Establishing and maintaining an environment of respect at school is an ongoing learning process for everyone involved. Ideally, district administrators will support a coordinated, systemwide effort. At any grade level, schools and individual teachers can plant the seeds for positive change.

When seeking outside help to provide staff development opportunities on bias issues, be aware that choosing the right facilitator is crucial. Repairing the damage from a bungled diversity workshop can sometimes be a bigger challenge than accomplishing your original goals! Take steps to define your school's needs, and seek the broadest range of recommendations.

• Strive for continuity. Always solicit the advice of teachers with a strong interest in equity issues in the planning process. Also include community representatives who have agreed to work with the school on an ongoing basis (see also Establish a Network of Community Support). That way, if outside facilitators are brought in for the training, there will be a sense of continuity after the facilitators leave.

• Offer training to all employees. Include support personnel (secretaries, aides, custodians, cafeteria workers) in staff development programs addressing major bias incidents, as well as introductory training on diversity issues. This step sends two strong messages: 1) that the attitudes and behaviors of support staff can constructively or adversely affect school life; and 2) that administrators and faculty respect all members of the school community.

• Be sensitive to the position of minority faculty and staff. As in the classroom, never single out members of a particular group for their response to bias incidents or other diversity matters.

• Get help from experts. Local human rights or human relations organizations, or nearby chapters of national organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League (ADL); the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP); the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN); and Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (P-FLAG) may have experienced facilitators who can help you (see also Resources). For additional assistance, contact your regional u.s. Department of Justice Community Relations Service or Department of Education Equity Assistance Center.

• Keep the dialogue going. For example, include diversity-related news items, quotes, cartoons and thought questions in the school newsletter and on bulletin boards. Take a few minutes at regular faculty meetings to do a "school climate check." Several times during the year, invite representatives from student organizations to offer their perceptions. Anticipate and discuss upcoming events — such as ethnic holidays or the anniversary of a bias incident — that may heighten racial or other intergroup tensions.