The Austin ISD community gathered via Zoom on June 30th for the Community Equity Summit: Our Voices, Our Stories.

The Summit was hosted by the AISD Office of Equity and Cultural Proficiency. In attendance were AISD students, families, teachers, staff and community members. The event allowed participants to share their individual and collective stories about learning while at home, how the community is investing in equity, language Access as well as technology, and achieving equitable outcomes for the future.

Multiple panelists held presentations focused on topics that affect children and their families in the Austin community. 

“This is about having powerful and honest conversations about what we want for our kids and what we want for their future,” Superintendent Paul Cruz said. “We want to be able to hold space where we can have the conversation. We are all unique individuals and we need to be proud of that and discuss the world we live in these days.”

The floor was open for people to share their stories as well as discuss ideas and give feedback on how to better the community.

“This Summit creates transparency in our community,” Chief Equity Officer Stephanie Hawley said. “We are trying to build growth and trust and in that, you have to be open to listening to one another. It's on us to listen to our community and respond to them as well.”

The Summit ended with a presentation of student art as well as musical performances. The Community Equity Summit attracted more than 400 people. The AISD Office of Equity and Cultural Proficiency will have another Community Equity Summit on September 15.

For more information, please visit the Austin ISD website.