Black, Indigenous, People of Color Advisory Council

The mission of Thornhill Elementary’s Black, Indigenous, People of Color Advisory Council is to nurture an inclusive environment and foster a profound sense of belonging for every BIPOC student. The Black, Indigenous, People of Color Advisory Council (BAC) is more than a committee; it's a haven where individuals of similar identities come together, sharing stories, engaging in meaningful dialogue, and providing unwavering support during both triumphs and challenges.
As an integral subcommittee of Thornhill's School Site Council (SSC), the BAC and Allies play an important role in advising school leadership on policies and practices aimed at dismantling structural racism and addressing interpersonal racism. The BAC collaborates with Thornhill's Parent Faculty Club (PFC) to infuse inclusion across our community, crafting a space where every student thrives—from events fostering belonging to initiatives ensuring a safe school climate for all.

Key Values

The members of the BAC work together to uphold the following four key value statements.
At Thornhill, we:

• ​Expect a fair and safe environment that affirms the value and dignity of every student, and we hold every member of our community accountable to a standard of zero tolerance for racism or racist acts.
• Embrace our differences and celebrate the diversity of this community by acknowledging, respecting, and appreciating our varied experiences.
• Engage our community through transparent and timely communication, authentic inclusion, and the courage to address injustice.
• Empower each other to 1) create an inclusive and nurturing environment 2) resolve conflict by cultivating understanding and creating safe spaces to restore integrity and foster healing and sense of belonging.

BAC Working Groups

Working Group	Description
Policies & Procedures	Ensures the integration, sustenance, and alignment of community values with BAC goals across all working groups
Events	Plan events that reflect and celebrate diversity (e.g. Fall Festival, Ruby Bridges, ThornChill, TK/K prospective families tours and conversations on race)
Communications	Collaborate with school leadership and teachers to communicate BAC initiatives to the Thornhill community

Get Involved

Be a part of something truly extraordinary with the BAC. If you're a parent/guardian of a BIPOC student, join the BAC as a member and volunteer with our working groups. For more information, email BAC Officers at [email protected].

Not a parent/guardian of a BIPOC student but want to support BAC work? Become a BAC Ally. Attend meetings to stay informed and meet regularly to support BAC's initiatives. For details, email Thornhill’s Inclusion & Belonging Chair at [email protected].
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Join us in creating a legacy of empowerment, understanding, and celebration at Thornhill Elementary.