Jordan Samejima brings experience and a passion in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion. He implemented some new things as part of his role and has partnered with several student groups! He is looking forward to creating new programs to better serve the needs of our many families at Great River! Get to know Jordan!
Biography provided by Jordan Samejima, Equity and Inclusion Facilitator
I joined Great River in 2022 as the schools first equity and inclusion facilitator and have learned a lot about the Great River community in a short amount of time. As the equity and inclusion facilitator I will work with staff, students, and families at every grade level. I believe that Great River does great work with students but we can always strive to be better and engage in more equitable systemic practices that lead to more positive outcomes for students from marginalized communities.
In my role as the equity and inclusion facilitator I will be a member of the leadership team and have the opportunity to create meaningful change here at Great River. I am in the process of developing an equity action plan in collaboration with Equity Alliance MN along with a committee group that consists of staff, students, and parent representatives.
I am excited about the opportunity here at Great River and I look forward to fostering relationships with the students, staff, and community members of Great River. I love equity related work and understand the impact it can have. I am always open to feedback, ideas, and more than willing to collaborate on equity related initiatives.
A little bit about me…
I grew up here in Minnesota and attended Augsburg College where I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I received my Masters in Educational Leadership from Saint Mary’s University. I began my career working for Inver Grove Heights public schools; after discovering my passion for educational equity, I transitioned into more equity focused roles and have had the pleasure to serve in districts across the state including Mounds View, Robbinsdale, and Shakopee prior to joining Great River.
My wife and I reside in Robbinsdale with our 10 month old daughter Noemi and our dog Nori. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, attending sporting events and concerts, trying new recipes, and traveling.
I have always understood the importance of valuing all voices, perspectives, and experiences in order to build and sustain a healthy community. I’m looking forward to creating a different reality for our students here at Great River.