SEED
(Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity)

The SEED program is designed to encourage participants to explore issues of equity and diversity in education through readings, class activities and discussions, guest speakers and sharing of personal experiences. The course is available to certified staff members who have worked at least one year in the district. SEED seminars meet monthly and registration information is available each fall. The district provides financial support for books, materials and guest speakers so that the program can be free to participants. Continuing education clock hours are available OR participants can buy graduate credits from The College of St. Catherine.

The Minnesota SEED Project replicates the National SEED Project on Inclusive Curriculum co-directed by Dr. Peggy McIntosh and Emily Style. Minnesota was the first state to establish a branch of the National SEED Project.

Edina Public Schools offers up to four different levels of SEED. Course descriptions and participant expectations are listed below.

SEED 1
Participant expectations

• Read assigned monthly materials
• Attend monthly seminars (one absence allowed)
• Actively participate in discussions and activities
• Present a lesson, unit of study or other job appropriate incorporation of SEED ideas

Main Ideas to Incorporate

• White privilege (Peggy McIntosh reading)
• Windows and Mirrors reading
• Self reflection activities
• Honoring the story
• Bafa Bafa Game

SEED 2
Participant expectations

• Read assigned monthly materials
• Attend monthly seminars (one absence allowed)
• Actively participate in discussions and activities
• Lead one book discussion (approx. 1.5 hour presentation)

Main Ideas to Incorporate

• Continuation of main SEED themes
• Participants take responsibility to identify areas of interest, in both classroom and personal life
• Beginning to challenge participants with sometimes difficult concepts (“Color of Fear” video)

SEED 3 and 4
Participant expectations

• Read assigned monthly materials
• Attend monthly seminars (one absence allowed)
• Actively participate in discussions and activities
• Lead one book discussion (approx. 1.5 hour presentation)
• Develop one activity/program/presentation that brings SEED concepts beyond your classroom walls (e.g. program at district staff development day, book club for students and/or parents). Class will help brainstorm ideas and help each other with implementation as needed, including locating resources.
• SEED 4 only—Write five reflective journal pieces.

Main Ideas to Incorporate

• Continuation of main SEED themes
• Participants take responsibility to identify areas of interest, in both classroom and personal life
• Further challenge participants with sometimes difficult concepts
• Participants help choose reading materials and suggest speakers/topics.

Last updated October 2003