DPS Focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Creation of New Assistant Superintendent Position

Press Release, February 27, 2023

Decatur, Illinois — Decatur Public Schools is proud to be among a movement of public school districts nationwide focused on creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive school community. The DPS Board of Education recently approved a new Assistant Superintendent of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion position, the first of its kind ever created in Decatur Public Schools. 

And we are very pleased to announce that Assistant Superintendent Jeff Dase will move into this new role. Mr. Dase has been a tireless advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring the District has resources aligned to equity and inclusion, such as embedded professional development through 1st Class Educators and library books that are culturally responsive for grades PreK-12.

“This new position shows just how committed we are at Decatur Public Schools to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion for our entire school community,” said DPS Superintendent Dr. Rochelle Clark. “Creating this leadership role is a powerful statement of our belief that diversity, equity, and inclusion should play a pivotal role in all that we offer at DPS. Assistant Superintendent Jeff Dase is a perfect fit for this new role. In the nearly four years that Mr. Dase has been with DPS, he has worked to champion equity and inclusion for our students, promoted fair treatment for all people, and spoken up for the under-represented. Mr. Dase is a role model for what our students can achieve. I look forward to the work that Mr. Dase will continue to do in this new role.”

In August 2020, the DPS Board of Education adopted a Resolution on Racism, declaring racism a public health crisis. As Assistant Superintendent of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Mr. Dase will continue to move forward the work of the Resolution on Racism, developing and leading programs and strategies that foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive school community.

Decatur Public Schools believes that it is essential that we as a District and as leaders in our community create opportunities that promote inclusion, equity, social justice, diversity, and belonging. While there is work already in progress to achieve these goals, we are always looking to lead the effort through evidence-based strategies, including activities, programs, academics, training, interventions, employment, and more.