Diversity coordinator coming to Quincy schools after mayor rejects similar city hall position

QUINCY – A new administrative position in Quincy Public Schools will put someone in charge of diversity and inclusion efforts following weeks of talks about racism in the school system.

School officials have been speaking with city leaders, parents and students about how to best address what Superintendent Kevin Mulvey called a "very, very large" issue of racism within the Quincy public schools. The conversations were sparked after Quincy High School students walked out of class Nov. 12 to protest what they said was a mishandling of incidents of racism and sexual assault accusations.

"That position, moving forward, will be really critical in order for us to effectively manage and respond to the concerns that we're hearing from students and families," Mulvey said. 

The district reported three incidents of racism or hate speech between students at the high school and middle school levels between Nov. 5 and 12.

The new employee will be paid between $100,000 and $120,000, and Mayor Thomas Koch told Mulvey they would "figure out the money." 

"It's clear to me that there is an agreed-upon position about this new job, so I would suggest to move forward as quickly as you can, superintendent," he said. 

In addition to the new position, Mulvey and Assistant Superintendent Erin Perkins told the school committee there are changes on the way to the student handbook, curriculum, conflict resolution strategies, restorative justice practices and more. Parents and students have suggested changes across many facets of the school system, and the new diversity coordinator would be responsible for handling the suggestions and addressing concerns. 

"I just want the school community to know that we are taking this very seriously," Mulvey said. "We are determined to make a difference."

A job description is being drafted for the new position and it will be posted internally and externally. Mulvey said the position will likely be filled by a new hire.

Quincy City Councilors earlier this year tried to hire someone to lead a citywide Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, but the mayor didn't give any money to the position in the city budget. Koch said he didn't " necessarily see the need" for a full-time position and instead formed a nine-member volunteer Commission on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion that includes City Councilor Ian Cain, several existing department heads and a few members of the community. 

Original Source: https://www.patriotledger.com/story/news/2021/12/10/quincy-schools-hire-diversity-and-inclusion-coordinator-after-racism-protest/6464807001/