As a college preparatory academic institution, we cannot speak of excellence in education without embracing the role of Diversity in our school. Portledge seeks to nurture an inclusive and diverse school community that embraces differences and views issues from multiple perspectives. Portledge aims to promote respect, awareness, understanding, and appreciation of diversity and inclusion on and off-campus, as well as to increase multicultural competencies throughout the school community. A commitment to diversity and inclusion entails acceptance, respect, and inclusion to empower participation and collaboration.

The Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is responsible for the development and leadership of intercultural education activities, continuous DEI training, and all-school community events that are rooted in cultural competence and the school’s four Pillars of kindness, respect, honor, and purpose. In collaboration with members from all three divisions, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee as well as with parents and staff, Portledge embraces each others’ differences which makes our school culture stronger and appreciative of each individual uniqueness. As aligned with the school's mission and vision, and the strategic plan, we are committed to cultivating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive school community for every member of our school by building an educational framework that prepares our students to become thoughtful leaders in our diverse society and our multicultural workplaces. Our efforts are embedded in our engagement as a team that fosters academic and social outcomes for all students grounded in:

• Portledge’s School Mission Statement
• Portledge’s School Diversity Statement
• Portledge’s Four Pillars
• Portledge’s School Strategic Plan
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training and workshop
• Portledge’s Parent Association

Portledge school believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion work is essential to the kind of work that distinguishes our school changing landscape. As a college preparatory school, our efforts in the area of DEI work is of continuous and thriving endeavors while keeping the education of the whole child and the thorough coaching of young people to be people of a globalized society at the forefront our commitments. I invite you to join us as we strive to open minds and hearts, build character, and create an environment where each and every community member can thrive. A diverse, equitable, and inclusive school community provides the best learning environment for all students.

Leading with the heart, head, and hands.

Olga Florentino
Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion