Keith Sutton

About Keith Sutton

Dynamic, non-traditional education leader with a proven track record of driving impactful change as Superintendent and a multi-year elected member of the Board of Education of the largest public school system in North Carolina. Demonstrated success managing complex projects, establishing and executing strategic goals, implementing innovative education policies and enhancing academic performance. Proven track record of building strong partnerships, driving stakeholder engagement, and creating a shared vision for success that resonates across all levels of the organization. Clear and persuasive communicator, committed to empowering educators and students alike, and passionate about creating inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of diverse learners.

Experience

1. Director, Department of Systemwide Equity

   Montgomery County Public Schools

   Feb 2026 — Present · US

   Located at the intersection of systems transformation and human-centered leadership, this department leads cultural change through design, not compliance. It transforms equity-focused concepts—including but not limited to anti-racism and restorative justice—into concrete actions such as policy reform, leadership coaching, and professional learning to embed high quality affirming educational opportunities across the organization where students, staff, and community members will benefit. Leads and serves as MCPS liaison to external equity-focused organizations and advocacy groups. The Director supervises and directs the work of the Systemwide Equity Unit, and in alignment with the Board of Education’s Strategic Plan, coordinates the district-wide goal of becoming an antiracist, equitable, and inclusive school district where outcomes are not predictable by race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. The Director collaborates with senior leadership, leaders from all departments and schools, and stakeholder groups to strategically support system-wide implementation of findings and recommendations from the Antiracist System Audit; and ensures, implements and improves equitable practices across the district.

Education

• Howard University

  Certificate, AASA Urban Superintendents Academy

  2020 — 2021

• University of Pennsylvania

  Master of Science - MS, Education Entrepreneurship

  2016 — 2017

• The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  Industrial Relations, Labor and Industrial Relations

  1988 — 1992

Skills

• Program Management
• Community Outreach
• Community Development
• Microsoft Office
• Program Development
• Team Building
• Strategic Planning
• Public Speaking
• Government
• Nonprofits
• Training
• Leadership
• Policy