Building a Culture of Diversity and Belonging at Renbrook: Student Leadership in Action

At Renbrook School, we believe that learning comes fully to life when students feel seen, valued, and empowered to bring their whole selves into the community. Our commitment to Diversity and Belonging is not an abstract ideal. It is a lived experience, shaped daily by students who lead with curiosity, empathy, and courage.

One powerful expression of this commitment is the Student Diversity and Belonging Council, an eighth-grade leadership initiative facilitated by Jackie Nickeo, Diversity & Belonging Coordinator. Made up of six Grade 8 students, the Council serves as both a learning community and a catalyst for connection across the school.

Leadership Rooted in Student Voice

The Student Diversity and Belonging Council grew out of student interest and curiosity. As Mrs. Nickeo explains, what began years ago as a multicultural student group evolved as students expressed a desire to explore diversity in broader and deeper ways. Students wanted to learn not only about culture and religion, but also about identity, learning differences, mental health, and lived experience. The result is a leadership opportunity that places students at the center, asking them not only to learn, but to teach.

Meeting regularly, often during lunch due to their busy schedules, the Council identifies topics meaningful to the community and designs presentations for peers and younger students. Council members have led Upper School Morning Meetings and Lower School gatherings on topics such as religious holidays, Indigenous Peoples Day, learning differences like dyslexia, mental health awareness, and heritage months. These presentations are carefully crafted to educate, clarify misconceptions, and invite respectful dialogue.

Patrick, one of the Council members, shared that he joined because he wanted classmates to “learn more about each other’s religions so we’re not insensitive or insult people without meaning to.”

A Place to Belong and Be Understood

For the students involved, the Council is more than a leadership role. It is a space where they feel a sense of belonging and affirmation. Several students described how Renbrook has helped them feel welcomed while also honoring their individuality.

Silvia reflected on how meaningful it has been to feel accepted as both bilingual and culturally complex, sharing that Renbrook is “a place that I feel welcome but also where I fit in as a unique person.” She noted how teachers have supported and challenged her in ways that honor her background and strengths.

Zaynab, who has lived in five different countries and is connected to multiple cultures, explained that the Council allowed her to feel whole. “When I came to Renbrook and was part of the Diversity Council, I felt like I could connect to all parts of my culture instead of just leaning towards one.” She added that hearing peers share their experiences has helped her learn more about others and challenge assumptions, which she believes helps reduce ignorance and division.

Charlotte was drawn to the Council because of her family’s deep commitment to equity and inclusion. She shared that being part of the group felt essential because “it’s really important to me to make sure that everybody feels included, everybody feels like they have a place and feels like they belong.”

The student’s experiences mirror Renbrook’s belief that diversity is not something to be acknowledged only at special moments, but something to be understood, celebrated, and woven into everyday learning. As articulated in the school’s Diversity & Belonging statement, Renbrook is committed to cultivating a community grounded in respect, empathy, and the understanding that differences enrich us all.

Learning That Builds Empathy and Skills for Life

Participation in the Student Diversity and Belonging Council has had a lasting impact on how students see themselves as learners and leaders. Council members spoke about developing confidence, patience, and a deeper sense of responsibility toward others.

Sami shared his love of learning about other cultures and religions, explaining that talking openly about identity helps people connect more deeply. Soham described how meaningful it was to share celebrations like Diwali with the community, noting that Renbrook is a place where “students represent many different cultures, and you get to learn about it through their holidays and important celebrations.”

Students also reflected on the practical leadership skills they have gained. They spoke about becoming stronger public speakers, learning to adjust presentations for different audiences, working collaboratively, and managing time effectively alongside academic responsibilities. Patrick noted that presenting to younger students required flexibility and careful observation, reinforcing the importance of meeting others where they are.

These experiences align closely with research highlighted by organizations such as National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), which emphasizes that inclusive school environments support social-emotional development, empathy, critical thinking, and global awareness. When students are trusted with leadership and given opportunities to explore identity and belonging, they develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Preparing Students for a Diverse World

The Student Diversity and Belonging Council reflects Renbrook’s mission to develop students who are curious, compassionate, and courageous. Through shared learning and student-led leadership, Council members practice listening deeply, asking thoughtful questions, and building understanding across differences.

As Mrs. Nickeo notes, this work helps students recognize that diversity is expansive and that belonging is something we actively create together. By eighth grade, students are ready to take on this responsibility with intention and care, modeling the values that define the Renbrook community.

A Living Commitment

At Renbrook, Diversity and Belonging are a shared commitment woven into daily learning and relationships. The Student Diversity and Belonging Council brings this commitment to life through student voice, meaningful leadership, and authentic engagement.

We are proud of these students and grateful for the ways they help our community learn, reflect, and grow.

Learn more about Renbrook’s commitment to Diversity & Belonging and how we are bringing learning to life every day.