By Lindsay Doty
Shayla Webb is busy getting acclimated with her new role at the Brownsburg Community School Corporation (BCSC).
Last month, Webb was hired as the district’s coordinator of equity and diversity.
The BCSC board of trustees approved the job at the March 8 meeting.
Webb will lead professional development on equity, diversity and inclusion within the district by working with staff and lead efforts to attract and retain diversity in teaching and leadership positions.
Webb most recently served as the diversity and inclusion program manager for the state of Indiana.
“Mrs. Webb comes to us with a wealth of experience developing and implementing diversity, equity and inclusion strategies,” said Superintendent Jim Snapp. “As a Brownsburg resident and parent, she fully understands the challenges we face ensuring all students have an equitable learning experience.”
In her first few weeks on the job, Webb conducted a staff survey to find out what areas the district can improve on. She will lead a 17-person equity leadership team to use that data to make improvements and open discussions.
“Something we can work on is understanding we don’t have to change our values or beliefs in order to treat people with dignity and respect,” said Webb. “I am eager to work alongside Dr. Snapp to advance equity and diversity in BCSC. This work is paramount in ensuring that our children can learn in an environment free of discrimination and fear.
Webb says it’s not about the schools doing something wrong but about doing things better.
As the academic year winds down, her goal for the next school year is to create an open dialogue within the district community.
“People are nervous to say what they feel,” she said. “It’s getting people comfortable doing something different that will benefit everyone, not just black and brown students, not just students in minority students but everyone.”
Webb lives in Brownsburg with her husband Marlon and two children.
She has a bachelor’s degree in sociology and political science from Purdue University and a doctorate from Indiana University School of Law.