ATLIS Introduces New DEI Framework for Technology Leaders in Independent Schools

DEI Framework to guide technology leaders in fostering more inclusive and equitable learning environments.

The Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (ATLIS) released a new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Framework for Technology Leaders in Independent Schools. The framework helps technology leaders understand their role in fostering more inclusive and equitable learning environments for all students. The framework was designed in collaboration by the ATLIS board of directors, DEI advisory committee, and experts in the field of DEI. 

“In practical terms, the framework is beneficial for all of us,” said Lawrence Alexander II, a diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging consultant who worked with ATLIS over a series of months. “While it's often said that the map is not the territory, having a map makes navigating the territory much easier. The framework provides a starting point for schools and associations to begin their DEI work, regardless of where they are in the process. The framework is a map that points schools and associations in the direction of where to start and where to go.”

The framework is intended to be flexible and adaptable to the unique needs and circumstances of each independent school. It provides technology leaders with practical tools and strategies for implementing DEI principles in the design and implementation of technology solutions, policies, and procedures.

“I am thrilled that the committee has chosen to organize the document around people, systems, and technology. This framework aligns well with the daily work of technologists and schools,” said Denise Musslewhite, ATLIS board chair and founder of Tech & Thrive. “Seeing this framework on paper, rather than just in ideas and meetings, is exciting because it helps individuals in technology leadership roles at schools see themselves in the work. The framework provides them with questions and insights that they can use to prepare for conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion and be viewed as partners in this work.” 

The DEI framework provides technology leaders with a tool for assessing and addressing the technological components of DEI in their schools. This framework demonstrates how technology leaders can foster DEI while promoting a sense of belonging within the sphere of technology and the school community by:  

•  Partnering with DEI administrators and practitioners (PEOPLE)

•  Developing innovative programs to educate and create holistic and systematic change (SYSTEMS)

•  Promoting, hiring, mentoring, and creating inclusive technology best practices to streamline organizational change (TECHNOLOGY)

“It all began with a conversation, but it soon turned into something much more beautiful and complex,” said Allison Ross Starling, a member of the ATLIS DEI Advisory Committee and a doctoral student studying culturally-responsive pedagogy. “A group of individuals with diverse backgrounds came together to discuss why a particular topic was so crucial, not just for their organization, but for children as a whole. 

“As technology leaders, [the contributors] recognized that their response to what is best for children was this framework,” Starling continued. “The process of creating it began small but grew bigger and more refined over time. Now, we’ve reached a point where we recognize that this framework is a polished and refined visualization of all the great work we've done so far. However, we know that this is just the beginning.”

“The DEI Advisory Committee at ATLIS deserves a lot of credit for their passionate and hands-on approach to this work,” said Christina Lewellen, ATLIS’s executive director.  “I particularly appreciate the comprehensive framework they developed, which includes individual work, DEI support in the classroom, and efforts at the school community level, such as hiring practices. This sort of guiding map did not exist before, so I'm proud of our organization for taking a big leap to create it.” 

The framework was launched at the ATLIS 2023 Annual Conference, and attendees were provided a poster-sized copy to take back to their schools as a reference. The resource will be available to ATLIS members and the independent school community as a digital download at theATLIS.org. 

About ATLIS

The Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (ATLIS) is a growing association of nearly 300 independent schools dedicated to empowering schools to thrive through technology leadership. Founded in 2014 to address the unique challenges of independent school technology directors, the organization has now expanded to support all aspects of technology at schools, ensuring that they are equipped for the future. Across all dimensions of its practice, ATLIS is also dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive association. Learn more at theATLIS.org. 

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