Bay Area POCIS (People of Color in Independent Schools) is an organization which supports teachers, administrators, parents, and students who believe that diversity and multiculturalism are endemic to quality education for all. The diverse cultures, languages, knowledge, and insights of people of color contribute to creating inclusive and affirming institutions. POCIS is a forum that promotes dialogue among Asian/ Asian American, Latino/ Hispanic, African American, Native American, Middle Eastern, Pacific Islander, European American and multiracial colleagues who support this mission. POCIS supports increasing diversity in independent schools at the student, faculty, administration, and board level. We also encourage schools to contract with women and people of color for goods and services. POCIS supports school climates in which the academic and social well-being of all students and adults of color is assured.

History:
In December of 1996 POCIS of Northern California formed at the annual NAIS People of Color Conference. Over the last eleven years POCIS has hosted professional development and networking opportunities for educators, organized student diversity conferences, events for parents and offered student scholarships. To support our ongoing work POCIS relies on a weekly listserve called EdNet which reaches 300 educators throughout the Bay Area. In 2002 POCIS achieved 501c3 status and in winter of 2007, began working with a board consultant to launch a strategic planning process.

Contact person: Marta Grajeda, (phone)

Address:

P.O. Box 18828 Oakland, CA 94619

Web Site: http://www.ba-pocis.org