Social Justice Institute works to examine causes for bias and stereotypes

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) -- This past year has brought some public controversies to the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District. This week, the Summer Leadership Institute Equity and Social Justice is being held to prevent incidents like this from happening and create ideas to support all students.

For the first year, the program is open to not just staff but students, too. The course focuses on looking at reasons for bias and stereotypes, finding ways to interrupt unconscious bias and creating an environment that includes and inspires all students.

Jada Thompson just graduated from MHS. She came back to help with the institute and said she's excited to see something like this in her community.

"It's not about so much as all these comments and stuff that's happened, the Confederate flag driving around, it's how do we move forward? What are we going to do about it? Stuff like this is first step to moving forward in our community," said Thompson.

The institute is optional for students and staff. In the future, students could earn elective credit for attending.