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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-102 (Stillwater Human Rights Award - Rachel Schmeltzer) Mayor RESOLUTION 2024‐102 STILLWATER HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD RACHEL SCHMELTZER Whereas, the Stillwater Human Rights Commission requested nominations for the 2024 Stillwater Human Rights Award; and Whereas, Rachel Schmeltzer has been nominated for her strong as steel resolve to build skills and capacity within both staff and the student body in addressing racial and identity harm; and Whereas, Rachel's intentional efforts using the Four Immediate Actions (Interrupt, Question, Educate and Echo); staff and students now have concrete tools to use in addressing racial and identity harm; and Whereas, Rachel also collaborated with the school district to bring a professional development opportunity to the staff at Oak-Land Middle school led by Seema Pothini; Educator, Equity Specialist, called No More Next Time; and Whereas, Rachel's leadership as the staff advisor of DSU (Diverse Student Union) and the lead of the Oak-Land Equity Committee have shown the longstanding relational efficacy that she has with both students and staff alike; and Whereas, Rachel is a strong and highly motivated educational leader who places authentic relationships at the forefront of everything she does. Her interpersonal and leadership attributes that define Rachel's core identity include a strong and unapologetic voice for racial and social justice, strategic thinking when advocating for systemic change, respect and compassion for others, and a strong as steel resolve to accomplish her personal goal while never wavering on supporting others along the way; and Whereas, Rachel willingly shares her in-depth knowledge of student learning and her equitable vision for public education. She has expertise in both the art and science of differentiation and program delivery. She recognizes the whole child in each of the students she collaborates with, tirelessly supporting them in the areas of high academic achievement and social-emotional growth; and Whereas, Rachel’s educational philosophy and approach could be described as a mathematical equation: Authentic Relationships + High Student Engagement + Vigorous and Culturally Inclusive Instruction = Limitless Learning Potential. Now Therefore, Be It Resolved, by the City Council of the City of Stillwater, Minnesota, the 2024 Human Rights Award is presented to Rachel Schmeltzer in appreciation of her outstanding leadership and dedication to human rights, and is hereby commended for those efforts. Adopted by the City Council this 17th day of September, 2024.