Asst. Principal 11th Grade

My name is Durrell Burns, and I am honored to serve as the 11th-grade principal at Central Dauphin High School. It is a privilege to support students, staff, and families in this role as we work together to prepare lifelong learners and contributing members of a global society. Guided by an equity-centered leadership approach, I strive to remove barriers, build strong relationships, and engage in data-driven decision-making to promote student success.

My leadership style combines transformational and instructional leadership. Transformational leadership inspires and motivates staff and students to embrace change and pursue continuous growth, fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. Instructional leadership allows me to focus on improving teaching and learning by supporting educators with effective practices, curriculum alignment, and meaningful professional development. Together, these approaches help me create an environment where all learners can thrive.

I have served as an administrator at Central Dauphin East, Linglestown Middle School, and the CD Cyber Program. This diverse experience has provided me with a broad knowledge base to support both horizontal and vertical alignment of content across grade levels and departments. Additionally, I am committed to integrating technology to enhance student learning and engagement, ensuring that our instructional practices meet the needs of today’s learners.

I have a deep passion and commitment to school improvement, which drives my work every day. I am dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous growth that benefits students, staff, and the entire school community.

Project-based learning and ongoing professional development are also central to my educational philosophy. Project-based learning is crucial for enhancing student engagement and enabling students to develop practical problem-solving skills in real-world contexts. Likewise, meaningful professional development empowers educators, strengthens instructional practices, and is essential for building a dynamic and collaborative school culture. Both are vital for driving innovation, improving outcomes, and ensuring that our school remains a place where everyone can learn and grow together.

My career in education began when I earned my undergraduate degree from Millersville University of Pennsylvania, where I majored in English with a minor in History. I then earned my 7-12 English Teaching Certification from Cabrini University and my master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Lincoln University. Currently, I am pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership through Shippensburg University to further enhance my ability to advocate for and support all learners.

I spent my teaching career in the Harrisburg School District, instructing courses such as 9th and 10th-grade English, Public Speaking, Journalism, Creative Writing, History 1 and 2, Media Studies, and Production Techniques. In 2022, I joined the Central Dauphin School District, where I taught 9th-grade English and 20th-century literature at East High.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and the fraternity brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

It is my honor to serve as your 11th-grade principal, and I look forward to contributing to the ongoing success of the CD High community.

Respectfully,