Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

DESE plays a pivotal role in ensuring access to high-quality education for all students in the Commonwealth. To support the goal of providing greater access and opportunities for students, DESE staff members are committed to developing and strengthening the knowledge, capacity, and skills necessary to understand and address how policies and practices can support more equitable student outcomes. Further, leadership within DESE is committed to cultivating the skills to foster a climate of trust throughout the agency that is built on diversity, equity, and inclusion. These efforts are spread across all centers and teams at DESE, with CSI coordinating and leading those listed below. * * * **DESE DEI Committee** A DESE staff-based committee that discusses and recommends policies and practices to promote a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment at the agency. * * * **Cultural Proficiency Training** DESE is working with a partner organization to provide training to all staff members to further develop knowledge, skills, strategies, and resources to promote a more racially equitable K-12 education system. * * * **DESE School- and District-Facing DEI Working Group** A DESE staff-based group working to promote communication and collaboration around agency initiatives and practices that are geared toward increasing educational equity for traditionally underserved students.