Director of Inclusive Excellence: Shabi Vereen P '23, '27, shabiroon.vereen@fairfieldcountryday.org At Fairfield Country Day School, we build community through shared effort, curiosity, and a commitment to making every student feel seen, heard, and valued. We believe that diversity alone is not enough and that true belonging is essential for students to thrive. That’s why we center meaningful connection, empowerment, and shared growth in all that we do.Our approach is guided by the Inclusive Excellence Framework, a research based model developed by the Association of American Colleges & Universities, which affirms that academic and personal success are inseparable from a commitment to inclusion (AAC&U, 2017). In alignment with this framework, we strive to cultivate an environment where diverse cultures, identities, perspectives, and worldviews are acknowledged, respected, and celebrated. We promote inclusive teaching practices that support a wide variety of learners and emphasize the development of self-awareness and interpersonal skills essential to meaningful engagement across lines of difference.In partnership between faculty, students and families, we regularly evaluate and refine our policies, practices, and curricula to reflect the principles of inclusive excellence. This continuous work enables us to address emerging needs, reduce disparities, and uphold our vision for a truly inclusive school community.Signature programs include internal and external mentorship opportunities, cultural heritage assembly presentations, a dynamic speaker series, integrated social justice and social-emotional learning programming, parent affinity groups, and more.