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    Affinity Groups

    These groups are designed to foster a sense of belonging, support, and empowerment among our diverse staff members.

  • Background

    Affinity Groups are also known as Identity Networks, Diversity Networks, or Employee Resource Groups. According to the Black Teacher Project (2021), such groups in public education date as far back as the mid-1800s. Due to segregation laws, African American teachers were not allowed to join White teacher organizations. As a result, Black educators united in an effort to receive equal pay as well as in order to advocate for better materials and facilities for students. Since 2000, there has been a steady increase in the number of Affinity Groups across the United States in not only education but in other industries as well.

    Definition & Purpose

    RCSD Affinity Groups are safe spaces for all staff of historically underrepresented groups to come together to:

    • Make connections to those with similar lived experiences, mutual concerns, and a common purpose. 

    • Build a sense of camaraderie and a system of support through fellowship and networking. 

    • Provide RCSD leadership with ideas and recommendations for changes in practices, procedures, and policies that negatively impact diversity and inclusion efforts. 

    • Support RCSD efforts to recruit, develop, support, and retain the most effective and diverse staff. 

    RCSD Affinity Groups, also known as Employee Resource Groups, are voluntary, employee-led, and do not exclude based on sex, age, race, ethnicity, nationality, disability, mental illness or ability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, or sex characteristics. RCSD Affinity Groups do not represent employees regarding the terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to, wages, rates of pay, or hours of employment. They also do not promote non-district-related purposes or goals (e.g., religion, politics). They are intended to be a forum for social and emotional connection and peer support.

    For detailed information on our Affinity Groups, including member benefits, operating guidelines, and roles and responsibilities, please check out the RCSD Affinity Group Handbook. Discover how you can connect, support, and empower each other within our community.

    Let's continue building a more inclusive RCSD together!

  • Forming an Affinity Group

    The following steps should be taken when interested in forming an RCSD Affinity Group:

    1. Complete an electronic proposal form. Proposals must include the following:

      • Names and contact information of chair(s) 

      • Description of Affinity Group, including a brief statement of the group’s purpose, along with who and what the group represents. 

    2. Upon receipt of the proposal, a meeting will be scheduled to ensure alignment with District priorities and to clarify any questions before a decision is made. A decision will be shared after the meeting. 

    3. If denied, an explanation will be provided along with recommendations for revisions followed by written confirmation. 

    4. If approved, a review of expectations and next steps will take place. 

    5. Chairs will be invited to an orientation session. The orientation will cover the following:

      • Review of the handbook.

      • Recruitment strategies.

      • Culturally responsive practices and non-discrimination training.

      • Q & A. 

    6. Recruitment & Outreach

    7. Informational Session

    Contact us

    For any questions, inquiries, or to learn more about RCSD Affinity Groups, feel free to reach out to us at affinitygroups@rcsdk12.org.

    We're here to assist you every step of the way. Don't hesitate to get in touch!

    Let's build a stronger, more connected community together.