The podcast features Dr. Keith Abrahams interviewing Gabriel Duran, Principal of Maywood Center for Enriched Studies. Duran shares his journey from working in parks and recreation to becoming a principal. He emphasizes the importance of creating a positive school culture, detailing the challenges of selecting staff and fostering a supportive environment. Duran discusses the school's unique approach to discipline, replacing a dean with additional counselors to focus on student guidance rather than punishment.

Duran highlights the school’s innovative practices, such as encouraging student-led clubs and leveraging social media for student engagement. He also talks about the challenges of balancing administrative duties with classroom involvement and the importance of maintaining a strong mission and vision.

(0:00) Intro

(1:48) Can you share a bit about your background and how you became a principal? What inspired you to pursue a career in education?

(3:21) How were you intentional in building relationships and developing systems that lead to MaCES’s positive school culture?

(8:27) In your words what makes your program successful?

(12:45) What is the real Churro story?

(16:23) What are the most significant challenges you face as a school principal, and how do you address them?

(18:30) How long have you not had a dean?

(20:42) Is there an inspiring student or staff story you would like to share with us? Or can you describe any memorable success stories or achievements from your time as a principal that made a significant impact on the school community?

(23:15) Can you talk a little bit about how that decision was made to become a full inclusion school and what advice or recommendations are you would you give to any other principal who's considering it?

(27:47) What advice do you have for aspiring educators who may be considering a career in school administration or leadership roles?

(29:04) Speed Round

(29:15) What is one book that all educators should read?

(30:02) What do you do for self-care?

(30:48) What inspirational quote do you live by?