Parent/Guardian Affinity Groups
Affinity groups at OES are designed to support families whose identities have been underrepresented or marginalized and increase families’ sense of belonging in the community by providing spaces for renewal, dialogue, reflection, and action.
These groups offer caregivers the opportunity to discuss their individual experiences among a peer group that shares a common identity. Parents and guardians develop self-awareness and cultural knowledge, problem solve social interactions, and build communities of support. The groups are facilitated by two to three parent facilitators, and supported by the Director for Equity & Inclusion.
Tapestry: Parents/Guardians of Learners of Color
This affinity group is for families who have students that identify as of Color. This group exists to create space to support each other, network, and advocate for students. In this space, parents come together to build community for themselves and their children, learn about various supports to strengthen positive identity, connect with school leadership, and educate themselves on issues that affect student life.
Neurodiverse Community Affinity Group (NCAG)
Families join this affinity group in search of support for themselves and their students who deal with learning differences such as ADHD, autism, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and dyslexia. The group meets regularly to offer resources and support, advocate for increased awareness to normalize neurodiversity, and share best practices for neurodivergent individuals, with a focus on addressing systemic barriers that create inequitable opportunities and outcomes.
Pride Alliance Group
This alliance group is for parents and guardians who identify as LGBTQIA+, or have students who identify as such, and for those parents and guardians who want to support our LGBTQIA+ community and be an ally. It offers an affirming space where members can foster a sense of belonging, support one another, and strengthen their voice within the school community.
Mishpacha: Parent/Guardian Affinity Group for Jewish Families
Mishpacha, meaning “family” in Hebrew, aims to create a warm and welcoming space where Jewish parents/guardians and children can come together to celebrate their shared heritage and build a sense of community. The group provides Jewish families dedicated time to connect, share experiences, and foster meaningful relationships within the OES community.