During a recent Cherry Creek School District (CCSD) meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding equity, inclusion, and the impact of technology on students.

One speaker, a CCSD alum and parent, highlighted the persistent microaggressions faced by students, particularly those from marginalized communities, including Muslim students. She emphasized the need for schools to actively address issues of Islamophobia and racism within their equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) efforts. The speaker called for mandatory training for educators to better understand and respond to the unique challenges these students encounter, advocating for a curriculum that reflects diverse perspectives.

Another parent, Bethany Jackman, expressed her support for the district while raising concerns about smartphone use among middle school students. She proposed a policy to ban phones during school hours, arguing that such a measure would enhance student engagement and well-being. Jackman pointed out that the current student conduct manual, which allows smartphone use at the discretion of principals, is outdated and needs revision to better align with the district's core values.

Both speakers underscored the importance of fostering an inclusive environment and adapting policies to meet the evolving needs of students, reflecting a community eager for progress in educational practices.