Redwood Day’s Signature Programs are where specialized instruction meets real-world application. These distinctive experiences transform learning into leadership, allowing students to apply and expand their knowledge far beyond the classroom walls. Whether they are using Oakland as a living laboratory, opting into high-school-style Advanced Topics electives, or building social-emotional courage through our Equity and Inclusion work, every program is designed to cultivate the agency and intellectual skills your child needs to thrive.
Architects of Change:
The Redwood Day E&I Program
At Redwood Day, we believe that for a community to be truly inclusive, every member must be seen, heard, and valued. Our Equity and Inclusion (E&I) program is a cornerstone of our K-8 curriculum, designed to foster the intellectual and emotional courage students need to make the world a more just place.
A Spiraling Curriculum of Belonging
Our program features a dedicated scope and sequence that evolves with each student. From Kindergarten through 8th grade, students engage in Equity and Inclusion Groups that meet ten times throughout the year for intentional discussions on identity, ability, class, gender, and race.
- In Lower School (K-5): The journey begins with exploring cultural identifiers and family histories. Students learn to celebrate their own identities while building empathy and an appreciation for the diverse traditions within our community.
- In Middle School (6-8): As students mature, the program shifts toward deeper inquiry. Students transition into Affinity Groups—including race-based spaces, a Gender/Sexuality Alliance (GSA), and Students of Color (SOC) groups—where they develop the skills to lead discussions and advocate for change.
Our Four Core Goals for Every Student
Through our E&I and Social Justice programming, we empower our students to:
- Explore and Celebrate Identity: Building a strong sense of self-worth and pride.
- Understand Perspectives: Learning to navigate a global society with empathy.
- Analyze Systems: Examining power and privilege in a developmentally appropriate way.
- Take Action: Developing the courage and skills to be active allies and changemakers.
Integrated Social Justice
Equity work isn't confined to a single session; it is woven into the fabric of daily life. We regularly audit our academic materials to ensure they offer "windows and mirrors"—providing multiple perspectives and lifting the voices of historically oppressed communities. This multicultural lens ensures our students leave Redwood Day as confident, socially conscious citizens ready to navigate an interconnected world.
