Our Commitment
The DOE is committed to creating and supporting learning environments that reflect the diversity of New York City. We believe all students benefit from diverse and inclusive schools and classrooms. We strive to welcome and support all students, families, and school staff.
What is Diversity?
Diversity comes in many forms, including:
- racial background
- cultural identity
- socioeconomic status
- home language
- country of origin
- immigration status
- ability
- special needs
- religion
- gender identity
- gender expression
- sexual orientation
- housing status
- life experience
The Diversity Plan
The DOE’s diversity plan explains our approach to diversity work. It also includes several policy changes that are in progress. Read about the specific actions we’re taking to increase and support diversity in our schools. This plan builds on the important work we do every day, with all of our partners, to make our schools strong and welcoming. Download the plan:
District 1 Diversity Plan
In District 1, we are working closely with the community on a plan to foster school diversity. This plan includes hosting the first districtwide Diversity in Admissions pilot and the opening of our District 1 Family Resource Center, where full-time staff help families learn about and apply to District 1 schools. The Family Resource Center also hosts events created for and by the community.
District 3 Diversity Plan
In District 3, we launched a plan to increase diversity in district middle schools by providing more equitable access for applicants who are lower-performing students and whose families meet federal income eligibility requirements.
District 13 Diversity Plan
In District 13, we launched a plan to increase diversity in district middle schools by providing more equitable access for students from low-income households or students in temporary housing.
District 15 Diversity Plan
In District 15, we launched a districtwide plan to increase middle school diversity. This plan was created through a year-long community engagement process in collaborating with school leaders, educators, parents and guardians, students, community members, and WXY Studio, and in response to recommendations from the District 15 Working Group. To see the full set of recommendations, visit the D15 Diversity Plan website.
Diversity in Admissions
More than 100 NYC public schools and programs are participating in Diversity in Admissions this year. Through the admissions processes, these schools prioritize targeted groups of students including, but not limited to, students whose families meet federal income eligibility requirements, English Language Learners, and students whose families are impacted by incarceration.
Learn more about all of these district-wide and school pilots on our Diversity in Admissions page.