What is AIM?
Developed by the National Association of Independent Schools, the Assessment of Inclusivity and Multiculturalism (AIM) is a comprehensive measurement tool designed to evaluate diversity, multiculturalism and equity in independent schools. Its central purpose is to assist in building and sustaining inclusive learning communities that will benefit all students.
The AIM module is comprised of a Self-Assessment Process, which involves focus groups representing all affiliation and affinity groups within the school community, and a campus-wide Online School Climate Survey. Click on PowerPoint presentation above for more detailed information.
What are the goals of AIM?
The specific goals of the AIM survey are to:
- Determine progress in meeting diversity and multiculturalism goals
- Identify current diversity and multiculturalism initiatives
- Encourage participation of all school affiliation and affinity groups in assessing the school’s current level of inclusivity
- Facilitate meaningful dialogue
- Provide benchmarking opportunities
- Support a positive community building process/experience
The first step in the AIM survey is the Self-Assessment Process, which is similar
to
a school's accreditation or re-accreditation process. It is completed by Discovery Committees representing all affiliation and affinity groups within the school community. The committees discuss and report on the following aspects of the school:
- School governance and leadership
- Policy and administration
- Admissions, financial aid
- Faculty/teachers
- Teaching and learning
- Student life
- School publications and environment
- Staff involvement and life
- Parent/guardian involvement
- Alumni involvement and investment
The second step in the AIM survey is the campus-wide participation in a confidential Online Climate Survey that asks each constituent group to give feedback on school climate and culture as it relates to diversity and inclusivity.
Responses to the survey are strictly confidential and will be combined with the responses of others affiliated with the school by NAIS. No one will see individual responses, and there is no way that responses or personal characteristics can be determined.
The survey should take no more than 15 minutes to complete. Questions are based on a five-point rating scale (from strongly agree to strongly disagree), and explore views and personal experiences with the school in the areas of respect and empowerment, safety, support and affirmation, belonging and validation.