This week's principal highlight is Dr. Jorge Cruz, new principal of McAuliffe Middle School, who recently finished his Doctorate.
Dr. Cruz said his love for education stems from his relationship with a former Math teacher. "I did have a math teacher, Mr. King, who made a difference in what I wanted to do with my career. I knew that I wanted to become a teacher and, more specifically, a math teacher because of Mr. King. He never gave up on me and always worked with me in the mornings and at lunchtime. He would tell me to come in and let's work on things together. That meant so much to me."
Dr. Cruz is known for having a positive attitude and always being in good spirits with students and faculty. When asked about his personality, he said, "I always have had a positive, very optimistic mindset. I have a purpose here and will make a difference in people's lives in some way, form, or fashion. And with me, it's education with kids and their families in the community that I serve. No matter what happens personally, I will still have that positivity. It's not for anyone else to worry about or to deal with, so why not be positive and always be in a good mood with everyone else?"
Dr. Cruz spoke about the importance that other people have had on him and his desire to give back to those eager to learn with him in charge, especially when it comes to furthering their academic learning. "I like being that role model for them. With my professional growth, you can see I have never stopped growing. I'm always eager to learn."
Dr. Cruz also spoke about the challenges he faced to get his Doctorate. He said he planned to finish his degree quicker, but he got married, had children, and had more professional growth. He explained that even though it took him longer than anticipated, he appreciates those who motivated him never to give up. "Even when it's the tough times when it was those times that I felt that I couldn't do it or when I would travel to A&M Kingsville and come back late at night and then come to work the next day. I would look in the mirror and ask myself, what in the world am I doing right now? But then I would see the support system from my wonderful staff all over the district serving our community: principals, teachers, custodians, cafeteria staff, maintenance workers, and everybody I got to build relationships with and get to know. They've always motivated me and got me here to where I am."
Congratulations, Dr. Cruz, you are an excellent example of always striving for greatness here at SWISD! Happy National Principals Month!