Seen.
KNOWN.
Loved.
Community in Diversity and Our Inclusive O
Living our commitment to Community in Diversity and belonging for every student.
​​
This page shares O’Dowd’s message to families and information about our Inclusive O.
As We Begin the School Year Together​
Dear O'Dowd Families,
​
As we welcome students back to campus, I want to share with you an important message about our ongoing commitment to our core charism value of Community in Diversity and the ways we continue to support every student at Bishop O'Dowd High School. Read more...
O’Dowd’s Own Symbol of Belonging
Our Inclusive O was created by and for the O’Dowd community. Using rainbow watercolor in our official O logo, it is underscored by the words seen. known. loved.
​
It serves as a visible expression of O’Dowd’s commitment that LGBTQ+ students, families, faculty, and staff are welcomed, valued, supported, and belong here.
​
The Inclusive O is now displayed throughout classrooms, offices, and shared spaces across campus.
Belonging Extends Beyond the Symbols on Our Walls
O’Dowd’s commitment to LGBTQ+ students and families continues through our programs, relationships, and support systems.​
​
Counseling and Health & Wellness
Students continue to have access to trusted adults, counseling, and well-being support.
​
Student Community
Unity Club, Pride Arts Club, and other opportunities for connection and belonging remain in place.
​
Family Programming
Inclusive Family Day and additional opportunities for LGBTQ+ families and allies will continue.
​
Community Art
This month, O’Dowd will host a community art workshop to create additional expressions of LGBTQ+ welcome and belonging rooted in our Catholic identity and charism.
​
Retreat and Advisory Council
A family retreat will be followed by the launch of an Inclusive Advisory Council to help guide O’Dowd’s continuing work around student experience, support, and belonging.
Questions & Next Steps
Who can I talk to if I have questions?
We welcome thoughtful conversation. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas, please reach out to Armando Diaz, Director of Equity & Belonging. Listening has been an important part of this process from the beginning, and we remain committed to continuing those conversations.
​
How can parents and guardians support this work?
Parents and guardians can support this work by helping reinforce O'Dowd's values of Community in Diversity, encouraging thoughtful and compassionate conversations at home, and participating in opportunities such as Inclusive Family Day, community art, and future advisory opportunities.
​
How can alumni support O'Dowd?
Our alumni have always helped shape the O'Dowd community. We invite alumni to continue supporting our students by learning about the Inclusive O, sharing information about O'Dowd's approach, participating in our community events, and helping us foster a school where every student knows they are seen, known, loved, and belong.
​
Will there be opportunities to continue shaping this work?
Yes. Throughout the year, O'Dowd will continue listening to students, families, faculty, staff, and alumni as we strengthen our efforts around belonging and Community in Diversity.​​
Every Student Belongs
For 75 years, O’Dowd has worked to build a community rooted in dignity, care, love, and belonging. Today, those enduring values are expressed through our charism of Community in Diversity.
​
Our symbols may evolve. Our commitment to students does not.
