Educational Equity and Outreach
Page Navigation
The Office of Educational Equity and Outreach
-
Equity is defined as "the quality of being fair and impartial." It is a value system that must be prioritized to be effective. Equity is a humanistic approach that says each person is valuable and, because each person matters, the collective body is stronger. Educational Equity is grounded in practices that afford all students access to resources, contributing to their success in our local and global community.
The Office of Educational Equity and Outreach was established in September 2017 specifically to address the achievement gap through the development of an equity plan, training, and community partnerships. From its inception, the office has focused on providing training with teachers and administrators on culturally responsive classrooms, facilitating a book study with school-based administrators, providing presentations to local community-sponsored groups, and meeting with parents and other community stakeholders. Our equity lens provides a broad view of growth and development that encompasses all students. Each student is valued regardless of race, gender, religion, disability, ethnic background, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, English Language Proficiency, or other factors.
We encourage you to check back often on our website for updates and efforts promoted through the Office of Educational Equity and Outreach.
Chief of Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Phone:
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Dr. Anntwanique Edwards
Dr. Anntwanique Edwards was selected as the Chief of Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement in 2021. She has worked with the School Board of Alachua County for more than two decades. She has served as a teacher's aide, substitute teacher, middle and high school counselor, and school-based administrator. A native of Connecticut, Dr. Edwards moved to Gainesville after graduating high school and has attained several degrees from the University of Florida; Associate of Arts, Bachelors in Sociology, Masters and Specialist in Counselor Education and Mental Health Counseling, second Masters in Educational Leadership, and PhD in Educational Leadership. Most recently, she earned a certificate in Equitable Community Change from Cornell University. Dr. Edwards is a member of civic and community organizations where her role, leadership, and passion for helping youth and young adults remains evident. She believes that education is the door to opportunities and all students should have exposure to the best learning experiences.
Parent Academy Specialist
Phone:
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Tina Folston-Hayes
Tina Folston-Hayes has served in the Gainesville and Ocala areas providing resources to help individuals identify and overcome barriers by offering critical support services. She brings community partnerships that increase quality of life, encourage economic empowerment and cultivate self-sufficiency. She is currently completing her Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from Saint Leo University. She currently carries an AS in Human Services with studies from Rasmussen University. In her newest role as Parent Academy Specialist, she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to engage parents and students. Mrs. Folston-Hayes believes being available and accessible to parents and students will help families achieve their dreams and goals.
Program Services Specialist
Phone:
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Desiree Stevenson
Desiree Stevenson started working for the Alachua County School Board in 2022 as an Administrative Secretary in the Curriculum Department and was recently promoted to Program Services Specialist in the Office of Educational Equity and Outreach. Previously, she spent eight years working in various roles at the Alachua County Library District. She has earned a Bachelor's degree in Health Services Administration from Santa Fe College. Desiree is excited to be in this role and strives to provide the best administrative work to support the District and community.
Contact Us
-
Chief of Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Dr. Anntwanique Edwards
(352) 955-7621 x1076
email: edwardadParent Academy Specialist
Tina Folston-Hayes
(352) 955-7676 Ext. 6322
email: folstonhayestc@gm.sbac.eduProgram Services Specialist
Desiree Stevenson
Phone: (352) 955-7517 Ext. 1106
email: stevensondj@gm.sbac.edu_________________________________________
-
Mailing Address:
District Office
620 East University Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32601