms. Michelle L. Dillard. We appreciate you. #pennyrile —Dr. John Marshall, JCPS Chief Equity Officer Photo, Abdul Sharif. 4 Continue on next page.


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ENVISION EQUITY JULY 2023 
 2023 D.O.R.M.S. PROGRAM EMPOWERS FIRST GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS: THE UPGRADE! On June 24, DEP held the fifth-annual D.O.R.M.S. program at Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC). D.O.R.M.S., which stands for Decision, Organization, Ready, Meet, Study, is a two-session workshop specifically designed to support potential first- generation college students and their parents. Led by Delquan Dorsey, the event was a resounding success, providing invaluable guidance and opportunities JCPS parents and students. The D.O.R.M.S. program serves as a catalyst for empowering first-generation college students, assisting them in making informed decisions and building the necessary skills for a successful transition into higher education. By focusing on key elements such as decision-making, organization, readiness, meeting expectations, and effective study habits, the program equips participants with essential tools for their academic journeys. Continue on next page. 11

This year's D.O.R.M.S. program, aptly titled \"D.O.R.M.S.—The Upgrade,\" aimed to take the 
 initiative to new heights. With a renewed focus on personal growth and achievement, the program offered a comprehensive curriculum that delved deeper into crucial aspects of college preparation. Participants engaged in interactive workshops facilitated by Dr. Candice Johnson of VisionSPEAK and Greg Dawson of Best College Match, panel discussions, and hands-on activities, all tailored to nurture their academic, social, and emotional development. Undoubtedly, the highlight of this year's D.O.R.M.S. program was the recognition and celebration of eight outstanding JCPS graduates who were awarded college scholarships. These scholarships not only recognize their hard work and dedication but also provide them with financial support to pursue their higher education dreams. The scholarships serve as a testament to the program's efficacy in empowering and preparing students for their college journeys. Delquan Dorsey, the Community Engagement and Supplier Diversity Coordinator for DEP, played a pivotal role in leading the D.O.R.M.S. program. With his expertise, passion, and dedication, Dorsey served as a mentor and guide for the participants, instilling confidence, motivation, and a sense of purpose. His unwavering commitment to empowering first-generation college students has made a profound impact on the lives of countless young individuals. The D.O.R.M.S. program serves as a shining example of how educational institutions, community leaders, and dedicated individuals can come together to support and uplift students on their academic journeys. By equipping potential first-generation college students with the necessary Continue on next page. 12

skills, knowledge, and resources, the program is instrumental in breaking barriers and opening doors to higher education. The 2023 JCPs D.O.R.M.S. program, \"The Upgrade,\" held on June 24 at JCTC, marked a significant milestone in empowering first-generation college students. Under the guidance of Delquan Dorsey, participants engaged in enriching workshops, discussions, and activities that enhanced their decision-making, organizational, and study skills. The program's success was further amplified by the recognition of eight JCPS graduates who were awarded college scholarships. Through the D.O.R.M.S. program, JCPS continues to pave the way for a brighter future, fostering a community of empowered and successful individuals ready to make their mark in the world of higher education and beyond. 
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ENVISION EQUITY JULY 2023 
 OMEGA PSI PHI AND KY GOVERNOR INAUGURATE BRIGADIER GENERAL CHARLES YOUNG CORRIDOR By Bro. Furman E. Glenn By Dr. Furman Glenn—Omega Psi Phi Men of Quality On June 1, 2023, more than forty brothers of Omega Psi Phi fraternity joined Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, state and local governmental officials, historians, the Young family, and citizens of Mason County to witness the formal inauguration of the Brigadier General Charles Young Corridor. In 2023, Governor Beshear signed Senate Joint Resolution 58 into law designating the route from Camp Nelson in Jessamine County to the Kentucky/Ohio border at Mayslick as Brigadier General Colonel Young Memorial Corridor. The formal dedication ceremony, sponsored by the Kentucky Legislative Black Caucus, National coalition of Black Veterans Organization and Psi Tau Chapter, was conducted at the Young birthplace cabin grounds located at 6319 Helena Road in Mayslick, KY. The Brigadier Charles Young Corridor is a beacon that highlights African American achievements in the United States and beyond. In 2020 and 2021, Governor Beshear, Amy Wormuth, Secretary of the Army, Amy Gabe, Undersecretary of the Army, and U.S. President Joe Biden posthumously recognized and promoted Colonel Charles Young, the third African American graduate of the Military Academy at West Point, to Brigadier General. 14


 Brigadier General Young was recognized for his dogged determined manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and his role in uplifting the status of Americans and the Buffalo soldier near the turn of the 19th century. He was recognized for 33 years of military service in the infantry. He served in wartime environments in the National Guard, the Philippines, the Southwest, and Mexico. He was appointed as U.S. attaché to Hispaniola, Haiti, and Liberia. He was the first African American superintendent of a National Park. He refused a politically-inspired retirement by persevering a grueling 500 mile horse ride to demonstrate his physical and mental fitness for duty. Many of the sixteen brothers from Theta Omega Chapter who participated in the naming of the Brigadier General Charles Young Park in Louisville also participated in the June 1, 2023 Mayslick celebration. 15

