In a pivotal meeting on Friday, January 5th, members of the CELT Committee ( Community Equity Leadership Team) gathered with Dr. Taylor, the Superintendent of Wake County Public Schools to address community conflict and harm. The committee, comprised of 22 service providers and organizational leaders who felt excluded from the hearing process came together to establish a connection with Dr. Taylor, who had assumed the position in October 2023.  

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The Peacekeeping Circle Approach 
Geraldine Alshamy took the reins as the leader of the discussion, utilizing a peacekeeping circle approach to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone involved. This method allowed each participant to express their thoughts and concerns openly, ensuring that every voice was heard and valued. The circle format encourages active listening, empathy, and mutual understanding, setting the stage for constructive dialogue. 

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Individual Perspectives on Equity: 
One of the powerful elements of the meeting was the opportunity for each participant to introduce themselves and briefly share their perspective on what equity means to them. This exercise not only allowed for a diverse range of voices to be heard but also highlighted the multifaceted nature of equity. Participants shared personal stories, experiences, and visions for a more equitable educational system, contributing to a richer and more nuanced conversation. 

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Building Stronger Relations: 
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to building stronger relationships and fostering more meaningful collaborative efforts between the CELT Committee and Wake County Public Schools. The promise to establish a continuous and open line of communication signifies a positive step towards addressing the concerns raised by the committee and ensuring that the needs of the community are acknowledged and addressed. 

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Implications for the Future:    
The collaborative and open dialogue between the Celt Committee and Dr. Taylor sets a precedent for future engagements between community groups and educational leaders. The use of the peacekeeping circle approach proved effective in creating an environment where concerns were addressed, and a sense of unity and understanding was cultivated. The commitment to ongoing collaboration signifies a shift towards a more inclusive and equitable educational system in Wake County.

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Conclusion:
The meeting between the Celt Committee and Dr. Taylor marks a significant step forward in fostering equity and collaboration within Wake County schools. By employing the peacekeeping circle approach and encouraging open dialogue, the committee and the superintendent have laid the foundation for a more inclusive educational system. As they move forward with their promise to build stronger relations, the community can anticipate more positive and impactful changes in the pursuit of educational equity.

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