Creating an inclusive and diverse school environment starts with intentional admission efforts. At St. Patrick’s Episcopal Day School in Washington, DC, The Assistant Head of School for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and the Director of Enrollment Management have collaborated to develop targeted initiatives aimed at increasing the representation of historically underrepresented groups, including Black students and students from same-sex parent households. These efforts not only provide meaningful opportunities for families but also strengthen the fabric of our entire school community.
One of our most successful strategies has been the implementation of affinity-based admission events. Recognizing that underrepresented populations often face barriers in the admission process—including lack of access to information, financial constraints, and concerns about belonging—we have designed events that directly address these challenges. For Black students and their families we have hosted a few different events over the years. We began with an evening cocktail party held at the home of a current family. We found these events helpful to allow us to get into other neighborhoods around the city.
Similarly, for students with same-sex parents, we have asked current families to host events in their homes. These events provide prospective families with firsthand insights into the student experience while also fostering a sense of community before enrollment even begins. There is nothing more valuable than hearing from families who can speak directly to our institution’s inclusive policies and support networks.
Over time we started to worry that these home events were a heavy lift for the host families. More recently, we have changed gears and held a holiday craft party for Black applicant families. During the month of December, prospective and current families come to campus, make ornaments and other holiday crafts, while discussing life at St. Patrick’s, particularly as it relates to being Black at St. Patrick’s. This event is coupled with a larger event at the school Gifts for Good. Gifts for Good is an alternative gift fair where our Grade 5 students research non-profit organizations across the country and share what they have learned with “shoppers” who donate to those organizations during the fair. By coupling these two events, we further reinforce the mission and experience of being at our school.
Affinity-based admission efforts help remove systemic barriers and ensure that all families feel welcome and valued. By creating spaces where families can ask questions and see themselves reflected in the school community, we empower them to make informed choices about their child's education. Moreover, these initiatives provide current students with a richer and more diverse peer group, fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance.
The work of creating a more diverse and inclusive school community is ongoing. Our DEI and Enrollment teams continue to seek new ways to engage underrepresented families, leveraging partnerships with community organizations and alumni networks. By prioritizing affinity-based admission initiatives, we not only meet enrollment goals but also build a stronger, more vibrant school community where every family feels a sense of belonging.
Erica Thompson
Assistant Head of School for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
St. Patrick's Episcopal Day School-DC