Burlington Schools Hire Diversity, Equity And Inclusion Director

BURLINGTON, MA — Burlington Public Schools appointed Raymond Porch as the district's first director of diversity, equity and inclusion, the district said Friday.

Porch is currently the director of school climate culture, equity and culturally responsive teaching and learning at Joseph Lee K-8, a Boston public school. He will begin with Burlington July 1.

Porch plans to finish his doctor of education degree this year. He has a master's in educational administration from University of Massachusetts Boston and more than 17 years of experience in education at public, charter and private schools, according to the district news release.

“I have a passion for developing youth and collaborating with adult educators," Porch said. "I believe serving our youth is one of the most important tasks our greater community needs to embrace. I believe I have the necessary experience, knowledge and drive to be very effective as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Burlington Public Schools. I believe this work, our work will add value to the existing strengths of this school district and allow even more growth for students, staff and the larger school community.”

“We feel fortunate to have had such a strong pool of applicants for this position,” Superintendent Eric Conti said. “Raymond separated himself from the pool of over 40 candidates with his ability to articulate both the technical and adaptive aspects of this position. His expertise working on issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion in Boston Public Schools will add tremendous value to our district as we continue to address our short and long-term goals. ”

The new position was created and funded by town meeting voters in Sept. 2020.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.