Plano ISD Diversity Programs
The goal of the diversity programs is to enhance relationships across ethnic, racial, linguistic,
and economic lines in our schools and school communities.
Diversity Advisory Committee (DAC)
The Diversity Advisory Committee was established in 1988 as an advisory committee to the
Plano ISD Board of Trustees.
Mission: To advocate for, promote and ensure stronger relationships, improved communication
and enhanced understanding between Plano ISD and its diverse communities.
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Committee focuses its attention on District programs or current issues regarding
race, religion, ethnicity, or disability related situations.
Committee studies the advisability of adding, deleting, or changing various programs
based on the needs of the community and student body of the District.
The Board or Superintendent may direct the committee to study and make
recommendations on specific issues.
Committee consists of 21 members reflecting the diversity of the school community,
to the extent possible.
Members serve three-year terms with one-third of the membership appointed each
year.
Committee involvement and impact:
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Leadership and Vision
Guidance on Religious Issues
Hiring Procedures
Student/Parent Conflict Resolution
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Affirmative Action Policy
Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute
Diversity Leadership Award
District-Wide Diversity Training
Diversity Steering Committee (DSC)
The Plano ISD Diversity Steering Committee (DSC) was established in the spring of 2002 in
response to the recommendations from both the school district's Multi-ethnic Committee and
1997 Curriculum Audit.
Mission: To build bridges of trust and respect by modeling and promoting a culture that
embraces diversity and values all people.
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Committee implements programs and activities that support community, belonging, trust
and unity.
Membership is comprised of district staff from various departments and campuses.
DSC Sub-Committees
 Student Learning
 Diversity Development
 Communications
 Human Resources
Cultural Competency Training
Plano ISD Board of Trustees Initiative – To initiate a diversity training program for district staff
to assist them in gaining a better understanding of other peoples’ ethnic, religious, and other
diverse backgrounds.
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In 2009, the DSC Task Force planned and implemented district-wide cultural
competency training for all staff.
On-going training series seeks to cause conversations that will strengthen
communication and relationships.
Intended impact:
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Improve staff to student relationships
o Improve student achievement
o Decrease discipline referrals, drop-out rate, and absenteeism
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Improve staff to parent relationships
o Increase parent involvement
o Eliminate cultural isolation
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Improve staff to staff relationships
o Improve workplace relationships
o Improve staff retention
2009-2010: Religious Expression in the Workplace
2010-2011: Age, Generation, and Experience (A.G.E.) in the Workplace
2011-2012: Economics and Inclusion in the Workplace
Dr. Raj Menon, Chair
Diversity Advisory Committee
Jun Melvin, HR Director
District Liaison, Diversity Advisory Committee
Dollie Thomas, HR Specialist
District Liaison, Diversity Advisory Committee