What an exciting year 2007-2008 has been!! Many positive changes took place, and even more changes are to come in the next school year. The community, both in and out of school, is more aware, better informed, and more willing to come together and speak out then ever before.Issues regarding diversity, equity, discrimination, racism, and cultural competence were on the top of many people's lists, whether they wanted it or not, many times thanks to the conversations started, and questions asked, by GOGA. This led to initiating conversations that were never had before, as well as meetings, and social events that united us as a community and as a school. All this led to even bigger changes such as the development of the Diversity and Equity Coordinator position, held by Mr. Charles Ellis (whose office is located at the High School), who patiently and with much dedication, continues the conversations and collection of information needed to change and improve what is needed.GOGA continues to be led by Lionel Norton, Advisory Board President and parent, and many board members continue to be as dedicated to the GOGA efforts, more then ever before.Carol Cain, GOGA Founder, has moved to NYC, but continues to monitor the progress of GOGA's mission and goals.Regardless of what shape, name, or form we take on from here, we are proud as a group to have started the conversations, even the uncomfortable ones, to have initiated process that others only thought of but never pushed forward, and to have set the the bar of expectations a bit higher for what a truly diverse and culturally competent community should be.Though there is still a lot more work to be done, we are very happy of the steps that have been taken, we are grateful to those who have spoken out, fearlessly and passionately, and we look forward to more positive changes in our community!
