engineering, emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving. Students engage in hands-on, realworld experiences like the River Keepers program, where they conduct scientific research on the Hudson River, and the Classrooms Without Walls initiative, which offers international learning opportunities in places such as Japan and the Galápagos Islands. “What we do really well here is provide choices,” Dellafave adds. “It’s the principles of creating learners. Rather than teaching what to teach, we teach how to learn.” EQUITY, BELONGING & EMPOWERMENT In Hoboken, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) go beyond policy—they are integral to the district’s core identity. Stephen Dickerson, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, ensures these values are woven into every facet of the school experience. From culturally responsive initiatives like the Amistad program to student-led cultural celebrations, the district fosters an environment where every student feels acknowledged, valued, and respected. “Diversity is our superpower,” Dickerson says proudly. “Each month we focus on different themes and programs. But what we focus on the most, is ensuring that all this work is integrated in everything that we do. A lot of my work is with administration and how their buildings are built to connect and develop culture, and ensuring that all students, regardless of any identities, are coming into our buildings and feeling safe, feeling secure, feeling the opportunities that are there for them.” 10 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
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