Books for Young Readers 
 ENVISION EQUITY JULY 2023 ABC and You and Me Ella Fitzgerald by Corinna Luyken by Andrea Davis Pinkney Publisher: ‎Rocky Pond Books (June 6, 2023) Publisher: ‎Philomel Books (April 4, 2023) Reading age: ‎2 - 5 years Grade level: ‎ 1 - 4 An energetic and diverse ABC book that celebrates and encourages people of all ages and abilities to move your body! This chapter book biography chronicles the life of Ella Fitzgerald growing up during the Great Depression and winning over audiences with her singing at the Apollo. Young readers will learn how Ella persisted with strength and bravery throughout her career despite facing racism, bigotry and hardship. Inheritance: A Visual Poem by Elizabeth Acevedo Publisher: Quill Tree Books (May 3, 2022) Grade level : ‎ 8-12 A brilliant and powerful poetry book delving into the internalized racism that surrounds beauty standards for people of color. Acevedo goes beyond the usual debates about Black hair and examines colorism and the history of hair related prejudice through the span of colonialism and perspective of Afro-Dominican identity. This would be a superb selection for book discussions with teens and adults. Images obtained from Google Images. Book recommendations provided by Heather Lee, Louisville Free Public Library 16

Religious Observances July 2023 Below is a list of religious observances. It is a not an exhaustive list and we appreciate your feedback. We are committed to equity and inclusion respecting religious observances of all community members. July 10 Martyrdom of the Bab (Baha’i) July 11 St. Benedict Day (Christianity) July 15 St. Vladimir the Great Day (Christianity; Eastern Orthodox Christianity) July 24 Pioneer Day (Christianity; Mormon) July 25 St. James the Great Day (Christianity) 17

WORLDFEST PARADE 
 OF CULTURES W orldfest is back in September. The WorldFest Parade of Cultures is a celebration of the different cultural heritages that make Louisville a unique and vibrant place to live and work. Worldfest takes place each year during Labor Day Weekend and features live music, food and vendors. If you are interested in taking part in the parade, please sign up at https://louisvilleky.wufoo.com/ forms/zz8hmh71d7c50f/ A ttention JCPS Elementary Schools--There is no better time to join the No Place for Hate Movement! With this partnership between the Anti-Defamation League and the JCPS Diversity, Equity, and Poverty Programs Department you will help to cultivate student leadership, unite your school community, and engage students and staff in active learning. The four-phase approach includes forming a committee, signing the pledge, assessing your school climate, and implementing activities. If you are interested in finding out more about this program please contact DEP Specialists, LaManda Moore Rodriguez or Dr. Monica Lakhwani https://www.noplaceforhate.org/ 18

ENVISION EQUITY JULY 2023 DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND POVERTY DEPARTMEN
 T BUILDING BRIDGES: COUNTERING ISLAMOPHOBIA 2023-24 Building Bridges: Countering Islamophobia is a five-session hybrid cohort of what is Islamophobia and its impact, to increase our understanding of myths and facts about Muslim people and Islam, explore best practices, and review strategies to reduce negative stereotypes of Muslims. This cohort wraps up prior to Ramadan with a Peace Feast. SESSIONS WILL BE FROM 4:30-6PM. You must attend all sessions as part of the cohort. PD credit will be provided. If interested please contact Dr. Monica Lakhwani [email protected]. 19

TWO PATHWAYS 
 TO PARTICIPATE IN TEACH KENTUCKY YOU ARE YOU ARE CERTIFIED NOT CERTIFIED OR EARNING TO TEACH YET CERTIFICATION Fulltime pay — $47,000 (JCPS) Robust benefits: health, retirement Fulltime pay — $47,000 (JCPS) Extra pay in specific schools — $8,000 Robust benefits: health, retirement AmeriCorps scholarship — $13,000 Extra pay in specific schools — $8,000 AmeriCorps scholarship — $13,000 Summer Institute — 6 weeks Summer Institute — 2 two weeks in July Relocation from district up to $4,000 Relocation from district up to $4,000 Relocation from TKY — $900 Relocation from TKY — $900 District tuition reimbursement District reimbursement for Praxis exams Earn MAT degree w/certification Transfer certification to Kentucky REQUIREMENTS Bachelor's degree in “marketable content” Transfer certification Attend Summer Institute AtAtettnFedinrsSdtudSmauymmwomeureldIrnbIsentis7tt/u1itt0uete Eligible for AmeriCorps Eligible for AmeriCorps Attend recruiting weekend Commitment — 2 years Attend recruiting weekend Commitment — 2 years 907 Barret Avenue | Louisville, KY 40204 20 (502) 458-0830 | [email protected] TEACHKENTUCKY.COM

Credits Editor—Catherine Collesano Editor, Photo Contributor—Abdul Sharif Special thanks to all of our community partners and educators who helped make this special edition of Envision Equity possible. Envision Equity is a publication of the JCPS Department of Diversity, Equity, and Poverty Programs. All submissions should be sent to Catherine Collesano at [email protected] or Abdul Sharif at [email protected]. We want to hear from you! If you are interested in becoming a subscriber or a contributor to Envision Equity, please contact one of the editors at the above email address to submit your article, event, or feedback. www.jefferson.kyschools.us Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Offering Equal Educational Opportunities 21