Derek Francis

Derek Francis has over 14 years of experience in education.  As a school counselor at North High in Minneapolis, Derek was a part of a staff that supported students from the lowest graduation rate in the district to a 39% increase in two years. 

After navigating several major racial incidents in schools, Derek began creating strategies to help educators grow in their skillset of discussing race and identity in school. As Executive Director of Equity and School Climate In Minneapolis Public Schools, Derek implemented a comprehensive equity strategies including elementary school counseling positions, implementing the districts first Racial Harm Protocol, and created MPS Neighborhood virtual education programing. 

Derek has delivered over 30 keynote presentations and sessions at school counselor and equity conferences including the American School Counseling Association (ASCA) and American Counseling Association. 

Derek has recently produced Separate Not Equal - The Minnesota Integration Story which premiered this October at the 2024 Twin Cities Film Festival.  February 2026 will be the release of Our First Bus Ride follows Molly and Monica, two friends whose lives change when they become part of the historic Hale-Field school pairing in 1971.