After working as a third grade teacher at Shorecrest for 10 years, Khana Rebman will now be taking on a new position: Director of Diversity and Inclusion.

     This year, Rebman and Senior Associate Director of College Counseling Meghan Schneider have worked as interim co-directors. After a student and teacher-led interview process, Rebman was selected to take over the position.

     The purpose of the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion position, also known as DEI, is to create a safe and inclusive space for students and faculty. The position requires someone who can create positive relationships within the Shorecrest community and not only identify issues, but also fix them so that students can continue to have a stable learning space.

     “My purpose as director is to serve as a resource for the greater Shorecrest community in cultivating a culture of belonging where students, faculty and staff are valued and contribute to the community,” Rebman said.

     This year, while working as an interim director, she was able to gain a new perspective on what the DEI director’s purpose is. Rebman also continued her work as a third grade teacher, expanding on her knowledge of current teaching practices. 

     During her time as a teacher, Rebman has created strong relationships with her students, giving each one a unique nickname that makes them stand out and feel special. When Rebman sees her students around the community, she always, without fail, remembers the nickname they were given back when they were eight or nine. 

     Rebman gave senior Alex Lewis the nickname “Pippi” (because she looked like Pippi Longstocking). 

     Students like Lewis hold a special place in Rebman’s career. This year’s seniors, the Class of 2026, was the first generation of third graders she ever taught at Shorecrest. Now that they’re graduating, she finally feels ready to move away from the classroom and explore her passion for DEI.

     Many teachers at Shorecrest educate their students about diverse cultures. However, Rebman really focuses on other cultures, making sure her students learn not only about their own heritage but also the backgrounds of their peers. She also makes sure her students understand they can pick their own path when they grow up, conveying the message that every child, if they work for it, can be anything they aspire to be.