The Department of Diversity and Intercultural Relations stands as a new directive within the District. Our mission is to promote diversity, inclusion, and intercultural communication within AISD and especially within our classrooms. Extensive research has shown that students learn more and are better prepared for living and working in diverse environments if they experience diversity in school and classroom settings. They learn from informal interactions with peers, while further developing their confidence personally, intellectually and socially. Research and the experiences of districts throughout the nation, show that by valuing diversity and intercultural dialogue, achievement gaps are closed, and drop-out rates are arrested. Overall, parents and community groups engage in the district's mission and vision with the added incentive of a sustainable partnership.

The underlying principle of diversity and intercultural relations is based on the belief that a commitment to diversity means creating an equitable, hospitable and inclusive environment that values the contributions of all of its members, thereby enriching the educational experience for all.

On behalf of the Department of Intercultural Relations (DDIR), I would like to extend my gratitude and appreciation to the City of Austin, Councilman Mike Martinez, and City Manager Mark Ott for their generous support for the Hispanic Futures Conference and the subset initiative "La Clase Magica." To AISD Board of Trustees, Superintendent, AISD staff, teachers, principals, administrators, Parent Support Specialist, students, parents, and the Austin community, I want to also thank you for generous support and participation of the DDIR's 2008-2009 initial year. With your support and commitment, we were successful in bringing to the community four Hispanic Futures Conferences where well over 1500 parents, students, and community representatives combined participated in these events.

We invite you to participate in our efforts by sharing your thoughts with us about diversity, inclusion, cultural interaction, the Hispanic Futures Conferences, and our newsletter by contacting us at 512.414.0884. You can download our newsletter.

Your feedback is critical to the success of our programs and initiatives. We look forward to hearing from you!

Margarita Decierdo, Director
Department of Diversity and Intercultural Relations