Creating safe space means more than physical security and preventing bullying at Compass Charter Schools (Compass). Our tuition-free public schools for grades TK-12 serve a diverse population in Yolo, San Diego, Los Angeles and surrounding communities through virtual personalized learning. When asked about the concept of safe space, staff and leaders spoke up.
Safe Space is Inclusive & Equitable
“Compass is committed to providing an equitable and inclusive learning environment where scholars and staff respect the views of others. We strive to free our community of bias, discrimination, and intolerance. Creating a safe space allows anyone who feels threatened or otherwise unsafe to seek assistance and support regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, religious affiliation, citizenship or immigration status, veteran’s status, or political views,” said Liz Brenner, Superintendent and CEO.
“Creating Safe Space at Compass (or any environment) is, quite frankly, life-saving,” said Vanessa Beyer, Outreach Coordinator. “The suicide rates among the LGBTQIA+ community, and minors in particular, are at an all-time high. When we enter into any profession working with children, we agree to hold safe and support all of them, no matter our own personal beliefs.”
“I believe it is important to have an environment where, whether we agree or disagree with each other’s views, that everyone is treated with respect, common courtesy, and professional work ethic. Being the parent of a trans child, I was able to share my story with my department and division. I felt welcomed and accepted with open arms,” said Dario Eminente, Enrollment Specialist. “Knowing that Compass was an inclusive space made me feel safe enough to share our story, which has helped me as an Enrollment Specialist to understand and better help out our LGBTQIA+ families and scholars.”
Safe Space Allows Everyone to Be Seen & Heard
“At Compass, we create a safe learning environment for scholars’ voices. Scholars use critical thinking skills to develop their identities and feel valued and heard,” said Janae Smith, Director of Online Learning.
“I want all of my scholars (and their families) to know that I am someone they can count on. Sometimes that means listening. Sometimes it means helping to navigate systems. Sometimes I am their advocate, stepping up for fairness,” said Stephanie Lee, Options Program Supervising Teacher.
“I respect my families and what they share with me. The more I accept and know my scholars, the more genuine the connection, the bigger impact I can make in providing resources and support while they navigate school. All scholars matter,” said Mandi Schwartzberg, Counselor.
Compass continues to develop more safe space and support, including professional development to expand our services, year after year. Will you celebrate our diverse inclusive scholars and families with us? We welcome you. Join the Compass family today!
About Compass
Compass Charter Schools (Compass) is the Gold Standard in Personalized Learning for innovative, creative self-learners. We celebrate diversity & equity in our tuition-free public school – every scholar belongs in our tailored education programs: Online and Options home study. As one of California’s leading WASC-accredited virtual charter schools of choice, we nurture a curiosity for lifelong learning. Every TK-12 scholar and learning coach (our term for parents) is fully supported with in-house counselors, welcoming staff, and talented accredited teachers. Additionally, we are the only virtual Purple Star School in California, and one of few virtual AVID programs in the nation. Join our collaborative virtual learning community. Rise and Soar with our Firebirds – enroll with Compass today!