IACS Hawk
June 2, 2020
Dear IACS Community,
IACS is a school whose mission asks us to examine the world through a systems thinking lens and one of the common tools we use in the classroom is the "iceberg model". This practice pushes students to examine events as merely the "the tip" of the iceberg; what lies underneath the water line are the patterns of behavior, structures and policies, and our personal assumptions and beliefs. My hope is that as a community of systems thinkers, we view the killing of George Floyd and resulting calls for justice in a similar manner by:
Understanding long-term trends: Racial inequality and injustice have always existed in the United States not just when national headlines put it front and center. This is why it's imperative that our curriculum asks students to grapple with the historical landscape of race, highlighting where progress has been made and where we as a country still fall woefully short.
Look for structures that generate these patterns: A core principle in systems thinking states: "structure generates behavior". Patterns of behavior persisting for generations won't change direction unless we change structures. Laws, programs, and policies designed to change the patterns of inequity and violence need voice and IACS should stand behind efforts if we truly want great outcomes for all community members.
Turn vicious cycles into virtuous cycles: We're more likely to look for solutions if we commit to respectful engagement, even if- and especially when- it makes us uncomfortable. Bias and hate quickly create reinforcing loops, but thankfully restraint and peace do the same. We can look to examples in New York, Michigan, and elsewhere of what that commitment to peace looks like in moments of conflict.
In addition to speaking out against acts of hate, IACS must continue to develop students who can think and act systemically who can help create a more just and peaceful world.
In partnership,
Greg Orpen
Head of School
Innovation Academy Charter School
Email: mainoffice@innovationcharter.org
Website: www.innovationhcharter.org
Location: 72 Tyng Road, Tyngsborough, MA, United States
Phone: 978-649-0432
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IACStyngsborough/
Twitter: @iacharterschool