Resolution Affirming Our Commitment to a Culture of Belonging in La Mesa-Spring Valley Schools
Adopted by the Governing Board of the La Mesa-Spring Valley School District on March 11, 2025
- WHEREAS, the La Mesa-Spring Valley School District serves approximately 11,000 students in preschool through 8th grade who, with their families, represent numerous cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds, all of whom have a myriad of traditions, values, and beliefs based on their unique context and lived experiences; and
- WHEREAS, our diverse student population reflects the depth and richness of the communities we serve, including La Mesa, Spring Valley, El Cajon, Lemon Grove, and San Diego; and
- WHEREAS, California Education Code § 200 and § 220 affirm that all public school students are entitled to equal rights and opportunities, free from discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, immigration status, disability, or other protected characteristics under the law; and
- WHEREAS, our values as elected officials, administrators, parents, and educators are strongly aligned with the assurance of equal rights and opportunity, free from discrimination, as expressed in California’s Education Code, the Constitution of the State of California, and the Constitution of the United States; and
- WHEREAS, all children deserve a high-quality and free education in their community’s public schools where they are safe, supported, and feel a true sense of belonging to learn and thrive without fear of discrimination, harassment, or intimidation; and
- WHEREAS, immigrant students, those from ethnic or racial minorities, LGBTQ+ students, and other marginalized groups nationwide face disproportionate bullying, victimization, and harassment, resulting in negative educational outcomes such as higher absenteeism, academic difficulties, and increased depression and anxiety; and
- WHEREAS, the United States Supreme Court ruling in Plyler v. Doe (1982) reaffirmed that public schools must provide education to all students regardless of immigration status, and the Supreme Court decision in Bostock v. Clayton County (2020) confirmed that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is prohibited under federal law; and
- WHEREAS, we are committed to fostering a culture of belonging in our schools for all students and their families, where every child is encouraged to express their true and authentic self in a safe, inclusive environment that supports their learning and growth; and
- WHEREAS, a culture of belonging means our schools are inclusive places where all students can be themselves, learn, and grow, and where academic growth and overall well-being go hand in hand.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Governing Board of the La Mesa-Spring Valley School District:
- Affirms our commitment to schools that are free from harassment, intimidation, discrimination, bullying, or retaliation, ensuring a culture of belonging where all students and families can learn and thrive without fear of harm, regardless of gender, gender expression and identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, immigration status, disability, family background, or income level.
- Directs our District administration to ensure that all policies, administrative regulations, and practices align with state and federal protections to safeguard the educational rights of our students.
- Pledges ongoing professional learning to recognize and combat bullying, harassment, and discrimination among both students and staff.
- Upholds the right of students to access an equitable and culturally responsive curriculum that is true, accurate, and reflective of the nation’s diverse histories and perspectives, as required by law.
- Encourages collaboration with local, state, and federal officials to advocate for policies that protect the rights of all students and ensure that schools remain safe spaces free from immigration enforcement efforts and political harassment.
- Directs that this resolution be distributed to all District schools, shared with staff, parents, and guardians, and celebrated as a collective commitment to equity and belonging.
