"Every single day, I walk into this building knowing that what we do here has the power to change lives. It’s not just about academics—it’s about making sure every child knows they are seen, valued, and capable of incredible things. I tell my staff all the time, our job isn’t just to teach. Our job is to create a place where kids feel safe enough to dream and bold enough to chase those dreams.

When a student walks through our doors, they’re not just a name on a roster. They’re someone’s child, someone’s future, and we take that responsibility seriously. Every decision we make should reflect that. I see my role as more than just a principal. I’m a mentor, a cheerleader, a problem solver—whatever these kids need me to be. I’ve had students who needed structure, students who needed encouragement, students who just needed to know that someone believed in them. And that’s what we’re here for.

It’s not always easy work, but it’s the most important work. The long nights, the tough conversations, the moments when you have to fight for what’s right for kids—none of that feels like a burden because I know what’s at stake. When a former student comes back years later and says, because of this school, I believed in myself, that’s why we do this. That’s why it matters."

-Donald Barnes