Hopewell Valley board adopts resolution reaffirming commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility

The Hopewell Valley Regional Board of Education unanimously adopted a resolution reaffirming the district’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility during its May meeting.

Board President Williams Galliano read the resolution in full before the board voted. The measure declares the district a “safe space” and affirms adherence to federal and state civil-rights laws including the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, as stated in the resolution language read to the board.

The resolution was followed by a board member speaking in their personal capacity about immigration-related enforcement actions that affected district families; the speaker described the measure as a “reaffirmation” of the district’s duty to protect students and families. A number of students and community members who addressed the board during public comment thanked the board and district staff for the resolution and encouraged continued protections for marginalized students.

Superintendent (staff member) and other administrators noted the resolution ties into the district’s planned Comprehensive Equity Plan, which will be discussed in committee and in later agenda items. The superintendent thanked staff involved in policy updates required for state submission and said more policy work remains.

The board president told viewers the full resolution text is posted on BoardDocs for public review.

Board members did not amend or condition the resolution at the meeting; the board adopted it by voice vote with no recorded dissents.