June 2021 – Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 is proud to be among those recognized by the Edwardsville Branch of the NAACP during their 2021 Freedom Fund Gala. CUSD 10 was honored with the organization’s Diversity & Inclusion Award.
“Each year, the NAACP Edwardsville branch recognizes outstanding contributions made by an organization, business or individual, in the civil rights or social justice arena,” said Walter Williams, president of the Edwardsville NAACP, “The district is being lauded for is equity and diversity initiatives. These initiatives improve the quality of professional and academic life for minorities in the district.”
The NAACP applauded CUSD 10 for efforts to hire diverse teachers, construction of the private LTE tower to bring internet connectivity to underserved areas in our district, and our ongoing diversity and equity training program.
“Their initiatives centered around how to recruit a more diverse set of educators, to looking at ways they could improve their curriculum, programs, as well as their professional development to improve cultural awareness,” said Williams. “The staff has also been recognized for community excellence.”
Superintendent Dr. Brad Skertich, accepted the honor on behalf of the district. The 2021 gala was held virtually this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“On behalf of the Collinsville School District and the Diversity and Equity Committee, we are honored to receive the Diversity Award at the 56th Annual Freedom Banquet held by the Edwardsville Brand of the NAACP. We are grateful for the efforts our faculty and staff have put forth the past year to break down the connectivity barrier, increase the number of minorities pursuing education as a career and the continued diversity and equity training our staff receive throughout the school year,” said Skertich.